SCHOFIELD, WI (WSAU) — Alders in Schofield have voted to approve plans for their new City Hall location on Alderson Street.
Ward 2 Alder and Council President Joan Joss says that means the real work can get going. “[It’s going to involve] the relocation of offices, replacement of ceiling tiles, upgrading the front entrance to make it look presentable, and having a well-functioning voting area.”
The building will also require some roof repairs before it’s fully functional. Once the upgrades are complete all of the city’s staff will be in one building.
Tuesday’s vote allows the city to move forward with putting the work up for bids and signing contracts.
Joss is also currently serving as Acting Mayor for the city as Kregg Hoehn is out of the area on vacation. She did provide the lone ‘no’ vote on the item, saying she has concerns about moving City Hall to an industrial park setting. “The present City Hall building is more centrally located, and I don’t think a City Hall belongs in an Industrial Park.”
She had called for a public referendum on the issue, either binding or non-binding, but adds that she does understand the need to grow the city’s tax base and population through the redevelopment of the waterfront property.
“We will make due,” added Joss.
The new City Hall footprint will take over the front half of the public works building. The back half will continue to include space for city trucks, equipment, and salt. Plans currently call for the building to be ready for city staff by the middle of this year, with a full grand opening in the fall.
Residents should also note that the new building will be used as the city’s voting site for all elections beyond April 5th. Meaning the upcoming spring primary and general elections will still be conducted at the current City Hall on Park Street.
Joss adds that the city is still in negotiations for a new multi-family residential development at the current City Hall location but couldn’t provide any further details. She says it’s possible that a final proposal could come together next month.
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