Thank you to the residents that attended the Open House on April 7th for the proposed Walmart. The proposal will be discussed at the following meetings which will be held at the Greendale Safety Center, 5911 West Grange Avenue:

• April 13th - Initial Review by the Plan Commission. Meeting begins at 7 p.m.
• May 11th – Further Review by the Plan Commission.
• June 7th – Public Hearing before the Board of Trustees.

Additional meetings may follow. For more information on the proposed Wal-Mart development, please click here.

On Wednesday, April 13 the Greendale Planning Commission will meet to discuss the preposed development of a Wal-Mart in Greendale. All interested persons are invited to attend. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. and will be held at The Greendale Safety Center. 5911 West Grange Ave. For the meeting agenda, please click here.

The proposal includes a Wal-Mart market and pharmacy and two out lots for development by future tenants. The proposed Wal-Mart market would mark the return of a grocery store to the Village of Greendale.

“Wal-Mart’s proposal to develop a retail and grocery store at the Bowling Congress site presents significant opportunity for the Village of Greendale to redevelop this abandoned site without any village-offered economic incentives,” said Village President John Hermes. “The addition of a major retailer with grocery store would enhance retail diversity and function within the South 76th Street business corridor."

The building will be less than 100,000 feet in size, which is half the size of a Wal-Mart Supercenter. Since the Bowling Congress site is not located in a TIF District, the increase in assessed value of approximately 10 million dollars produced by the development would improve the Village's tax base. The proposal will be available to the public for review on April 6th. The open house will allow residents to review concept drawings and site plans, and provide input to the developer and Village representatives.

“I look forward to reviewing the proposal and listening to the feedback from our residents,” said Hermes. “Following the open house discussion we will determine the best course of action for the use of the site.”

The Wal-Mart proposal follows several recent announcements of new developments in Greendale along the South 76th Street commercial area, including a new senior housing development, breaking ground this week, as well as a commitment from Simon Property Group to invest in a multi-million dollar revitalization of Southridge Mall.

For images of the proposed project, please click here.

An open house will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2011, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. in the Greendale High School Multipurpose room located at 6801 Southway in Greendale to present a proposal and solicit public input on development of a Wal-Mart in Greendale. All interested persons are invited to attend.

“The Village of Greendale has had initial conversations with Wal-Mart regarding a potential store located at the former Bowling Congress site, but has not yet seen the proposal. We have seen some of the smaller-scale concepts that Wal-Mart has implemented at other stores across the country, which often include a neighborhood look and feel that complements the surrounding area. We have heard from our residents that they would like to see such a concept in Greendale,” said Village President John Hermes.

The proposal will be available to the public for review on April 6. The open house will allow residents to review concept drawings and site plans, and provide input to the developer and Village representatives.

“I look forward to receiving their proposal and listening to the feedback from our residents, as new development that adds to the value of our community is always a positive. The addition of a major retailer and grocery store would be a huge draw for our residents and the neighboring communities, and following the open house discussion we will determine the best course of action for the use of the site.”

The Wal-Mart proposal follows several recent announcements of new developments in Greendale along the South 76th Street commercial area, including a new senior housing development, breaking ground this week, as well as a commitment from Simon Property Group to invest in a multi-million dollar revitalization of Southridge Mall.

The Village of Greendale has announced that the General Capital Group has recently closed on the purchase of three acres of land and secured financing for a 90-unit independent living senior housing complex along the S. 76th St. Corridor, adjacent to Southridge Mall. The development, known as Berkshire-Greendale, is expected to begin construction this week.

“Our Village leaders have been exploring and developing various options for energizing and revitalizing the 76th Street commercial area and we have been encouraged by the feedback within our community,” said Village President John Hermes. “This housing component is one of many recent efforts to enhance the corridor and drive additional growth and development in the surrounding area.”

The project will transform the area south of the mall and adjust one of the south entrances to create a four-way intersection at Northway. It will include redevelopment of the former Blood Center property and construction of 90 units of senior housing. For more information on the project, please visit: http://generalcapitalgroup.com/

Learn More…

Michelle Obama, the First Lady of the United States, recently designated the Village of Greendale a Preserve America Community. The designation recognizes the Village of Greendale’s efforts regarding historic preservation initiatives. The Village received a letter and will receive a certificate of designation signed by Mrs. Obama announcing that the Village of Greendale is now a Preserve America Community. The Greendale Historical Society prepared the application for Greendale to be considered as a Preserve America Community.

Communities designated through the program have received the national recognition for their accomplishments in preserving special places and telling our nation's story. Communities are selected based on their protection and celebration of heritage, use of historic assets for economic development and encouragement to involve citizens in the preserved story. Over 840 communities throughout the nation have received the designation, with 20 in Wisconsin.

Benefits include the use of the Preserve America logo on educational and promotional materials; unique signage referencing the designation; and other support.

Preserve America is a federal program that encourages and supports community efforts to preserve and enjoy our priceless cultural and natural heritage. Goals of the program include a greater shared knowledge about the nation's past, strengthened regional identities and local pride, increased local participation in preserving our heritage assets and support for the economic vitality of our communities. Since the program's inception in 2003, the First Lady of the United States has been involved in supporting and promoting Preserve America.

The Greendale Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County will once again conduct their annual Greendale Candidate Forum to educate voters on the upcoming local Greendale elections. The Candidate Forum will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2011 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Greendale Safety Center (5911 West Grange). The Forum will be for the Greendale School Board (2 candidates for 1 seat). All of the candidates have been invited and are expected to participate. The candidates are listed below.

School Board

• Amy Ali
• Jim Schutte

The date of the election is Tuesday, April 5, 2011.

The Candidate Forum is an open format to allow the candidates to answer questions posed by the audience and non-biased questions through a moderator. Each question will be directed to all candidates. All moderation, timing and sorting of questions will be done by the League of Women Voters to ensure impartiality to the proceeding.

The Chamber of Commerce will once again organize and host this event. The public is welcome to attend and the local media will also be invited. Residents can enjoy this event and an opportunity to personally meet and discuss concerns with the candidates following the Forum.

The purpose of the Forum is to introduce and educate Chamber members and the citizens of Greendale to the issues facing their community. As an organization, the Greendale Chamber of Commerce will remain non-partisan and will not endorse any of the candidates.

Persons requiring additional information may contact Todd K. Michaels at (414) 423-2100.

The Greendale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Roots Salon and Spa to the community. Roots is a full service salon offering facials, massages, hair and nail services, and more. Conveniently located at 5711 Broad Street, the salon offers ample parking and easy access to other shops in the quaint Village of Greendale.

In honor of Roots Salon and Spa's Grand Opening, the Greendale Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event will be held on Wednesday, February 9 at noon in front of the store.

Roots Salon and Spa is located approximately one-half mile southeast of Southridge Mall. For directions and other information, please call (414) 235-9415.

The following summarizes the 2011 Village Budget as approved by the Village Board on December 7. From the outset, the Village was facing a difficult budget year with extraordinary downward pressures affecting the United States economy. With this in mind, the Budget has been drafted to show the impacts of greatly reduced interest income, increased refuse disposal costs, and compliance with the State Expenditure Restraint Program and levy limits. The goal for the 2011 Budget is to use the minimum amount of fund balance necessary to maintain the existing services our residents expect.

The Budget achieves a 1.37% tax levy increase while using a minimal amount of fund balance. Since the year 2002, the Village’s tax levy has increased on average less than 2%.

Click here to download the Approved Budget for 2011 (pdf)

The Village of Greendale today initiated the public review process for a proposed Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) district. The proposed TIF district encompasses Southridge Mall and parts of the surrounding 76th Street commercial area. A public hearing will be held before the Village of Greendale Plan Commission on December 1st in the Courtroom of the Greendale Safety Center located at 5911 W. Grange Avenue, Greendale, WI 53129. There will be no additional cost to Greendale taxpayers for the establishment of the TIF district.

The Village of Greendale has worked with the owner of Southridge Mall, Simon Property Group, Inc., (NYSE:SPG), the country’s largest owner, developer and manager of high quality retail real estate, to pursue the TIF district designation. For its part, Simon plans to undertake a multi-million dollar redevelopment of Southridge, including a renovation and upgrade of the mall’s interior. Southridge Mall, Wisconsin’s largest shopping center, is a 1.2 million square foot regional mall that was built in 1970. Anchors include Kohl’s, Sears, JCPenney, and Boston Store.

“We are encouraged that Simon has recognized the huge potential Greendale has to offer, and sincerely appreciate that they have the financial ability and commitment to make this significant investment,” said John Hermes, Village of Greendale President. “Our leaders have made smart decisions, and this new alliance positions our community to realize the financial benefits for years to come.”

In recent years, the Village of Greendale has worked with residents, community leaders and business owners to explore options for revitalizing Southridge and the surrounding 76th Street commercial area, and the enhancements of Southridge will complement these efforts. In addition, reconfiguration of the south end of Southridge and construction of a new senior housing development will begin this fall. The Village is encouraged that these developments will lead to additional retail growth along 76th Street.

“The Village of Greendale has been a strong partner since we purchased Southridge Mall in 2007,” said Scott Richardson, Regional Vice President of Development for Simon. “Our work together has provided a solid foundation for developing mutual goals as we look to transform Southridge Mall for the future.” Richardson commented that Simon is finalizing the scope of the redevelopment.


Redevelopment Project Boundary Map (click above image to enlarge).
Click here to download as pdf.


Redevelopment Concept Illustration (click above image to enlarge).
Click here to download as pdf.

TIF Quick Links:

• Draft Project Plan (November 10, 2010)
• Project Boundary Map
• Redevelopment Concept Illustration
• Web Page for Tax Incremental District Number Two, Village of Greendale

For more information, please contact the Todd Michaels, Greendale Village Manager at (414) 423-2100.

On October 19, 2010 the Village Manager released the recommended 2011 Village Budget. Click here to download (pdf).

Public Invited to Attend 2011 Budget Work Session
On Thursday, November 11, the Village Board of Trustees will conduct the final Committee of the Whole Budget Work Session to review the Village’s 2011Budget. This session will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room of Village Hall. The public is encouraged to attend this meeting to provide input to the Board as the Village faces another difficult budget year.

For additional information on Budget Work Sessions, please click here.

Heavy rainfalls in Greendale resulted in upwards of 5-inches of rain falling very quickly, with periods of torrential rain on July 22, 2010. The torrential rains in Greendale, and throughout Milwaukee County, resulted in numerous flooded streets and basements.

Flood victims living in Milwaukee County or Grant County can now apply for individual assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA or online at www.fema.gov.

Click here for more information on FEMA assistance to individuals and households (pdf)

After flood victims apply for help, FEMA officials conduct home inspection. If FEMA determines that the flood victim qualifies, they will likely receive a check in the mail within two weeks. Please note that not everyone will qualify.

There is an informational meeting scheduled for September 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Marshall High School located at 4141 N 64th Street in Milwaukee.

If you are unable to attend, you are encouraged to contact FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA or visit their website at www.fema.gov.

On Thursday, July 22nd severe thunderstorms passed through Milwaukee County and Southeastern Wisconsin. Heavy rainfalls in Greendale resulted in upwards of 5-inches of rain falling very quickly, with periods of torrential rain. The torrential rains in Greendale, and throughout Milwaukee County, resulted in numerous flooded streets and basements.

In response to this storm the Village’s Police, Fire, Public Works and Utility Departments were assigned throughout the Village in an effort to mitigate damage to persons and property.

For residents who experienced water accumulation in their homes, it is important to use proper cleaning methods to ensure that your home and personal belongings are as clean and safe as possible. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) website has a great deal of information on flooding and flood cleanup. FEMA’s web site is www.fema.gov. Links to this and other information can also be found on the Village’s website www.greendale.org.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the Department of Public Works Yard located at 6351 Industrial Loop for disposal of their storm damaged material.

Use of the DPW Yard is limited to Greendale residents only. Residents using the DPW Yard should be prepared to provide some proof of residency.

Basic basement backup information

• Do not go into a basement with standing water. Electricity + Water = Danger.
• Wait for the water to drain out of the basement before entering. Or, call a qualified electrician to disconnect the power before you enter a flooded basement.
• Take pictures or video of the contents in your basement before cleaning.
• Begin cleaning. Make sure to disinfect any affected area with a bleach and water solution.
• Consider hiring a cleaning service.
  

* If you clean the basement yourself, be sure to wear appropriate protection, such as: rubber boots and gloves.
* Anything that cannot be cleaned should be thrown out.

For additional information or assistance call Village Hall at (414) 423-2100 or the Greendale Police Department’s non-emergency number (414) 423-2121. In the case of an emergency always dial 911.

Links and Resources:

• Flooding Health & Safety Tips
• Water Safety
• Disinfecting the Well and Water System
• Reentering your home after utility service interruption
• Mold
• General Disaster Health and Safety Tips (Which includes Links to FEMA, Wisconsin Emergency Management, and National Weather Service)
• Local Public Health Department listing
• Recovering from the Emotional Aftermath of a Disaster

Take The Tour! Sunday, July 4, 2010

Following the 4th of July Parade, the Village of Greendale will be offering a free tour of the recent renovations made to Village Hall. Inspired by the Capitol at Colonial Williamsburg, Village Hall is a fine example of the Colonial Revival style.

In addition, the Greendale Historical Society will be offering a tour of the restoration and preservation work completed thus far to the Historic Hose Tower building which is adjacent to the old fire and police station.

Both buildings are part of the Greendale National Historic Landmark District. Tours start following the 4th of July Parade and will end at 4 p.m. This event is free and open to the Public.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Village of Greendale Board of Trustees will conduct a Public Hearing as part of its regularly scheduled Board Meeting on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, at 7:00 P.M. in the Board Room of Village Hall, 6500 Northway, Greendale, Wisconsin to solicit public input on the Village’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Subjects to be considered may include prior year uses of CDBG funds, potential prior CDBG project and funding transfers, the and proposed projects and uses of funds for the Village’s 2011 CDBG application(s). All interested persons are invited to attend.

Dated this 16th day of June 2010.

Read Full Notice (pdf)

The Greendale School District, the Village of Greendale, the Greendale Public Library, and the Greendale Park and Recreation Department have joined together to conduct a community-wide survey to gather information from Greendale residents on a range of issues that will shape the future of the community.

The survey, developed by Community Perceptions, will be mailed to each household in Greendale during May. Residents are asked to either complete the paper survey or go online to access the web-based version of the survey. To save expense, residents are encouraged to take the survey online if possible. All surveys should be completed by May 24, 2010.

The participating organizations will report survey results on their websites and at upcoming meetings.

If you have questions regarding the survey, please call (414) 423-2100.

Add your voice, create a vision
The Village of Greendale will celebrate its 75th Anniversary in 2013. You can make a difference by becoming a volunteer member of the Village’s 75th Anniversary Committee. The 75th Anniversary Committee works under the supervision and direction of the Village’s Public Celebrations Committee. Members of the 75th Anniversary Committee will be appointed by the Village President and ratified by the Village Board.

These bodies provide advice to the Village Board and contribute to the development of policies, programs and initiatives. The Village can benefit greatly from your expertise, enthusiasm and civic pride. Get involved and play an active role.

Who is eligible?
All residents who are eligible to vote in the Village of Greendale.

What are the responsibilities as a committee or board member?
The 75th Anniversary Committee will meet through 2013, when the Village celebrates its 75th Anniversary. Committee meetings are generally held once a month, mostly in the evening; however, members may be required to attend additional special meetings.

How to apply?
Submit a letter outlining how the 75th Anniversary Committee would benefit from your membership, and how your work, education, hobby and/or volunteer experience are relevant to its mandate. Please remember to include your home address.

When to apply?
Apply immediately. We are currently in the process of forming the 75th Anniversary Committee.

Submit letters of interest to:
Todd Michaels, Village Manager
P.O. Box 257
Greendale, WI 53129-0257
E-mail: tmichaels@greendale.org

At the request of the Zimmerman family, the Village will collect and store all items placed at the spontaneous memorial site on Broad Street in remembrance of their daughter, Ava Marie.

The Village is also working with the family to erect a permanent memorial.

We are pleased to announce that the Village of Greendale and GRAEF Milwaukee are the recipients of an award from the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Planning Association. The Village of Greendale and Graef Milwaukee received the award in the category of Plan Document - For a plan of unusually high quality and effectiveness - Village of Greendale Comprehensive Plan: 2010 – 2035.

The American Planning Association (APA) is a nonprofit public interest and research organization committed to urban, suburban, regional and rural planning. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, advance the art and science of planning to meet the needs of people and society. There are over 600 active members in the Wisconsin Chapter of the APA.

The award ceremony took place on Friday, March 5, 2010 at Monona Terrace Conference Center located in Madison.

Award nominations are reviewed by an out-of-state jury and are judged on a variety of criteria, including originality and innovation, transferability, overall quality, the role of planners, the value added to the community, and general effectiveness and results.

The Village is considering the creation of a Tax Incremental Financing District to promote redevelopment at Southridge Mall. Below is a link to a draft of the Project Plan for the proposed district. The document is the Project Plan (“Project Plan”) for Tax Increment District Number One, Village of Greendale (the “District”). The Project Plan has been prepared in conformance with the provisions of Wisconsin Statutes Section 66.1105 (the “Tax Increment Law”).

Tax Increment Financing is simple in concept. TIF calls for local taxing bodies to make a joint investment in the development or redevelopment of an area, with the intent that any short term gains be reinvested and leveraged so that all the taxing bodies will receive larger financial gains in the future. The funds for this investment do not come from current tax revenues, but from the additional generated by the new development. These new revenues are generated by increased public and private investment in identified, underperforming, areas.

When a TIF redevelopment project area (often called a TIF district) is created, the value of the property in the area is established as the “base” amount. The property taxes paid on this base amount continue to go to the various taxing bodies as they always had. It is the growth of the value of the property over the base that generates the tax increment. This increment is collected for use by the municipality to make additional investments in the TIF project area. This reinvestment generates additional growth in property value, which results in even more revenue growth for reinvestment.

Additional Information on Tax Incremental Financing can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s web site by using the following link: http://www.revenue.wi.gov/pubs/slf/tif/cvmanual.html

Click here to download a draft of the Village's Project Plan (pdf)

The Greendale Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Village of Greendale will conduct the Village’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on “Thanksgiving Friday”, November 27, 2009 in front of Village Hall (6500 Northway). The Tree Lighting Ceremony will include the Greendale High School Choir leading the crowd in a community sing-along of carols starting at 6:30 P.M. Village President, John R. Hermes, will then lead the crowd in counting down to the lighting of the holiday lights throughout the Village Center at 6:50 PM. Shortly thereafter, Santa Claus will arrive to provide treats to all the “good little boys and girls.”

The Tree Lighting Ceremony will welcome the United States Marine Corps Reserve and the Toys for Tots program. During the holiday season, and year-round, attendees of the Tree Lighting are asked to remember the less fortunate children of the area and make voluntary monetary donations to support this worthy program. Due to space limitations, donors are asked to make monetary donations to support the Toys for Tots program instead of bringing toys. Marines will honor the event with their attendance and thank donors for their generosity.

Greendale residents and visitors are welcome to the Tree Lighting Ceremony to kickoff the holiday season. Residents and visitors are also reminded to Shop Greendale 1st and support local Chamber of Commerce and Greendale Village Business Association (GVBA) businesses. Many Village Center businesses will remain open until 8 p.m. for the special event.

On October 6, the Village Manager released the recommended 2010 Village Budget. Click here to download (pdf).

(Click here to download this notice as a pdf)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the Village Board of
Trustees on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 in the Court Room of the Greendale Safety Center
located at 5911 W. Grange Avenue in Greendale, WI at 7:00 p.m. (Or as soon thereafter as is
practical) to consider adoption of the Village of Greendale Comprehensive Plan.

The Village of Greendale Comprehensive Plan: 2010-2035 will guide the future growth and
development in the Village of Greendale over the next 25 years. The comprehensive plan
contains the nine required elements required by Wisconsin State Statute 66.1001 including:

Issues & Opportunities Element
Housing Element
Transportation Element
Utilities & Community Facilities Element
Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Element
Economic Development Element
Intergovernmental Cooperation Element
Land Use Element
Implementation Element

Local government staff that can be contacted for additional information:
Todd K. Michaels, Village Manager (414) 423-2100
W. Scott Satula, Director of Inspection Services (414) 423-2100

The Comprehensive Plan is available for public inspection at the following locations:

• Greendale Village Hall during normal business hours
• Greendale Public Library during normal business hours
• On the Village of Greendale website at: www.greendale.org

The Village of Greendale announced it will participate for the second straight year in America in Bloom, a national campaign and contest dedicated to promoting beautification and community involvement through the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements.

During the unique and friendly contest, Greendale will compete against communities of similar size located across the United States and will be evaluated on eight criteria: floral displays, environmental awareness, landscaped areas, tidiness, urban forestry, heritage preservation, turf and groundcovers, and community involvement. Judging by representatives of the national organization will occur on June 22 and June 23.

The community-wide effort is being coordinated by the Greendale Park and Recreation Department, the Greendale Community Education Council, and the Village of Greendale. Residents, business owners, school groups, church groups, environmental clubs, scout troops, and community organizations are participating in this initiative by cleaning, painting, weeding and planting throughout the community.

In 2008, representatives from America in Bloom visited Greendale during the competition and were highly impressed with “The Garden Community.” As a result, the Village received several awards including a national criteria award for urban forestry, recognition for its heritage preservation, recognition as ‘community of the year’ in its population category, and the prestigious 5-Bloom Award – Greendale was the only community in the competition to receive this overall award.

Greendale Village President John Hermes looks forward to the community’s participation in the event again this year. “Competing in America in Bloom allowed Greendale to showcase all of our great attributes on a national stage,” said Hermes. “The true value of participation in America in Bloom is seen when citizens, business owners and community organizations work together to enhance the quality of life in our village.”

Greendale is one of three “Greenbelt Communities” in the United States designed by the federal government under the Roosevelt Administration. The community was laid out with a "greenbelt" of parkland, garden areas and farms encircling the urban development. Throughout the past 71 years, Greendale has preserved its rich history and fostered pride in its community.

For more information on America in Bloom, please call the Greendale Park and Recreation Department at (414) 423-2790 or visit the America in Bloom website at www.americainbloom.org.

The Greendale Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County will once again conduct their annual Greendale Candidate Forum to educate voters on the upcoming local Greendale elections. Read More...

You can make a difference by becoming a volunteer member of a Village advisory committee, board or commission. These bodies provide advice to the Village Board and contribute to the development of policies, programs and initiatives. The Village can benefit greatly from your expertise, enthusiasm and civic pride. Get involved and play an active role.

Which advisory committees, boards or commission have volunteer members?

• Board of Review
• Plan Commission
• Police and Fire Commission
• Library Board
• Building Board
• Park and Recreation
• Public Celebrations Committee
• Zoning Board of Appeals
• Historical Commission
• Board of Health
• Community Development Authority

Who is eligible?
All residents who are eligible to vote in the Village of Greendale.

What are the responsibilities as a committee or board member?
Terms vary from one to five years depending on the committee, board or commission. Meetings are generally held once a month, mostly in the evening; however members may be required to attend additional special meetings.

How to apply?
Submit a letter outlining how the committee(s), board(s) or commission(s) would benefit from your membership, and how your work, education, hobby and/or volunteer experience are relevant to its mandate. Please remember to include your home address.

Submit letters of interest to:
Todd Michaels, Village Manager
P.O. Box 257
Greendale, WI 53129-0257
E-mail: tmichaels@greendale.org

The Winter edition of the Greendale Village Views newsletter is now available for download. Click here to download (pdf).

ALL VILLAGE OFFICES CLOSED on Thursday, December 25, 2008 and Thursday, January 1, 2009

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VILLAGE HALL and HEALTH DEPARTMENT will close at 12 NOON on Wednesday, December 24 and December 31

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DPW and WATER/SEWER DEPARTMENT will close at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 24 and December 31

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PUBLIC LIBRARY will be closed on Wednesday, December 24, Thursday, December 25, Wednesday, December 31 and Thursday, January 1.

The Village has begun the process of creating a Comprehensive Plan. The process will take 12 months and, at the end, we will have an adopted comprehensive plan that satisfies the State’s “Smart Growth” Law and, more importantly, helps guide Greendale into the future. A Comprehensive Plan is a very important document that establishes a community vision, lays out future land use, and identifies issues and opportunities for the future of Greendale. A critical part of this process will be the citizen participation element, which will provide opportunities for residents to express ideas, opinions, and concerns.

According to s. 66.1001, Wis. Stats., beginning on January 1, 2010, if a town, village, city, or county engages in official mapping, subdivision regulation, or zoning, those actions must be consistent with that community's comprehensive plan. The Wisconsin Comprehensive Planning Law (s. 66.1001) does not mandate how a local community should grow, rather it requires public participation at the local level in deciding how a community wants to look and be in the future.

While a local government may choose to include additional elements, a comprehensive plan must include AT LEAST all of the below nine elements as defined by the Comprehensive Planning Law.

• Issues and Opportunities
• Housing
• Transportation
• Utilities and Community Facilities
• Agricultural, Natural and Cultural Resources
• Economic Development
• Intergovernmental Cooperation
• Land Use
• Implementation

Please attend a Kick-Off Meeting for the Comprehensive Planning Process at the Greendale Safety Center, 5911 W. Grange Avenue, on Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 7 p.m. to share your thoughts and vision for the Village of Greendale. The Kick-Off Meeting will begin with a short presentation that answers the questions: “What is a comprehensive plan?” and “Who is Greendale today?”

We will then talk about the challenges and opportunities in Greendale, as you see them. We hope that everyone will watch for notices about future meetings and plan to participate in the process.

PFC & Classic Dining Restaurant Group the owner of numerous restaurants throughout the Midwest, has begun construction on a 4,600 square foot restaurant adjacent to Southridge Mall on 76th Street. The restaurant hopes to be open by the end of the year. Learn more about Ruby Tuesday at www.rubytuesday.com.

The Greendale Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Village of Greendale, will conduct the Village’s Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 28, 2008 in front of Village Hall, 6500 Northway. The ceremony will include a community sing-along beginning at 6:30 p.m. led by the Greendale High School Choir. Village President John Hermes will then begin the count down to the lighting of the holiday lights throughout the Village Center at 6:50 p.m. Shortly thereafter, Santa Claus will arrive to provide treats to all the “good little boys and girls.”

As an extra attraction this year, Greendale welcomes the United States Marine Corps Reserve and the Toys for Tots program. During the holiday season and year-round, attendees of the holiday lighting ceremony are asked to remember the less fortunate children of the area and make voluntary monetary donations to support this worthy program. Due to space limitations, donors are asked to make monetary donations in lieu of donating toys. Marines will honor the event with their attendance and thank donors for their generosity.

Greendale residents and visitors are invited to the Holiday Lighting Ceremony to kick off the holiday season. The community is reminded to Shop Greendale 1st and support local Chamber of Commerce and Greendale Village Business Association (GVBA) businesses.

For further information, please contact Ms. Lynn Magner, Chamber of Commerce President at (414) 699-4566.

The Kinetic Co., Inc., Greendale’s largest industry and a corporate citizen of Greendale since 1970, has begun construction on a 13,500 square foot addition to their facility on Loomis Road at 68th Street.

Joseph Masters, President of Kinetic stated, “The design and acceptance of our new addition by all regulatory agencies was made possible with the help and assistance of the Village Board, the Village Manager and numerous other Village officials.”

“We simply ran out of floor space for machinery and needed to expand so we had room for additional machines along with new employees to operate them,” Masters added.

Kinetic is a leading manufacturer of industrial knives who daily ships its products to customers around the world. Learn more about Kinetic at www.knifemaker.com.

We have been working toward this for a long time, and we couldn't be more excited about finally being able to share it with you. Though there remains a bit of work as we continue to make sure the site works as it should, we have rolled out many of the changes we've been promising.

We encourage you to explore the site and tell us what you think, and what you'd like to see next. We can't wait to keep working to make the site better for you. E-mail your feedback here.

Please note: If your favorite thing is missing, it's likely still being perfected. Things you think don't work quite right are still being developed so that they work. In the days ahead, you'll see more changes. We'll keep you updated as we work to improve the website.

Special thanks to James Hauser for many of the photos used on this web site. His photos can also be found in the Village of Greendale commercial and brochure.

After months of anticipation, and amid much emotion and celebration, the 2008 America in Bloom Champions were announced at the 7th Annual America in Bloom Awards Gala held in Columbus, Ohio. The Village of Greendale and Greendale School District are proud to announce that Greendale came out a winner in this national competition.

Greendale was one of 30 communities from across the United States to compete in the America in Bloom competition. Communities ranged in size from 700 residents to 300,000 residents. Greendale competed against all 30 communities for overall honors and 5 communities in its population class of between 10,001-15,000 residents.

The Village was recognized for the National Criteria Award in the Urban Forestry category, beating out all 29 other communities. The Urban Forestry award criteria is evaluated for municipal policies, bylaws, and regulation plans - both long and short term; distribution of trees, variety, suitability; new plantings, main street programs, new survey developments; preservation of heritage trees, woodlots, and re-planting procedures; and proper maintenance practices.

Greendale also received honors within its population category for recognition for its heritage preservation. The Village was also recognized and selected as the community of the year for its population category.

However, the most impressive award Greendale won is the competition’s 5-Bloom Award. Greendale was the only competing community to win a 5-bloom rating. "Blooms" are awarded on a scale of 1 to 5 Blooms. To receive a "5- Bloom" rating, a community must attain an overall average score of 90% or higher amongst the eight criteria areas. Greendale received an average overall rating of 91.6%. Greendale received the following evaluations: Tidiness (112); Environmental Effort (112); Community Involvement (119); Heritage Preservation (118); Urban Forestry (118); Landscaped Areas (116); Floral Displays (112) and Turf & Groundcover Areas (109).

Greendale’s 2008 America in Bloom co-coordinator Jackie Schweitzer said: “As we participated in this competition, we realized the importance community and the interconnection between government, schools, business and the citizenry. America in Bloom encouraged residents, businesses, the schools and Village to work together toward one common goal. It was the journey that was so much more enjoyable than winning. However, winning is like the icing on the cake.”

Greendale Village President John Hermes was the one who suggested that the Village enter the America in Bloom competition. After the victory, President Hermes remarked that: “Competing in America in Bloom allowed Greendale to showcase all of our great attributes and qualities on a national stage. It provided our community organizations, businesses, schools, and government with a new and unique opportunity to work hand in hand towards a common goal and make further improvements in our qualityof life. Winning this national competition confirms our beliefs of what is special in this community and engages an even broader sense of community pride and spirit.”

On October 7, the Village Manager released the recommended 2009 Village Budget. Click here to download (pdf).

In light of rising fuel costs, the Village of Greendale has revaluated the way it carries out its daily functions and is taking proactive measures to reduce fuel consumption in Village departments.

Members of a process improvement team met today to evaluate simple adjustments to operations in response to escalating gas prices. Fuel costs for the City were $134,437 in 2007 and are expected to leap to $240,000 in 2008. The process improvement team’s recommendations will be implemented over the next 30 days.

“With fuel costs escalating at an alarming rate over the last 12 months; the Village’s most responsible step is to look for ways to cut back,” said Todd Michaels, Village Manager. Village President, John Hermes stated that, “he was pleased to see the process improvement initiative he encouraged used for this purpose”. This is a great example of how employee teams can bring best process and solutions to the forefront.

Residents will begin seeing more Village staff performing their duties with their vehicle’s engines turned off whenever possible. They will also notice larger Department of Public Works crews, working from a single vehicle, in an effort to save fuel.

All Village departments will be encouraged to conserve fuel through an aggressive awareness campaign.

We all are faced with the reality of making major adjustments in our personal and professional lives to accommodate for the rising costs of fuel, food and other basic necessities we are experiencing; the Village is not different.

Persons wanting additional information may contact: Todd K. Michaels, Village Manager at (414) 423-2100.

On Saturday, June 7th severe thunderstorms passed through Milwaukee County and Southeastern Wisconsin. Heavyrainfalls in Greendale resulted in upwards of 5-inches of rain falling very quickly, with periods of torrential rain approaching 2” of rain per hour. The torrential rains in Greendale, and throughout Milwaukee County, resulted in numerous flooded streets and basements.

In response to this storm the Village’s Police, Fire, Public Works and Utility Departments were assigned throughout the Village in an effort to mitigate damage to persons and property. Village staff continues to monitor the performance of our storm water and sanitary sewage drainage systems to ensure that they continue to operate at full capacity.

The Village is working with the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Emergency Management Division to perform a damage assessment. Information for homeowners about the damage assessment is forthcoming.

If you have experienced any water accumulation in your home, it is important to use proper cleaning methods to ensure that your home and personal belongings are as clean and safe as possible. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) website has a great deal of information on flooding and flood cleanup. FEMA’s web site is www.fema.gov. Links to information on flooding and flood cleanup can also be found on the Village’s website www.greendale.org.

To report an incident of property damage call Village Hall at (414) 423-2100 or the Greendale Police Department’s non- emergency number (414) 423-2121. In the case of an emergency always dial 911.

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Residents Can Search Ordinances at the Comfort of Computer

The Village of Greendale has completed the re-codification of its Code of Ordinances through the General Code Corporation (General Code) and it is now available on-line.

The Village Code of Ordinances can now be viewed through General Code’s “E-Code On-line Library,” which allows users to search documents by specific words or subjects. The “E-Code On-line Library” includes a table of contents, allows document viewing and has search functions.

General Code’s “On-line Library,” with Greendale’s Code of Ordinances, can be accessed through the Village website at www.greendale.org/treasurer.htm.

“The re-codification and the availability of the Code on-line, enables Greendale residents to view their local legislation in the comfort of their homes and print information at their convenience,” Village Clerk- Treasurer Kathy Kasza said.

The re-codification process began in the Fall of 2006 at a cost of approximately $20,000. There will be periodic supplements to the Code with another recommended re-codification performed in the next 10-15 years.

Click Here for the Greendale Village Code of Ordinances

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Many assessments may not change from 2007 to 2008

The Village Assessor continues to work on the revaluation of property in 2008, and an on-going assessment
maintenance program to try and maintain assessments at their Equalized Value or “Fair Market Value”. Over the past year, the Village Assessor has been performing inspections and reviewing assessed values.

Please note that many assessments may not change from 2007 to 2008, and only property owners whose property changes in assessed value will receive a “Change of Assessment” notice by mail.

The 2008 Board of Tax Review met for the first time on Tuesday, June 3, 2008 at 6:45 PM in the Village Hall Board Room and adjourned because of the unavailability of the completed assessment roll.

Property owners concerned about their assessment can schedule appointments with the Assessor during the Open Book Session. The Village Assessor will be available by scheduled appointment for open book review sessions on Tuesday, June 3, 2008 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Thursday, June 5, 2008 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Tuesday, June 10, 2008 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Safety Center (Police Department) at 5611 West Grange Avenue, Greendale, WI 53129. Property owners that wait until the end of the Open Book Session to schedule a meeting with the assessor may not get an opportunity to speak with the Assessor.

Property owners can appeal their assessment to the Board of Review at any time before the Board of Review closes for the year. Property owners who disagree with their current assessments and wish to appeal their assessment should file an objection form immediately. Objection forms are available from the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office. These fowith the Clerk-Treasurer BEFORE your objection can be heard by the Board of Review.

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The Village is disappointed that the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) has decided to relocate their headquarters to Arlington, Texas. The USBC and its predecessor organizations were headquartered in Greendale for over 30 years.

It became apparent during initial meetings with representatives from the USBC that it would be impossible for the Village to match the relocation incentives available from other communities. The Milwaukee 7 facilitated additional meetings with the USBC and other Milwaukee Area communities in a collective effort to retain the USBC. The Village appreciates the efforts of the Milwaukee 7, the City of Milwaukee, the City of West Allis, and the City of Cudahy in trying to keep the USBC in the Milwaukee Area.

The Village will work with the USBC to assure that their current location is put to its highest and best use after the USBC relocates.

The Village of Greendale has once again been named a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation for the year 2007. This marks the Village’s twelfth (12th) straight year of receiving this national recognition.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.

To become a Tree City USA, a community must meet four (4) standards: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day Observance. In the Village of Greendale, Public Works Director Carl Tisonik and Forester Robert Ziarek guide the Village’s forestry program. Their efforts and the efforts of the entire Department of Public Works have allowed the Village to enjoy the beauty and benefits of its greenspaces, thoroughfares, street trees and parkways.

“Trees and their many benefits to our communities have never been more important,” said John Rosenow, President of the National Arbor Day Foundation. “Proper tree planting and care today will help ensure cleaner, healthier, more tree-filled cities and towns tomorrow.”

“Tree City USA is a recognized standard of an effective community forestry program,” Rosenow continued. “And the basis of such a program is a commitment to ongoing improvement and renewal.”

Village Manager Todd Michaels said, “we’re very proud to receive the Tree City Award. Commitment to natural areas and quality of life issues is the foundation of the Village.”

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