OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – During the cold snap before Christmas, Winnebago County Executive Jon Doemel signed an emergency declaration to keep the Day By Day Warming Shelter operating. On Tuesday, the county board decided to ratify the declaration.
“There were a lot of people that did not have to sleep in negative 30 degree wind chills,” Doemel said. “So, if you ask me, they saved lives.”
The vote was unanimous. Several board members like Steven Binder spoke up in support of Doemel.
“These people need to have a place to go, 365 days a year. And we’re responsible for that. So, in the future if they have to close the door again, we have to be ready to step up and help again.”
However, others expressed concerns over the initial declaration.
“I’m concerned with this precedent that through an emergency declaration, you can just take over staffing for any non-profit,” Board Member Brian Defferding said.
“Is this the only way we can do this? Because now we’re voting for funding after it’s been done,” Board Member Conley Hanson said.
Defferding and Hanson were among those who addressed Doemel at the meeting. The county executive answered concerns, like the projected cost of taking over the shelter.
“I have a rough estimate, and I think all said and done, we’ll be under $125,000 for this, which is a big number,” Doemel said.
The county will continue to work with the shelter’s employees to provide training and help address problems with staffing. Now, Doemel is focused on what comes next.
“It will allow us to continue operations there until the ninth. And also give me the authority until Feb. 28 to continue with training to help them get back on their feet.”
Doemel said he’s confident in everything that’s happened since the decision.
“I think we did the right thing, obviously. And operations are going smoothly. We had a lot of help from other individuals that have worked there before.
County employees who worked at the shelter were paid extra. Doemel said no one was forced to work involuntarily over the holidays.
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