Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee Advances Key Funding Requests and Ambulance Rate Changes

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD — September 16, 2025 — The City of Marshfield’s Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee met Tuesday evening to review budget items, hear funding requests from local organizations, and approve annual ambulance rate adjustments.

Routine Business
The meeting opened with approval of the August 19 minutes, payroll, and personnel reports. With no citizen comments raised, the committee moved directly into agenda items.
Library Tax Exemption Approved
Library Director Jill Porter presented the annual resolution requesting the City of Marshfield be exempted from the Wood County Library Tax. Because the city already contributes more funding to the Everett Roehl Marshfield Public Library than county requirements, the committee unanimously endorsed the exemption.

Funding Requests from Non-City Organizations
City Administrator Steve Barg introduced two community organizations seeking city funding in the 2026 budget: the Marshfield Area Community Foundation’s MACCI program and Main Street Marshfield.

Sarah from MACCI outlined the group’s work in business retention and attraction, noting 16 ribbon-cuttings this year—double last year’s number. She emphasized challenges including workforce shortages, housing availability, and childcare access. MACCI is also awaiting word on a potential $250,000 grant for small business development.

Representatives from Main Street Marshfield highlighted the importance of a vibrant downtown for property values, small business growth, and community pride. Their request focused on marketing support for local businesses, district-wide promotions, and continued beautification projects such as murals, planters, and improvements to rear building entrances. They noted the city’s support is key to unlocking additional county funding.

Committee members praised both groups, particularly their efforts to highlight Marshfield as a place where young people can live, work, and start businesses. The funding requests will move forward to the full Common Council for consideration.

Ambulance Rate Adjustments
Jordan Munger, Accounting Manager, presented recommended updates to ambulance service rates, comparing Marshfield’s fees with other central Wisconsin communities. Most adjustments were minor, intended to remain competitive with regional providers.

Specialty Care Transport, a rarely used service category, remains included for billing compliance, though Marshfield averages fewer than five such calls per year. The committee approved the proposed changes unanimously.
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Closed Session
The committee adjourned into closed session to discuss renewal of 2026 ambulance service contracts with surrounding municipalities.

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