Editor’s note: This story is based on the transcript of a video interview summarizing the Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 Common Council meetings.
MARSHFIELD — The Common Council discussed plans for the former Weinbrenner building, approved a temporary agreement for the Wenzel Plaza Concert Series, accepted a park donation and scheduled upcoming strategic planning sessions during meetings held Feb. 10 and Feb. 24.
New municipal judge selected
At its Feb. 10 meeting, the council confirmed the selection of Krista James to fill the vacant municipal judge position previously held by Judge Cruz.
Council President Brian Varsho said a special committee interviewed three candidates. Representatives from the City of Marshfield and the villages of Spencer and Stratford — which also use the municipal court — participated in the process.
Varsho said James brings significant experience and is expected to provide a smooth transition.
Public comments address Weinbrenner building, snow removal and plaza programming
During public comment Feb. 24, Richard Kranz, who has filed to run for the District 9 alderperson seat, suggested converting the former Weinbrenner building into a mixed-use facility that could include museums, a coffee shop and other amenities.
Varsho said the concept is “a wonderful idea” but noted the city does not have the estimated $15 million needed to refurbish the building. While historic tax credits could offset part of the cost, he said the city’s current financial commitments — including the fire department building project — limit available capital.
The building is expected to be vacated by June 30. Varsho said the city may need to winterize and stabilize the structure if redevelopment is delayed.
Also during public comment, residents raised concerns about snow removal following a recent storm, specifically along Central Avenue parking lanes. Varsho said plowing was completed before Monday morning but acknowledged a delay in clearing parking areas. He said the issue is being reviewed and may have been related to overtime or budget considerations.
Another speaker addressed the importance of Wenzel Plaza programming following the resignation of Nikki Anderson, who previously coordinated the summer concert series before joining her family business.
Wenzel Plaza Concert Series approved for 2026
The council approved a proposal from Visit Marshfield to coordinate the 2026 Wenzel Plaza Concert Series, with Anderson assisting in a temporary capacity.
Varsho said the proposal aligns with the existing budget and ensures continuity for the popular event. He said Anderson’s experience booking performers will be key, while Visit Marshfield will provide logistical support.
The agreement covers the 2026 season only. The council directed staff to post a full-time Parks and Recreation position to permanently fill the vacancy.
Comprehensive plan update begins
City Planner James Leven presented a proposal to begin updating the city’s comprehensive plan, last updated from 2007 to 2017.
Varsho said the update process is expected to take approximately 18 months and will address ongoing projects, including the Denyon subdivision, police and fire facilities, Wenzel Plaza and the Weinbrenner property.
Council members expressed support for moving forward with the planning process.
Donation accepted for Griese Park soccer fields
The council accepted an $11,440 donation from a local family to fund player shelters at the Griese Park soccer fields.
Varsho said the shelters will provide shade and weather protection for home and visiting teams. The city received four bids and approved the lowest responsible bid for the project.
Stormwater basin modification approved
The council approved a budget resolution related to urban non-point source and stormwater construction near Mill Street. The measure changes a planned dry detention basin to a wet detention basin to accommodate stormwater runoff associated with development in the area.
Street department position review
Human Resources Director Sarah Dressel presented a compensation evaluation for two street department positions: fleet services and inventory assistant operator.
Varsho said the review ensures job descriptions and certification requirements, including commercial driver’s licenses and equipment operation credentials, match operational needs.
Shared-ride van purchase
The council approved acceptance of a Wisconsin Department of Transportation grant to purchase a new shared-ride vehicle.
Under the 80/20 cost-sharing arrangement, the state will cover 80% of the cost. Varsho said the city’s share will be approximately $15,000 for the 2026 vehicle, which will be added to the fleet used for local shared-ride services.
Weinbrenner building redevelopment discussions continue
The council revisited redevelopment options for the former Weinbrenner building, including:
Returning to a previous proposal from developer Jay Jeffers to convert the building into approximately 70 to 77 affordable housing units.
Leasing the space temporarily to a business.
Demolition, which council members indicated is not preferred.
Varsho said the council voted to direct City Administrator Steve Barg to invite Jeffers to present an updated proposal at an upcoming meeting to determine feasibility.
The council also authorized staff to prepare cost estimates for stabilizing and winterizing the building if redevelopment is delayed. Approximately $35,000 is currently budgeted for stabilization, though officials said that amount may not cover all necessary work.
Fifth Street reconstruction and easements
In closed session, the council discussed easement acquisitions for the planned reconstruction of Fifth Street from West Oak Street to West Chestnut Street.
The federally funded project, anticipated for 2027 or 2028, will be funded 80% by federal sources and 20% by the city. The council approved the necessary easement purchases after returning to open session.
Upcoming meetings
The council will hold strategic planning sessions from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 5 and March 12 at off-site locations to be announced publicly. A regular council meeting is also scheduled the following week.
Officials described the upcoming weeks as a busy period, with multiple meetings focused on long-term planning and redevelopment initiatives.
For full meeting details, residents can view the recorded meetings on the city’s website or Marshfield Broadcasting’s online platforms.