Keith J. Klafke

This operational plan outlines the purpose, goals, projects, and activities for the Business Improvement District in downtown Portage, Wisconsin. Its primary purpose is to provide an organizational and funding mechanism to support the development, improvement, and promotion of the downtown area for the economic benefit of all businesses and the general social and economic benefit of the City of Portage. Key goals include funding marketing and promotional strategies, upgrading and maintaining physical appearance, co-funding efforts with local entities, assisting businesses with renovation, providing education on marketing and retail strategies, funding planning for business retention and growth, and educating the public on the advantages of commerce within the BID.

The meeting included a public hearing concerning the discontinuance of a portion of Jones Street. Key discussions and actions during the regular meeting involved the approval of minutes from previous closed session and public hearing/common council meetings. The Mayor issued a proclamation honoring the service of the Economic Development and Planning Director, Steve Soiac, upon his retirement after 12 years of service. The council approved the December 2025 consent agenda related to tourism promotion and held Q&A with department heads, addressing a citizen inquiry about tax bill calculations in relation to the operating levy and TIF. Financial actions included the approval of claims totaling $1,929,890 and authorization for Resolution 25-032 concerning the issuance and sale of $6,984,000 in sewage revenue anticipation bonds to bridge financing gaps until a State Clean Water Fund loan closes in February 2026. Finally, the council authorized payment of claims received through December via wire transfer to the contractor STAB.

This Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP) for the City of Portage, valid from 2026-2030, aims to guide the prioritization of park and recreation facility maintenance, upgrades, and improvements. The plan is structured around goals, objectives, and policies informed by a thorough inventory of existing facilities and an assessment of community needs, including insights from the Park and Recreation Board, City staff, and resident surveys. Key focus areas include maintaining existing facilities, improving accessibility and connectivity to parks, enhancing signage, fostering strategic partnerships, and updating amenities to benefit city residents. The plan seeks to produce quality park spaces and promote positive health outcomes for both residents and visitors.

The plan commission meeting included discussions and possible action on a resolution approving an amendment to Tax Incremental District (TID) 8, focusing on boundary adjustments and project plans. The purpose of the amendment is to add territory to the south for a proposed multifamily development. The commission also discussed a site plan for a Pizza Hut parking lot project, which had been constructed without the necessary permits or site plan approval.

The council meeting included discussions on weed harvesting on Silver Lake, a presentation on the history of the harvester, cutting permits, and a maintenance report. Options for lake management were presented, including forming a lake district or association. The council also discussed the budget, mayoral appointments, and department reports.