Merrill public meetings in 2025

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is holding its regular December meeting. Members will review revenue and expense reports, the approved 2026 marketing budget, and updates on several ongoing projects including business marketing videos, banner options, grants, the Tour of Lights, and a food truck initiative. The agenda is largely a status and discussion session with no final votes on major policy items.

• Review of approved 2026 Marketing budget numbers
• Status and discussion of business marketing videos
• Review and discuss banner options
• Grant updates
• Tour of Lights update and Food Truck update

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the schedule and business marketing videos, which will be forwarded to Mayor Hass for a January rollout. The committee also placed previous minutes and monthly reports on file, and reviewed the 2026 marketing budget. No other formal decisions were made; banner options were set aside for possible later review.

• Approved minutes from October 16th meeting
• Approved overall schedule for business marketing videos
• Approved business videos and forwarded to Mayor Hass for January rollout
• Placed monthly reports on file

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular December meeting to consider routine approvals and discuss several operational items. Key topics include the Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, T Hangar damage follow-up, and a year-end budget discussion. The commission will also consider decisions on crack-filling Runway 16/34 in 2026 and general airport maintenance issues.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 project
• Follow-up on T Hangar damage
• Discussion/decision to crack-fill Runway 16/34 in 2026
• Fuel budget discussion (item 27)
• Update on F-84 Monument

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a motion to crack-fill and repaint Runway 16/34 in 2026 to extend its life. The commission also approved minutes, vouchers, and financial reports. Discussions covered the Runway 16/34 project (ALP started, construction possible 2028-2029), maintenance hangar construction, and airport standards updates. No public comment was made.

• Approved minutes from November 26th meeting
• Approved vouchers and financial reports
• Approved crack-fill and repaint of Runway 16/34 (motion by Banser, second by Schulz)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will hold its regular December meeting, covering routine consent items like minutes and financial reports. The board will discuss and possibly act on appointing a financial secretary and committee assignments, as well as matters related to the Zander Trust and Endowment Fund. They will also consider naming a youth services room and discuss strategic goals and trustee education.

• Appointment of Board Financial Secretary and Endowment Fund Committee assignment
• Discussion of Zander Trust and Endowment Fund of the T.B. Scott Free Library
• Action on 'Name That Room' Youth Services Activity/Meeting Room
• Discussion of Strategic Goals & Action Steps #4: Collections
• Discussion of Wisconsin Trustee Essential #2: Who Runs the Library?

The Merrill Library Board approved naming the new Youth Services Activity/Meeting Room 'The Pioneer Room' and appointed C. Grunenwald as Financial Secretary and Endowment Fund Committee Chairperson. The board discussed but took no action on managing the Zander Trust, deferring to January. All consent items were approved.

• Approved minutes of November 19, 2025 meeting
• Approved vouchers for November 2025
• Approved unaudited monthly income & expense report for November 2025
• Placed monthly statistical report for November 2025 on file
• Appointed C. Grunenwald as Financial Secretary and Endowment Fund Committee Chairperson
• Approved naming the Youth Services Activity/Meeting Room 'The Pioneer Room'

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss transit-related matters. The main agenda items include a review of the extended service area and a discussion of the Vets Coffee Club. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Extended Service Area
• Discussion of Vets Coffee Club

The Merrill Transit Commission approved setting up an account for Veterans Coffee and Conversation to provide transportation for veterans to and from meetings, managed by the transit manager and integrated with regular routing. The commission also discussed November ridership, staff levels, a December 9th radio call, completed CSR and PTAP applications, and a Tour of Lights recap. No impact was found from the extended service area review. The meeting was procedural with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved Veterans Coffee and Conversation transportation account (motion passed)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will hold its regular meeting on December 9, 2025, covering routine items like minutes and financial reports, plus several action items. Key decisions include approving the 2026-2028 Fire Union Contract, a charter ordinance to eliminate the elected Street Commissioner position, and new licenses for two businesses. The council will also hear a presentation on the 2024 audit and consider a letter of intent to purchase a vacant lot.

• 2026-2028 Fire Union Contract (Personnel & Finance recommends approval)
• Charter Ordinance eliminating the Street Commissioner as an elected officer
• Alcohol and tobacco/vaping licenses for WI Cstore, 702 N Center Avenue
• Alcohol license for Zacatecas Mexican Grill, N2410 Hwy 107
• Letter of intent to purchase vacant lot at 809 Grand Avenue

The Common Council accepted the 2024 audit, approved alcohol and tobacco licenses for two businesses, authorized a letter of intent to purchase a vacant lot, and approved the 2026-2028 Fire Union Contract. All votes passed unanimously. The council also acknowledged committee reports and held the first reading of a charter ordinance to eliminate the elected Street Commissioner position.

• Accepted 2024 audit as presented (passed)
• Approved alcohol and tobacco/vaping licenses for WI Cstore, 702 N Center Avenue (passed)
• Approved alcohol license for Zacatecas Mexican Grill, N2410 Hwy 107 (passed)
• Approved letter of intent to purchase vacant lot at 809 Grand Avenue (passed)
• Approved 2026-2028 Fire Union Contract (passed)
• Approved Mayor's appointments: Don Litzer to Historic Preservation Committee, Todd Osness to Library Board (passed)
• Approved Election Officials for 2026-2027 (passed)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The meeting agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The commission will review previous minutes, approve claims, and receive the Director's Report.

• Approval of November 2025 Minutes
• Approval of November 2025 Claims
• December 2025 Director's Report

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the November 2025 minutes and claims. The director reported a successful 2025 and noted the 2026 budget was adopted without last-minute changes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved November 2025 claims (motion passed)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve vouchers, minutes from the previous meeting, and monthly reports from city officials. The agenda includes procedural items and a closed session to discuss the Fire Union contract.

• Approve vouchers
• Approve minutes from October 28th meeting
• Place monthly reports on file

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved the Fire Union contract and forwarded it to the Common Council. The committee also approved vouchers, prior meeting minutes, and placed monthly reports on file. The meeting included a closed session to discuss the contract, and the motion to approve passed in open session.

• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from October 28th meeting (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Entered closed session to discuss Fire Union contract (3-0 roll call)
• Approved Fire Union contract and forwarded to Common Council (motion passed)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, review the October revenue and expense report, and discuss several facility and maintenance topics. Key items include the Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, T Hangar damage follow-up, FBO hangar update, vehicle needs, and the F-84 Monument update. The commission will also discuss general airport maintenance, including lightning damage, deer ramps, trees growing through the security fence, and the flag pole status.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Maintenance Hangar Status discussion
• Follow-up on T Hangar damage
• Discussion/Decision on Airport General Maintenance including lightning damage, deer ramps, trees through security fence, and flag pole
• Approval of October Revenue and Expense report

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the November 4th meeting minutes and October revenue/expense vouchers. They discussed the Runway 16/34 project, noting the ALP process has started with possible construction in 2028-2029, and reviewed the maintenance hangar status, T-hangar repairs, vehicle needs, and general maintenance items. No final decisions were made on these discussion items.

• Approved November 4th meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved October revenue and expense vouchers (motion passed)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to review budget meeting results and a grant application. The body will also discuss holiday outreach programs and the Gather at the Table program for the new year.

• Budget meeting results
• Grant application
• Thanksgiving and Christmas Outreach Programs
• Gather at the Table program

The committee approved the October 2025 meeting minutes and the August-October 2025 vouchers. They discussed the ADRC's balance and falls presentation, a Meals on Wheels waitlist, and the failed budget request to increase the administrative assistant position to 32 hours. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved August-October 2025 vouchers

Marketing & Communications Committee

The committee will review financial reports and the approved 2026 marketing budget. Members will discuss business marketing videos, banner options, and receive updates on city events and economic development.

• Review of approved 2026 marketing budget numbers
• Discussion of business marketing videos and banner options
• Tour of Lights and Food Truck updates
• Lincoln County Economic Development update
• Social Media Specialist Savall monthly report and statistical analytics

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to approve the revised 2026 budget and a holiday closure list. Members will also discuss board vacancies following two resignations and review the 'Name That Room' campaign.

• Approval of Revised 2026 Library Budget
• Approval of Amended 2026 Budget - Library Closure Dates/Holiday List
• Appointment recommendations following resignations of Darcy Dalsky and Todd Osness
• Review of 'Name That Room' campaign
• Discussion of Strategic Goals & Action Steps #3

The Merrill Library Board approved a revised 2026 budget with reduced salary and benefit costs, and an amended holiday closure list adding December 26, 2026. The board tabled action on filling the vacancy left by Darcy Dalsky's resignation and the appointment of Todd Osness until December. No donation commitments were received for naming the Youth Services Activity/Meeting Room, so it will be called the Youth Services Activity Room, with naming action deferred to December.

• Approved revised 2026 Library Budget
• Approved amended 2026 Budget - Library Closure Dates/Holiday List
• Tabled action on resignation of Darcy Dalsky and Todd Osness appointment recommendation
• Deferred room naming action to December meeting

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will hold its regular meeting on November 11, 2025, at City Hall. The body is scheduled to adopt the 2026 city budget and tax levy, act on a condominium plat at 604 Eugene Street, and decide on alley vacation and alcohol-license requests.

• Adopt 2026 City of Merrill Budget and Tax Levy
• Approve condominium plat at 604 Eugene Street (Primetime Estates LLC)
• Vacate alley between 603 & 605 S Foster St
• Approve temporary Class B wine/beer license for Devil's Creek Stump Jumpers Snowmobile Club event at Merrill Expo Center
• Approve alcohol beverage license for Circle K #2746594 at 3350 E Main Street

The Common Council approved the 2026 General Fund budget, which includes a property tax levy of $6,330,129. Additionally, the Council authorized the vacation of an alley in the Wolf River Lumber Company's addition and approved a condominium plat for 604 Eugene Street.

• Adopted 2026 budget and $6.33M tax levy (7-0)
• Approved alley vacation in Wolf River Lumber Company's addition
• Approved condominium plat at 604 Eugene Street
• Approved police department position reclassification (5-2)
• Approved temporary alcohol license for Devil's Creek Stump Jumpers
• Approved alcohol license for Circle K at 3350 E Main Street
• Approved change of agent for Walgreen's #10574
• Appointed Emily Gibson to Police and Fire Commission

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review the Administrator's report and discuss general agenda items. The body will consider the Tour of Lights and conduct an accident review.

• Tour of Lights
• Accident review

The Merrill Transit Commission held a regular meeting with no substantive policy decisions. Members approved the previous meeting's minutes, reviewed the administrator's report, discussed the upcoming Tour of Lights bus schedule, and reviewed an October 14 accident involving a bus tailswinging a parked car. The next meeting is set for December 15, 2025.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel/Loos, passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Loos/Weber, passed)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on November 5, 2025, to consider adjusting operating hours for the Bierman Family Aquatic Center and receive an update on the 2026 budgetary process. The commission will also review October 2025 claims and minutes, and hear the November 2025 Director's Report.

• Consider potential adjustment to operating hours for Bierman Family Aquatic Center
• Update on 2026 budgetary process
• Approval of October 2025 Claims

The Commission approved adjusted operating hours for the Bierman Family Aquatic Center, changing Sunday hours to 1:00-6:00 p.m., keeping Mondays closed, and shifting Tuesday-Saturday hours to 11:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Staff were also granted latitude to extend hours for special circumstances like heat advisories or tournaments. The 2026 budget process was discussed, with the final hearing scheduled for November 11th.

• Approved adjusted Bierman Family Aquatic Center hours: Sundays 1:00-6:00 p.m., closed Mondays, Tuesdays-Saturdays 11:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (passed)
• Approved allowing staff to flex hours for special circumstances (e.g., heat advisories, tournaments) with no budgetary impact (passed)
• Approved October 2025 minutes (passed)
• Approved October 2025 claims (passed)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a condominium plat request for Primetime Estates LLC at 604 Eugene Street. The commission will also discuss vacating an alley between 603 and 605 S Foster Street. The meeting includes routine approval of previous meeting minutes and public comment.

• Condominium Plat request for Primetime Estates LLC at 604 Eugene Street under M.M.C. Sec 111-3
• Vacate alley between 603 & 605 S Foster St
• Public Hearing on condominium plat request

The City Plan Commission approved a condominium plat for Primetime Estates LLC at 604 Eugene Street and approved vacating the alley between 603 and 605 S Foster St. Both motions passed unanimously. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned after about six minutes.

• Approved condominium plat for Primetime Estates LLC at 604 Eugene Street
• Approved vacating the alley between 603 & 605 S Foster St

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will hold a public workshop on the Airport Master Plan followed by a discussion and potential decision to approve the plan. Commissioners will also review project updates, hangar statuses, maintenance items, and September vouchers.

• Discussion/Decision to approve Master Plan
• Discussion Runway 16/34 Project
• Maintenance Hangar Status
• Follow-up on T-Hangar damage
• Discussion/Decision Airport General Maintenance including lightning damage and deer ramps

The Airport Commission approved the recommended development plan from the Master Plan, as moved by Joe Malsack and seconded by Lyle Banser. They also approved September minutes, vouchers including a $200 reimbursement for Evan Hanson, and a $31,800 deposit for gate replacement. The meeting included discussions on the Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, and other operational items.

• Approved Master Plan development plan (motion by Malsack, second by Banser)
• Approved September meeting minutes (motion by Banser, second by Malsack)
• Approved vouchers including $200 reimbursement for Evan Hanson (motion by Banser, second by Malsack)
• Approved $31,800 deposit for gate replacement (motion by Schwartz, second by Malsack)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to review monthly reports and approve vouchers for the Street and Water & Sewer departments. The board will also consider a proposal to vacate a specific alleyway.

• Proposal to vacate the alley between 603 and 605 S Foster Street
• Approval of Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approval of Street Department vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved vacating a portion of the alley between 603 and 605 S Foster Street, forwarding it to the City Plan Commission and Common Council. The board also approved water/sewer and street department vouchers, placed minutes and monthly reports on file, and received operational updates. No public comment was made.

• Approved alley vacation between 603 and 605 S Foster Street (motion passed)
• Approved Water & Sewer Vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved Street Department Vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed September 24th minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Tourism Commission

The Tourism Commission will meet to review the 2025 budget update. The body is scheduled to discuss and approve the budget for 2026.

• 2025 Budget Update
• 2026 Budget discussion and approval

The Tourism Commission approved a 2026 budget totaling $100,650, reduced from the anticipated amount due to a drop in 4th Quarter tourism. The budget includes $50,000 for expenses and $50,650 for grant funding. Several grant applications were approved at reduced amounts, while the Mud N Jams application was declined for being incomplete.

• Approved 2026 budget of $100,650 ($50,000 expenses, $50,650 grants) unanimously
• Approved $1,000 grant to Merrill Lions (requested $1,400)
• Approved $5,000 grant to Merrill Ice Drags (requested $7,500)
• Approved $1,000 grant to Black Squirrel Scurry (requested $1,000)
• Approved $600 grant to Underdown Trail Ride (requested $600)
• Approved $350 grant to Snowbound in Underdown Fat Bike Races (requested $350)
• Approved $1,200 grant to Food Truck-A-Palooza (requested $2,000)
• Declined Mud N Jams grant application for being incomplete

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve vouchers, place monthly reports on file, and hear updates from city leaders. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda beyond routine approvals and reports.

• Approve vouchers for payment
• Place monthly reports from Mayor, City Administrator, Finance Director, and others on file

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved vouchers, placed previous meeting minutes and monthly reports on file, and entered closed session to discuss union contract negotiations and unpaid leave for an employee. No substantive decisions were made in open session beyond these approvals.

• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed September 23rd minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Entered closed session for union negotiations and employee leave (3-0 roll call)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review and discuss the proposed budget for 2026. The body will also consider approving minutes from the October 14th meeting.

• Review and discussion of 2026 Proposed Budget

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the 2026 proposed budget and made multiple changes, including removing the training division chief, eliminating the Street Commissioner position, and cutting several line items. They also added the Taser subscription and IT items, but rejected a mayor's wage increase. The budget was forwarded to the Council for a public hearing.

• Removed training division chief from budget (9-0)
• Added Taser annual subscription to budget (9-0)
• Added Unitrends backup and Cisco WebEx licensing (5-4)
• Removed MEC non-capital equipment replacement (9-0)
• Removed MEC assistant +4 hours to 32/wk (9-0)
• Removed MARC non-capital equipment replacement (7-2)
• Sent Housing Developer Grant to RDA (6-3)
• Eliminated Street Commissioner position (8-1)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving prior minutes, nuisance complaints, and vouchers. They will also consider several alcohol-related licenses, including a temporary license for a snowmobile club event and a license for a Circle K store, plus a change of agent for Walgreen's. Monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs are on the agenda.

• Temporary Class B wine and beer license for Devil's Creek Stump Jumpers Snowmobile Club, Nov 15, 7-11 pm, Merrill Expo Center
• Alcohol beverage license for Circle K #2746594, 3350 E Main Street
• Change of agent for Walgreen's
• Approve vouchers and nuisance complaints
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved a temporary Class "B" wine and beer license for Devil's Creek Stump Jumpers Snowmobile Club for a November 15th event, as well as an alcohol beverage license for Circle K #2746594 and a change of agent for Walgreen's. The committee also approved vouchers and placed minutes and monthly reports on file. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved temporary Class B wine and beer license for Devil's Creek Stump Jumpers Snowmobile Club (motion passed)
• Approved alcohol beverage license for Circle K #2746594, 3350 E Main Street (motion passed)
• Approved change of agent for Walgreen's (motion passed)
• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed September 22nd minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet to consider the Administrator's Report, a quarter report, and the Tour of Lights. The agenda also includes approving previous meeting minutes and scheduling the next meeting for November 10, 2025.

• Administrator's Report
• Quarter Report
• Tour of Lights

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned. The administrator reported 5,301 rides in September, staff at full level, and a minor bus accident on October 14 with an insurance claim filed. The commission discussed the Tour of Lights event on December 10, 2025, with up to 5 buses, and plans to work with 211 to list transportation resources.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Loos/Weber)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Weber/Loos)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will hold its regular meeting to approve past meeting minutes and vouchers, receive public comment, and hear updates from the ADRC representative. The committee will also review recent events, grant status, and budget matters.

• Approval of August meeting minutes
• Approval of Aug-Oct vouchers
• ADRC representative updates
• Events recap: Prevent Falls Resource Fair, Fall Craft & Market, Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin, Dells Bus Trip
• Budget discussion

The committee approved the minutes from the August 2025 meeting and authorized the payment of vouchers for August through October 2025. Members also discussed operational updates, including potential staffing increases and grant requests, but took no further formal votes.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved August-October 2025 vouchers

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review September revenue and expense reports and discuss the revised 2026 budget proposal. They will also get updates on business marketing videos, tourism grants, Tour of Lights, and a food truck discussion. The meeting includes monthly reports and public comment.

• Review September revenue and expense reports
• Discuss revised 2026 Budget proposal
• Status of business marketing videos
• Tourism grants (Merrill, Wausau)
• Food truck discussion

The Marketing & Communications Committee reviewed the revised 2026 budget proposal and September revenue/expense reports. Chair Fermanich updated the committee on pursuing a tourism grant from Marathon County. The committee approved minutes from the September 18th meeting and placed monthly reports on file. No formal votes were taken on the budget or grant, which remain under discussion.

• Approved minutes from September 18th meeting
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Reviewed September revenue and expense reports
• Discussed revised 2026 budget proposal
• Agreed to pursue tourism grant from Marathon County

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will hold its regular meeting, primarily acting on two policies: the Services of the Library Policy and the Sexual Harassment Policy. The board will also discuss strategic goals and a Wisconsin Trustee Essential topic, along with routine consent items like minutes and financial reports.

• Approve Services of the Library Policy
• Approve Sexual Harassment Policy
• Discuss Strategic Goals & Action Steps #2
• Discuss Wisconsin Trustee Essential
• Approve September 2025 vouchers and financial reports

The Library Board approved the Services of the Library Policy and the Sexual Harassment Policy, both by unanimous vote. The board also approved consent items including the September minutes, vouchers, and financial and statistical reports. The director reported that the RFID security system will go live November 4 and that the library is switching book vendors after Baker & Taylor announced closure.

• Approved Services of the Library Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Sexual Harassment Policy (unanimous)
• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 unaudited income & expense report (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 monthly statistical report (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee will meet to review minutes from three previous meetings. The committee will also continue discussions regarding an update to historic street names.

• Discussion of historic street names update

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review and discuss budget requests for 2026. Discussions will focus on the General Fund Operating Budget and the Community Development Fund.

• Review of 2026 General Fund Operating Budget requests
• Review of 2026 Community Development Fund requests

The Merrill Committee of the Whole reviewed 2026 budget requests, voting to remove the library carpet project and cut the Historical Society funding request from $8,000 to $5,000. The committee also discussed alderperson and mayoral pay, deciding to include the Mayor's salary in the October 28 budget meeting.

• Placed previous meeting minutes on file
• Removed library carpet from capital projects budget (9-0)
• Reduced Historic Society request from $8,000 to $5,000 (9-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:32 pm

Common Council

The Common Council will consider routine items including minutes, revenue reports, and committee reports. Key actions include approving bids for the sale of three public properties, a resolution honoring a longtime city servant, and an appointment to the Housing Authority.

• Sale of 903 Grand Avenue for $500
• Sale of 1905 Jackson Street for $2,501
• Sale of 2200 Sturdevant Street for $20,000
• Resolution honoring Thomas N. Hayden for service to the city
• Appointment of Tom Hayden to Housing Authority, term to 11-1-2030

The Common Council approved two State Municipal Financial Agreements for planning work on Glen Drive to State Highway 107 N and State Highway 107 N to Memorial Drive, with the city contributing $40,000 in 2026 and $40,000 in 2027. The council also approved the sale of three public properties, adopted a resolution honoring former City Attorney Tom Hayden, and appointed him to the Housing Authority. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved two State Municipal Financial Agreements for Glen Drive and Highway 107 planning, with $40,000 city share in 2026 and $40,000 in 2027
• Approved sale of 903 Grand Avenue for $500
• Approved sale of 1905 Jackson Street for $2,501
• Approved sale of 2200 Sturdevant Street for $20,000
• Adopted resolution honoring Thomas N. Hayden for 22 years of service as City Attorney
• Appointed Tom Hayden to the Housing Authority, term expiring 11-1-2030
• Approved September Revenue and Expense report
• Approved minutes from September 9th meeting

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission will review and discuss the 2026 Parks & Recreation Draft Operating Budget. The meeting also includes an update on the 2026 Capital Budget.

• Review of 2026 Parks & Recreation Draft Operating Budget
• 2026 Capital Budget update
• Approval of September 2025 bills

The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the 2026 draft operating budget and received an update on the capital budget, but took no formal action on either. They approved the September 2025 minutes and bills. The meeting was procedural with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved September 2025 minutes
• Approved September 2025 bills

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to review monthly operational reports and street department vouchers. The board is also considering the sale of three specific parcels of public property.

• Proposed sale of public property at 903 Grand Avenue
• Proposed sale of public property at 1905 Jackson Street
• Proposed sale of public property at 2200 Sturdevant Street
• Approval of Street Department Vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved the sale of three public properties—903 Grand Avenue, 1905 Jackson Street, and 2200 Sturdevant Street—based on received bids, and forwarded the decision to the City Council. The board also approved street department vouchers and placed monthly reports on file. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved sale of 903 Grand Avenue, 1905 Jackson Street, and 2200 Sturdevant Street to highest bidders (motion passed)
• Approved Street Department Vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from August 27 meeting (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee will consider several donated projects and funding sources for city improvements. Members will also discuss 2026 health insurance coverage and a specific police staff position.

• Potential shelter building at Lion's Park donated by Merrill Baseball Association and Pinno Buildings
• Potential paving of a trail through the MARC using ARPA funding and a donation from River District Development Foundation
• Acceptance of funds from the Bierman Family Foundation Trust for Flock Safety
• 2026 Health Insurance coverage
• Police Administrative Assistant/Property and Evidence Manager position

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved all four agenda items: accepting a donated shelter building at Lion's Park, accepting a donation to pave a trail through the MARC, accepting funds from the Bierman Family Foundation Trust for Flock Safety cameras, and moving to Wisconsin County Association health insurance coverage for 2026. All motions passed unanimously. The committee also approved vouchers, placed previous minutes and monthly reports on file, and entered closed session to discuss a police department position, but did not reconvene for action.

• Accepted donated shelter building at Lion's Park (unanimous)
• Accepted donation to pave trail through MARC (unanimous)
• Accepted Bierman Family Foundation Trust funds for Flock Safety cameras (unanimous)
• Approved move to Wisconsin County Association health insurance for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed August 26th minutes on file (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will meet to review and discuss 2026 budget requests, including capital requests, operating budgets for water, wastewater, landfill remediation, and the airport fuel fund, alongside debt service and Tax Increment Districts 3-14. The committee will also consider meeting minutes from August 26th and September 9th.

• Review and discussion of 2026 Capital Requests
• Review and discussion of 2026 Water Utility Operating Budget
• Review and discussion of 2026 Wastewater Utility Operating Budget
• Review and discussion of 2026 Landfill Remediation Operating Budget
• Review and discussion of 2026 Tax Increment Districts 3-14

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the 2026 capital requests and various operating budgets, including water, wastewater, landfill remediation, airport fuel fund, debt service, and tax increment districts. They voted to remove the car 60 replacement from the capital budget requests. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily for review and discussion.

• Removed car 60 replacement from 2026 capital budget requests (8-0)
• Placed minutes from August 26 and September 9 meetings on file

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet on September 22, 2025, to discuss nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and consider training for the Fire Department Division Chief. The committee will also hear monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett.

• Discuss and consider approving the vouchers
• Discuss and consider Training the Division Chief for the Fire Department
• Monthly Report from Fire Chief Klug
• Monthly Report from Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports, and forwarded a request to train a Fire Department Division Chief to the Committee of the Whole budget meeting without a recommendation. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 5:21 pm.

• Approved minutes from August 25th meeting
• Approved vouchers
• Forwarded Fire Department Division Chief training request to Committee of the Whole budget meeting without recommendation
• Placed monthly fire and police reports on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will review August revenue and expense reports, discuss the 2026 marketing campaign focus, and consider approving the 2026 Destination Guide advertisement. The group will also discuss budget recommendations for 2026 and receive updates from the Chamber and LCED.

• Review August Revenue and Expense Reports
• Discuss and Approve the 2026 Destination Guide ad
• Discussion and referral to the Committee of the Whole the 2026 Budget Recommendations
• Chamber update
• LCED update

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the design and copy for the 2026 Destination Guide advertisement. Members also voted to forward the revised 2026 budget recommendations to the Committee of the Whole for further review.

• Approved August 21st meeting minutes
• Approved dog copy for 2026 Destination Guide ad
• Approved 'Where Every Season Feels Like Home' headline and text
• Forwarded 2026 budget recommendations to Committee of the Whole
• Placed monthly reports on file

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will review and potentially approve a 'Name That Room' fundraising campaign, along with related endowment fund requests for marketing and an RFID project volunteer stipend. The board will also discuss strategic goals and trustee orientation.

• Approve 'Name That Room' Fundraising Campaign
• Endowment Fund Request for 'Name That Room' marketing
• Approve Endowment Fund Request - RFID Project Volunteer Stipend
• Discussion: Strategic Goals & Action Steps #1
• Discussion: Wisconsin Trustee Essential #27: Trustee Orientation and Continuing Education

The Merrill Library Board approved the "Name That Room" fundraising campaign and associated marketing expenses. The board also authorized the use of endowment funds to provide gift cards as "thank you" gifts for volunteers assisting with the library's RFID project.

• Approved August 20, 2025, meeting minutes
• Approved August 2025 vouchers with date correction
• Approved August 2025 income and expense report
• Approved August 2025 statistical report
• Approved 'Name That Room' fundraising campaign
• Approved $800 endowment fund request for campaign marketing
• Approved endowment fund request for RFID volunteer gift cards

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss several infrastructure projects and maintenance updates. The body will review budget vouchers and consider decisions regarding general airport maintenance.

• Runway 16/34 Project discussion
• Maintenance Hangar and FBO Hangar updates
• T Hangar damage follow-up
• Vehicle needs for trucks and utility type vehicles
• Maintenance updates on lightning damages, deer ramps, security fence trees, and the flag pole

The Airport Commission approved the August meeting minutes and August vouchers. The runway 16/34 project is nearing completion of its ALP, with NEPA environmental study still needed. The maintenance hangar project is on hold pending approved plans. No other formal decisions were made; most items were status updates.

• Approved August 20 meeting minutes
• Approved August vouchers

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss two agenda items: a Christmas week grocery run and the Tour of Lights. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of minutes, and an administrator's report. No decisions are noted in the agenda; items are listed for consideration.

• Christmas week grocery run
• Tour of Lights

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the previous meeting minutes and adjourned. They scheduled a Christmas week grocery run for Tuesday, December 23rd at the normal time, and set the Tour of Lights for December 10th, with 4-5 buses planned and a check with the Chamber for voting details and tour guides. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (Kunkel/Weber motion)
• Scheduled Christmas week grocery run for Tuesday, December 23rd at normal time
• Set Tour of Lights date for December 10th with 4-5 buses
• Agreed to check with Chamber for voting details and tour guides for Tour of Lights

Joint Review Board

The Merrill Joint Review Board will meet to review financial reports and consider extending Tax Incremental District No. 3. The board will also approve a resolution acknowledging annual report filings and compliance with state requirements.

• Consider extending Tax Incremental District No. 3 due to 2013 Act 145 impact on tax increment
• Review annual PE-300 reports for active Tax Incremental Districts
• Approve resolution acknowledging filing of annual reports and compliance with annual meeting requirement

The Merrill Joint Review Board met to review district finances and compliance. The board approved a three-year extension for Tax Incremental District No. 3 after reviewing a cash flow analysis showing negative impacts from 2013 Act 145. They also approved a resolution acknowledging the filing of annual reports and compliance with annual meeting requirements.

• Placed minutes from December 10, 2024 meeting on file
• Approved 3-year extension for Tax Incremental District No. 3 with a note on potential earlier closure
• Approved Resolution Acknowledging Filing of Annual Reports and Compliance with Annual Meeting Requirement
• Adjourned meeting at 5:30 pm

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet on September 9, 2025, to consider several items including a street use permit for the Merry Merrill Market, a planned unit development for a multifamily residential project, and approval of tax increment financing for a technical college extension. The meeting also includes employee recognition and acknowledgment of committee reports.

• Street use permit for Merry Merrill Market on Main Street from Courtside Furniture to Cosmo Theater on December 13, 2025
• Planned Unit Development for multifamily residential project at 401 S Kyes Street
• Tax Increment District Financing for Technical College Extension in Tax Increment District #3
• Change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #386 to Matthew Kedrowicz
• Temporary Class 'B' beer license for VFW Post 1638 for Ultimate Racing event on September 26th

The Common Council approved a Planned Unit Development for a multifamily residential project at 401 S Kyes Street, as recommended by the City Plan Commission. They also approved a street use permit for the Merry Merrill Market on December 13, 2025, and approved Tax Increment District financing for a Technical College Extension in TID #3. Several licenses and agent changes were approved, including temporary beer licenses for VFW Post 1638 and Kwik Trip agent changes.

• Approved Planned Unit Development for multifamily residential at 401 S Kyes St (motion passed)
• Approved street use permit for Merry Merrill Market on Dec 13, 2025 (motion passed)
• Approved TID financing for Technical College Extension in TID #3 (motion passed)
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #386 to Matthew Kedrowicz (motion passed)
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #241 to Holli Harteau (motion passed)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for VFW Post 1638 on Sept 26 (motion passed)
• Approved August 2025 Revenue and Expense Report (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from August 12 meeting (motion passed)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider 2026 Capital Budget Requests. This is the main substantive item on the agenda, alongside standard procedural items like call to order, roll call, and public comment. No specific projects or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• 2026 Capital Budget Requests

The Committee of the Whole met to hear presentations from department heads regarding 2026 capital budget requests. No formal votes or budgetary decisions were made during the meeting.

• Reviewed 2026 Capital Budget Requests (no action taken)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to review and potentially approve the capital budget request for 2026. The body will also review the 2025 Summer Playground Program and August claims.

• 2026 Capital Budget request
• August 2025 Claims
• 2025 Summer Playground Program recap

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved its 2026 Capital Budget request after removing two priority items (Smith Center Parking Lot and Smith Center Sound System) to keep the request under $100,000. The motion also moved Aquatic Center Pumps up to priority item 2. The commission also approved the August 2025 minutes and claims, and received updates on the summer playground program and various projects.

• Approved 2026 Capital Budget request with priority items 6 & 7 removed and Aquatic Center Pumps moved to priority 2 (motion passed)
• Approved August 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved August 2025 claims (motion passed)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission is meeting to consider approving minutes from July 1 and to hold a public hearing on a request by VanHoffKo – The River, LLC for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow a multifamily residential development at 401 S Kyes Street. The commission will also take public comment. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Planned Unit Development request by VanHoffKo – The River, LLC for multifamily residential development at 401 S Kyes Street (PIN# 251-3106-182-0222)
• Consideration of minutes from July 1 meeting

The City Plan Commission approved a Planned Unit Development (PUD) request from VanHoffKo – The River, LLC for a multifamily residential development at 401 S Kyes Street, and will send it to the Common Council. The public hearing had no speakers for or against. The commission also approved the minutes from the July 1st meeting.

• Approved PUD for multifamily development at 401 S Kyes St, sent to Common Council
• Approved minutes from July 1st meeting
• Opened and closed public hearing with no public comment

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to approve minutes from the July 23 meeting, review and approve vouchers for water/sewer and street departments, and discuss a septic discharge application. The board will also consider a street use permit for the Merry Merrill Market event and place monthly reports on file.

• Approve 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Consider Heinen Septic's application to discharge septate at Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Discuss street use permit for Merry Merrill Market on Main Street (Dec 13, 2025) from 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

The Board of Public Works approved the 2026 Capital Improvement Plans for both the Water & Sewer and Street departments, forwarding them to the Committee of the Whole budget meeting. The board also approved vouchers, a septic discharge application, a street use permit for the Merry Merrill Market, and placed monthly reports on file. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approved Heinen Septic's application to discharge septage at the Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Approved 2026 Capital Improvement Plan for Water & Sewer, forwarded to Committee of the Whole
• Approved Street Department Vouchers
• Approved street use permit for Merry Merrill Market on Dec 13, 2025, 5-10 pm, Main Street to Cosmo Theater
• Approved 2026 Capital Improvement Plan for Street Department, forwarded to Committee of the Whole
• Approved minutes from July 23rd meeting
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to discuss and vote on approving vouchers, update the employee handbook regarding sick leave accumulation upon retirement, and consider a policy for disposing of city vehicles. Monthly reports from city officials will also be reviewed and placed on file.

• Update Section 12-3-9 of the Employee Handbook on sick leave accumulation upon retirement
• Consider policy for disposal of city vehicles
• Approve vouchers
• Review and place on file monthly reports from Mayor, City Administrator, Finance Director, City Clerk, City Attorney, and Municipal Court

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review and discuss Tax Increment District financing. The discussion focuses on the Technical College Extension located in Tax Increment District #3.

• Review and discussion of Tax Increment District Financing for Technical College Extension in Tax Increment District #3

The Committee of the Whole reviewed a presentation on the Technical College Extension in Tax Increment District #3 and voted to extend the TID for three years, forwarding the recommendation to the Common Council. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned after the vote.

• Extended TID #3 for 3 years and forwarded to Common Council (motion by Rick/Weix, passed)

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review a report from the administrator and discuss a recap of the Transit Community Meeting.

• Transit Community Meeting Recap

The Merrill Transit Commission met August 25, 2025, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The administrator reported 3,613 rides in July, a new operator working toward a CDL, and successful Community Night Out and Back to School Bash events. The commission discussed a Lincoln County transportation group and plans for a central materials location and tear-off business cards. No substantive policy decisions were made; the next meeting is set for September 15, 2025.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to discuss nuisance complaints and approve vouchers. The body will consider a bartender's license appeal and agent changes for two Kwik Trip stores. A temporary beer license for VFW Post 1638 is also on the agenda.

• Appeal of bartender's license denial for Tyson Lepsch
• Change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #386 to Matthew Kedrowicz
• Change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #241 to Holli Harteau
• Temporary Class "B" beer license for VFW Post 1638 for September 26th at the Merrill Fairgrounds

The committee denied an appeal for a bartender's license for Tyson Lepsch, noting he may reapply in six months. Members also approved changes of agent for two Kwik Trip locations and a temporary beer license for VFW Post 1638.

• Placed July 21st minutes on file
• Approved vouchers
• Denied bartender license appeal for Tyson Lepsch
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #386 to Matthew Kedrowicz
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #241 to Holli Harteau
• Approved temporary Class "B" beer license for VFW Post 1638
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will discuss the budget and advertising publications. The body is also reviewing the September and October calendars of events and the AARP Tax-Aide program.

• Review of September events including Line Dance Lessons, Prevent Falls Resource Fair, and Fall Craft & Market
• Review of October events including a Genealogy course and Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin event
• Discussion of MEC Advertising publications
• Budget review
• Discussion of AARP Tax-Aide

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the July minutes and July/August vouchers, and discussed plans to increase assistant Zoellner's hours to 32 per week, with committee support for the request. The committee also reviewed upcoming events and explored using the Steckling building for activities.

• Approved July 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved July/August 2025 vouchers (motion carried)
• Supported request to increase MEC assistant Zoellner to 32 hours (discussion, no formal vote)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss a revised marketing campaign focused on lifestyle, jobs, and living in Merrill. The body will also consider approvals for Destination Guide advertising and video production.

• Revised Marketing Campaign direction focused on lifestyle, jobs, living and working in Merrill
• Destination Guide ad concept, cost, and page size
• Video production from Christiana Munny
• 2026 budget suggestions and requests
• Street banner carryover from July meeting

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved a revised marketing campaign focused on lifestyle and employment. The committee also authorized a $950 expenditure for a full-page Destination Guide ad and approved up to $5,110 for video production services by Christiana Munny.

• Approved revised marketing campaign direction
• Approved $950 for full-page Destination Guide ad
• Approved $5,110 for video production by Christiana Munny
• Placed July 17th meeting minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports on file

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet on August 20, 2025, to discuss airport development and maintenance items. Commissioners will consider the potential future sale of the current maintenance hangar and review updates on the Runway 16/34 project, T-hangar damage, and general repairs.

• Discussion/Decision on the future sale of the current Maintenance Hangar
• Discussion on Runway 16/34 Project
• Follow-up on T-Hangar damage
• Updates on lightning damages, deer ramps, and security fence trees
• Update F-84 Monument

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a motion to appraise the current maintenance hangar for potential sale after the new hangar is completed, with proceeds to fund new construction. They also approved a 20-foot flagpole purchase and installation, and discussed ongoing projects including runway FAA approval, T-hangar damage repairs, and airport expansion needs. No financial reports were reviewed, and no public comments were made.

• Approved July 16 meeting minutes (Malsack/Banser)
• Approved vouchers (Malsack/Schulz)
• Approved motion to appraise current maintenance hangar for future sale (Malsack/Weix)
• Approved purchase and installation of 20 ft. flagpole (Schulz/Malsack)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will hold its regular meeting on August 20, 2025, to review and approve the Personnel Policy, discuss and approve the 'Name That Room' fundraising campaign, and review the Endowment Fund mid-year financial report. The board will also discuss strategic goals and a Wisconsin Trustee Essential topic. Consent items include minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports.

• Approve Personnel Policy
• Approve 'Name That Room' Fundraising Campaign
• Endowment Fund Mid-Year Financial Report
• Introduction of new WVLS Board Representative Kathleen Morris
• Public comment period

The Merrill Library Board approved the Personnel Policy with revisions and the Endowment Fund Mid-Year Financial Report. The 'Name That Room' fundraising campaign was tabled to the September 2025 meeting for further revision. Consent items, including minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports, were approved or placed on file.

• Approved Personnel Policy with revisions (motion by E. McCrank, second B. Rothlisberg)
• Tabled 'Name That Room' Fundraising Campaign to September 2025 meeting
• Approved Endowment Fund Mid-Year Financial Report
• Approved minutes of July 16, 2025, with corrections
• Placed vouchers for July 16, 2025, on file
• Placed Unaudited Monthly Income & Expense Report for July 2025 on file
• Placed Monthly Statistical Report for July 2025 with corrections on file

Common Council

The Common Council will review the sale of four city-owned properties and a development agreement for commercial land at 401 Kyes Street. The body will also consider a budget amendment and several temporary liquor licenses for local events.

• Sale of city property at 2200 Sturdevant St, 903 Grand Ave, 809 Grand Ave, and 1905 Jackson St
• Development agreement for commercial development in TID No. 9 at 401 Kyes Street
• 2025 Budget Amendment #2
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon at 1300 E Main St for September 6th
• Temporary Class B beer and wine licenses for VFW Post 1638 and Merrill Baseball Association

The Common Council approved the sale of city-owned properties at 2200 Sturdevant St, 903 Grand Ave, 809 Grand Ave, and 1905 Jackson St, as recommended by the Board of Public Works. The council also approved several temporary liquor licenses for upcoming events, a street use permit, the 2025 Budget Amendment #2, a development agreement for 401 Kyes Street, and a reappointment to the Redevelopment Authority. All votes were unanimous with 8 in favor.

• Approved sale of city property at 2200 Sturdevant St, 903 Grand Ave, 809 Grand Ave, 1905 Jackson St (8-0)
• Approved temporary Class B wine/beer license for VFW Post 1638 on Aug 16 at Fairgrounds (8-0)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Baseball Association on Aug 23 at MARC (8-0)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Eagles Club on Sept 1 at Fairgrounds (8-0)
• Approved street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon on Sept 6 on Park Street (8-0)
• Approved 2025 Budget Amendment #2 (8-0)
• Approved development agreement for city-owned land at 401 Kyes Street (8-0)
• Reappointed Tony Kusserow to Redevelopment Authority (8-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will consider accepting a donated shelter building at Lion's Park and a potential donation to pave a trail through the MARC, and will begin discussing the 2026 capital equipment and projects budget. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and claims, and a director's report.

• Consider shelter building at Lion's Park, donated by Merrill Baseball Association & Pinno Buildings
• Consider paving trail through MARC, potential donation from River District Development Foundation
• Begin discussion on 2026 Capital Equipment & Projects
• Approve June and July 2025 bills
• Approve June 2025 minutes

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved two donation-funded projects: a shelter building at Lion's Park, donated by Merrill Baseball Association and Pinno Buildings, and a paved trail through the MARC, funded by River District Development Foundation. Both approvals are subject to Personnel and Finance Committee approval. The commission also began discussions on the 2026 capital equipment and projects list, with no final decisions made.

• Approved shelter building at Lion's Park (donated by Merrill Baseball Association & Pinno Buildings)
• Approved paving trail through MARC (potential donation from River District Development Foundation)
• Approved June and July 2025 claims
• Approved June 2025 minutes

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider renewing a sales contract with NAI Pfefferle/TJ Morice for city property in the County Hwy G Industrial Park, receive an update on development projects, and may enter closed session to discuss a development agreement for city-owned vacant land at 401 Kyes Street (TID No. 9) and options for the Hwy G Industrial Park TID No. 13.

• Renew sales contract with NAI Pfefferle/TJ Morice for County Hwy G Industrial Park property
• Closed session: development agreement for city-owned vacant land at 401 Kyes Street (TID No. 9)
• Closed session: discuss options for Hwy G Industrial Park TID No. 13
• Update on ongoing development projects
• Approve minutes from June 4th meeting

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority extended its sales contract with NAI Pfefferle/TJ Morice for city property in the County Hwy G Industrial Park for one year. The RDA also voted to forward a development agreement for city-owned vacant land at 401 Kyes Street (TID No. 9) to the Common Council after a closed session. No formal action was taken on options for the Hwy G Industrial Park TID No. 13, which will be discussed further in September.

• Approved minutes from June 4th meeting
• Extended sales contract with NAI Pfefferle/TJ Morice for County Hwy G Industrial Park property for 1 year
• Forwarded development agreement for 401 Kyes Street (TID No. 9) to Common Council (passed in closed session and reconfirmed in open session)
• Took no formal action on Hwy G Industrial Park TID No. 13 options; deferred to September agenda

Tourism Commission

The Merrill Tourism Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss the 2025 budget update, 2026 budget priorities, and the 2026 grant application process. The commission will also review Travel Wisconsin 2024 tourism information.

• 2025 Budget Update
• Discussion about 2026 Budget Priorities
• 2026 Grant Application Process
• Review Travel Wisconsin 2024 Tourism Information

The Tourism Commission discussed the 2025 budget, noting that only three approved grants (Food-Trucka-Palooza, City of Merrill fireworks, and Lincoln County Fair) still need reimbursement, and that the Carry the Cross event was canceled. They discussed 2026 budget priorities, including a visitor guide, trade shows, and possibly hiring an influencer, and agreed to update the grant application wording to clarify that grants are reimbursable. The 2026 grant application deadline was set for Sept. 19, 2025. The next meeting was scheduled for Oct. 28, 2025.

• Set 2026 grant application due date for Sept. 19, 2025
• Agreed to update grant application wording to clarify reimbursable process
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct. 28, 2025 at Merrill Chamber of Commerce
• Adjourned meeting at 12:55 pm (motion passed, all in favor)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to review operational updates and financial vouchers. The body will discuss changes to instructor fees and meal fund updates.

• Change to instructor fees
• Approval of June/July '25 vouchers
• August calendar dates for fair-related closures or limited activities
• Meal funds updates
• Senior Swim

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved a simplified instructor fee structure, taking 18% of class fees starting August 1st, which will increase instructor pay without hurting MEC funds. They also approved the June minutes and June/July vouchers. The committee discussed the upcoming Prevent Falls Resource Fair, a paused Meals On Wheels dining site, and a potential Boys & Girls Club opening, but took no formal action on these items.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (motion by Tlusty, second by McCrank)
• Approved June/July 2025 vouchers (motion by Holz, second by McCrank)
• Approved new instructor fee structure: 18% of class fee effective August 1st (motion by Tlusty, second by Holz)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works is meeting to approve routine vouchers and monthly reports, and to consider selling city property at four addresses. The board will also discuss vacating Jesse Court. The meeting includes reports from the utility superintendent, building inspector, city administrator, and street superintendent.

• Consider selling city property at 2200 Sturdevant Street, 903 Grand Ave, 809 Grand Ave, and 1905 Jackson Street
• Discuss vacating Jesse Court
• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Place monthly reports on file

The Board of Public Works approved the sale of city-owned properties located at 2200 Sturdevant Street, 903 Grand Avenue, 809 Grand Avenue, and 1905 Jackson Street. Additionally, the board initiated the legal process to vacate Jesse Court. The board also approved departmental vouchers and placed monthly operational reports on file.

• Approved May 28th meeting minutes
• Approved Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Approved sale of 2200 Sturdevant St, 903 Grand Ave, 809 Grand Ave, and 1905 Jackson St
• Initiated process to vacate Jesse Court
• Placed monthly departmental reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review city vouchers and discuss the disposal of a former SRO squad car and Street Department vehicles. The body will consider 2025 Budget Amendment #2 and 2026 budget submissions for the Ambulance-EMS and TB Scott Public Library. Members will also discuss revisions to the purchasing policy.

• 2025 Budget Amendment #2
• 2026 budget submissions for Ambulance-EMS and TB Scott Public Library
• Information on $421,000 Bierman Foundation donation for ambulance equipment
• Disposal of a former SRO squad car and Street Department vehicles
• Purchasing policy revisions

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved the disposal of a former SRO squad car and Street Department vehicles through the Wisconsin Surplus Auction. It also forwarded the 2025 Budget Amendment #2 to the Common Council and the 2026 EMS and T.B. Scott Library budgets to Lincoln County. No action was taken on the $421,000 Bierman Foundation donation information, and purchasing policy revisions were deferred to the August meeting.

• Approved disposal of 2018 Ford Taurus SRO squad car via Wisconsin Surplus Auction
• Approved disposal of Street Department vehicles via Wisconsin Surplus Auction
• Approved sending 2025 Budget Amendment #2 to Common Council
• Approved forwarding 2026 EMS and T.B. Scott Library budgets to Lincoln County
• Approved vouchers
• Approved minutes from June 24th meeting
• Approved placing monthly reports on file

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting at City Hall Council Chambers to review the administrator's report and previous minutes. The agenda contains standard procedural items and no specific policy decisions, contracts, or public hearings.

• Review of June minutes
• Administrator's report

The Merrill Transit Commission held a regular meeting with all five members present. They approved the June meeting minutes and received the administrator's report on June activities and second-quarter totals. No substantive policy decisions were made; the next meeting was rescheduled to August 25.

• Approved June meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)
• Rescheduled next meeting to August 25
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Loos/Kunkel, passed)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting, review nuisance complaints, and consider approving vouchers. They will also discuss a street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon’s event on Park Street and review monthly reports from the Fire and Police Chiefs.

• Approve minutes from June 23rd meeting
• Consider approving vouchers
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon (1300 E Main St) for September 6th event on Park Street
• Discussion on outdoor tornado sirens
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved a street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon at 1300 E Main St for September 6th, from 2:30 pm to 12:30 am on Park Street, for an outside band and food truck event. They also approved vouchers, placed minutes and monthly reports on file, and discussed outdoor tornado sirens, deciding to keep weekly testing. No public comment was made.

• Approved street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon, 1300 E Main St, Sept 6, 2:30 pm-12:30 am on Park Street (motion passed)
• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed June 23rd minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Decided to keep weekly tornado siren testing (discussion, no formal vote)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will review the June revenue and expense report, a revised city marketing campaign overview, and several promotional video and advertising concepts. Monthly social-media analytics will also be filed.

• Review June revenue and expense report
• Approve revised Merrill Marketing Campaign overview
• Consider Merrill Business Video Scripting and alternative production options
• Discuss Destination Guide ad concept and street banner program options

The Marketing & Communications Committee met and discussed several items, including the revised Merrill Marketing Campaign overview, business video scripting, and street banner program options, but took no action on these substantive items. The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and placed monthly reports on file. The street banner program will be brought back for further discussion at the August meeting.

• Approved minutes from June 19th meeting with revision (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Discussed revised marketing campaign overview; no action taken
• Discussed business video scripting; no action taken
• Discussed alternative video production options; no action taken
• Discussed Destination Guide ad concept; no action taken
• Discussed street banner program; no action taken, to be revisited in August
• Discussed Community Night Out participation; no action taken

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from previous sessions and continue discussion on updating historic street names. The committee will also set the date for the next meeting and allow public comment.

• Approve minutes from April 16th and June 18th meetings
• Discuss historic street names update

The Historic Preservation Committee met on July 16, 2025, but adjourned after two minutes because only two members were present, lacking a quorum. No decisions were made; the minutes from April and June were not approved, and the historic street names discussion was postponed. The next meeting is scheduled for August 20, 2025, at 6:00 pm, to be called by the chair.

• Adjourned meeting at 6:02 pm due to lack of quorum
• Deferred approval of April 16 and June 18 minutes
• Postponed historic street names update discussion
• Scheduled next meeting for August 20 at 6:00 pm (Call of the Chair)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss infrastructure projects and maintenance updates. The body is scheduled to make decisions regarding T Hangar rental rates and general airport maintenance.

• Decision on T Hangar rental rates
• Decision on airport general maintenance
• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Status update on Maintenance Hangar and T Hangar damage
• Update on F-84 Monument

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a $10 rent increase for T-hangars, setting new rates at $145, $150, and $155 depending on size. The commission also noted that all contracts for the maintenance hangar are signed and construction will begin, funded by a $850,000 no-payback gift from BOA that must be spent by August 19. Other items, including runway project updates and lightning damage repairs, were discussed but no decisions were made.

• Approved June 18 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved June Revenue and Expense Report (motion passed)
• Approved $10 rent increase for T-hangars; new rates $145, $150, $155 (motion passed)
• Noted maintenance hangar construction to start; $850,000 BOA gift must be spent by August 19

Library Board

The Library Board will review and vote on the 2026 budget, closure dates, and a personnel policy, plus approve payments from the endowment fund for construction and tax filing. They will also discuss a proposed one-week closure for RFID tagging and naming a new youth services room. The meeting is a regular session with consent items and reports.

• Approve 2026 Library Budget
• Approve 2026 closure dates and holiday hours
• Pay JAS Construction invoice from Endowment Fund for Youth Services Renovation
• Pay endowment fund tax filing invoice
• Discuss one-week closure for RFID system conversion

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council is meeting to consider business licenses, permits, a conditional use permit for a small engine repair business, and a resolution regarding a rail crossing. The agenda also includes recognizing a police department employee for 30 years of service and reviewing previous meeting minutes and financial reports.

• Conditional Use Permit for a small engine repair business at 607 N Cleveland Street
• Temporary Class "B" Beer license for Merrill Youth Softball Association at MARC fields
• Temporary Class "B" Beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Merrill Athletic Park
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon at 1300 E Main St
• Resolution to petition for the establishment of a new at-grade crossing

The Common Council approved a resolution to petition the Office of the Commissioner of Railroads for a new at-grade crossing at the sewage treatment plant entrance, which is needed for the Riverbend Pedestrian Trail extension. The council also approved two temporary beer licenses, a street use permit, a conditional use permit for a home occupation, and a mayoral appointment. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved resolution to petition for new at-grade railroad crossing (passed)
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Youth Softball Association (passed)
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Baseball Association (passed)
• Approved street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon (passed)
• Approved conditional use permit for small engine repair at 607 N Cleveland St (passed)
• Approved Kyle Hahn to Parks & Recreation Commission (passed)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Fairgrounds Committee will meet to receive updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors. The body will also discuss the calendar of events and review a recap of Food Truck-a-palooza.

• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Permanent vendor update
• Food Truck-a-palooza recap
• Fairgrounds improvements update

The Fairgrounds Committee approved the April 3rd meeting minutes and monthly reports. Members also received updates regarding upcoming fair preparations, rodeo attendance, fairgrounds improvements, and the recent Food Truck-a-palooza event.

• Approved April 3rd meeting minutes
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:14 pm

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use request for a small engine repair business at 607 N Cleveland Street. The meeting will also consider approving minutes from the June 3rd session and adjourn after public comment.

• Conditional Use Home Occupation requested for small engine repair business at 607 N Cleveland Street
• Public hearing on the Scott property (PIN# 251-3106-122-0034) in a Residential District

The Merrill City Plan Commission placed previous meeting minutes on file, held an unopposed public hearing, and approved a conditional use permit for a small engine repair business at 607 N Cleveland Street with a sign provision.

• Placed June 3rd meeting minutes on file (passed)
• Opened and closed public hearing for 607 N Cleveland Street with no speakers (passed)
• Approved Conditional Use Home Occupation permit for a small engine repair business at 607 N Cleveland Street with the provision of a sign no larger than 8 sq ft (passed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:09 pm (passed)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving vouchers, minutes, and monthly reports, and discuss a purchasing policy and budget amendments. The main item is a review of the 2026 preliminary non-union payroll budget. They will also decide on disposing of a Dewalt air compressor from the Fire Station.

• Approval of vouchers
• Disposal of Dewalt Air Compressor from Fire Station
• Discussion of purchasing policy and budget amendments
• Review of 2026 Preliminary Non-Union Payroll Budget
• Monthly reports from Mayor, City Administrator, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Clerk, and Municipal Court

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved selling the Fire Station's Dewalt Air Compressor on the Wisconsin Surplus Site, after discussion about the $2,500 threshold requiring committee action. A purchasing policy and budget amendment review was tabled for July, and the 2026 preliminary non-union payroll budget was reviewed with no action. All vouchers, prior minutes, and monthly reports were approved and placed on file.

• Approved sale of Dewalt Air Compressor on Wisconsin Surplus Site
• Approved vouchers
• Placed May 27th minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Tabled purchasing policy and budget amendments discussion until July

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review the Administrator's Report and discuss a Transit Community Meeting. The remainder of the agenda consists of procedural items.

• Transit Community Meeting

The Merrill Transit Commission met on June 23, 2025, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The administrator's report covered May statistics, employee status, and a radio call-in. No substantive policy decisions or actions were taken; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will review nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and consider temporary beer licenses for youth softball and baseball events, plus a street use permit for a class reunion. Monthly reports from the Fire and Police Chiefs will also be presented and considered for filing.

• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Youth Softball Association at MARC fields, July 25-27 and Aug 1-3, 8am-10pm
• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Merrill Athletic Park, June 30, July 15, 17, 21
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon, 1300 E Main St, Aug 8, 3pm-2am for class reunion
• Nuisance complaints and voucher approvals
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved two temporary Class B beer licenses for youth baseball events and one for a saloon's class reunion, plus a street use permit. All motions passed unanimously. No public comment was received, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Youth Softball Association at MARC fields (July 25-27, Aug 1-3)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Merrill Athletic Park (June 30, July 15, 17, 21)
• Approved street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon, 1300 E Main St (Aug 8, 3 pm - 2 am)
• Placed May 27 meeting minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports from Fire and Police Chiefs on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, hear public comment, and discuss operations including volunteer appreciation, a first quarter report, an endowment donation, and July offerings. They will continue discussions on meal funds for Meals on Wheels and food trucks, and review June/July senior swim offerings.

• Approval of April 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of Apr/May/Jun 2025 vouchers
• Discussion on meal funds (MOW, food trucks)
• Review of June/July senior swim offerings
• Endowment donation discussion

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the April 2025 minutes and the April, May, and June 2025 vouchers. The committee also discussed operations, including upcoming July classes, volunteer appreciation feedback, fairgrounds updates, and plans to move the next meeting to July 24.

• Approved April '25 minutes
• Approved Apr/May/June '25 vouchers
• Agreed to move the July meeting to the 24th

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss the May revenue/expense report, a revised marketing strategy, and next steps for annual business survey videos. The meeting also includes updates on Food Truck-a-palooza, a Go-Pro Action Bundle, and collaborations with Church Mutual and local economic groups.

• Review May Revenue/Expense Report
• Consider revised Marketing Strategy
• Discuss Annual Business Survey Videos next steps
• Review Food Truck-a-palooza outcomes
• Collaborate on Business Survey Video production with Mazie Schlueter (Church Mutual)

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved spending up to $700 for a GoPro action bundle for marketing videos, and placed monthly reports on file. The committee also discussed the May revenue/expense report, reviewed the Food Truck-a-palooza event, and considered next steps for business survey videos and a revised marketing strategy.

• Approved GoPro action bundle up to $700 (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from May 15th meeting (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss several infrastructure and facility updates. The body will consider items ranging from runway projects and hangar damages to land rentals for agricultural use.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Consideration of the sale of the current FBO Hangar
• Discussion of T-Hangar damage
• Consideration of land rental for agricultural use
• Updates on lightning damages and security fence maintenance

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a motion to not charge rent for 10 acres of land on the north side of 7/25 for agricultural use for 5 years. They also approved repairs to T-Hangar, SRE, and maintenance hangars, and discussed the sale or lease of the current FBO Hangar. No new reports were given on the Runway 16/34 project, and the FAA has not yet approved the forecast plan needed for the ALP.

• Approved May 21 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved May Revenue/Expense Report (motion passed)
• Approved repairs to T-Hangar, SRE, and maintenance hangars (motion passed)
• Approved no rent for 10 acres agricultural land for 5 years (motion passed)
• Discussed sale or lease of current FBO Hangar (no decision)
• Discussed T-Hangar damage and power washing (deferred for quotes)
• Discussed Runway 16/34 project (no new reports)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board meets on June 18, 2025, to conduct routine business, including reviewing May financial reports and consent items. The board will consider approving payments from the Library Endowment Fund for a JAS Construction invoice related to the Youth Services Renovation Project and an endowment tax filing invoice. Additionally, the board will discuss meeting recording procedures, strategic goals, and trustee liability issues.

• Review and approve payment from the Library Endowment Fund to JAS Construction for the Youth Services Renovation Project
• Review and approve payment from the Library Endowment Fund for tax form filing
• Discussion on Library Board Meeting Recording Procedure
• Discussion on Strategic Goals & Action Steps #3
• Discussion on Wisconsin Trustee Essential #25 - Liability Issues

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes from the April 16th meeting and continue discussion on updating historic street names. The meeting is procedural with no formal decisions listed.

The Historic Preservation Committee meeting was called to order and immediately adjourned because there was no quorum. Only one member was present, and no substantive decisions were made. The next meeting is scheduled for July 16th.

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider several items, including a rezoning request from Lincoln County, 2025-2026 liquor license applications, a temporary beer license for the Merrill Baseball Association, a development agreement for JAS Construction, and bids for the MARC field lighting project. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, financial reports, and committee reports.

• Rezoning request from Lincoln County, 801 N Sales Street, from Public to Thoroughfare Commercial (PIN #251-3106-182-0119)
• 2025-2026 liquor license applications (per list)
• Temporary Class 'B' beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Athletic Park on specified dates
• Development agreement for JAS Construction for new commercial development (TID No. 9 at 703 S Center Avenue)
• Bids for MARC field lighting project

Police and Fire Commission

The Commission will meet to conduct interviews for police officer candidates. These interviews are scheduled to take place in a closed session.

• Police officer candidate interviews

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to review and approve a bid for the MARC Field Lighting Project. The body will also consider May 2025 minutes and bills.

• Bid for MARC Field Lighting Project

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved a $759,435 bid from Van Ert Electric for installing field lights on MARC softball fields 1-4. The bid was the only one considered after another bid arrived 6 minutes late and was marked non-responsive. The commission also approved the May 2025 minutes and bills, and set the next meeting for August 6, 2025.

• Approved $759,435 bid from Van Ert Electric for MARC field lights (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 bills (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for August 6, 2025

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider renewing a sales contract for city property at 3510 E Main Street and may enter closed session to discuss development agreements for two vacant city-owned parcels in TID No. 9. The meeting includes routine approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Renew sales contract with NAI Pfefferle/TJ Morice for 3510 E Main Street
• Closed session: development agreement for 703 S Center Avenue (TID No. 9)
• Closed session: development agreement for 401 S Kyes Street (TID No. 9)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will meet to consider past meeting minutes and hold a public hearing on a rezoning request. Lincoln County has requested to rezone property located at 801 N Sales Street, 607 N Sales Street, and 2100 E 6th Street from Public to Thoroughfare Commercial.

• Public hearing and rezoning request by Lincoln County for properties at 801 N Sales Street, 607 N Sales Street, and 2100 E 6th Street (PIN# 251-3106-182-0229) from Public to Thoroughfare Commercial
• Consideration of minutes from the February 4th meeting

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to approve minutes from the April 30 meeting, discuss utility ordinance changes, and review monthly reports from city departments. No major decisions are scheduled, but changes to utility ordinances and vouchers will be considered.

• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Discuss changes to City Ordinance concerning Utilities
• Review and approve CMAR for 2024
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Place monthly reports on file

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will review nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and consider temporary beer licenses for the Merrill Baseball Association. They will also discuss liquor license applications, a food truck inspection report, and a fire dues audit.

• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Lions Park, Ott's Park, Athletic Park, May 30-June 1, 12pm-11pm
• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Athletic Park on multiple dates in May-July, 12pm-11pm
• 2025-2026 liquor license applications
• Food Truck-a-Palooza inspection report update
• 2% Fire Dues Program audit report update

The Health and Safety Committee approved the April minutes, monthly reports, and a set of vouchers on a 2/1 voice vote after questioning a Fire Department treadmill purchase. It also approved two temporary Class B beer licenses for the Merrill Baseball Association, the 2025-2026 liquor license applications, and placed monthly reports on file. No public comment was made, and no action was needed on the Food Truck-a-Palooza inspection report or the 2% Fire Dues audit.

• Approved April 28 minutes on file (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers on 2/1 voice vote after treadmill purchase discussion
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Lions Park, Ott's Park, Athletic Park May 30-June 1
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Baseball Association at Athletic Park for multiple dates May-July
• Approved 2025-2026 liquor license applications
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review routine financial reports, consider approving minutes, and discuss a request to seek alternative funding for replacing the old scoreboard at Athletic Park. The committee will also review compensation information and receive monthly reports from city leaders.

• Request permission to seek alternative funding/donations to replace the old scoreboard at Athletic Park
• Discuss Compensation Information

The committee approved a motion to publish compensation information for Department Heads and Elected Officials on the city's website, following discussion of a report comparing named versus unnamed pay ranges. It also approved seeking alternative funding/donations to replace the old scoreboard at Athletic Park. The committee entered closed session to discuss strategies and assign a bargaining team for upcoming Police and Fire union negotiations, but took no action on closed session minutes. All other items were routine approvals of reports and minutes.

• Approved check summary report
• Approved minutes from April 29th meeting
• Approved request to seek alternative funding/donations for Athletic Park scoreboard replacement
• Approved posting compensation info for Department Heads and Elected Officials on city website
• Approved placing monthly reports on file
• Approved entering closed session for union negotiation strategy (3-0 roll call)
• No action on closed session minutes (none provided)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular meeting to discuss and consider several operational and maintenance items, including the Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, a snow plow blade, a refund of a hangar development downpayment, and Movies at the Airport. The agenda also includes updates on lightning damages, deer ramps, trees growing through the security fence, and other maintenance issues. No final decisions are listed; most items are for discussion or consideration.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Discuss and consider a refund of the hangar development downpayment
• Discuss and consider the Snow Plow Blade
• Discuss and consider Movies at the Airport
• Updates on lightning damages, deer ramps, and trees through security fence

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the purchase of a snow plow blade from MLD and denied a refund request for a hangar development downpayment, citing non-refundable deposits. The commission also discussed the delayed Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, and various maintenance issues, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved purchase of snow plow blade from MLD (motion passed)
• Denied refund of hangar development downpayment (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from April meeting (motion passed)
• Approved payment of vouchers (motion passed)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will consider approving a Donations Policy and a Displays, Exhibits, Posting and Distribution of Materials Policy, plus an Endowment Fund request to buy privacy drapery for large windows. They will also hear reports on the Zander Trust Agreement and the Youth Services Renovation Project, and discuss strategic goals and library friends/foundations.

• Approval of Donations Policy
• Approval of Displays, Exhibits, Posting and Distribution of Materials Policy
• Endowment Fund request for Large Window Wall Privacy Drapery
• Zander Trust Agreement Final Report
• Youth Services Renovation Project Update

The Merrill Library Board approved three policies: a Donations Policy, a Displays/Exhibits/Posting policy with revisions, and an Endowment Fund request for large window wall privacy drapery. The board also approved consent items including April minutes, vouchers, and financial/statistical reports. A $687.50 payment for legal services from the Zander Trust was reported as coming from the Endowment Fund.

• Approved Donations Policy as presented
• Approved Displays, Exhibits, Posting and Distribution of Materials Policy with revisions
• Approved Endowment Fund Request for Large Window Wall Privacy Drapery
• Approved minutes of April 16, 2025 regular meeting
• Approved vouchers for April 2025
• Approved Unaudited Monthly Income & Expense Report for April 2025
• Approved Monthly Statistical Report for April 2025

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will hold its regular meeting at City Hall Council Chambers on May 19, 2025, at 4:00 PM. The agenda includes procedural items such as approving previous meeting minutes, an administrator's report, and a transit community meeting. No substantive decisions or new items are listed for consideration.

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, receive public comment, and discuss operations including a first quarter report, volunteer appreciation, meal funds for Meals on Wheels, and June offerings. They will also hold a Q&A with social media specialist candidate Hallie Savall.

• Approval of April 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of April/May 2025 vouchers
• Discussion on meal funds for Meals on Wheels (MOW)
• Q&A with Hallie Savall, social media specialist candidate
• First quarter report (#10 & #26)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss the April revenue and expense reports, annual business survey results, and proposed marketing strategy revisions. They will also receive updates from the Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln County Economic Development, and consider placing monthly reports on file.

• April Revenue/Expense Reports
• Annual Business Survey Results
• Marketing Strategy Revisions
• Chamber of Commerce update
• Lincoln County Economic Development update

The Marketing & Communications Committee voted to pause current marketing and advertising spending and re-evaluate for long-term marketing, effective June 1, 2025. The motion passed unanimously. The committee also approved the April meeting minutes and placed monthly reports on file. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April 17 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Paused marketing and advertising spending, effective June 1, 2025 (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider a donation from the Fair Association for fairgrounds improvements, approve temporary beer licenses for two events at the fairgrounds, and vote on a budget ordinance amendment. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes, reports, and employee recognition.

• Fair Association donation for fairgrounds improvements
• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Eagles, May 17, 11am-8pm, 2001 E 2nd St
• Temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Special Olympics Booster Club, May 17, 11am-8pm, 2001 E 2nd St
• Ordinance amending Chapter 18, Article II, Section 18-21 City Budget
• Resolutions honoring Jon L. Leiskau and E. Kay Andrews

The Common Council accepted a $20,000 donation from the Fair Association for fairgrounds fence improvements, approved an ordinance amending the city budget chapter, and granted two temporary beer licenses for the May 17 Food Truck-a-palooza. The council also approved minutes, the April revenue and expense report, and resolutions honoring two retiring city employees.

• Accepted $20,000 donation from Fair Association for fairgrounds fence improvements
• Approved ordinance amending Chapter 18, Article II, Section 18-21 (City Budget) (8-0)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Eagles (May 17, 11am-8pm)
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for Merrill Special Olympics Booster Club (May 17, 11am-8pm)
• Approved April 2025 Revenue and Expense Report
• Approved minutes from April 8 and April 22 meetings
• Approved resolution honoring Jon L. Leiskau for 24 years of fire service
• Approved resolution honoring E. Kay Andrews for 22 years of library service

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will receive updates on development projects and Lincoln County Economic Development. The body may enter a closed session to negotiate sale terms for city-owned land and a TID incentive request.

• Negotiation of sale terms for City-owned vacant land at 703 S Center Avenue (TID No. 9)
• Negotiation of sale terms for City-owned vacant land at 401 S Kyes Street (TID No. 9)
• Consideration of TID Incentive Request for commercial re-development at 714 Martin Street (TID No. 9)

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority met on May 7, 2025, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They received updates on development projects, including a revised June 1st deadline for a proposal on the old Walmart site, and heard a quarterly report from Lincoln County Economic Development. The RDA entered closed session to discuss potential sale terms for city-owned land and a TID incentive, but did not reconvene in open session and took no action on those items.

• Approved minutes from March 5th meeting (motion passed)
• Entered closed session to discuss property sales and TID incentive (7-0)
• No action taken on closed session items

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to receive the Assessment Roll from the Assessor. The body will conduct hearings starting at 4:00 pm for individuals or businesses providing testimony.

• Receipt of the Assessment Roll from the Assessor
• Board of Review hearings for persons or businesses testifying
• Verification of mandatory training requirements for members
• Review of policies for hearing request waivers and sworn testimony

The Board of Review met and handled procedural items, including placing prior minutes on file and acknowledging training and testimony policies. The board received the assessment roll and opened a public hearing, but no citizens or businesses attended, so the hearing was closed without any formal appeals or decisions. The meeting adjourned after the hearing.

• Placed October 14, 2024 minutes on file (passed)
• Opened Board of Review public hearing (passed)
• Closed Board of Review public hearing with no attendees (passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:31 pm (passed)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes and claims, elect officers, and review several policy and funding items. Key agenda items include approving the 10-year and 2026 capital requests, a mobile food vendor application form and regulations, a policy for radio-controlled model airplanes at the M.A.R.C., and seeking alternative funding for a new scoreboard at Athletic Park. The commission will also receive the director's report.

• Review & approve 10-year and 2026 capital requests
• Review & potentially approve mobile food vendor application form and regulations
• Review & approve policy for Radio Controlled Model Airplanes at the M.A.R.C.
• Request to seek alternative funding/donations to replace old scoreboard at Athletic Park
• Elect Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson

The Parks and Recreation Commission elected Chad Krueger as chairperson and Eric Malm as vice-chairperson. It approved the 2026 capital requests and 10-year plan as presented, a mobile food vendor application for the MARC fireworks event with a cap of 5 units and no fee for this year, and a policy restricting RC model airplanes at the MARC to electric-powered only and no flying during organized activities. The commission also authorized seeking alternative funding or donations to replace the aging scoreboard at Athletic Park.

• Elected Chad Krueger as chairperson (passed)
• Elected Eric Malm as vice-chairperson (passed)
• Approved 2026 capital requests and 10-year plan (passed)
• Approved mobile food vendor application for MARC fireworks (passed)
• Approved RC model airplane policy at MARC (passed)
• Authorized seeking funding/donations for Athletic Park scoreboard replacement (passed)

Police and Fire Commission

The Police and Fire Commission will meet to organize its officers and approve previous minutes. The body may enter a closed session to conduct interviews for police officer candidates.

• Nomination and selection of commission officers
• Police officer candidate interviews (closed session)

The Police and Fire Commission elected Jeremy Thompson as Chair and approved the minutes from the January 22, 2025 meeting. The commission then entered a closed session to conduct police officer candidate interviews, as permitted under Wisconsin State Statutes. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Elected Jeremy Thompson as Chair (motion passed)
• Approved minutes from January 22, 2025 meeting (motion passed)
• Entered closed session for police officer candidate interviews (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will review routine vouchers and monthly reports, and consider two specific items: reducing an invoice for snow removal at 208 N Ohio Street, and granting a street use permit to Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street from Main Street to Thielman Street for a customer appreciation event. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and scheduling the next meeting for May 28th.

• Consider reduction of snow removal invoice at 208 N Ohio Street
• Street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street from Main Street to Thielman Street
• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector, City Administrator, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

The Board of Public Works approved a one-time 50% reduction of the snow shoveling invoice for 208 N Ohio Street, following discussion of inspection dates. It also approved water and sewer vouchers, street department vouchers, a street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street, and placed monthly reports on file. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved water and sewer vouchers
• Approved street department vouchers
• Approved 50% reduction of snow removal invoice at 208 N Ohio St (one-time)
• Approved street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street from Main to Thielman
• Approved placing monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee will review the March check summary report and the 2024 Compensation Information Payroll Report. Members will also discuss the proposed timeline for the 2026 budget.

• Approval of March check summary report
• Proposed 2026 Budget Timeline
• 2024 Compensation Information Payroll Report

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved forwarding revisions to the City Ordinance regarding the 2026 budget timeline to the Common Council. The committee also approved the March check summary report, placed minutes from the March 25th meeting on file with a correction, and placed monthly reports on file. Discussion on the 2024 compensation payroll report was tabled for further information at the May meeting.

• Approved March check summary report
• Approved March 25th minutes with revision noting '5 carryovers from 2024 and 5 new additions'
• Forwarded budget timeline ordinance revisions to Common Council
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Tabled compensation report discussion until May meeting

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will discuss nuisance complaints and firefighter occupational physicals. The body is also considering two temporary beer licenses for events on May 17, 2025.

• Temporary Class "B" beer license for Merrill Eagles at 2001 E 2nd St on May 17, 2025
• Temporary Class "B" beer license for Merrill Special Olympic Booster Club at 2001 E 2nd St on May 17, 2025
• Discussion of firefighter occupational physicals
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers

The committee tabled a proposal for annual firefighter occupational physicals, which would have been a new 2026 budget expense, after discussion about privacy and union opposition. Two temporary Class B beer licenses were approved for the Merrill Eagles and the Merrill Special Olympic Booster Club for the May 17 Food Truck-a-palooza at the fairgrounds. Nuisance complaints, vouchers, and monthly reports were approved as filed.

• Tabled firefighter occupational physicals proposal
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Eagles (May 17, 11am-8pm)
• Approved temporary beer license for Merrill Special Olympic Booster Club (May 17, 11am-8pm, revised from 7pm)
• Approved nuisance complaint vouchers
• Placed March 24 minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports on file

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will consider a sponsor-only memo of approximately $484,659.18 for the FBO Hangar at Merrill Airport and discuss a borrowing plan for 2025. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss employee compensation and property purchases, and may take action on those items after reconvening.

• Consider sponsor-only memo of approximately $484,659.18 for FBO Hangar at Merrill Airport
• Discuss 2025 borrowing plan
• Closed session for employee compensation and property purchase negotiations
• Closed session to discuss MAPS coverage, employees, and compensation
• Place minutes from previous closed meetings (Jan 28 and Feb 11, 2025) on file

Common Council

The Common Council will review recommendations from the Committee of the Whole. Discussions include an FBO Hangar sponsor-only memo and personnel-related compensation.

• FBO Hangar sponsor-only memo
• Hiring and compensation of outside counsel
• MAPS coverage of City meetings and employee compensation

The Common Council approved a sponsor-only memo of $484,659.18 for the FBO Hangar, hired Van Der Wahl Law Firm as outside counsel, and voted to sever ties with MAPS for coverage of City meetings and related compensation. All actions were based on recommendations from the Committee of the Whole.

• Approved $484,659.18 sponsor-only memo for FBO Hangar (7/1 voice vote)
• Hired Van Der Wahl Law Firm as outside counsel (9/0 voice vote)
• Approved severing ties with MAPS for City meeting coverage and related compensation (5/2 voice vote, 1 abstention)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the March 2025 minutes, an administrator's report, and a general agenda item on a Transit Community Recap. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the meeting appears to be routine procedural business.

• Approval of March 2025 meeting minutes
• Administrator's report
• Transit Community Recap discussion

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the March 2025 meeting minutes and discussed March statistics and first quarter recap. They decided to hold a meeting on May 14 for hospital users to find help, with a follow-up in June. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel/Weber, passed)
• Scheduled May 14 meeting for hospital users to find help
• Scheduled June follow-up meeting

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to approve vouchers and previous meeting minutes. The body will discuss the DeStash recap, summer luncheons, and offerings for May.

• Approval of March '25 meeting minutes
• Approval of Mar/Apr '25 vouchers
• DeStash recap
• Summer luncheons
• May offerings

The committee approved the March 2025 meeting minutes and the February-March 2025 vouchers. They discussed the upcoming ADRC state budget hearings and the impact of funding cuts on Meals on Wheels, and brainstormed ideas for a summer luncheon program targeting those in need. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Tlusty, second by McCrank)
• Approved February-March 2025 vouchers (motion by Bebel, second by Tlusty)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review March 2025 revenue/expense reports and receive updates on marketing strategy revisions, a business hiring survey, and partner organizations. The meeting is largely informational, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Review of March 2025 revenue/expense reports
• Marketing Strategy Revisions update
• Business Hiring Survey update
• Merrill Chamber of Commerce update
• Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) update

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the March 20 meeting minutes and placed the March 2025 revenue/expense reports and monthly reports on file. Updates were provided on marketing strategy revisions, a business hiring survey (46 responses, 9 willing to do videos), Chamber activities, and the LCEDC Economic Summit. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational.

• Approved March 20 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Placed March 2025 revenue/expense reports on file
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Library Board

The Library Board will review financial reports and vouchers from March 2025. The meeting includes discussions on a trust agreement, strategic goals, and policies for handling challenges to library materials.

• Zander Trust Agreement Update
• Strategic Goals & Action Steps #1 Review
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #23: Dealing with Challenges to Materials and Policies
• March 2025 vouchers and unaudited income and expense report

The Library Board approved the March 19, 2025 minutes, March 2025 vouchers, the unaudited monthly income and expense report, and the monthly statistical report. The Zander Trust Agreement was signed and will be filed with the library and city. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were discussions or reports.

• Approved minutes of March 19, 2025 meeting
• Approved vouchers for March 2025
• Approved unaudited monthly income and expense report for March 2025
• Approved monthly statistical report for March 2025

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve previous minutes and discuss historic street name applications for 2025. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive item being the consideration of these applications.

• Approval of September 18, 2024 minutes
• Historic Street Name Applications for 2025

The Historic Preservation Committee approved five of six historic street name nominations for 2025, rejecting one because the nominee is not deceased. The approved names are Sgt Carl E. Schenzel, Leslie "Ches" Kienitz, Charls L. (Loafer) Graap Jr., William Johnston, and Dolores Kelly. The committee also approved the minutes from the September 18, 2024 meeting. No public comment was received.

• Approved 5 historic street name nominations for 2025 (motion passed)
• Denied 1 nomination because nominee is not deceased
• Approved September 18, 2024 minutes (motion passed)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss and decide on several airport matters. Key items include a discussion on the Runway 16/34 project, a decision on the snow plow blade, and a discussion/decision on hosting movies at the airport. The commission will also review the March revenue/expense report and approve vouchers.

• Discussion on Runway 16/34 Project
• Discussion/Decision on Snow Plow Blade
• Discussion/Decision on Movies at the Airport
• Update on F-84 Monument
• March Revenue/Expense report

Common Council

The Common Council will discuss ten budget amendment requests and an ordinance regarding budget changes. The body is also reviewing several temporary beer licenses for events at the Merrill Fairgrounds and various mayoral appointments to city committees.

• Ten budget amendment requests
• Ordinance amending Chapter 18, Article II, Section 18-22 regarding budget changes
• Temporary class B beer licenses for Lincoln County Rodeo Association and Lincoln County Fair Association at 2001 E 2nd Street
• Updated Street Opening permit
• Expo Center kitchen rental fee

The Common Council approved ten budget amendment requests, adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 18 on budget changes (8-0), and passed resolutions supporting reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and improvements to Highway 107. The council also approved a memorandum of understanding with Geiss, Inc. for sewer main connections, an updated street opening permit, and two temporary Class B beer licenses for events at the Merrill Fairgrounds. All votes passed unanimously except one abstention on the Lincoln County Fair beer license.

• Approved ten budget amendment requests (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 18, Section 18-22 on budget changes (8-0)
• Approved resolution supporting Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program reauthorization (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting Highway 107 shoulder improvements from Merrill to Tomahawk (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Geiss, Inc. for sewer main connections (unanimous)
• Approved updated Street Opening permit (unanimous)
• Approved Expo Center kitchen rental fee of $50 with $500 security deposit (unanimous)
• Approved temporary beer licenses for Lincoln County Rodeo Association and Lincoln County Fair (one abstention on fair license)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Fairgrounds Committee is holding its regular meeting to discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors, and to consider the Expo Center kitchen rental fee and green space use during the fair. The committee will also review minutes from previous meetings and receive a monthly report from the Fairgrounds Coordinator.

• Discuss and consider Expo Center kitchen rental fee for future events
• Discuss and consider green space at the Fairgrounds during the fair
• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Permanent vendor update

The Fairgrounds Committee approved a $50 fee for renting the Expo Center kitchen, keeping the $500 security deposit for the building. A proposal to modify vendor placement on green space during the Lincoln County Fair was tabled after discussion. The committee also approved previous meeting minutes and placed the monthly report on file.

• Approved $50 Expo Center kitchen rental fee, $500 security deposit retained
• Tabled green space vendor placement proposal for Lincoln County Fair
• Approved February 13th and 20th meeting minutes
• Placed monthly report on file

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will consider approving resolutions supporting the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant Program and a WisDOT request for six-foot pedestrian/bike lanes on State Highway 107 from Merrill to Tomahawk. They will also discuss and potentially approve a Special Event Permit, reconsider mobile food vendors for the 4th of July, and review the Director's Report. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and claims.

• Resolution of Support for Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant Program
• Resolution of Support to WisDOT for six-foot pedestrian/bike lanes on State Highway 107 from Merrill to Tomahawk
• Discussion and potential approval of Special Event Permit
• Reconsideration of 4th of July mobile food vendors
• Approval of March 2025 minutes and claims

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved two resolutions of support: one for the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant Program and one for adding six-foot pedestrian/bike lanes on State Highway 107 from Merrill to Tomahawk. They also voted to allow mobile food vendors at the 4th of July fireworks, with a draft policy to be reviewed in May. The Special Event Permit was approved with final edits.

• Approved March 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved March 2025 claims, including Black Squirrel Scurry socks (motion passed)
• Approved resolution supporting Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant Program (motion passed)
• Approved resolution supporting WisDOT adding 6-foot bike/pedestrian lanes on Hwy 107 (motion passed)
• Reopened discussion on mobile food vendors and approved allowing them for 4th of July (motion passed)
• Approved Special Event Permit with final edits (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to discuss and approve water, sewer, and street department vouchers. The board will also consider an invoice for snow removal at 303 Blaine St. and review an updated Street Opening permit.

• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Discuss and consider invoice for snow removal at 303 Blaine St.
• Review and approve updated Street Opening permit
• Monthly reports from Utility Superintendent Steinagel, Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel, City Administrator/Public Works Director/City Engineer Akey, Street Superintendent Bonack, and Street & Weed Commissioner Liberty

The Board of Public Works approved routine vouchers for water/sewer and street departments, revised a snow removal invoice at 303 Blaine St. to $150 as a one-time reduction, and approved an updated Street Opening permit to forward to the City Council. Monthly reports were placed on file. No public comment was made.

• Approved minutes from February 26 meeting
• Approved Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Revised snow removal invoice at 303 Blaine St. to $150 (one-time reduction)
• Approved updated Street Opening permit, forwarded to Council
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee will discuss a budget amendment for 2025 and review the check summary report. The meeting includes a closed session to evaluate the City Administrator and review proposals for outside counsel.

• 2025 Budget Amendment
• Check summary report approval
• Annual performance evaluation for the City Administrator
• Review of proposals for outside counsel

The Personnel and Finance Committee recommended changing the city ordinance on publishing budget amendments to match state statute and approved ten 2024 carryover budget amendment requests, both to be sent to the Common Council. The committee also approved the check summary report, placed monthly reports on file, and held a closed session for the City Administrator's performance evaluation and outside counsel proposals. No public comment was made.

• Approved minutes from February 25, 2025 meeting
• Approved check summary report
• Recommended ordinance wording change to match state statute on publishing budget amendments (sent to Common Council)
• Approved ten 2024 carryover budget amendment requests (sent to Common Council)
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Approved closed session minutes from January 28 and February 25
• Conducted annual performance evaluation for City Administrator Akey (positive evaluation announced in open session)
• Reviewed proposals for outside counsel services in closed session

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to approve vouchers, temporary alcohol beverage licenses for two events at the Merrill Fairgrounds, and monthly reports from local agencies. The meeting is procedural with no major policy decisions expected.

• Approve vouchers for nuisance complaints
• Temporary alcohol license for Lincoln County Rodeo Association at Merrill Fairgrounds (2001 E 2nd St) on June 6-8, 2025
• Temporary alcohol license for Lincoln County Fair Association at Merrill Fairgrounds (2001 E 2nd St) on August 6-10, 2025
• Place monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to review operational updates and approve vouchers. The body will discuss upcoming workshops, the DeStash event, and new class and group offerings.

• Committee member re-appointments
• Approval of February-March 2025 vouchers
• Discussion of new class offerings
• Discussion of new group offerings
• Planning for DeStash and workshops

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the February 2025 minutes and February-March 2025 vouchers, including a $546.75 wreath purchase. Members expressed support for current Chair Laura Bertagnoli and will decide on a potential new chair at the next meeting if she prefers. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussions.

• Approved February 2025 minutes (motion by Tlusty, second by Holz)
• Approved February-March 2025 vouchers, including $546.75 for wreaths (motion by Holz, second by Harvey)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The committee will discuss revisions to the city's marketing strategy and review revenue and expense reports for January and February. Members will also receive updates on a business survey and an LCEDC Economic Summit opportunity.

• January and February revenue/expense reports
• Marketing Strategy Revisions
• Business Survey update
• LCEDC Economic Summit Opportunity
• Monthly reports from Social Media Specialist Savall and Midwest Communications

The Marketing & Communications Committee met and discussed shifting its marketing focus to employment and extending the target audience to ages 18-45. No formal action was taken on these items. The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and placed monthly reports on file. The business survey is ready to be sent to business owners.

• Approved minutes from February 20th meeting
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Discussed marketing strategy revisions targeting ages 18-45 and employment focus (no action)
• Reviewed January and February revenue/expense reports (no action)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board is scheduled to meet on March 19, 2025, to review and vote on several library policies, including equipment loaning, smoking, and temporary card holders. The board will also discuss the Zander Trust Agreement, the 2024 Local Annual Report, strategic goals, and freedom of expression.

• Review and approve Loaning - Equipment & Technology Items Policy
• Review and approve Smoking Policy
• Review and approve Temporary Card Holder Policy
• Zander Trust Agreement Update and Review
• Introduction and review of 2024 Local Annual Report

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to review minutes from the February meeting, approve vouchers, and discuss several operational and maintenance topics. Items include updates on the Runway 16/34 project, maintenance hangar status, and general airport maintenance issues.

• Discussion on Runway 16/34 Project
• Maintenance hangar pass-thru door replacement
• Lightning damages update
• Jet A Fuel Truck Sale/Delivery Status
• Update on F-84 Monument

The commission discussed the maintenance hangar project, noting bids exceeded $300,000, and accepted a Board of Appeals offer of $800,000 with no fee, requiring funds spent by August 1. They also planned a movie night at the airport on August 1 featuring Top Gun Maverick, with a $395 cost and fundraising for the Humane Society. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was largely discussion and updates.

• Approved February 19 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved vouchers and budget discussion (motion passed)
• Accepted $800,000 offer for maintenance hangar with no fee, funds must be spent by August 1
• Scheduled movie night at airport for August 1, showing Top Gun Maverick
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes public comment, approval of previous minutes, an administrator's report, and discussion of first aid kits and a Transit Community recap. No major policy decisions or financial items are listed.

• Discussion of First Aid Kits
• Transit Community recap
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Administrator's Report

The Merrill Transit Commission held a regular meeting with routine approvals and discussions. The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed the administrator's report, first aid kits on buses, and a rescheduled Transit Community recap meeting. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel, second by Weber)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Kunkel, second by Weber)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider awarding two street construction contracts, including a $884,954.35 low bid for the State Street reconstruction project. The council will also vote on several alcohol license changes, a fairgrounds sand removal request, and updates to personnel policy.

• Award Jake's Excavating & Landscaping LLC $884,954.35 for State Street reconstruction
• Award American Asphalt of Wisconsin $207,216.19 for Water Street resurfacing
• Temporary beer and wine license for Merrill Youth Hockey Association at Merrill Expo Center on March 22
• Change of agent for M&C Entertainment dba Ballyhoo's to Heather Pophal
• Add 1-day funeral leave for grandparents-in-law and great-grandparents to personnel policy

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its regular March meeting, primarily reviewing and potentially approving quotes for a pool heater at the Bierman Family Aquatic Center, reviewing a park entrance sign design, and continuing discussion on a special event permit. The commission will also approve February minutes and claims, and receive the Director's Report.

• Review/approve Bierman Family Aquatic Center Pool Heater quotes
• Review Park Entrance Sign design
• Continued discussion on Special Event Permit
• Approve February 2025 minutes and claims
• Receive March 2025 Director's Report

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved a $34,350 bid from Stainless Specialists, Inc. for the Bierman Family Aquatic Center pool heater replacement, funded by a $35,000 budget allocation. They also approved a revised park entrance sign design and continued discussion on a special event permit, with further revisions planned. The meeting was otherwise routine, including approval of minutes and claims.

• Approved February 2025 minutes
• Approved February 2025 claims
• Approved $34,350 pool heater quote from Stainless Specialists, Inc.
• Approved park entrance sign design with logo changes

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider requesting proposals for two city-owned properties: 401 S Kyes St (former Anson Gilkey property) and 703 S Center Ave (former Merrill View Motel). The meeting will also receive updates on ongoing development projects and from Lincoln County Economic Development.

• Request proposals for 401 S Kyes St (former Anson Gilkey property)
• Request proposals for 703 S Center Ave (former Merrill View Motel)
• Update on ongoing development projects
• Update from Lincoln County Economic Development - Sarah Guild

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority approved sending requests for proposals (RFPs) for two city-owned properties: 401 S Kyes St (former Anson Gilkey property) and 703 S Center Ave (former Merrill View Motel). Both motions passed on 4/1 voice votes. The committee also received updates on ongoing development projects and a Lincoln County economic development report.

• Approved RFP for 401 S Kyes St (4/1 voice vote)
• Approved RFP for 703 S Center Ave (4/1 voice vote)
• Approved minutes from February 5 meeting

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider approving routine vouchers and monthly reports, and will review bids for the State Street Reconstruction Project and the Water Street Resurfacing Project. The meeting includes standard agenda items such as minutes approval and public comment.

• Consider bids for State Street Reconstruction Project
• Consider bids for Water Street Resurfacing Project
• Discuss and approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Discuss and approve Street Department Vouchers
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector, City Administrator, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to discuss and consider approving check summary reports for December and January, the 2025-2026 maintenance contract for Bowmar Appraisal, and advertising for the City Attorney position. The committee will also discuss funeral leave policy wording, review city investments, and hear monthly reports from city officials before holding a closed session regarding an employee's sick leave funds.

• Discuss and consider the 2025-2026 proposed maintenance contract for Bowmar Appraisal
• Discuss and consider advertising for the City Attorney position
• Discuss and consider wording for a funeral leave policy
• Discuss and consider approving check summary reports for December and January

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved several items, including the Bowmar Appraisal maintenance contract, advertising for the City Attorney position, and a funeral leave policy change adding one day for grandparents-in-law and great-grandparents-in-law, all forwarded to the Council. The committee also approved check summary reports, placed previous minutes and monthly reports on file, and entered closed session to discuss sick leave funds, taking no action. No public comment was made.

• Approved check summary reports for December and January
• Approved 2025-2026 Bowmar Appraisal maintenance contract, forwarded to Council
• Approved advertising for City Attorney position
• Approved adding 1-day funeral leave for grandparents-in-law and great-grandparents-in-law, forwarded to Council
• Placed minutes from January 28th on file
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Entered closed session to discuss sick leave funds (2-0)
• Reconvened in open session; no action taken on closed session item

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, nuisance complaints, and vouchers. They will also consider alcohol license changes and a temporary permit for a youth hockey event, and receive monthly reports from city officials.

• Change of agent for M&C Entertainment LLC dba Ballyhoo's to Heather Pophal
• Change of agent for Kwik Trip Store 386, 2311 E. Main St, to Beau Walker
• Temporary beer and wine license for Merrill Youth Hockey Association at Merrill Expo Center, 303 N Sales St, March 22, 2025, 4-9 pm
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved all agenda items, including changing agents for two alcohol license holders and granting a temporary beer and wine license to the Merrill Youth Hockey Association for a March 22 event. Minutes from January and monthly reports were placed on file. No public comment or nuisance complaint updates were provided.

• Approved minutes from January 27 meeting
• Approved vouchers
• Approved change of agent for M&C Entertainment LLC dba Ballyhoo's to Heather Pophal
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store 386, 2311 E. Main St, to Beau Walker
• Approved temporary alcohol license for Merrill Youth Hockey Association at Merrill Expo Center, 303 N Sales St, on March 22, 2025, 4-9 pm
• Approved placing monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding its regular February meeting. They will approve the January meeting minutes and vouchers, receive updates from the ADRC, and discuss operations including DeStash, the Health Fair, and workshops. The meeting is largely routine administrative business.

• Approval of Jan. '25 meeting minutes
• Approval of Jan-Feb '25 vouchers
• ADRC updates
• Operations discussion: DeStash, Health Fair, Workshops, City Updates

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved January 2025 minutes and January-February 2025 vouchers. They discussed the upcoming DeStash event on March 29, a new ADRC brain and memory workshop starting April 2, and city updates on the Armory purchase and Aldi's status. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational and routine.

• Approved January 2025 minutes (motion by Holz, second by Weix)
• Approved January-February 2025 vouchers (motion by Bebel, second by Tlusty)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will meet to discuss strategies and focus for 2025. The body will also receive updates on a business hiring survey and the Chamber of Commerce.

• Discussion of 2025 Marketing Strategies & Focus
• Business Hiring Survey update
• Chamber of Commerce update
• Monthly reports from Midwest Communications and Fairgrounds Coordinator/Social Media Specialist Savall

The Marketing & Communications Committee met and approved minutes from the January 23 meeting and monthly reports. The main discussion was on the 2025 Marketing Strategies & Focus, but no action was taken; it will be revisited in March. Updates were provided on a business hiring survey and Chamber of Commerce activities.

• Approved January 23 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved monthly reports from Fairgrounds Coordinator and Midwest Communications (motion passed)
• Discussed 2025 Marketing Strategies & Focus, no action taken
• Noted March meeting packet will include January and February Revenue/Expense reports

Fairgrounds Committee

The Fairgrounds Committee will meet to discuss rental fees and rate increases for the Expo Center. The body will also review updates regarding the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors.

• Discussion of Expo Center kitchen rental fee
• Discussion of Expo Center rate fee increase
• Review of 2025 improvements
• Discussion on use of grounds in front of the grandstand
• Review of Calendar of Events

The committee approved a rate fee increase for the Expo Center, starting with 2026 bookings, to $500/$400/$300. It also voted to remove sand in front of the Grandstand on Thursday of the Fair for the remainder of the year. The Expo Center kitchen rental fee discussion was postponed to the next agenda. Updates on fair vendors, improvements, and reports were noted.

• Approved Expo Center rate fee increase to $500/$400/$300 for 2026 bookings
• Approved removing sand in front of Grandstand on Thursday of the Fair for the remainder of the year
• Postponed Expo Center kitchen rental fee discussion to next agenda
• Approved minutes from October 3, 2024 meeting
• Approved placing monthly report on file

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will discuss infrastructure projects and maintenance updates. The body is considering a land lease for a 100' x 100' hangar.

• Consideration of a land lease for a 100' x 100' hangar
• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Update on Jet A Fuel Truck Sale
• Discussion of lightning damages and deer ramps
• Update on F-84 Monument

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a land lease for Integrity Sales & Auction to build an 80x120 hangar for a Citation jet, with a $500 non-refundable deposit to hold the spot for one year. The commission also approved vouchers for January and February, and discussed the maintenance hangar project with a bid opening set for March 6. The Jet A fuel truck was sold, and a movie night at the airport is planned for August 1.

• Approved land lease for 80x120 hangar for Integrity Sales & Auction (motion by Banser, second by Weix)
• Approved January and February vouchers (motion by Malsack, second by Weix)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (motion by Banser, second by Weix)

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to approve annual reports and financial statements. The board is deciding on legal services for a trust agreement and payments for endowment brochures.

• Authorization of legal services by Ruder Ware, LLSC for the Lois Jane Zander Trust
• Payment request to Reindl Printing, Inc. for Endowment Fund Brochures
• Approval of the 2024 Wisconsin DPI Public Library Annual Report
• Update on YS Department Renovation
• Review of Strategic Goals & Action Steps #4

The Merrill Library Board approved several routine items including the 2024 Wisconsin DPI Public Library Annual Report, the Statement Concerning Public Library System Effectiveness, the 2024 Annual Endowment Fund Report, and authorization for legal services to draft a trust agreement for the Lois Jane Zander Trust. They also approved a request to pay for updated endowment brochures. The board received updates on the Youth Services renovation and a $10,000 digital literacy grant.

• Approved minutes of January 15, 2025 meeting
• Approved vouchers for January 2025
• Approved unaudited income & expense reports for December 2024 and January 2025
• Approved monthly statistical report for January 2025
• Approved 2024 Wisconsin DPI Public Library Annual Report
• Approved Statement Concerning Public Library System Effectiveness
• Approved 2024 Annual Endowment Fund Report
• Approved authorization of legal services by Ruder Ware for drafting Lois Jane Zander Trust agreement

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review the Administrator's report and discuss the extended service area. The meeting includes a period for public comment.

• Discussion of Extended Service Area

The Merrill Transit Commission voted to continue serving the extended service area until a future re-evaluation is needed. The motion was approved unanimously. Other actions included placing the previous meeting minutes on file and setting the next meeting for March 17, 2025.

• Approved continuing extended service area until re-evaluation (unanimous)
• Approved placing previous meeting minutes on file (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hold a regular meeting to consider routine items, including placing minutes on file and interviewing candidates for the District 5 alderperson vacancy. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss potential real estate acquisition, with possible action afterward.

• Candidate interviews for District 5 alderperson: Hunter Lane and Landis Holdorf
• Closed session to discuss potential acquisition of real estate
• Minutes from January 28 meeting to be placed on file

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will hold its February 11 meeting to decide on filling the vacant District 5 aldermanic seat, accept the City Plan Commission’s recommendation to approve the Tall Pines Final Plat, and vote on several alcohol beverage license applications. The meeting will also discuss December revenue and expense reports, employee recognitions, and revisions to the Public Works Improvement Policy.

• Fill vacant District 5 aldermanic seat and administer oath of office
• Approve Tall Pines Final Plat (City Plan Commission recommendation)
• Approve alcohol license for Salvo's Pizzera & Pub LLC
• Approve temporary Class "B" beer license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for Fish Fries events
• Revise Public Works Improvement Policy date from August 1 to June 1

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to review claims from December 2024 and January 2025. Members will discuss a 5-year capital plan and a potential Special Event Permit. The meeting includes an update on a grant for MARC ballfield lights.

• 5 year capital plan discussion
• Potential Special Event Permit discussion
• MARC ballfield lights grant update
• Approval of December 2024 and January 2025 claims

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved December 2024 and January 2025 claims, and discussed the 5-year capital plan, a draft special event permit, and a grant for MARC field lights. No final decisions were made on the capital plan or permit; the grant was reported as awarded but bids are pending.

• Approved December 2024 claims (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 claims (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will review December 2024 revenue and expense reports. Members will discuss the impact of revaluation and decreased mill rates on Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs).

• Review of preliminary December 2024 revenue and expense reports
• Review of TID-funded projects and property
• Discussion on the effect of revaluation and decreased mill rate on TIDs
• Activity overview from Pfefferle on listed properties

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will meet on February 4, 2025, to consider placing the minutes from the September 3, 2024 meeting on file and review the Tall Pines Final Plat subdivision. The meeting is open to public comment and can be attended remotely.

• Review and consider the Tall Pines Final Plat subdivision

The City Plan Commission approved the Tall Pines final plat as presented. The motion was made by Mayor Hass, seconded by Melissa Schroeder, and passed. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Approved Tall Pines final plat (motion by Hass, second by Schroeder, passed)
• Approved minutes from September 3, 2024 meeting (motion by Schroeder, second by Henkelman, passed)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to discuss a contract for street pole hanging banners and review the Public Works Improvement Policy. The board will also consider vouchers for the Street and Water & Sewer departments.

• Contract regarding hanging banners on street poles
• Review of the Public Works Improvement Policy
• Approval of Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approval of Street Department vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved revising the Public Works Improvement Policy, changing the deadline from August 1st to June 1st, and will forward it to the February Common Council. They also approved water/sewer and street department vouchers, placed monthly reports on file, and discussed a banner contract that remains in effect until May 2025. No public comment was made.

• Approved revising Public Works Improvement Policy deadline from Aug 1 to June 1 (motion passed)
• Approved Water & Sewer Vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved Street Department Vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed October and November 2024 minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Endowment Fund Committee

The Endowment Fund Committee will meet to review previous meeting minutes and hold a discussion regarding a Trust Agreement.

• Discussion of Trust Agreement

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will discuss the parameters for the City Administrator's annual review. The body may also meet in closed session to discuss union negotiations and recruitment strategies for a Fire Fighter/Paramedic/EMT position.

• Discussion of City Administrator's annual review parameters
• Closed session regarding Fire Fighter/Paramedic/EMT hiring and union contract negotiations

The Personnel and Finance Committee held a regular meeting, approving minutes from October and November 2024 and placing monthly reports on file. The committee discussed the process for the City Administrator's annual review, with forms to be collected by the City Attorney and a summary provided to the committee. The committee then entered closed session to review contract and union negotiations regarding hiring a Firefighter/EMT/Paramedic and recruitment/retention strategies, adjourning without reconvening in open session or taking further action.

• Approved minutes from October and November 2024 meetings (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Discussed City Administrator's annual review process; forms to be collected by City Attorney
• Entered closed session (3-0 roll call) to review firefighter hiring and union contract negotiations
• Adjourned from closed session without reconvening in open session

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to approve minutes from December 3, 2024, and then may enter closed session to discuss three items: potential real estate acquisition, City Attorney office positions, and a City employee's potential unpaid leave of absence. After closed session, the committee may reconvene in open session for potential action on those items.

• Approval of December 3, 2024 meeting minutes
• Closed session on potential acquisition of real estate
• Closed session on City Attorney office positions
• Closed session on employee's potential unpaid leave of absence
• Potential action on closed session items after reconvening

The Committee of the Whole approved the December 3, 2024 minutes and then voted 7-0 to enter closed session to discuss potential real estate acquisition, City Attorney office positions, and a City employee's medical history regarding a potential unpaid leave of absence. The committee did not reconvene in open session and adjourned from closed session at 7:14 pm. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved December 3, 2024 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Entered closed session on 7-0 roll call vote

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to approve minutes from past meetings, review nuisance complaints and vouchers, and discuss two alcohol beverage license applications to forward to the Common Council. Monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society will also be considered.

• Approve minutes from October and November 2024 meetings
• Review and approve nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Consider alcohol beverage license for Salvo's Pizzeria & Pub LLC
• Review temporary Class "B" beer license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for Fish Fries events (Feb 28–Apr 11, 2025)

The Health and Safety Committee approved an alcohol beverage license application for Salvo's Pizzeria & Pub LLC and a temporary Class B beer license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church's Friday fish fries, both forwarded to the Common Council. The committee also approved vouchers, placed prior minutes and monthly reports on file, and heard reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society. No public comment was made and no nuisance complaints were reported.

• Approved alcohol beverage license for Salvo's Pizzeria & Pub LLC, forwarded to Common Council
• Approved temporary Class B beer license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church fish fries (Feb 28-Apr 11, 2025), forwarded to Common Council
• Approved vouchers after questions answered
• Placed October and November minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The committee will discuss current marketing strategies and potential modifications. Members will also review financial reports from November and December and receive an update on Food Truck-a-palooza 2025.

• November and December Revenue and Expense Reports
• Business Hiring Survey
• Retractable banner design review
• Food Truck-a-palooza 2025 update
• Monthly reports from Social Media Specialist Savall and Midwest Communications

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved a business hiring survey to be sent to Merrill businesses, including Chamber members and non-members, to gather data on hiring and residency. The committee also approved the November and December revenue and expense reports, and placed monthly reports on file. The retractable banner design will be revised with updated photos, and marketing strategy discussions will continue in February.

• Approved November and December Revenue and Expense Reports
• Approved Business Hiring Survey to be sent to Merrill businesses
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Discussed retractable banner design; updates to be brought to committee
• Discussed marketing strategies; further discussion scheduled for February

Police and Fire Commission

The Police and Fire Commission is holding a special meeting to consider approving minutes from October 7, 2024, and then will enter closed session to discuss promotions within the police department (Police Captain, Detective Lieutenant, Patrol Lieutenant) and to conduct Fire Fighter/EMT candidate interviews. After the closed session, the commission may reconvene in open session to take possible action on these items.

• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2024 meeting
• Closed session to discuss promotion of Police Captain
• Closed session to discuss assignment of Detective Lieutenant
• Closed session to discuss promotion of Patrol Lieutenant
• Fire Fighter/EMT candidate interviews and approval of eligibility list

The Police and Fire Commission approved the promotion of Det. Lt. Seubert to Police Captain and Lt. Tesch to the Detective Bureau, as recommended by Police Chief Bennett. The commission also approved adding two fire department candidates, Humphrey and Leder, to a 1-year eligibility list for hiring. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved promotion of Det. Lt. Seubert to Police Captain
• Approved promotion of Lt. Tesch to the Detective Bureau
• Approved adding Humphrey and Leder to 1-year firefighter eligibility list

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear the administrator's report, and consider the 2025 holiday schedule. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no major policy or financial decisions listed.

• 2025 Holiday Schedule consideration
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Administrator's report

The Transit Commission approved the 2025 holiday schedule, which includes an optional closure on December 26, 2025, contingent on unanimous employee agreement to use vacation days. The commission also placed previous meeting minutes on file and adjourned. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2025 holiday schedule with optional Dec. 26 closure (unanimous)
• Placed previous meeting minutes on file (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to discuss center operations and receive updates from the ADRC. The body will review attendance, exercise classes, and new offerings.

• Approval of November-December 2024 vouchers
• Recap of Christmas Joy
• Discussion of exercise classes and Strong Bodies
• Review of attendance and new offerings

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the November 2024 minutes and the November-December 2024 vouchers. The ADRC representative reported that Meals on Wheels funding has been cut, reducing meals by 40,000 and potentially eliminating frozen meals, with suggested donations rising to $6 per meal. The committee discussed the new Fair Grounds Coordinator role and the city's efforts to acquire the National Guard Building, but no decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved November 2024 minutes (motion by Weix, second by Tlusty)
• Approved November-December 2024 vouchers (motion by Holz, second by McCrank)

Library Board

The Library Board will review December 2024 financial reports and statistical data. Members will discuss the Zander Fund Trust endowment and the board's role in building accessibility.

• December 2024 vouchers
• Zander Fund Trust endowment fund
• Strategic Goals & Action Steps #3 review
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #20 regarding building accessibility

The Merrill Library Board approved the December 2024 meeting minutes, vouchers, and monthly statistical report. The board discussed the unfinalized December income and expense report, which will be presented for approval in February, and the development of a trust agreement for the Jane Zander Trust. No substantive policy decisions were made; actions were limited to routine approvals.

• Approved minutes of December 18, 2024 meeting
• Approved vouchers for December 2024
• Approved monthly statistical report for December 2024

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will review several key items including the Runway 16/34 project, a potential refund for an overpayment on a T-hangar, and an offer to purchase a Jet A Fuel Truck. Maintenance updates, including lightning damage and deer ramps, and a meeting with the WI DOT will also be discussed.

• Discussion on Runway 16/34 project
• Consideration to refund Dale Kanitz for overpayment on T-hangar
• Consideration on Jet A Fuel Truck offer to purchase
• Lightning damage and deer ramp maintenance updates
• Meeting with WI DOT Division of Transportation Investment Management

The Merrill Airport Commission approved refunding Dale Kanitz for an overpayment on a T-hangar and authorized the airport manager to sell the Jet A fuel truck with a non-refundable deposit. The commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes and vouchers. Several projects remain on hold pending FAA or state action.

• Approved December 18 meeting minutes
• Approved vouchers
• Approved refund to Dale Kanitz for T-hangar overpayment
• Authorized Rich to sell Jet A fuel truck with non-refundable deposit

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will hold its regular meeting with routine items like minutes, committee reports, and employee recognition. The main business is a resolution adopting the Lincoln County All Hazards Mitigation Plan Update and a presentation of the city's 2023 audit. The meeting also includes a resolution honoring the fairgrounds manager.

• Resolution adopting Lincoln County All Hazards Mitigation Plan Update
• 2023 City of Merrill audit presentation
• Resolution honoring Fairgrounds Manager Rick Bjorklund
• Employee recognition: Scott Gomoll (Fire Dept, 10 yrs), Kraig Hanig (Airport, 10 yrs), Randall English (Transit, 10 yrs)
• Committee reports: Airport Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Joint Review Board, Housing Authority

The Common Council approved a resolution adopting the Lincoln County All Hazards Mitigation Plan update, which is required for future grant funding, on a 5-1 voice vote with Alderperson Rick voting no. The council also approved a resolution honoring retiring Fairgrounds Manager Rick Bjorklund, placed minutes and committee reports on file, and heard a presentation on the 2023 city audit. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted Lincoln County All Hazards Mitigation Plan update (5-1, Rick no)
• Approved resolution honoring retiring Fairgrounds Manager Rick Bjorklund
• Placed December 10, 2024 meeting minutes on file
• Placed Airport Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Joint Review Board, and Housing Authority reports on file

Endowment Fund Committee

The Endowment Fund Committee will meet to discuss the Zander Trust endowment fund, including possible agreement development. This is a procedural discussion with no formal decisions listed on the agenda.

• Endowment Fund discussion
• Zander Trust endowment fund - agreement development discussion

The Endowment Fund Committee discussed the Zander Trust bequest and agreed to have Attorney Melissa Kampmann draft a formal trust agreement. The draft will be reviewed by M. Geisler, and a future presentation to the board is planned. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and discussion-focused.

• Agreed to have Attorney Kampmann draft a trust agreement for the Zander bequest
• Scheduled review of the draft by M. Geisler
• Planned future board presentation once draft is acceptable