Local

While campaigning for Wisconsin State Treasurer, Dylan Helmenstine continues to serve in two local government roles that he says shape his approach to the statewide position.

BLACK EARTH — The Black Earth Plan Commission met March 10 to continue developing a five-year housing action plan aimed at addressing the village’s housing needs while maintaining its rural character.

MAZOMANIE — Reconstruction of Crescent Street moved forward as village officials reviewed contractor bids and awarded the project to Meise Construction of Sauk City during the March 10 Village Board meeting.

The Wisconsin Heights School District Board of Education approved the 2027-28 school calendar and several personnel appointments during its February 23, 2026 meeting, while also hearing updates on new district initiatives, student engagement efforts and upcoming financial challenges.

BLACK EARTH — The Black Earth Village Board addressed several community issues during its March 3 meeting, including a request from the American Legion regarding land for a potential community building, plans for a historical marker, and approval of an annual cycling event permit.

MIDDLETON - A large crowd filled the Middleton City Hall council chambers March 4 as residents gathered for a candidate forum featuring contenders for both the Middleton Common Council and mayor’s office ahead of the April 7 spring election.

MIDDLETON – The Sun Prairie Police Department’s investigation into allegations that then City Planner Mark Opitz groped Mayor Emily Kuhn last year after a speech has ended without any criminal charges being recommended.

Primary items of business for the Middleton Cross Plains Area School District board of education at its March 2 meeting were learning the details of the Achievement Gap Reduction plan at Sauk Trail Elementary School and the report from School Resource Officers (SROs) serving Middleton High School, three elementary schools in the city, Kromrey Middle School, Glacier Creek Middle School and Park Elementary School.

The City of Middleton responded forcefully to a Middleton woman’s March 3 letter alleging the city allows non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to be signed by city employees in cases of sexual harrassment.

Members of the Black Earth Historical Society held their annual meeting on February 15 at the Black Earth History Center. The meeting was followed by a presentation about the Native American effigy mound that was built in Black Earth 1,000 to 1,500 years ago.