Plastics in Blood, EVENTS and Infrastructure Top Topics on Post Council Update

Marshfield, WI -- From microplastics in the bloodstream to road repairs and festival planning, Marshfield city officials covered a broad range of topics during this month’s Post Council Update on the Marshfield Now! Channel.
Hosted by Communications Director Tom Loucks and Council President Brian Varshow, the program recapped highlights from the July 8th Common Council meeting, as well as a special session held July 9th.
One of the more unexpected issues came during public comment, when local pathologist Dr. Bruce Krawitz spoke about the presence of microscopic plastic particles in human blood. Varshow noted the five-minute public comment period felt too short for such a significant topic and said city officials may invite Dr. Krawitz back for a longer presentation to explore the implications and sources of these plastics.
The program also addressed concerns raised annually by some residents over Marshfield’s Pride events. Varshow explained that groups renting public facilities, such as Wenzel Plaza or Wildwood Park, must follow city rules and regulations. However, private rentals do not equate to city-sponsored events, and the city does not discriminate against any group renting public spaces.
On the economic front, the city’s new Business Development Coordinator, Sierra Hefron, delivered her first quarterly update. Hefron emphasized supporting existing businesses, attracting new ventures, and tackling challenges like housing and childcare shortages. City staff are also working on new promotional materials to highlight shovel-ready industrial land available in areas such as the Yellowstone Business Park and Mill Creek Park.
Financial news was largely positive, as officials shared that the city’s recent audit results were favorable, with no major concerns reported. Some minor procedural adjustments regarding ARPA funding were recommended but have already been addressed.
The show also discussed borrowing plans tied to projects approved in the city budget. Officials said the impact on property taxes will be modest, averaging about $244 over 20 years for a typical $100,000 home, connected in part to funding for a new police department building.
Efforts continue to replace Marshfield’s remaining lead and galvanized water service lines. About 90 to 95 homes still have outdated pipes running from the street to residences. Those replacements are planned at no cost to homeowners except in limited cases where minor fees could apply for specific work like curb stop replacements.
Beyond city business, the Post Council Update turned to community events and local tourism. Officials held a special meeting with Visit Marshfield to encourage closer collaboration between Visit Marshfield, Main Street Marshfield, and Mackie (Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry). The goal is to improve coordination around major local events like DairyFest, Hub City Days, the Central Wisconsin State Fair, and Maple Fall Fest.
Residents are encouraged to follow future council sessions and tune in to upcoming episodes of Post Council Update for further details on budget discussions, infrastructure projects, and community events. The next Capital Improvement Plan meetings are scheduled for July 17th and, if needed, July 31st.