Development News for Menomonie, Wisconsin

Mayor's Report Highlights Pride Month, Juneteenth, and Upcoming Community Events

The Mayor's report highlighted several community events and observances. June 1st, 2026, marks the kickoff to Pride Month. Juneteenth, observed on Friday, June 19th, commemorates the freedom of enslaved people in Texas. The Lington Guard Band begins its season the following day, June 2nd, at Wilson Park. Downtown Monomony is hosting its second annual golf scramble on Wednesday, and Wakanda Waterpark is set to open on Saturday, June 6th, marking the end of the school year.

City Council Meeting Addresses Grants, Public Safety, Land Use, and Operational Matters

The city council meeting commenced with roll call, approval of previous meeting minutes, and a public comment period. New business included the approval of a grant for new radio equipment, renewal of an urban search and rescue agreement, an updated ambulance purchase agreement, a rezoning proposal referral, approval of a special event permit for UW Stout, and the disposal of surplus equipment. The meeting also covered budget transfers, mayor's and staff reports, claims lists, and license renewals. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

Nicholas Drive Rezoning Proposal Moves to Plan Commission

The council considered a proposed ordinance (2026-10) to rezone land along Nicholas Drive from an agriculture district to a multiple-family residential R3 district. The property, located east of Nicholas Drive and south of Cathol, is bordered by commercial entities and a residential development. The rezoning is the first step towards potential development, as no developer is currently identified, and a request for statements of qualification would follow. The property has existing wetlands on the north side and a steep slope on the south end, making industrial use less feasible and providing a buffer from existing single-family housing. The council introduced the ordinance and referred it to the plan commission for review and recommendation. If approved by both, it would proceed to the plan commission on June 22nd and return to the city council for a public hearing on July [cite: 596].

City Approves Grant for New Radio Equipment for Police and Fire Departments

The city council discussed and approved the acceptance of the FY2026 daily use radio grant program award, authorizing an expenditure of $114,652.96 from the contingency fund to cover the 20% cost share. This grant, written by Dunn County's emergency management department, will procure new mobile and portable radio equipment for both the police and fire departments, replacing aging systems and improving communication infrastructure. The total grant is for a couple million dollars, with the city's portion being $600,000, and the match requirement over $100,000. The new radios are dual-banded and compatible with the upcoming WHISOM 2.0 system, which is expected to enhance portable coverage across 95% of the county and allow for Wi-Fi and cell phone connectivity in areas with poor reception, such as inside buildings at UW Stout. Dunn County will manage the grant process, with invoices anticipated by the end of the year or early next year. The council also debated whether to use the contingency fund or seek funds from Fund 33, with a potential to reimburse the contingency fund later. A roll call vote was conducted, and the motion passed.