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Marshfield committee pledges $4,675 match for Wood County historic-signage grant
Summary
The committee voted to commit $4,675 as the city’s matching share for a Wood County grant application to add five historic-district signs, while members urged the applicants to seek additional support from Visit Marshfield before final council action.
Members of the city’s Historic Preservation Commission asked the Finance, Budget & Personnel Committee on June 17 to commit $4,675 as Marshfield’s matching share for a Wood County economic development grant to purchase five historic-district signs.
Steve (last name not stated) and Vicky (last name not stated), who presented the request, said Marshfield has five historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places and provided a history of previous grants and sign placements. "The cost of the signs has increased ... from $1,820 to $1,870 each," Vicky said, explaining the five remaining signs are estimated at $9,350 total and that the commission requests half of that amount as the city match.
Vicky described prior award history: the commission applied to Wood County in 2024 for $13,321, received $5,000 and used those funds to buy three signs and 14 weatherized brochure holders. She said the brochure holders will keep materials dry and that materials and brochures are available at 16 locations throughout the city.
Council members asked whether Visit Marshfield had been approached for matching funds. Vicky said the commission had talked to "Matt down at ... Visit Marshfield" but had not requested a direct match. Committee member Mike said he would raise the item at the Visit Marshfield board meeting next Tuesday and explore a new grant source that would not use room-tax dollars. Committee members discussed the July 11 Wood County application deadline and agreed the committee could forward the commitment to the council while continuing to seek additional matching funds. The clerk advised the motion, as presented, would commit the funds but the council could later change the amount if alternative funds were raised.
A motion to commit $4,675 as the city’s matching share was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. Committee members said they would place the item on the consent agenda for the next council meeting and, if necessary, pull it from consent to allow further discussion after Visit Marshfield’s response.
The presenters noted the commission also intends to apply to Wood County for future cycles and that better signage is intended to promote tourism and awareness of Marshfield’s historic districts.
