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Council approves $7,000 budget increase for economic-development organizational analysis
Summary
The council approved a $7,000 increase to the 2025 economic development fund to pay Redevelopment Resources consultant Kristen Fisher for an organizational structure analysis; council members debated whether an outside consultant is needed and discussed coordination and follow-up oversight.
The City of Marshfield Common Council approved a budget resolution on March 25 to increase the 2025 economic development fund (Fund 205) by $7,000 to pay for an organizational structure analysis of the city’s economic-development functions.
City Administrator Steve Bard presented the request and said the consultant, Redevelopment Resources’ Kristen Fisher, will meet with staff and local organizations to analyze roles, overlap and gaps among groups such as Main Street, Mackie, Visit Marshfield, city staff and other partners. "Our team will meet with staff from city, Mackie, Main Street, visit Marshfield, Marshall utilities, elected officials, CDA, and others to gather information," Bard said; he described the work as a short, focused engagement expected to result in a set of recommendations.
Aldermen raised mixed views. Alderman Mike O'Reilly said a constituent urged skepticism about hiring an outside consultant and indicated he would vote no. Alderman Wurman and others questioned paying for external studies when local volunteers and boards have been active; Alderman Hawkins said the council should identify a central coordinator and set up regular reporting so recommendations are implemented rather than shelved.
Councilmember action: Alderman Stover moved to approve the budget resolution (11-2025) increasing the Fund 205 budget by $7,000; Alderman Tompkins seconded. The motion passed with seven affirmative votes and two opposed.
What it covers and next steps: Bard said the budget increase covers the consultant’s fee plus minor ancillary costs. He said Fisher will interview stakeholders, synthesize findings and present recommendations to the council; any recommended action or assignment would return to the council for oversight and follow-up.
