By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD, Wis. — Marshfield city officials are preparing for a full slate of meetings Dec. 16 as the year winds down and the holiday season approaches.
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City Administrator Steve Barg and Mayor Lois TeStrake outlined the schedule during this week’s Council Preview program, noting that multiple committees and the Common Council will meet consecutively beginning at 4:45 p.m. The meetings include Judiciary and License, Finance, Budget and Personnel, the Board of Public Works, the Plan Commission and the Common Council. Some staff members may be at City Hall until 9:30 p.m., Barg said.
All meetings will air live on Marshfield Broadcasting.
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Fee Schedule Updates Return
The city will again consider updates to its annual fee schedule after Marathon and Wood counties increased the cost of processing pet licenses. Additional adjustments are proposed for building inspection, development services, fire and engineering.
Barg said the city evaluates comparable fees in other communities and reviews actual staff and publication costs. “We’re not trying to gouge the citizens,” he said. “We want to make sure we’re covering our reasonable cost of the service.”

Continuing Appropriations on Agenda
The council will review its yearly continuing appropriations resolution, a process that allows departments to carry certain unspent 2025 funds into 2026 if projects were delayed or equipment orders could not be completed. Otherwise, unused funds return to the city’s general fund.
“We’re not building up a big reserve fund,” Barg said.

Zoo Endowment Fund Proposed
Officials discussed creating a new endowment fund for Wildwood Zoo to support long-term maintenance and improvements. The fund would use remaining dollars from the zoo’s earlier capital campaign.
TeStrake said the approach would reduce the need for repeated fundraising. “This is only going to make it more positive,” she said.

Land Acquisition Recommended for Vine and Forest Project
The city received proposals for temporary land-use acquisition related to the Fourth and Vine improvements. Staff recommended selecting TerraVenture Advisors to negotiate with property owners. The Board of Public Works will review the recommendation before it goes to the council.

Panda Express Seeks Approval for Conditional Use Permit
A proposed Panda Express restaurant at Central Avenue and Peach Street will go before the Plan Commission and the council for a conditional use permit. The site requires special approval because of its size and drive-through configuration.
City staff support the permit. TeStrake said new restaurants reflect steady commercial growth. “Marshfield is growing by leaps and bounds,” she said.

High-End Housing Subdivision Advances
Developer Jeff Hill’s plan for a 16-lot subdivision near West McMillan Street and St. Joseph’s Avenue continues to move forward. Homes are expected to range from $750,000 to $1 million. The preliminary plat will be reviewed before final utility and stormwater plans return in the coming months.
“We want options for people,” TeStrake said.

City to Seek Construction Manager for Police Department Project
The council will consider authorizing a request for proposals for a construction manager for the new police station. Barg said a construction manager is needed early in the process to oversee design coordination, cost savings and value engineering.
Early estimates ranged from $10.8 million to $13.5 million, but the council previously set a $10 million construction limit. Staff are working to keep the project within that target.
“You can’t do enough oversight,” Barg said.

Municipal Judge to Resign; Appointment Process Begins
Municipal Judge Mike Cruz will resign Jan. 9 with about 15 months remaining in his term. Because the vacancy occurs outside election timelines, the council will appoint someone to serve until April 2027. The judge must be a licensed attorney and a resident of Marshfield, Stratford or Spencer, which jointly operate the municipal court.

Officials Reflect on 2025 Community Highlights
TeStrake and Barg praised strong community participation in major events, including June Dairy Fest, Hub City Days and the holiday parade. About 1,500 people attended the downtown tree lighting, TeStrake said.
They also highlighted increased donations at Rotary Winter Wonderland and the continued opening of new businesses across the city.
“This place is a total team effort,” Barg said.

Tax bills will be mailed soon, Barg said, noting a slight increase to the city portion following voter approval to restore firefighter-paramedic staffing. Other taxing jurisdictions are seeing decreases, he said, lessening the overall impact.
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By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

​MARSHFIELD, Wis. — The Marshfield Parks and Recreation Committee held a wide-ranging meeting that included public comment, recognition of volunteers, discussion of proposed storage rental rates, changes to facility-use policy, acceptance of donations and updates on department operations.

Public concerns raised over storage rental proposal
A community member, Robert, spoke during public comment to express concerns about proposed rental rates for groups that store equipment in the Oak Avenue Community Center. He said the suggested rates were too high for many organizations and noted that several groups contribute significantly to the community but may not be able to afford the increased cost.

Committee members later acknowledged the difficulty of balancing budget needs with the value these groups bring to Marshfield.

Pickleball group named Volunteer of the Year
The committee recognized the Marshfield Area Pickleball Players as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year. Speakers praised the group for raising funds, completing hands-on work and transforming the pickleball courts into an active gathering space. The project has become, officials said, a place where residents of all ages connect and participate.

Committee members called the effort an example of community ownership and noted the group helped reduce financial pressure on the city while providing a high-quality recreational facility. Group members thanked the committee for the recognition and said the progress reflects strong community support.

Committee honors Nicki Anderson for service
The committee also recognized Nicki Anderson for five years of service with the Parks and Recreation Department and seven years of work with Wenzel Family Plaza. Officials said her leadership, creativity and behind-the-scenes coordination helped elevate concerts, festivals and seasonal events throughout the community.

Anderson received a plaque and expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment.

Storage rental rate discussion continues
Staff presented proposed rental rates for storage rooms at the Oak Avenue facility based on square footage. Committee members questioned whether nonprofit and youth organizations could absorb the cost and noted that some rooms are not fully functional.
No action was taken. Staff will research additional options and return with recommendations.

Committee denies request for waived rental fee
The committee denied a request to waive the rental fee for an annual memorial event at Wildwood Station. Members cited budget pressures and the importance of applying policy consistently. One member said they would personally donate to support the event.

Facility-use policy updated
The committee approved updated policy language stating that all groups must pay established rental fees except for city-sanctioned events. The revised policy adds definitions to clarify what qualifies as a city-sanctioned activity.

Donations accepted for park improvements
Members approved the placement of an honorary plaque at Greise Park recognizing Dr. George and Margaret “Peg” Greise for their contributions to the community, including the land donation that created the park. The family will cover installation costs.

The committee also accepted an $11,440 donation from Dr. Ferguson and McLaren to purchase two movable player shelters for soccer fields at Griese Park.

Department reports presented
Recreation staff reported normal Senior Center operations, continued indoor aquatics programming, and strong turnout for holiday events. Forestry staff noted ongoing trimming operations and said approximately 88 trees will need to be removed as part of upcoming 2027 road projects.

Parks staff said work continues on ice rinks, softball field improvements and replacement of aging amenities such as benches, tables and grills.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD — The Parks & Recreation Committee recognized Nicki Anderson for her outstanding service to the City of Marshfield, celebrating her significant contributions to both the Parks & Recreation Department and Wenzel Family Plaza.

Anderson was honored for five years of dedicated service with the Parks & Rec Department and seven years of leadership at Wenzel Family Plaza, where she helped grow the space into one of Marshfield’s most active and recognizable community gathering spots. Her work supported concerts, festivals, seasonal celebrations, and a wide variety of public events that brought residents together.

Speakers highlighted Anderson’s creativity, attention to detail, and ability to coordinate complex events—often putting in long hours behind the scenes to ensure smooth, high-quality programming. Her dedication strengthened community partnerships, supported local businesses, and added vibrancy to Marshfield’s public spaces.

Committee members emphasized that it takes “a special kind of person” to bring people together the way she has. They credited Anderson’s professionalism and positive approach with helping shape the atmosphere and success of many community events.

A plaque was presented to Anderson in recognition of her years of service. She expressed sincere appreciation, noting how meaningful the acknowledgement was and thanking those she worked with throughout her time with the city.
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The committee wished her well in her future endeavors and thanked her for the lasting impact she has made on Marshfield.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

The Marshfield Parks & Recreation Committee honored the Marshfield Area Pickleball Players as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year, celebrating the group’s exceptional dedication, fundraising efforts, and impact on the community.

During the recognition, speakers praised the volunteers for transforming the pickleball courts into a vibrant gathering place for residents of all ages. What began as a basic recreational space has grown—through hard work and community involvement—into a lively hub where friendships form, players connect, and families spend time together.

Committee members highlighted how the group did not wait for others to take action. Instead, they organized, raised funds, and contributed hands-on work to improve the courts. Their efforts helped ease financial pressures on the city while still delivering a high-quality recreational facility.

The improvements have had a broader effect as well, drawing players, families, and visitors, which committee members noted as a benefit not only to local parks but also to area businesses.

“This is what community ownership looks like,” one speaker said, emphasizing how volunteers, public support, and city resources can come together to create lasting value. The group was credited with strengthening community spirit and showing what is possible when residents take initiative.

The award presentation was followed by applause, photos, and remarks from members of the pickleball group, who expressed gratitude for being recognized. They reflected on how far the project has come since it began and said the progress was possible because “the community came together… more than ever.”

City leaders echoed that sentiment, praising the players for their energy and commitment. One speaker said the pride felt for the group “could not be any more,” and described Marshfield as having “the greatest community in the world—and the greatest people.”
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As the celebration wrapped up, officials expressed excitement for what comes next, including future tournaments and continued growth of the pickleball program.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!!-- Public safety and access to transportation were the focus of discussion during the Marshfield Common Council meeting Tuesday evening as residents and workers addressed proposed changes to Marshfield Public Transit operating hours.

The council opened a public hearing to gather feedback on a proposal that would adjust late-night service hours starting Jan. 1, 2026, including earlier shutdown times on several nights of the week.

Three speakers addressed the council during the hearing, all voicing opposition to reducing late-night taxi or transit service and emphasizing safety and workforce concerns.
Joshua Shamrowicz, owner of The Grey Dog and president of the Wood County Tavern League, said late-night transportation is critical to public safety. He described efforts in the area to prevent impaired driving through programs like “Safe Ride,” which provides free rides home for patrons of participating establishments.

Shamrowicz said the program is funded through state grants, businesses, and reimbursements to taxi services and warned that reduced late-night availability could increase the risk of drunk driving.

“Taxis need to be running until at least 2:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights,” Shamrowicz said. He added that Uber service has been difficult to establish consistently in the area, with drivers often choosing to work in larger communities where demand is higher.

Elizabeth Dora, vice president of the Wood County Tavern League and a bartender with nearly a decade of experience, said the taxi service ending at midnight from Sunday through Thursday creates a dangerous gap.
Dora shared concerns about young adults leaving bars after midnight with no transportation available.

She also said that visitors from larger cities often assume taxis run later than they do and are caught off guard when they learn service is unavailable.

Patty Parcel, a taxi driver, told council members the proposed changes would impact not only bar patrons but also third-shift workers and caregivers who rely on late-night transportation to get to work.

She said many passengers call between 11:30 p.m. and midnight for rides to work and warned that eliminating service could force workers to wait hours or walk long distances in unsafe conditions.

“This is a safety issue,” Parcel said. “Not just for people at bars, but for people going to work.”
Following public comment, City Administrator Steve Barg commended the speakers for attending and said other residents had shared similar concerns by phone.
Later in the meeting, Accounting Manager Jordan Munger presented details of the proposed changes, explaining that the plan would reallocate existing service hours rather than reduce them.

Under the proposal, service would end at 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday instead of midnight, and at 2 a.m. on weekends instead of 3 a.m. Munger said the goal is to move those hours to busier daytime periods to reduce wait times and better serve commuters.

Munger said data showed fewer than 2 percent of total rides occurred between 2 and 3 a.m., estimating about 400 rides annually during that hour. He added that more than 90 percent of those rides were related to bar traffic.

Council members questioned whether reallocating late-night hours would result in actual reductions in wait times and expressed concern about the risk associated with removing service during peak bar hours.

Several council members said even one accident caused by lack of transportation would be too much of a risk.
A motion to approve the change failed following discussion and a vote, keeping current transit hours in place for now.

The council then moved forward with other business, including approving a resolution supporting a Transportation Alternatives grant application for a connector trail linking Pecan Parkway to Griese Park. Parks and Recreation Director Justin Casperson said the project would improve neighborhood connectivity and provide a safer route for pedestrians and cyclists.

The council also received updates on redevelopment efforts for the current Weinbrenner building. City staff reported that despite reaching out to more than 140 firms, only one proposal was received, which was later withdrawn. Officials discussed several future options, including continued redevelopment recruitment, partial demolition, or exploring alternative community uses.
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No action was taken on the redevelopment discussion.
The council adjourned following additional agenda items and administrative updates.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

The Marshfield Utilities Commission met on Monday afternoon to review operational updates, ongoing infrastructure projects, and long-term financial forecasts for the electric, water, and communications utilities. Commissioners received detailed reports from staff and heard a comprehensive presentation on four proposed behind-the-meter solar installations planned on utility-owned land.


Lead Service Replacements Near Completion
Staff reported the final planned lead service removal of the year was completed last Friday. While the utility set a goal of 200 replacements in 2024, crews successfully removed 194 public-side lead services along with 50 private-side lines. Only 53 private services remain, and fewer than 470 total lead services are left systemwide. If current progress continues, Marshfield is just over two years away from completing full lead service removal.


LED Streetlight Conversion Continues
The utility has now replaced 1,383 streetlight fixtures since the LED conversion project began in 2023. Only 555 overhead-style fixtures remain, along with 211 decorative black fixtures along Central Avenue, which are more costly to replace. Staff noted that newly installed LED lighting has already improved visibility and safety along Veterans Parkway and Central Avenue.

Solar Developer Outlines Four Utility-Scale Projects
Stanley Minnick of One Energy Renewables delivered a detailed presentation on four proposed solar projects planned in partnership with Great Lakes Utilities. All four projects would be built on land already owned by Marshfield Utilities. The projects are designed to lower long-term energy costs, diversify the local power supply, and provide environmental benefits.

Project highlights include:

• Marshfield 1 (near the substation): 2.5 MW, producing an estimated 5 million kWh annually—enough to power about 620 homes.
• McMillan & Galvin Site: 5 MW, roughly 10 million kWh annually, equivalent to 1,250 homes.
• Quarry-Area Site: 4 MW, about 1,000 homes’ energy use.
• Townline Road (T & Y): 5 MW, producing more than 10 million kWh annually, serving approximately 1,300 homes.
  
  

Minnick addressed questions on environmental protection, fencing, pollinator habitat planning, potential sheep grazing, and wetland and wellhead-protection requirements. All project sites are located outside the city limits, within either Wood or Marathon County.


Operations & Maintenance Budget Reviewed
Finance staff presented the second review of the 2026 operations and maintenance budget. Several expenses were reallocated to the communications utility following an internal review, with allocations typically ranging between 1% and 5% depending on cost type. The commission approved the O&M budget with no objections.


Capital Budget Approved
The Commission also approved the 2026 capital budget. The only change from the prior month involved adjusting the cost of network switch equipment. Significant focus remains on water system upgrades—including ongoing lead service removals—and electric substation projects that occur on multi-decade cycles.


Audit Work Statement Adopted
Commissioners unanimously approved the annual statement of work for audit services, clearing the way for auditors to begin their 2024 review. Only minor revisions from last year’s agreement were included.


Discussion on Dark Fiber Governance Policy
​The meeting concluded with discussion of a draft governance policy for the utility’s dark fiber network. The policy outlines cost-recovery, rate-setting, lease agreements, and annual rate review procedures. Commissioners asked questions about rate-of-return targets, customer equity, and long-term replacement planning. Further analysis and cost-of-service studies are expected before the policy returns for approval.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
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As Wisconsin’s nine-day gun deer hunt approaches, hunters across the state are preparing for one of the busiest outdoor weekends of the year. With hundreds of thousands expected to take to the woods and fields, state officials are emphasizing safety, community support, and awareness of new deer management changes.

This week’s edition of Field to Fence Line explored these topics in depth, featuring an in-studio discussion and an extended interview with Jeff Pritzl, the Wisconsin DNR’s Deer Program Specialist.

Encouraging Deer Donations to Support Families in Need
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is urging hunters—especially those in farmland zones with multiple harvest authorizations—to consider donating an extra deer to the state's Deer Donation Program.

Field-dressed deer can be dropped off at cooperating processors, and hunters are encouraged to check processor availability before harvesting an additional animal. Meat from donated deer helps feed Wisconsin families facing food insecurity.

Tree Stand Safety Remains a Top Priority
According to the DNR, roughly one-quarter of hunters have experienced a fall or near-fall from elevated tree stands. With the excitement of early morning climbs and post-harvest movement, it can be easy to forget core safety steps. Officials again remind hunters to:

• Choose trees carefully
• Always use a fall-arrest system
• Unload firearms before climbing
• Use a haul line for gear and weapons

The DNR hopes to match or exceed last year’s strong safety record, which included only one non-fatal firearm-related injury.

CWD Testing and Carcass Disposal Efforts Continue
Hunters are reminded that chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing plays a key role in tracking and managing the spread of the disease. Although no confirmed human infections have been identified, health officials recommend avoiding meat from animals that appear sick or test positive.

A statewide network of CWD testing kiosks and carcass disposal dumpsters remains available. These dumpsters help prevent potentially infected carcasses from contaminating the landscape and spreading the disease further.

Early Season Harvest Mirrors Last Year’s Numbers
Pritzl shared that early archery harvest totals closely mirror last year’s data. Youth hunters harvested nearly 8,500 deer during the October youth firearm season—one of the highest totals recorded. Updated figures show that overall statewide harvest numbers are slightly ahead of last year at this time.

Trail cameras have been buzzing with activity, too. Mild winters have helped deer enter spring in excellent condition, contributing to strong antler development heading into the season.

A Push for Antlerless Harvest in Farmland Units
Pritzl emphasized that in farmland deer management units—where deer populations are consistently high—hunters are encouraged to take an additional antlerless deer if they have the opportunity.

He noted that many hunters feel less motivated to harvest a second deer once they have one for the freezer. But this year, he says, is an especially important time for hunters to demonstrate how they contribute to the wider community through responsible herd management and food donations.

“This is a great year to really consider taking an additional deer,” Pritzl said, highlighting benefits to food pantries, road safety, and long-term herd balance.

Major Boundary Changes in Northern and Central Forest Units
Significant deer management changes are also in effect this season:
Northern Forest Units

• After extensive public engagement, the DNR shifted back toward habitat-based deer management units.
• These new units use a three-digit numbering system.
• This approach allows antlerless permits to better reflect variations in habitat and deer density across the region.

Central Forest Units

• Boundary changes occurred on the eastern and southeastern sides of the zone.
• Adams County shifted entirely to a farmland designation.
• Wood, Monroe, and Juneau counties also saw adjustments to more accurately reflect deer populations.
• Central forest units were renamed using numbers in the 200 series to reduce confusion with nearby farmland units.

Digital maps and interactive tools—including the Public Access Lands System—have already been updated to reflect these changes, and many popular mapping apps have incorporated the new unit boundaries.

Clarifying Feeding and Baiting Restrictions
The long-standing debate over baiting and feeding returned during the interview. Pritzl reiterated that these restrictions exist nationwide in states facing CWD, not just in Wisconsin.

The difference between a bait pile and a food plot, he explained, comes down to replenishment. A continuously refreshed bait site concentrates deer behavior and increases the potential for disease spread. Food plots and natural food sources disperse deer activity over larger areas.

He also stressed that baiting and feeding laws exist in state statute, not DNR administrative code—meaning only lawmakers can change them.

Balancing Diverse Opinions Among 600,000 Hunters
With about 600,000 deer hunters in Wisconsin, Pritzl acknowledged the challenges in balancing such a wide range of expectations and experiences. Public engagement can be dominated by those who are unhappy, he explained, which means the department must rely on a combination of public input, harvest data, and license-purchasing patterns to guide decisions.

A Local Perspective
Pritzl also shared his personal story. A Marshfield native, he grew up hunting public lands across Central Wisconsin, from Mead and McMillan wildlife areas to Jackson County in its 1980s prime. His own hunting journey has included multiple shifts in location as deer populations and habitat conditions have changed.
He hopes hunters will approach the season with appreciation—not frustration—recognizing that deer populations and hunting conditions are always evolving.

Looking Ahead
As Wisconsin prepares for the opening weekend of the nine-day season, Pritzl wishes all hunters a safe outing and good luck. The show will follow up after the season to recap results, trends, and lessons learned.

MARSHFIELD — The Marshfield Common Council convened for its regular meeting on November 11, 2025, opening with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting covered citizen comments, utility discussions, ordinance updates, and a detailed review of the 2025 Central Wisconsin State Fair.



Public Comment: Questions Raised on Proposed Peaking Power Plant
During the public comment period, Garrett Martin of Eau Claire, representing IBEW Local 153, addressed the council regarding the proposed $288.2 million peaking power plant listed under Agenda Item Q. Marshfield Utilities is expected to contribute $86.4 million of the total cost.

Martin questioned:

• The basis of Marshfield Utilities’ 30% ownership share, noting Marshfield represents 18.5% of Great Lakes Utilities’ total customer base.
• Whether Marshfield would also absorb part of Great Lakes Utilities’ remaining 70%.
• The need for a 150-megawatt plant given flat population growth from 2010–2020.
• Whether the project benefits Marshfield or Great Lakes Utilities more.
• A levelized cost estimate showing $0.87 per kilowatt-hour, compared with $0.26 on-peak energy from WPS.
• Oversight concerns due to shared administrative leadership between Marshfield Utilities and Great Lakes Utilities.   

Visit Marshfield Highlights Tourism Activity
Matt McLean of Visit Marshfield gave an update on recent tourism developments:

• Four new multi-day conventions have been secured, including Sports Wisconsin (December) and Destinations Wisconsin (May).
• Marshfield will again host the Dairyland Balloon Jubilee in 2026, maintaining the city’s role as home to Wisconsin’s largest hot-air balloon festival.
• Coordination is underway to support Farm Tech Days this July, with efforts to direct vendor spending locally.
• Past data estimated a $2 million economic impact during the 2018 show.
• With multiple large July events, attendees were encouraged to book hotel rooms early.

Mayor’s Report: Veterans Day Proclamation and Clerk Recognition
Because the meeting occurred on Veterans Day, Mayor Lois TeStrake read the official Veterans Day 2025 Proclamation during the session, honoring the service and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans from the Civil War to today.

The mayor also congratulated Ashley Draeger, who earned the designation of Wisconsin Certified Municipal Clerk, calling it a major professional milestone.
Other announcements included:

• Nominations for the Crystal Apple Award (due November 14).
• Opportunities to nominate businesses for Small Business of the Year and Firm of the Year.
• The Holiday Parade scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with tree lighting afterward in Wenzel Plaza.

Administrator’s Report: Project Updates and Budget Hearing Notice
City Administrator Steve Barg provided updates on several ongoing projects:

• Recent submissions and reports related to the Central Wisconsin State Fair.
• Progress on the police department relocation to the Wildwood Plaza building.
• A review of park equipment retirements and replacement needs.
• Continued planning for training use of the airport terminal building, though mold issues will limit activities.
• Pursuit of grant opportunities, including the Non-State Grant and Wisconsin Innovation Grant.
• Upcoming discussion of community development director job duties in December.
• A reminder that the 2026 budget public hearing will be held November 25 at 6 p.m.

​State Fair Reports Successful 2025 Season
​Dale Christensen, Executive Director of the Central Wisconsin State Fair, delivered a detailed end-of-year report.
Highlights included:

• 62,000 attendees at the 2025 fair.
• Ticket sales to visitors from 26 states.
• A new food drive collected over 2,000 items for Wood County food pantries.
• 1,096 junior fair exhibitors showing 3,825 exhibits, with more than $10,000 in premiums awarded.
• Total fair cost: $830,000.
• Entertainment and grandstand acts cost: $374,000.
• Vendor revenue totaled $58,000 from 24 food vendors and 60 craft vendors.
• Total fair revenue: $975,000, with carnival revenue down $2,000 from last year.

Looking ahead, Christensen announced:

• A Nov. 29 Christmas show fundraiser.
• A statewide Allis Chalmers tractor club event scheduled for January.

Council Approves Job Order for Proposed Power Generation Plant
​Under Item Q, Marshfield Utilities General Manager Nicholas Kumm presented the request to approve Job Order 7506, tied to a proposed dual-fuel 150 MW power plant planned for Yellowstone Industrial Park.
Key points included:

• Ownership split: 30% Marshfield Utilities / 70% Great Lakes Utilities.
• A five-year project timeline.
• Use of natural gas and fuel oil for reliability during peak constraints.
• Need to replace capacity from expiring power supply contracts between 2028 and 2031.
• Expected to generate about $1 million annually in Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT).
• The plant would provide more than 100% of Marshfield’s peak electrical demand.
• Project to be financed through revenue bonds, not general obligation debt.

After extensive discussion and questioning, the council approved the job order.

Update on Redevelopment of the Weinbrenner Building
Administrator Steve Barg reported that the second RFQ process for redeveloping the historic Weinbrenner building at 305 West Third Street closed on November 7.
The city received one proposal.

A review team will meet soon to evaluate the submission, conduct interviews, and present a recommendation—likely in December—to both the Common Council and the Community Development Authority.
Other Council Actions

• The council completed second readings for ordinances involving the joint municipal court, R-6 zoning district, and a new small-scale residential district.
• The council moved into closed session to discuss personnel matters, the tourism agreement with Visit Marshfield, and litigation involving the Mill Creek Youth Foundation.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
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MARSHFIELD, WI – In the latest episode of County Connections, host David Ballerstein sat down with Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker to discuss a wide range of local topics — from honoring veterans and recognizing local heroes to ongoing public safety efforts, inmate rehabilitation, and new educational partnerships.

Honoring Veterans and Local Service
As the episode was filmed on Veterans Day, Sheriff Becker shared heartfelt reflections after attending an assembly at Auburndale Elementary School.

“It was phenomenal,” he said, noting that the students and staff did a great job recognizing veterans. He added that every day should be considered Veterans Day, emphasizing ongoing gratitude for those who have served.
Becker also spoke about his own family’s military history, including relatives who served in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. “Today’s all about all the people that have protected us and served our country because without them, we wouldn’t be here right now,” he said.

The Sheriff also mentioned a new addition to the Wood County Courthouse Veterans Memorial, which now honors those who have served both in the military and with the Sheriff’s Department. “We added several names,” Becker said, encouraging visitors to stop by and reflect on their service.

Tackling Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Scams
The conversation turned to the ongoing problem of cryptocurrency fraud, especially targeting seniors. Sheriff Becker explained that investigators have been working with lawmakers to regulate Bitcoin ATMs, which have been used in scams.

“We’re not against Bitcoin,” he said, “but we have to protect people.”

The Sheriff’s Office has testified at hearings seeking bipartisan support for regulations that would limit ATM transactions to help curb fraud. He described how scammers manipulate victims into depositing cash at Bitcoin machines and how complex investigations become once funds are converted to digital currency.

Becker said the department has seized several machines as evidence and is awaiting court decisions on how the funds should be handled.

Inmate Rehabilitation and Education Programs
Sheriff Becker also highlighted the continued success of inmate recovery and education programs. Through partnerships with Three Bridges Recovery and Mid-State Technical College, inmates can earn high school diplomas, GEDs, and even participate in culinary training.

“Our first group earned their Serve Safe certificates,” Becker said. “It’s a great partnership that gives people in custody a chance to better themselves and prepare for success when they return to the community.”

School Resource Officer Program
A new school resource officer program at Auburndale High School is also making a positive impact. Deputy Jesse Nell was selected for the role and has already built strong relationships with students and staff.

“It’s well worth it,” said Becker, adding that the position helps guide students who are considering careers in law enforcement.

He praised local educational pathways, noting that Mid-State Technical College and the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point have a partnership allowing students to earn college credit for attending law enforcement academy training.

Recognizing Local Hero Mike Weber
Sheriff Becker recognized longtime volunteer Mike Weber, who oversees the county’s rescue unit and was recently honored by local legislators for decades of service.

“He’s been volunteering for more than three decades,” Becker said. “When you talk about what a volunteer is — that’s Mike.”

Closing a Cold Case: The Deidre Harms Investigation
Becker provided closure on the long-standing case of Deidre Harms, who went missing from Wisconsin Rapids years ago. He credited District Attorney Jonathan Barnett for officially concluding that Chris Reback would have been charged with her murder if he were still alive.

“It’s rewarding to know we were right,” Becker said. “It doesn’t bring her back, but it brings closure.”
Wood County Featured on “Cops”Sheriff Becker also shared that Wood County was recently featured on the TV show “Cops.” Filming concluded this week, and episodes are expected to air next year.

“It’s an honor that they chose to film here,” Becker said, adding that the show gives viewers a look at the professionalism and challenges faced by corrections officers.

Safety Reminders for Hunting Season
With hunting season underway, Becker reminded residents to stay safe, know their boundaries, and maintain good relationships with neighbors.

“Be safe. Know where you’re hunting,” he said. “If you’re in city limits, check the local ordinances online.”

County Connections airs on Marshfield Now! , featuring conversations with local leaders and updates on community safety, partnerships, and public service.