Friends and Neighbors,
Things are picking up here at the Capitol as we're nearing the fall session. This issue of the Sargent Voice discusses the potential closing of up to 4,000 acres of managed forest land indefinitely, my travels around the district including trips to the Dane County Airport and the 115th Fighter Wing, and the efforts my colleagues and I are putting forth to address the student loan debt crisis. As always, please contact me if you have anything that you would like included in future issues. rep.sargent@legis.wi.gov or 608-266-0960.
In solidarity,
Closing 4,000 Acres of Public Land is Excessive, Unjustified, and Unfair
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Under the program, owners receive a tax
break if they agree to maintain a DNR-approved forest management
plan and keep the property open to the public. Under the new
bill, Gogebic—a West Virginia coal company--is allowed to avoid
a number of restrictions required for other property owners and
close public access for up to 4,000 acres of managed forest land
indefinitely.
Approximately 30,000 Wisconsin landowners currently participate
in the program and play by the rules. Playing by the rules would
mean that Gogebic would have to pay approximately $500,000.
However, Gogebic is seeking privileged status and the ability to
violate their contract with the blessing of the state
legislature. Wisconsin should reject this bad idea.
Senators Tiffany and Grothman argue that closing 4,000 acres of
land is necessary to protect the workers who are working on bulk
sampling and other drilling sites of up to 50 acres. The closure
is excessive and unnecessary because there are more responsible
alternatives. And the public should be allowed to voice their
opinions in reasonably scheduled hearings before voting.
Gogebic should respect Wisconsin law the same as the other
30,000 property owners who respect and follow the law. And
Wisconsin citizens should be able to enjoy northern Wisconsin
forests without impediment.
2013-14
Blue Books
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The
2013-14 Blue Book is a great resource to learn about
Wisconsin's state government. My office has them
available (free of charge) on a first come- first serve
basis. Feel free to contact my office at rep.sargent@legis.wi.gov
or 608-266-0960 to receive one. This years Blue Book
even features the new state pastry, the kringle!
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65th Anniversary of the 115th Fighter Wing
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These members of our community serve their state and nation selfless and perform important tasks such as emergency preparedness, air safety, and fire fighting.
Tour at the Dane County Airport
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The Dane County Airport is a true jewel in our community. It provides a easily accessible transportation hub, as well as being an economic driver and employer.
I was thrilled to receive a behind the scenes tour from
the airport director, Bradley Livingston. During the
tour, I was able to see what a
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Make College Affordable Tour
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Did you Know?
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September 30, 2013
Issue 18
Contact Me
State Capitol
P.O. Box 8953
Madison, WI 53708
Office: (608) 266-0960
Email:
Rep.Sargent@legis.wi.gov
On the Web: sargent.assembly.wi.gov
Freshman Caucus Highlight
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In the Capitol
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In the District
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New UW-Madison Class is one of
the
Most Diverse Ever