Eric Atkinson

Key discussions included finalizing the Urban Forestry DNR Grant Project report, planning for the 2026 Field Day for Tree Planting, which involved motions to order 300 saplings of specific species, and an update on establishing a healthy forestry canopy on the UW-Stout campus. New business focused on initiating a City Tree Designation project, coordinating logistics with the school district, and developing a simple door hanger for tree planting care instructions. Planning for the Arbor Day event, including the Forestry Friend Award timeline, was discussed. The Urban Forester reported on the completion of tree removals in the Elmwood Addition and ongoing work in North Menomonie. A City Council update noted recent personnel changes across several city departments.

The City of Menomonie Council meeting agenda included two public hearings concerning Proposed Ordinance 2026-02, which aims to repeal and replace the Residential Rental Properties code (Title 9, Chapter 2), and Proposed Ordinance 2026-03, which seeks to rezone land along 3M Drive from Restricted Industrial (I-1) District to Local Commercial (B-2) District. Old Business involves discussion and potential adoption of these ordinances. New Business includes consideration of awarding the construction contract for Phase I of the Well #9 Project, approving an Engineering Task Order for the Heller Road and Oak Avenue Sidewalk Project, considering the 2026 Senior Center Lease Agreement, and discussing the rescheduling of the second Council meeting in March 2026 due to Spring Break. The agenda also called for receiving the final report of the Ad Hoc Housing Committee, reviewing budget transfers for the Fire Department, claims, and license actions.

The regular meeting involved several key actions. The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2026-04, which amends Title 4, Chapter 9 regarding Recycling, and adopted Ordinance 2026-05, amending Title 4, Chapter 5 concerning Solid Waste Site Regulations. Resolutions were approved to set Recycling Utility Rates and Charges (Resolution 2026-01) and Solid Waste Utility Rates and Charges (Resolution 2026-02), in addition to approving Solid Waste Disposal Fees (Resolution 2026-03). The council authorized the Police Department to obtain bids for three new squad cars and approved appointments to the Urban Forestry Board and the Wastewater Utility Superintendent position. The appointment of a replacement Ward 9 Alderperson was postponed until the February 16, 2026 meeting. A Special Event Permit for the Coldest Night of the Year event was approved contingent on insurance receipt.

The City of Menomonie Council meeting agenda primarily focused on legislative and administrative actions. Key new business items included finalizing the Non-Profit Grant Program, discussion and potential adoption of several ordinances (Ordinance 2026-04 regarding Recycling, Ordinance 2026-05 regarding Solid Waste Site Regulations), and approving corresponding resolutions to set Recycling Utility Rates and Charges (Resolution 2026-01) and Solid Waste Utility Rates and Charges (Resolution 2026-02), along with Solid Waste Site Disposal Fees (Resolution 2026-03). The council also planned to discuss and potentially approve the purchase of three new police department squads, consider Mayoral appointments, including a replacement Ward 9 Alderperson and reappointments to the Urban Forestry Board, and consider appointments for the Wastewater Utility Superintendent and Community Services Superintendent. A special event request for the Stepping Stones of Dunn County Coldest Night of the Year event was also scheduled for discussion.

The regular City Council meeting included a public hearing regarding Proposed Ordinance 2026-01, which amends the City Code concerning warehousing and data center definitions, including the creation of the I-4 Data Center Industrial District. This ordinance was subsequently adopted. The Council also introduced Proposed Ordinance 2026-02 regarding residential rental properties and Proposed Ordinance 2026-03 to rezone land from Industrial to Commercial, referring both to the Plan Commission. Additionally, the Treasurer was authorized to write off NSF checks and uncollectable personal property tax bills. Communications included a report on a cybersecurity program, an announcement for a community Valentine's Skate & Cocoa event, and a reminder for voter registration updates. Licenses approved included a Combination Class "B" Beer and "Class B" Liquor License for Hive & Hollow, LLC, with an extension to the outside seating area, and various other licenses for mobile food establishments, mobile home parks, and secondhand articles.