Marshfield City Council Discusses Wenzel Plaza Concert Series

Thursday, February 26th, 2026 -- 9:01 AM

The Marshfield Common Council discussed the Wenzel Plaza Concert series at their meeting on Tuesday.

According to a transcript of the meeting, the Council reviewed short-term options to manage the 2026 Wenzel Plaza concert series following the resignation of the Events and Programming Coordinator.

A cooperative service agreement between the City of Marshfield and Visit Marshfield was approved to manage the 2026 concert series. The Council also approved posting the Events and Programming Coordinator position to fill the long-term vacancy.

The Council also heard a Comprehensive Plan update. City Planner James Levin presented an overview of the process to update the City’s 2027–2037 Comprehensive Plan.

The update is required by state statute and will guide long-term land-use, housing, infrastructure, and economic development planning. No formal action was taken.

The Council also approved the acceptance of an $11,440 donation from the McKiernan family for two player shelters at Griese Park; approved budget Resolution 04-2026 for Urban Nonpoint Source and Stormwater Construction Grant services related to a Mill Creek Business Park detention basin project;

Approved submission of revised job descriptions for Fleet Services Coordinator and Inventory Assistant/Operator for compensation evaluation; and approved the execution of a Wisconsin Department of Transportation grant agreement for the purchase of one shared ride van under the federal transit program.

The Council also continued the discussion on the Weinbrenner redevelopment project. City Administrator Steve Barg provided an update on the former Weinbrenner facility at 305 West 3rd Street. The City will assume full maintenance responsibility no later than July 1, 2026.

The Council discussed stabilization needs, interim use options, environmental review, redevelopment preparation, and potential long-term options, including affordable housing, public marketing of the property, or seeking professional redevelopment assistance. No final redevelopment decision was made.

During the City Administrator’s comments, he reminded the Council of the upcoming strategic planning sessions scheduled for March 5 and March 12, 2026.

During the public comments portion of the meeting, one resident spoke regarding the future of the former Weinbrenner building and encouraged consideration of a public museum complex, potentially including natural history, art, veterans, and children’s museum components, along with restaurant and retail space.

Also, downtown business representatives and residents raised concerns about snow removal on Central Avenue following a recent snowfall. Speakers stated that parking stalls were not adequately cleared, impacting accessibility, including for individuals with disabilities, and affecting customer traffic and revenue.

Finally, a resident also emphasized the importance of Wenzel Family Plaza programming, including the Friday night concert series, to downtown foot traffic and business activity. 

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.