​Cell Phone Policy (2018)

Policy: It is the policy of the Town of Grant (hereafter referred to as "Town") to establish a standard for the usage of Town-owned cell phones. The policy applies to all employees of the Town who (1) drive on Town business in any vehicle, personal or otherwise, (2) drive a Town vehicle, (3) place work-related calls, whether driving on Town business or not, and (4) use a Town-issued cell phone or other electronic device while driving.

Definitions:

Cell phones (also known as a mobile phone, smart phone, handheld cell or handset) — a mobile electronic device that engages in telecommunications including voice calls, text messaging/short message service (SMS) or email. Cell phones also may include features like complete Internet access, games, multimedia message service (MMS), instant messaging (IM) service, digital audio (MP3) players, cameras, radios and global positioning systems (GPS). Any device that engages in these functions is included in this policy.

Electronic device — in this policy, electronic device means any portable apparatus that involves user interaction. This includes, but is not limited to, laptops, GPS systems, MP3 players, cameras, pagers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs).

Headset (also know as hands-free) — an extension of the cell phone either connected to the handset via cord or wirelessly through Bluetooth technology that allows the user to engage in voice communication without holding onto the cell phone itself.

Procedure:

1. Town cell phones may be issued to employees whose responsibilities include frequent communication while traveling and/or away from their permanent workstation. The Town Board will make the determination of which employees will be issued a cell phone.
2. The cell phone will be issued with a battery, wall charger, belt clip, and instructional manual if available.
3. The employee will be issued the cell phone Policy and Procedure and will be required to sign it.
4. If employment is interrupted by extended sick leave or limited to seasonal work, phone service may be suspended while the employee is on leave or away.
5. Town is not responsible for any traffic violations or parking tickets acquired by violation of city ordinance, state or federal laws regarding driving habits and operation of motor vehicle. Any ticket issued is the employee's responsibility, even if the ticket is issued while conduction business for the Town of Grant.
6. Use of cell phones while driving is strictly prohibited — this includes all functions of the cell phone, including but not limited to: phone calls, text messaging/SMS, email, MMS, Internet use, camera use, etc
7. Use of electronic devices — including laptops, PDAs, cameras and pagers while driving is strictly prohibited.
8. The use of headsets or hands-free devices while driving is permitted IF:

1. 1. 1. Device is pre-approved by Town of Grant for use
      2. Use of the device does not cause distraction (ex: fiddling with the device or taking eyes off the road to get it to function properly, etc.)
      3. Any dialing or use of the handset is handles while stopped or pulled to the side of the road.
      4. Conversations do not interfere with the driver's ability to drive safely.

1. 9. Road conditions are generally good and do not threaten safety\
   10. Voicemail must handle all calls while driving, and calls may only be returned when stopped or pulled off the road.
   11. Passengers making or taking calls for the driver is permissible provided the interaction does not affect the driver's performance.
   12. Regular callers must be informed that employee will not be available while driving and should be notified of the best times to call based on employee schedule.
   13. Employees who receive calls from co-workers or Town supervisors who are driving are obligated to ask that either call back at a more appropriate time.

Personal Use:

1. 1. 1. Employees are not permitted personal use of the Town's cell phone, except in cases of emergency, which is always permitted. An example of an emergency would be vehicle mechanical problems or concerns for his/her personal safety.
      2. All calls made for emergency reasons must be documented in writing and retained by the employee for potential future inquiry.
      3. Making daily or regular calls for any reason to family members or friends under non-emergency circumstances is considered personal use and is not permitted.

Cell Phone Invoice Review:

1. 1. 1. The Town Clerk and Chairperson are responsible for monthly cell phone invoice review. Cell phone usage that is significantly above the average number of minutes used, calls to the same phone number, significant usage before or after regular works hours or on weekends, and/or long distance calls outside the 715 area code will be analyzed for possible misuse. The Clerk and Chairperson will review and may require a written explanation of cell phone usage from the employee.
      2. When required to provide a written explanation, the employee must explain the usage of the cell phone in question within seven (7) workdays.
      3. The Town may request reimbursement for cell phone usage. Such reimbursement will be requested in writing. The employee may appeal the determination with the Town Board.

Proper Care and Repair:

1. 1. 1. The Town cell phone and its accessories are defined as official property of the Town of Grant
      2. Employees are responsible for the proper care of the phone and accessories. Proper care means that cell phone and accessories are maintained in the condition in which they were issued, absent normal wear. Employees are encourage to save the box in which the phone and accessories were provided.
      3. Upon separation from the Town, the phone and its accessories must be returned to the Town.
      4. The request repair of the phone, the Town Clerk must be notified. The employee must deliver the phone to the Town Clerk.
      5. The Town Board will determine if repair or replacement is the best option.

Cell Phone Damage or Loss:

1. 1. 1. Employees are responsible for proper and reasonable safeguarding of the phone.
      2. Employees' assigned cell phones should maintain the phone on their person at all times during duty hours. If the phone is not in use, maintain the phone in a secure manner. At all times the employee must safeguard the phone against loss or theft.
      3. If the Town's cell phone is lost or stolen, the employee must contact the cell phone provider within 24 hours to cancel service. The employee must also notify the Town Clerk and Chairperson within 24 hours. The employee must notify the Town Board in writing explaining the circumstances in which the phone was lost or stolen.
      4. The Town Board will make the determination if the loss or theft of the phone was gross negligence or reckless conduct on the part of the employee. If gross negligence or reckless conduct is determined, the employee will be required to reimburse the Town the cost of the phone. The employee may appeal to the Town Board.

Violation of Cell Phone Policy

Violation of the Town of Grant cell phone Policy may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including termination for misconduct.

Compliance Assurance Plan, 2025

PURPOSE: This Compliance Assurance Plan (hereafter referred to as the “Plan”) is meant to ensure compliance with the Town of Grant’s Recycling Ordinance (hereafter referred to as the “Ordinance).

The Town of Grant Town of Board of Supervisors (hereafter referred to as the “Town Board”), or its designees, shall be responsible for enforcing the Ordinance.

The Town of Grant’s employees shall follow the guidelines established in this Plan. This Plan is intended to meet the requirements of Wis. Admin. Code. Ch. NR 544 as well as the Ordinance. https://townofgrant-portage.wi.gov/ordinances-policies-resolutions/

If the assisting attendant of the Town of Grant Transfer Station (“TS”) finds that a resident has non­recyclable items, as stated in Section 10 of the Ordinance, mixed in with recyclable item the attendant shall request the resident sort out the items not in compliance before placing recyclables into the designated receptacles. Educational materials shall be provided describing accepted recycling materials. Repeated offenses shall result in a letter issued by the Town Board. If the resident offends after said letter is issued, the Town Board shall issue a citation pursuant to Section 16.2 of the Ordinance.

If the assisting attendant of the TS finds that a resident is not following the required methods for recycling, as provided under the Ordinance, the attendant shall require the non-conforming material be sorted out and placed in the proper receptacle before recyclable placement into the designated receptacles. At the discretion of the attendant all items shall be rejected until all items are separated, sorted, and meet the criteria of the Ordinance. Educational materials shall be provided describing accepted recycling materials. Repeated offenses shall result in a letter issued by the Town Board. If the resident offends after said letter is issued, the Town Board shall issue a citation pursuant to Section 16.2 of the Ordinance.

The Town Board shall log, and keep a record of any repeated continued nonconformances, and /or fines enforced by the Town of Grant.

The Town of Grant shall maintain records supporting its compliance at the Town of Grant Town Hall on 9011 County Road WW, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494, pursuant to Wis. Admin. Code. § NR 544.07

Roadside Mowing, Best Management Practices for 

Objectives:

1. Reduce Spread of highly invasive plant species
   (esp. Spotted Knapweed, Wild Parsnip, Japanese Knotweed)
2. Encourage Growth of pollinator plant species
3. Reduce Impact on wildlife species (esp. nesting grassland birds and turtles)
4. Reduce Mowing regiment to once per season to be more fiscally responsible.
5. Educate Residents about potentials for increased grassland habitat.

Suggested Dates (plus or minus days/weeks depending on field reconnaissance):

1. NO MOW MAY
2. Jun 1-15 weed-whip culverts, bridges, beam guards
3. Jun 15-June 30 (see map)
4. July 1-15 (see map)
5. July 15 – July 30 (see map)

[Note: Dates may be pushed back two weeks depending on status of invasive plant species. Coordination with Portage County Planning & Zoning Department (Land Conservationist and Weed Commissioner) and WDNR on lands abutting town roads may be needed for mowing and herbicide application]

Public Works employees engaged in mowing operations shall strive to keep the mowers 8-10” high unless otherwise instructed. To maximize efficiency both the boom and side mowers shall be used together when operations commence.

Utility Accommodation Policy #2012-01

Winter Road Maintenance Policy

PURPOSE:

The overall goal is to establish a realistic, meaningful, and practical policy for winter road maintenance that has the flexibility required to adjust as warranted with the character of the snow and ice control needs for any given winter event.

GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT:

It shall be the general policy of the Town of Grant to mechanically and as efficiently as possible, remove accumulated snow or ice from the travel portion of the town roads within a reasonable time. (By State Statute 893.83(1) the Town has three (3) weeks to remove natural snow and ice accumulations.)

This does not mean bare, dry pavement, gravel or dirt should be expected after each snowfall or ice storm. In fact, many town roads may have only plowed snowpack throughout much of the winter season. Motorists will be expected to modify their driving in accordance with the road conditions.

Planning and preparing for snow and ice removal operations is difficult due to the uniqueness of each storm. The inter-relationship of factors such as rate of snowfall, moisture content, accumulation, temperature, time of day, wind velocity and available resources determine the operational response for the proper clearance of the roads.

Under this policy the goal of winter maintenance is to 1) minimize hazards of slippery road conditions to motorists 2) facilitate handling of emergencies 3) restore traveling conditions for the safety and convenience of the public, all within the limitations of equipment, manpower, resource conservation, facility & personnel protection and environmental concerns.

SNOWPLOW OPERATIONS:

Routine snow plowing usually begins when snow accumulates to 2-3" on average; it is still snowing; and the forecast is for 3 or more inches. Earlier deployment of maintenance crews may be necessary if combined with freezing and icing conditions, occurrence of an ice storm, high winds or freezing rain. Second pass snow plowing and post storm cleanup is encouraged during early morning weekday hours but is heavily dependent upon the nature of the winter storm event.

[Note: A winter storm depositing 2-3” total accumulation or less during off hours and/or weekends may be cleaned on early weekday mornings in lieu of overtime hours.]

The main objective of snow removal operations is to plow the roadway surfaces and shoulders in a single pass per travel direction. Roads with the highest traffic volume, school bus routes, households and dangerous spots have the highest priority. All roads shall be cleared as expeditiously as is economically and operationally practical to provide reasonable traffic service. To provide efficient operation it may be necessary to plow a lower class of roadway to reach an area of higher priority. It may also be necessary to clear a route for emergency calls such as police, fire and ambulance.

The Town Chairperson and/or Town Board of Supervisors have the authority to suspend snow and ice control operations in severe storm conditions when there is danger to operators, or it is not practical or cost effective to continue. Operations may be suspended or reduced if there are equipment breakdowns, qualified operators are not available, or other conditions occur beyond the Town's control. Plowing snow may be limited in storms in late spring due to the lack of frost to support the snowplow.

The discretionary act of ordering personnel and equipment into service for a winter maintenance operation shall be primarily with the Town Chairperson and/or Town Board of Supervisors.

SNOWPLOW OPERATORS:

Snowplow operators shall only be allowed to work a maximum of 14 consecutive hours and after such time shall have a 6–8-hour minimum reprieve of duties. Relief operators will be sought if snowplowing efforts remain.

Snowplow operators shall be limited to a maximum of 35-mph. If salt/sand material is being spread, they shall operate within a 20-25 mph range.

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE:

Prior to the deployment of any snow fighting equipment, it shall be the practice of equipment

operators to perform all the following:

    Check all oil levels (engine, transmission, hydraulics, windshield washer)  Check coolant level

    Check for fluid leaks by visual inspection*

    Check for loose bolts on cutting edges/shoes etc.

    Check for wear on cutting edges, shoes, blades etc.

 Check safety items – safety lights, headlights, taillights, brakes etc.

    Check for worn or frayed wiring/lines/hoses etc.

    Check gauges for oil pressure, alternator, fuel, engine temperature etc.*

    Check cleanliness of windows, mirrors, floor (rolling or airborne objects)

* Indicates items to be checked consistently during actual operations

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES:

• As much as practical, plow school bus routes as warranted prior to pick-up and drop-off times.
• All equipment including both patrol trucks, one-ton pickup and the motor grader shall be equipped and ready to deploy for winter maintenance prior to the onset of winter storm events.
• Scraping of roadways to remove snow and ice with equipment such as the motor grader should be done when temperatures and thawing conditions permit.
• The enhanced cleaning of radius points and benching of snow to improve vision and safety at intersections shall be done during normal work hours in a post storm cleanup effort.
• Benching of accumulated snow along the shoulders to facilitate additional snow storage shall be done during normal work hours as warranted.
• If practical and if permission is granted by adjacent property owners, benching of
  accumulated snow in open fields is encouraged to prevent drifting of roadways.

ICE REMOVAL:

The Town uses abrasive sand treated with rock salt. This mixture will be applied at curves, intersections, hills and steep grades. Other road surfaces may receive an application of sand/salt as may be required or directed, to provide a safe surface for traffic. Certain weather conditions may allow the sand/salt mixture to promote thawing or clearing of compact snow or ice.

DRIVEWAYS:

Driveway maintenance is the property owner's responsibility. The Town does not have any obligation to clear snow from blocked driveways because of snowplow operations. State Statute 86.01 & 346.94 prohibits plowing snow from driveways onto State, County or Town roads. No snow or ice removal from private property shall be deposited in the roadway and then expected to be cleared by personnel from the Town. Pushing, blowing, or carrying and depositing snow or ice onto a public roadway is prohibited. Such activities are dangerous and could cause injury or accidents and may not allow for safe passage by the public.

MAILBOXES:

Snowplow operators are instructed to be cautious near mailboxes. In most cases a properly installed mailbox will permit a snowplow to pass by without damage. Most cases of damaged mailboxes are caused by heavy snow hitting the box and damage resulting from snow and ice is not the Town’s responsibility for repair or replacement. The Town will repair or replace a mailbox installation if it is hit by the plow and the Town is notified. If a new box is necessary, the maximum amount of $50.00 is allowed for the Town or owner to purchase one. Owners may be asked to move mailboxes if they hinder or obstruct snowplow operations.

PARKING REGULATIONS:

The public should refrain from parking on all roads rights-of-way. Vehicles parked illegally or

abandoned on roads are subject to towing at the owner's expense.

MAINTENANCE REQUESTS & EMERGENCY CALLS:

All courteous calls will be handled promptly and with discretionary judgment by the Town Chairperson and/or Town Board of Supervisors. The response to such calls may vary depending upon the availability of the person called and status of snowplow operations. Emergency calls should be directed to 911 for the quickest service possible. Complaints or comments should be made at the monthly Town Board meetings.

It is not the Town’s responsibility to tow distressed or stuck vehicles from the roadway or ditches unless a safety risk to the traveling public or equipment operators exists. It is the owner’s responsibility to expeditiously free the vehicle from the roadway or roadside.

The Winter Road Maintenance Policy shall be deemed to be in effect after its adoption by the Town Board.