City conducts homeless task force review as shelter statistics reveal economic challenges

The Wausau City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding homelessness and infrastructure development. Chief Barnes provided an update on the city's homeless shelter, which has been operational for 27 nights. He reported that the shelter has seen a fluctuating population, with a low of 40 and a high of 58 individuals utilizing the services. Notably, about one-third of the residents are female, and approximately 20 individuals are employed full-time yet still rely on shelter services due to economic challenges.

Chief Barnes emphasized the importance of understanding the diverse reasons behind homelessness, noting that it is not solely linked to mental health or addiction issues but often stems from economic hardships. He proposed a team-building exercise for council members to engage directly with shelter operations, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the unhoused community. The proposed date for this exercise is June 23, the day before the next council meeting.

In addition to the homelessness discussion, the council addressed infrastructure matters, specifically the approval of a multi-use trail project connecting 72nd Avenue to 84th Avenue in the business campus. The council unanimously supported the project, which aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists in an area frequented by heavy truck traffic. Discussions included the potential need for eminent domain to acquire land for the trail, with council members expressing a preference for voluntary land purchases when possible.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to address homelessness and improve infrastructure, with a focus on community engagement and safety. The council's next steps will involve further discussions on the proposed team-building exercise and the trail project as they continue to navigate these critical issues.