During a recent government meeting, members of the Marshfield Veterans Council discussed their plans for the upcoming Wreaths Across America event, aiming to honor veterans by placing wreaths on graves. Sue Stenberg, the council president, reported that last year they successfully placed 544 wreaths and are now targeting an ambitious goal of 2,300 wreaths for this year. The council is seeking volunteers to assist with the effort, particularly in identifying graves during the winter months when visibility is limited.

Stenberg highlighted challenges faced last year, including difficulties in locating graves due to snow cover and the need for effective marking solutions. The council is considering using smaller utility flags for easier placement in frozen ground, although this will not be implemented for the current year. The deadline for wreath orders is November 30, and the council is optimistic about meeting their goal with community support.

The meeting also addressed improvements to Greasy Park, particularly the aging playground, which was built in 2000. Ben, a city staff member, noted that the playground requires replacement due to safety concerns, with plans for a new structure to be funded in 2027. A leadership group presented their proposal for a renovation project, aiming to replace the existing playground with safer, ADA-compliant structures. They are currently in the early stages of planning and budgeting, estimating costs between $500,000 and $850,000.

The council expressed support for the renovation project, emphasizing the importance of safety and compliance with national standards. Discussions included the potential for phased development and the need for collaboration with city staff to ensure the project aligns with existing plans. The council also considered the addition of lighting to enhance safety in the park during evening hours.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's commitment to honoring veterans and improving local recreational facilities, with both projects relying on volunteer efforts and fundraising initiatives.