LETTER: Port mayor, council signed NDA in ‘city’s best interest’

To Ozaukee Press:

Earlier this year, the City of Port Washington was approached by multiple regional and state level economic development organizations that had been collaboratively working to attract a global corporation to the State of Wisconsin. At that time, Port Washington was being explored as a location for a possible and significant economic development opportunity for Wisconsin and the U.S.

In early discussions, the mayor was asked if the city was interested in learning about the opportunity. The mayor believed that it was the city’s responsibility to review and begin understanding the scope of the development and proactively position the city by acquiring as much knowledge as possible.

A request was made by the economic development groups to have all elected officials and certain city staff sign an addendum to an existing non-disclosure agreement (NDA). This is standard practice in early exploratory conversations for projects of this scale.

An NDA is a common practice when there are multiple levels of government involved in a potential development project. The decision to enter into the NDA was not taken lightly. Every member of the Common Council and the mayor voluntarily signed the NDA. All acknowledged that we understood the terms and conditions. 

All seven members of the elected council, along with the mayor, signed individual agreements acknowledging the expectations of the NDA. This then allowed each elected official to learn the scope of the development.

Ultimately, the decision to sign the NDA reflects each member’s determination that doing so was in the city’s best interest. City officials will continue to listen to all stakeholders, seek understanding, and be proactive in advocating for Port Washington.

Ted Neitzke, mayor

Deb Postl, alderperson, Ward 1

Paul Neumeyer, alderperson, Ward 2

Michael Gasper, alderperson, Ward 3

Dan Benning, council president, Ward 4

Jonathan Pleitner, alderperson, Ward 5

Patrick Tearney, alderperson, Ward 6

City of Port Washington