The Superior Committee of the Whole adopted an ordinance (as amended) establishing the Superior Tourism Development Commission and adding procedural safeguards that require council approval for expenditures over $25,000.

Mayor Payne proposed the amendment after public comment to incorporate council concerns about oversight. The amendment cites Wisconsin statute 66.0615 to define the commission’s powers and duties, subjects the commission to the city’s bid procedures, and requires that “expenditures in excess of $25,000 shall be by contract or written agreement” and require common council approval.

Mayor Payne said the amendment balances statutory independence for the commission with ordinary municipal procurement safeguards and that the commission would not receive funds until collections occur; he added that contracting and budget projections would be done with finance department assistance. “The commission shall have the powers and duties prescribed by Wisconsin statute 66.0615,” Payne said, adding that larger agreements would come to council.

Supporters said the $25,000 threshold mirrors existing practice for department heads and committee grants and prevents council overload from routine small grants. Opponents said the threshold still leaves too much discretion to the appointed commission and criticized the timing of the proposal.

By roll call the amendment passed 7–3 and the council then approved the ordinance as amended by a 7–3 vote. The ordinance creates the Superior Tourism Development Commission and establishes the $25,000 approval threshold for council review.