Every so often, questions come up about how the village shares information with residents, especially when it comes to legal notices versus general communication. It’s a great reminder that …
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Every so often, questions come up about how the village shares information with residents, especially when it comes to legal notices versus general communication. It’s a great reminder that while we follow every required step under state law, we are also striving to go above and beyond to keep our community informed and engaged.
Let’s start with the basics. Legal notices are formal announcements required by law (Wis. Stat. Ch. 985). They cover things like public hearings, zoning changes, and specific development proposals. These notices are published in the Pierce County Journal, posted at Village Hall and on the Village website, and follow all legal standards for timing and content. In addition to legal notices, open meetings notices are also required by state law (Wis. Stat. § 19.84). These notices inform the public about upcoming Village Board and committee meetings, including the date, time, location, and topics to be discussed. They are posted at least 24 hours in advance and help ensure that local government remains transparent and accessible to all.
Then there’s everything else: the Village’s quarterly newsletter, my weekly Facebook videos, posts on Facebook, and this very column all fall into that category. These tools are not required by law. We offer them because we believe you deserve transparency, accessibility, and a clear window into what’s happening in your local government.
And here’s something worth remembering; none of those communication tools even existed four years ago. Since then, we’ve made major strides in how we connect with residents. We’re not done yet—we continue to explore better, more effective ways to share information and keep the community in the know. In fact, a much-needed new village website is set to launch at the end of July, offering expanded communication options like email and text notifications, emergency alerts, and a more user-friendly experience.
Still, staying informed is a shared responsibility. As much as I’d love to personally deliver tailored updates to every resident’s doorstep, it simply isn’t possible. That’s why we encourage you to take advantage of the many ways to access reliable information:
One final note: Facebook can be a great tool for community connection, but it’s not always a reliable source of facts. Rumors, assumptions, or misinformation shared without seeking answers directly can lead to confusion and frustration. If something doesn’t sound right, I encourage you to go to the source. Ask questions. Check the facts. We’re here to help.
Our goal as a Village Board is to lead with transparency, provide accurate information, and continue to improve the way we communicate—not just because we have to, but because we want to.
