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2023 - 2024 LEGISLATURE
2023 ASSEMBLY RESOLUTIO N 22
November 13, 2023 - Introduced by Representative KRUG. Referred to Committee
on Rules.
***AUTHORS SUBJECT TO CHANGE***
Relating to: recognizing and commending the Wisconsin Operating Engineers
Local 139 and its staff at the Coloma Training Center for their role in fighting
the Pallet Fire.
Whereas, on July 10, 2023, a severe wildfire engulfed over 800 acres of land in
Waushara County; and
Whereas, the fire was centered near Coloma and consumed 830 acres of land,
three homes, 17 smaller structures, and numerous vehicles and items of equipment;
and
Whereas, the fire required a response from 30 fire departments, including fire
departments in Wisconsin Rapids, Grand Rapids, Nekoosa, Rudolph, Pittsville,
Plainfield, and Westfield, with eight firefighters requiring medical attention; and
Whereas, soon after the fire began, local officials requested assistance from the
staff at the Wisconsin Operating Engineers Local 139 Coloma Training Center; and
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13 - 2 -2023 - 2024 Legislature
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Whereas, the Operating Engineers responded immediately with staff and
equipment to fight the fire, and with great efficiency and considerable courage they
sent 14 staff to operate six bulldozers and two water trucks; and
Whereas, the heroic efforts of the Operating Engineers contributed greatly to
the successful suppression of the fire and thus limiting the damage the fire would
cause, thereby preserving the life, health, and property of many in the area of the fire;
and
Whereas, the Local 139 training facility itself would have been a complete loss
without the assistance of the staff's hard work and selfless actions; and
Whereas, staff from the training center who assisted in the effort included Local
139 Vice President and Training Director Dan Sperberg, as well as training center
staff Mike Burt, Bob Cayer, Matthew Faldet, Kip Gutke, Joseph Handschke, Joseph
Krempp, Todd Liebelt, Frank Meating, Chris Rachel, Dennis Sperberg, Kyle
Sperberg, John Stoneberg, and Frank Zenz; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, That the members of the Wisconsin State
Assembly recognize and commend Wisconsin Operating Engineers Local 139 and its
staff at the Coloma Training Center for their role in fighting the Pallet Fire, thereby
helping to save the life, health, and property of those affected.
(END)
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