Council rejects immediate full‑time deputy clerk hire; debate to continue during budget process

The Waupaca Common Council on Aug. 19 considered a request to post and hire a full‑time deputy city clerk but voted 3–6 against the measure after extended discussion about timing, recruitment and budget implications. City Administrator Josh Finch explained the clerk’s office has operated with a part‑time deputy role for years and has experienced repeated turnover. Finch said the office has workflow pressures, that part‑time hires have tended to leave after short tenures, and that creating a full‑time position would improve continuity, support elections and reduce recurring training costs. Nut graf: Council split on whether to add a full‑time position now or to defer action until forthcoming budget workshops. Some members argued the need is immediate and the position should be posted now; others said personnel additions should be decided in regular budget review to consider sustainability and 2026 costs. Discussion highlights: Ald. Paul Mayo said the operational need is real and moved to hire immediately. Ald. Corey Nagel and others argued the request should be considered in the scheduled budget/personnel workshops in September and October so the council can evaluate all staffing requests together. Several councilors also suggested trying one more round of part‑time recruitment before converting to a full‑time role. Vote and outcome: The roll call vote failed, 3 in favor, 6 opposed, with one member absent. With the motion defeated, the council tabled a related request to post and hire an assistant planner for later consideration during the budget process. Ending: Staff said it will continue operations and consider alternative options, including limited part‑time recruitment, and will bring any formal personnel requests back through the budget workshops.