Board of Public Works Elects New Officers, Advances Major Infrastructure and Public Safety Projects

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

Marshfield, WI – May 5, 2025 — The City of Marshfield’s Board of Public Works convened Monday evening to elect new officers and advance a number of significant infrastructure and public safety projects. The meeting, chaired by newly elected Board Chair Mike Feirer, welcomed new Alderperson Jen Delis and featured votes on several major development initiatives.

New Leadership Elected
Mike Feirer was unanimously elected Chair of the Board, while Natasha Tompkins was voted in as Vice Chair in a narrow 2-1 paper ballot decision. The board expressed confidence in Tompkins’ leadership, especially considering the flexibility required due to remote work commitments of some members.

Wildwood Plaza Police Department Renovation Moves Forward
The board approved a $475,345 contract with Minneapolis-based BKV Group to provide architectural and engineering services for the planned renovation of the Wildwood Plaza building into the city’s new police department. Police Chief Jody Geurink emphasized BKV’s cost-effectiveness and alignment with department needs.

Master Plan for Fire Training Center Approved
Fire Chief Everett Newell presented a proposal for a comprehensive master plan for a new fire and rescue department training center. SEH was selected from among five bidders for its $26,750 proposal, noted for being both cost-effective and rich in relevant expertise. The center is intended to serve regional training needs and enhance partnerships with local agencies and Mid-State Technical College. The board voted to move the proposal forward to the Common Council.

Sewer Infrastructure Assessment Contract Awarded
In response to a previous leak in the city’s northeast force main, the board approved a $245,000 contract with CPM Pipelines for an inline condition assessment of the two-mile pipe. Wastewater Superintendent Mark detailed the leak response and emphasized CPM’s reliability and cost-efficiency. Board members commended the thoroughness of the vendor selection analysis.

Pickleball Court Lighting Deadline Extended
Due to supply chain delays, the board approved a 30-day extension for the installation of lighting at Braem Park’s pickleball courts. The project’s new completion date is June 23. City officials reported that materials are now in transit and installation should begin the week of May 19.

Geotechnical Services Approved for Detention Basin Project
ECS Midwest was awarded an $11,295 contract for geotechnical engineering services for the Braem Park wet detention basin. The project is part of stormwater management improvements, and both the city and Strand Associates endorsed ECS’s proposal.

Fourth Street Reconstruction Design Contract Approved
The board also approved a $394,154 contract with Robert E. Lee & Associates for design engineering services on the Fourth Street reconstruction project. With 80% of the project cost covered by WisDOT, Marshfield’s share is approximately $78,831. Construction is scheduled for 2028.
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Veterans Parkway to Receive New Memorials
Finally, the board approved the addition of two new memorials to the Veterans Parkway military display. One will honor Purple Heart recipients, donated in memory of a local veteran. A second, undisclosed memorial is planned for later this year, potentially in time for Veterans Day.
The meeting concluded with no additional public comments or new agenda suggestions, and the board adjourned following unanimous votes on all major items.