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Assessor

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1. What is the assessor's role?

The assessor is a State certified individual whose duties are to discover, list, and place a value on all taxable real and personal property in the city, in a uniform manner. The assessor is not involved in the collection of property taxes.

2. When I get my new assessment, who do I talk to about it and possibly contest the value?

There is a process called “Open Book” in which you can schedule an appointment with Musser Appraisal Service.  After Open Book concludes, there is a meeting of the Board of Review.  Please watch the News section on the homepage of the website for current dates.  The Open Book and Board of Review process typically occurs in the spring of each year.

3. How does the assessor value property?

Wisconsin Law requires property assessments based on fair market value. Estimating the market value of your property is a matter of determining the price a typical buyer would pay for it in its present condition. Some factors the assessor considers are: what similar properties are selling for, what it would cost to replace your property, the rent it may earn, and any other factors that affect value. IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT THE ASSESSOR DOES NOT CREATE THIS VALUE, BUT RATHER INTERPRETS WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE MARKET PLACE.

4. What is market value?

Market value is defined as the amount a typical, well-informed purchaser would be willing to pay for a property. The seller and buyer must be unrelated, the seller must be willing, but not under pressure to sell, and the buyer must be willing, but not under any obligation to buy. The property must be on the market for a reasonable length of time, the payment must be in cash or its equivalent, and the financing must be typical for that type of property. If all of these conditions are present, this would be a market value, “arm's-length” sale.

5. I've heard values are developed by computer. Is this correct?

Just as in many other fields, computers are useful in the assessment process. Assessors are trained to look for relationships between property characteristics and market value. By coding these characteristics and studying sales prices, assessors can estimate value by developing formulas and models. Computers are much faster and are capable of advanced analysis in this area. But despite these capabilities, common sense and assessor judgment are always required to verify assessments. Assessors most familiar with the neighborhoods and properties review all assessments.

6. What will happen to my assessment if I improve my property?

Generally speaking, improvements that increase the market value of a property will increase the assessed value. The following are typical items that will increase the assessed value of your property: Added rooms or garages, Replacing asbestos or wood siding with aluminum or vinyl siding, Substantial modernization of kitchens or baths, Central air conditioning, Fireplaces, Extensive remodeling, etc.

7. Will my assessment go up if I repair my property?

Good maintenance will help retain the market value of your property. Generally, your assessment will not be increased for individual minor repairs such as those that follow; however, a combination of several of these items could result in an increased assessment. Repairing concrete walks and driveways, Replacing gutters and downspouts, Replacing hot water heater, Repairing or replacing roof, Repairing porches and steps, Repairing original siding, Patching or repairing interior walls and ceilings, Exterior painting, Replacing electrical fixtures, Replacing furnaces, Exterior awnings and shutters, Weather stripping, screens, storm windows, doors, Exterior landscaping including lawns, shrubbery, trees, flowers.

8. How can my assessment change when I haven't done anything to my property?

General economic conditions such as interest rates, inflation rates, supply and demand, and changes in tax laws, will influence the value of real estate. As property values change in the market place, those changes must be reflected on the assessment roll.

9. Do all assessments change at the same rate?

There are differences between individual properties and between neighborhoods. In one area the sales may indicate a substantial increase in value in a given year. In another neighborhood there may be no change in value, or even a decrease in property values. Different types of properties within the same neighborhood may also show different value changes. For example, one-story houses may be more in demand than two-story houses, or vice-versa. Older homes in the same area may be rising in value more slowly than newer homes. There are numerous factors to be considered in each property which will cause the values to differ. Some of the factors which can affect value are location, condition, size, quality, and number of baths, basement finish, garages, and many others.

10. How do I know if my assessment is correct?

You should first attempt to decide for yourself what your property is worth. This can be done by looking at area sales, contacting appraisers, and comparing assessments of similar homes. Assessment information is available at www.assessordata.org.

11. Will I be notified if there is a change in my assessment?

Wisconsin law requires that whenever an assessment is changed the owner must be notified.

12. What is the difference in value between an attached garage and an unattached garage?

Unattached Garages add less value than attached garages by about 25%.

13. If I add a shed to my property, will it increase my property valuation?

Sheds add value only if they are site built and of a substantial nature with a foundation and made of wood.  Metal or PVC sheds you buy at a home improvement store or other location do not add value.

14. If I build a gazebo on my property, will it increase my property valuation.

Gazebos add value to the property.

15. Will a pool add value to my property?

Above Ground Pools add no value.

In Ground Pools add value, but only about 35% of the actual cost to put one in.

16. Is landscaping included in my property valuation?

Landscaping, trees, and shrubs are not considered. It is assumed everyone has landscaping, trees, and/or shrubs.  Value is not added for exceptional landscaping; however, wooded area on a lot does add value.

17. Is a driveways surfacing considered in the property valuation?

No, driveway surfacing is not considered.  

18. Will my fence have an effect on my property valuation?

Fences are not considered in the property valuation.

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Building Permits

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1. When do I need a Building Permit?

Building Permits are required for the following types of projects: Remodel of a home, decks, larger windows, sheds, garages, electrical work, plumbing work, HVAC work, and pools.

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City Hall

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1. Is there a Notary Public at City Hall?

Yes, there are several at City Hall. If possible, please call before coming to City Hall to ensure a Notary Public is available.

2. Does the city accept credit or debit card payments?

You may use your debit or credit card to pay for citations and water bills. This service is available in person and online through www.milton-wi.gov/MakeaPayment. 

Make a Payment

3. How do I volunteer to be on a city committee?

Appointments for city committees or commissions are typically filled in April of every year. The appointments are recommendations from the Mayor and approved by the Common Council. Notice of any vacancies on a committee or commission are noticed in the Milton Courier and also posted on the website. Applications for serving are available at City Hall and on the website.

Committee Questionaire

4. How do I find out zoning for a property?

Zoning maps are available at City Hall to view and on the website. Zoning and regulation questions can be answered by the Public Works Department.  

Zoning Map

5. How do I contact the Mayor or Common Council members?

Contact information for the Council members is available on the website.  You may also send correspondence to City Hall, 710 S. Janesville Street.

Common Council Contact Information

6. How can I find out what happened at a city meeting?

All Council meetings are recorded and posted on the City's YouTube Channel.  

7. Can I speak at public meetings?

There is an opportunity to address the Common Council during the agenda item "Public comments regarding items which can be affected by Council Action." Participation during the meetings is allowed if you address the Council from the podium. The Council meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. Agendas are available on the city website.

Agendas & Minutes

8. Who are my County, State, and Federal elected officials?

Information about elected officials can be found on the city website.

State, Federal, & Local Resources

9. Where are elections held?

All elections are held in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 710 S. Janesville Street. Election Information

10. How do I apply for dog and cat licenses?

Animal licenses are available at City Hall. The current rabies certificate must be presented when applying. Fees are $8 if the animal is fixed, and $15 if the animal is not fixed.  Additional information is available on the website.

Animal Licensing

11. How many dogs and cats can I have?

Not more than a combined total of four dogs and cats over five months old may be maintained on any lot or residence. There may not be more than three dogs or three cats as a part of such combination.

12. Can I reserve or rent city parks, buildings, or park shelters?

Yes. The City rents out the Community House, Lamar Park, Central Park, and South Goodrich Park. Fees are based on your residency in the City or the surrounding townships. Applications can be found on the City website or at City Hall. Please call City Hall to verify the availability, (608) 868-6900 ext. 2.

Park & Facility Rental

13. How do I get an operators permit ("bartending license")?

To obtain a bartenders license in the City of Milton, you will need to complete the Beverage Server course and provide proof of completion of the class along with $30 and a completed application. The application is available on the city website or at City Hall.  Additional information can be found on the website.

Operator License Application

14. How do I get a business license?

All businesses, including non-profits, must apply for a City Business License. Applications are available on the website and also at City Hall. The license is a one-time fee of $25.

Business License Application

15. How can I bid on City contracts?

All bids are published in the Milton Courier and posted at City Hall.

16. How do I get a copy of meeting agendas or minutes?

Agendas and minutes are available on the website and at City Hall. Agendas are posted at Dave's Ace Hardware, Piggly Wiggly, and City Hall.

Agendas & Minutes

17. How do I learn about City Ordinances?

Current ordinances are available on the website.

City Ordinances

18. If I'm leaving for the winter and my home will be empty, who should I notify?

Milton Police Department at (608) 868-6910 and the Milton Water Department at (608) 868-6900 ext. 1.

19. What are the procedures for filing a claim against the city?

If you have a claim against the City of Milton, claim forms are available at City Hall.

20. Who do I contact with questions about open meetings or open records?

Contact the City Clerk at City Hall at (608) 868-6900 ext. 2.

21. Does Milton have a food pantry?

Yes, Milton Community Action Center, 36 Hilltop Drive, houses the food pantry. Information is available on the website.

22. What is the phone number for the Town of Milton

Town of Milton, 23 First Street, (608) 868-2465. 

23. When is Trick-or-Treating in Milton?

Trick-or-Treating in Milton is typically on Halloween, regardless the day of the week. Hours for 2021 will be 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 31.

24. When is the Fourth of July festivities?

The Fourth of July festivities include a carnival for kids, adult and children softball tournament, a Walk-Run, parade, and fireworks. The Walk-Run is the morning of the 4th, the parade is always at 1 p.m. on the 4th, and the Fireworks are always at dusk on the 4th. The parade begins at Lamar Park/Milton West Elementary School and heads east on Madison Avenue and continues south on Hilltop Drive. 

Fourth of July Information

25. When is the City-Wide Rummage Sale?

The City-Wide Rummage Sale in Milton is always on the first Saturday in June. You are not required to register or sign-up. This is not a city sponsored function, all are welcome to participate/set-up.

26. When is the Chicken BBQ and Arts & Crafts on the Lawn

The Annual Chicken BBQ and Arts & Crafts on the Lawn is always on the third Sunday in August on the Milton House and North Goodrich Park grounds. Contact the Milton Area Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism (MACCIT) at (608) 868-6222 for information about the Chicken BBQ and the Milton Historical Society at (608) 868-7772 for information about the Arts & Crafts on the Lawn.

27. Can I get a copy of my tax bill?

Tax bills, payment history, assessment information, legal descriptions, and more is available through the Rock County Treasurer's Tax Database.  

Property Information Resources

28. Can I view the city's budget?

The city's budget is available on the website.

Treasurer

29. What portion of my utility bill is for water and what part is for sewer?

The monthly bill you receive from the Milton Water Department is for water, sewer, stormwater, and fire protection. The bill lists each charge for the month individually. 

30. When are tax bills mailed?

Tax bills are mailed in the middle of December.

31. Where can I pay my taxes?

All property tax payments are made through the Rock County Treasurer's Office.  Tax payment information is available on the Rock County website.

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Crossridge Park Annual Seed Pick

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1. What should I wear to participate in the Crossridge Park Annual Seed Pick?

Wear clothes that are appropriate for walking in tall grasses. Due to both the time of year and time of day, it may be a bit chilly to start. It could also be a bit damp because in October the grass still has dew on it. Dressing in layers often works well so that you can take off layers as it warms up. Also, be sure to wear shoes that you don't mind getting wet or muddy in the event that those are the conditions.

2. Do I need to bring anything with me to the Crossridge Park Annual Seed Pick?

The Parks & Recreation Commission recommends bringing garden or leather gloves, sunscreen, water, a paper bag for the seed, and a camera to take pictures. Some people find scissors or snips helpful. Typically the Parks & Recreation Commission will have extra gloves and paper bags. Bring the appropriate medication if you are allergic to any insects or plants.

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High Street Project

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1. In the RFP, it states real estate acquisition is not anticipated. Have existing curb ramps been reviewed with respect to potential TLE needs associated with replacement?

This segment of High Street was last rehabilitated with intermittent sidewalk improvements as part of an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act project in  2010 under WisDOT project ID 5990-04-71. If TLEs are discovered to be needed during the design process, the awarded firm will be expected to assist with the acquisition.

2. Within the Experience section, the RFP states “include names and contact information from three past projects for reference purposes.” Are we limited to three projects within this section?

Yes

3. References: Can the same references from Section 4 Experience be listed here?

Yes

4. Has a consultant been selected yet and/or do you have any other updates to share at this time?

Proposals are due by 4:00 PM Thursday, July 27^th and updates will be posted on our website.

Note: Project PS&E is date is 11/1/2025

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Main

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1. How do I report a website issue or correction?

If you find an issue like a broken link or information to correct on the website, please complete the form available on the City's website or call (608) 868-6900 ext. 5.

2. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

3. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Police

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1. Where can I park my RV?

RV parking rules:

• Must be parked on hard surface 
• Cannot block sidewalk 

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Public Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

Library cards are free. Identification and proof of residence are required for adults when the card application is completed. Minors (under 16 years of age) need a parent's or guardian's signature on their application. There is no minimum age requirement to obtain a library card. You can fill out and print an application ahead of time (you will not be able to save a filled-in version of the form). Bring the application(s) to the Checkout Desk to get your library card; be sure to bring your photo ID and proof of address as well. 

Accepted ID

Photo Identification may be provided with any U.S. state driver’s license or identification card, a passport, a school ID, or any official picture ID. 

Proof of address

Proof of address may be provided on the same driver’s license or identification card if it is current. 

Also accepted are: 

1. An “official” piece of mail (electric bill, cable bill, etc.)
2. Address on a bank statement, payroll statement, etc.
3. Checkbook
4. Rental agreement with the complete address plainly entered.

2. When is the library open?

Milton Public Library maintains the following hours year-round: 

• Monday, Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Milton Public Library has book lockers for after-hours pickup of reserved materials. Call the library at 608-868-7462 to make arrangements.

Milton Public Library Website

3. Can I use my Milton card at other libraries?

Yes! Milton Public Library is part of the Arrowhead Library System and SHARE Consortium, which together include 28 locations in Rock County, Racine County, Kenosha County, and Walworth Counties (covering all the public libraries in these counties). You are welcome to use your card at any of these libraries and to return borrowed materials to any of these libraries or their drop boxes.

4. Is there a way to browse what materials are available at the library online?

Yes! SHARE is the name of the catalog for all the public libraries in the SHARE Consortium (Counties of Rock, Kenosha, Racine, and Walworth). Visit SHARE [https://ent.sharelibraries.info/client/en_US/mil/] to browse and search the catalog. Log in using your library card barcode and PIN to place holds on materials, join the Favorite author club, pay overdue fines online, update your contact information, and more.

You can also browse and reserve materials using the SHARE Anywhere mobile app – log in using your library card barcode and PIN, then select the library from which you would most often like to pickup your reserved items.

 SHARE Catalog [https://ent.sharelibraries.info/client/en_US/mil/]

5. Are there computers that I can use at the library? Is there wifi access available?

Yes and yes! Public access computers are available to patrons with library accounts that are in good standing, as well as to area visitors with a photo ID.

Wifi is also available for patrons to use with their own wifi-enabled devices.

6. Where can I find more information about the Milton Public Library?

Schedules of events, a list of holiday closings, library policies, and more can be found on the Milton Public Library website.

Milton Public Library Website

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Trees

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1. Who is responsible for terrace trees?

By City Ordinance, the owner of the property is responsible for the trees on their property and the adjacent terrace.  The City takes care of the trees on property owned by the City of Milton such as parks and open spaces, City buildings, and undeveloped public property.

2. Who plants trees in the terrace?

Property owners.  The City does not plant trees in terraces in front of private property.

3. How are hazardous trees handled?

Property owners of hazardous trees are sent a letter for removal.  Most letters are sent on a complaint basis.  If you are concerned about a hazardous tree, contact the public Works Department at 868-6914.

4. Tell me about the Emerald Ash Borer?

The Emerald Ash Borer situation will eventually create more dead and / or hazardous trees.  The property owner is responsible for the removal or treatment of their trees.  If branches start dropping in the street or over sidewalks, the property owner will likely receive a letter for removal.  The City is trying to allow property owners to use their trees as long as possible.  More information about Emerald Ash Borer is available on the City's website.

5. What is the City’s plan for removal and replacement of hazardous trees?

The Public Works Department removed trees on City owned property due to Emerald Ash Disease as well as other hazardous trees.  The City is planting replacement trees in various locations.

6. Does the City accept donations for trees?

The City is currently accepting tree donations.  Contact the Public Works Department at 868-6914 for details.

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Trial Tips

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1. Do I need an attorney?

If you decide to take your case to trial, an attorney will not be provided for you by the court. You may, of course, choose to hire an attorney or represent yourself.

2. What happens at a trial?

This is a formal hearing where the city attorney and the defendant have the opportunity to present their evidence before the municipal judge. The city has the burden of proving its case by clear, satisfactory, and convincing evidence. The city puts its case in first. This usually involves calling witnesses and introducing documentary evidence. Once a witness for the city has testified, the defendant has a right to cross-examine that witness. After the city has introduced all of the evidence that it wishes to present, the defendant then has the opportunity to testify on his or her own behalf, call witnesses, and introduce documentary evidence. The city attorney is entitled to cross-examine any witness called by the defendant. After all the evidence has been heard by the judge, each side is given an opportunity to make a closing argument. The judge then applies the admissible evidence to the specific state statute or city ordinance that the defendant is charged with violating and determines whether he or she is guilty or not guilty.

3. What should I do to prepare for a trial?

There are several things you should consider when preparing for a trial:

1. Are there witnesses you want to testify? If the answer is yes, you need to make sure that they will be there on the day of the trial. Any such witness should have personal knowledge of the incident based on what he or she saw or heard. Do not bring in letters or statements written at your request. They may be hearsay and more than likely will not be admitted as evidence. If you have any doubts that witnesses you would like to call will appear voluntarily, you have the right to subpoena them into court.


2. Photos, Maps, and Drawings: If you think such evidence will help the judge understand your case, bring them to court. However, you or whoever took the photos or drew the drawings should be prepared to testify about how and when the items came into being.


3. Testimony by the Defendant: If you plan to testify on your own behalf, think about what you are going to say beforehand. If you do testify, the city attorney will have the right to cross-examine you. If you made a statement to the police or others, these statements can be used against you at the trial.

4. What do I need to know about police reports?

Do not assume that the judge has seen the police report. The judge has not read the police report and will not read the report unless it is properly submitted at trial. Do not assume that the City Attorney will properly submit it at trial. If you want the judge to see it, you will have to bring a copy and then see whether or not it will be admitted. Police reports are available via open records request. Open records requests may be made at the police department and it may take 10 business days to fulfill said request.

5. Will I have to pay more than the amount on the citation if I am found guilty?

It is a possibility. First, the City Attorney may request payment for such things as a witness fee. The fine amount on your citation is not the maximum fine in most cases. The judge has the authority to impose a higher fine, if she deems it appropriate. Finally, if you do subpoena witnesses, you will not be reimbursed for these expenses even if you are found not guilty.

6. What if I need a postponement?

If you have a good cause to delay your trial date, you may ask the judge for an adjournment. You must do so at least one week before the trial date. The judge will then decide whether or not to grant your request.

7. If I am found guilty, can I appeal?

If you are found guilty after a trial, the judge will notify you of your appeal rights. The appeal must be filed within twenty days after the judge's decision and will be heard in the Rock County Circuit Court. You must file a written notice of appeal and pay the appropriate appeal fee.

8. If I change my mind, can I change my plea before the trial?

You may change your plea to guilty or no contest by contacting the City Attorney who is handling your case by the Friday before your trial date.

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Utilities

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1. What should I do if I smell sewer gas?

The first thing to do is to run water in all drains including any floor drains and appliance drains to fill the traps. Allow time for the smell to dissapate. If the odor continues, call Public Works.

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Zoning Ordinance Rewrite

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1. What is a Zoning Ordinance?

A zoning ordinance (also called a zoning code) is the set of rules that a local or county government adopts to regulate the use of land, particularly when new development is proposed. Different land uses may include residential, commercial, industrial, or a mix of uses. Zoning Ordinances also include rules for certain qualities of new development such as site design, landscaping, and signage.

2. Why does the City need a new Zoning Ordinance?

The City of Milton last comprehensively rewrote the Zoning Ordinance in 1968. As such, many of the development standards in the City’s current Ordinance do not reflect modern development and land use practices. The new Ordinance will develop new zoning districts and updated regulations for land uses, landscaping, bulk requirements, lighting, building materials, parking, signage, and nonconforming situations, among others. 

3. What’s the difference between planning and zoning?

The City of Milton Comprehensive Plan includes a Future Land Use Map. This map illustrates the City’s desires for how land will develop or change over time. Zoning is one (but not the only) tool that may be used to implement a plan. Different zoning districts may be mapped to realize the City’s land use desires in the Future Land Use Map. Changes to the Zoning Map must be consistent with the Future Land Use Map. 

A Future Land Use Map...	A Zoning Map...
…advises land uses over the next 20 years	…identifies land uses allowed today.
…is an advisory tool (a guide).	…is a regulatory tool (the law).
…divides the community into land use designations reflecting desired future uses.	…divides the community into zoning districts with different allowed uses.
…guides future zoning and subdivision decisions.	…must be used to make zoning decisions.
…allows for more consistent and defensible decisions on future changes to Zoning Map.	…is easier to prepare or change when backed by a Future Land Use Map.
….may be prepared or revised as the community sees fit.	…may be adopted or revised (through rezoning) as the community sees fit.
…requires a public hearing before any change.	…requires a public hearing before any change.

4. Who is guiding this process?

City staff will oversee the process with guidance provided by the Plan Commission, City Council, and public input. Vandewalle & Associates, the project consultants hired by the City, will be writing the new Ordinance, developing the new Zoning Map, and facilitating all public meetings. 

5. What is the project timeline and how will the public be involved?

The general project timeline is summarized below. The project is getting started in July 2023 and is expected to be completed by summer of 2024. Opportunities for public participation and the project tasks are listed below:

• July 18, 2023 – Plan Commission Kickoff Meeting
• July 26, 2023 – Public Workshop at City Hall (710 S. Janesville Street) from 6:30 – 8:00 PM
• Summer/Fall 2023 – Prepare Draft Zoning Ordinance and Map
• Winter 2023/24 – Review Draft Zoning Ordinance and Map with City staff and Plan Commission
• Spring 2024 – Public Open House to Review Draft Zoning Ordinance and Map
• Summer 2024 – Adopt New Zoning Ordinance 

6. Who do I contact with questions or comments?

If you have questions or comments, you may contact Mark Langer, Public Works Director, by phone at (608) 868-6900 or by email at MLanger@milton-wi.gov.