Marshfield Council Weighs Development Plans, Welcomes New Planner

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD – August 26, 2025 — The Marshfield Common Council met Tuesday evening to discuss downtown revitalization, city infrastructure challenges, and the future of local economic development. The meeting also included the introduction of a new city planner, the first in nearly three years.

Public Comment: Housing and Redevelopment Debated

Resident Bill Pinker, addressed the council regarding the proposed redevelopment of the former shoe factory. Pinker praised efforts to preserve historic structures but questioned whether using the site for “affordable housing with rent restrictions” was the best long-term strategy for the Second Street corridor. He urged council members to revisit the city’s comprehensive plan and ensure redevelopment projects align with Marshfield’s broader vision for growth, diversity, and historic preservation.

Infrastructure Updates: Persistent Leak at Second Street Community Center
Parks & Recreation Director Justin Cassperson reported ongoing problems with a mysterious water leak at the Second Street Community Center. Despite rerouting lines, pressure testing, and shutting off water supplies, the source remains undetermined. Officials suspect groundwater infiltration from storm sewers. Excavation of basement walls and floors may be required at an estimated cost of $10,000 to $20,000. Cassperson warned that a budget resolution will likely be needed to cover repairs.

City Welcomes New Planner
After years without dedicated planning staff, Marshfield has hired James Lieven as city planner. Lieven, a Milwaukee native, holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Iowa State University and a master’s in urban design from the University of Colorado Denver. He previously worked in Milwaukee on master planning and redevelopment projects. “I am thrilled to be here and to serve the community,” Lieven told council members.

Strategic Planning Sessions Scheduled
City Administrator Steve Barg reminded councilors that two strategic planning sessions will be held on September 6 and September 20, with both running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sessions will be led by a Madison-based facilitator and are intended to guide the city’s long-term priorities.

Economic Development Structure Report
Consultant Kristin Fish Peterson of Redevelopment Resources presented recommendations to overhaul Marshfield’s economic development framework. She cited fragmentation and understaffing as major obstacles. Key proposals included:

• Hiring a full-time Economic Development Director and support staff.
• Transitioning the Community Development Authority (CDA) into a Housing Authority.
• Creating a new Redevelopment Authority (RDA) focused on economic growth, blight elimination, and redevelopment projects.

Peterson argued the changes would “streamline strategy and strengthen coordination” across organizations such as Marshfield Utilities, Main Street Marshfield, Visit Marshfield, and MACCI.

While some CDA members expressed concern about losing powers, Peterson stressed the changes would not weaken their housing operations. The new RDA would allow Marshfield to pursue redevelopment projects with greater flexibility.

Budget Actions
Council approved several budget resolutions, including:

• Video promotion funding for the Yellowstone Industrial Park, produced by the city’s communications department in partnership with Wood County and MACCI.
• Reallocation of IT project savings toward new computer purchases, reducing reliance on general fund dollars.

County Grant OutcomesThe city received mixed results from its applications to Wood County’s Conservation, Education, and Economic Development (CEED) Committee:

• Building Revitalization Grant Program: Marshfield requested $25,000 but was awarded only $8,000. Combined with $25,000 already budgeted locally, the city will have $33,000 to distribute in 2026.
• Historic District Signage: A request for $4,675 in matching funds was not recommended. The council later approved covering the city’s portion to ensure completion of the final five signs marking the downtown historic district.

Debate Over Future of Economic Development Board
Council members discussed whether to revive the disbanded Economic Development Board. Some, including Alderwoman Jen Delis, argued the city needs stronger coordination until new structures are in place. Others, like Alderman Mike Feirer, warned against reinstating a board without clear leadership at City Hall. Administrator Barg emphasized that securing a full-time director is the most critical step for long-term success.

Next Steps: The council will reconvene in September for strategic planning sessions, where economic development, housing, and downtown revitalization are expected to dominate the agenda.

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