Marshfield Plan Commission Advances TIF District Expansion and Reviews Zoning Changes

​MARSHFIELD, Wis. -- The Marshfield Plan Commission met Tuesday, July 15, 2025, addressing key projects aimed at supporting economic development and updating city zoning practices.
Expansion Proposed for TID 11
A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposed amendment to Tax Increment District (TID) No. 11 on the city’s southeast side. Josh Miller of Cedar Corporation presented the proposal, which would expand the TID boundary to include a 10-acre parcel and portions of Draxler Drive.
The adjustment is intended to support the planned relocation and expansion of I-State Truck Center, which plans to build high-tech light manufacturing facilities on the site. The boundary change is necessary to keep property parcels contiguous within the district and to accommodate infrastructure projects, including improvements to Draxler Drive for better traffic flow and a second access point to the area.
Miller noted the TID amendment would add roughly $300,000 in base value, with expectations for increased tax revenues once the new facilities are completed. The Joint Review Board, which includes representatives from local taxing bodies, held its initial meeting earlier in the day without major concerns. The Plan Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the amendment, moving it forward for consideration by the Common Council and the Joint Review Board.
Zoning Changes for Major Street Setbacks Under Review
In other business, city planner Bryce Hembrook outlined potential changes to setback requirements along major streets. Currently, properties along major arterials are required to maintain a 50-foot setback. Staff propose reducing this to the standard zoning setback plus an additional 10 feet, aiming to make regulations less arbitrary and better aligned with the city’s updated 2017 comprehensive plan.
Hembrook explained that under the new approach, right-of-way expansions would be addressed primarily through property dedication during land divisions rather than through broad setback mandates. Commissioners were supportive, voting to direct staff to draft formal text amendments for future review.
Potential for More Housing Options in SR-6 District
The Commission also revisited discussions about allowing more diverse housing types in the SR-6 zoning district, which currently allows single-family homes and two-flat residences. Hembrook presented options for adding twin homes, townhouses, duplexes, and potentially small multiplex buildings (three to four units), particularly in neighborhoods near downtown.
While commissioners expressed interest in encouraging “gentle density” to expand housing options, they indicated a preference for careful consideration of where such changes would be appropriate. Hembrook was asked to return with more specific recommendations on zoning boundaries and impacts.
Looking Ahead
The proposed TID amendment is scheduled for Common Council consideration next week and could proceed to the Joint Review Board in two weeks. Meanwhile, the Plan Commission expects to review the drafted zoning amendments and further discuss potential housing changes at future meetings.

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