Council Meeting Preview: Street Assessments, Historic District Signs, and Wastewater Excellence on Agenda

Marshfield, WI – June 24, 2025
The upcoming Marshfield Common Council meeting promises a full agenda, including street project assessments, updates on local initiatives, and commendations for the city’s wastewater management team.
Public Hearing on Street Improvement AssessmentsA key focus will be a public hearing on special assessments for upcoming asphalt paving projects across the city. Residents who received notices will have a chance to voice concerns or ask questions about their portion of project costs. City Administrator Steve Barg emphasized that the city covers the majority of costs, with property owners responsible for a small portion related to improvements like driveway aprons and asphalt milling.
Affected areas include:

• Multiple downtown alleys (Arnold, Blodgett, Cleveland, Daggett)
  
• Portions of Third Street, Apple Avenue, Cypress, Depot Street, Hyde Lane, CalShed Road, Lay Avenue, Marcy Court, Tremel Court, 26th & 27th Circles, and Cedar Avenue
  

Residents can opt to pay assessments over 10 years rather than upfront.
Staff Updates from Prior MeetingStaff will provide follow-ups on several resident-raised issues from the June 10 meeting, including:

• Timeline for removing the old airport terminal building
  
• Status of the Wenzel Family Plaza restroom project
  
• How Marshfield law enforcement interacts with federal immigration authorities
  
• Process for potentially dissolving the Business Improvement District
  
• Resident concerns about a matter involving Mid-State Technical College
  

These updates aim to address community concerns and keep the public informed.
Wastewater Treatment Scores Top MarksMarshfield’s wastewater treatment plant received high praise, earning “A” grades across all major categories in its Compliance Maintenance Report. These include performance in influent quality, ammonia and phosphorus treatment, biosolids handling, financial health, and staff certification. The report will be submitted to the Wisconsin DNR.
City Administrator Barg commended the work of Superintendent Mark Kivola and his team, noting the facility continues to serve as a model for effective municipal management.
Historic District Signage GrantThe Historic Preservation Commission is seeking support for five new historic district signs. While the county previously covered full costs, a new 50/50 grant match requires the city or another partner (such as Visit Marshfield) to fund half of the $9,350 total. The council is expected to discuss potential funding options.
Fire Department Agreement RenewalThe council will also consider renewing its agreement with the Wisconsin Hazardous Materials Response System. This partnership provides training, reporting support, and emergency funding for hazardous materials incidents. The two-year renewal would strengthen Marshfield’s preparedness for events like chemical spills or rail accidents.
Lead Pipe Replacement OrdinanceA first reading will take place for an ordinance requiring the replacement of remaining lead and galvanized water service lines. Spearheaded by Marshfield Utilities, the ordinance aligns with state and federal funding opportunities to help homeowners offset costs and improve public health.
Property Assessment Contract RenewalThe city plans to extend its contract with Ford Appraisal Services for another year. Ford, which also serves Stevens Point and Wisconsin Rapids, has worked closely with Deputy Assessor Keith Pugh to maintain smooth operations since the city's assessment office downsized. The renewal maintains the current annual rate of $84,000.
Capital Improvement Plan SessionsCouncil members will be asked to approve two special sessions to review and adjust the city’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Projects like street upgrades, facility improvements, and large equipment purchases will be evaluated and reprioritized based on urgency and available funding.
2026 Budget Calendar IntroducedAlthough summer has just begun, planning for the 2026 budget is underway. The proposed council budget meetings will occur throughout October, aligning with the rescheduled League of Wisconsin Municipalities conference. Monthly updates are expected ahead of the formal process.
Council Meeting AccessResidents are encouraged to attend the meeting in person or watch live on Marshfield Broadcasting Channel 991 or online at www.marshfieldbroadcasting.com. The meeting is also available through the Marshfield Broadcasting app on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and mobile devices.