¶ 12.
This question does not involve the interpretation of state statutes. Attorney General opinions should not be used as a device to ascertain the meaning and intent of municipal ordinances, resolutions, or motions. 77 Op. Att’y Gen. Preface, No. 3.H. (1988). Such determinations must be made by the corporation counsel after consulting with the county officials involved.¶ 13.
I conclude that, in a county that is not self-organized under Wis. Stat. § 59.10(1), the provision of health, dental, and life insurance and the payment of insurance premiums for county supervisors are not compensation under Wis. Stat. § 59.10(3). The procedural requirements of that statute, including a two-thirds vote, taking action at the board’s annual meeting, and limiting changes to the supervisory term beginning after the next supervisory election, do not apply to motions or proposals to change those benefits. Where a motion involves both salary and insurance, however, the requirements of Wis. Stat. § 59.10(3) apply because salary is a form of compensation under that statute. Sincerely,
J.B. VAN HOLLEN
Attorney General
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