Onalaska council meeting roundup: retirements honored, Arbor Day proclamation, and finance approvals

The Onalaska Common Council used its April 14 meeting to honor departing elected officials and city employees, announce community initiatives and approve routine finance items.

Mayor Kim Smith read an Arbor Day proclamation noting Arbor Day observance through April 24, 2026, and encouraged residents to support tree and woodland protection. The mayor also introduced "Onalaska 2026," a commemorative publication and call for submissions of stories, poems, photos and artwork to capture the community in 2026.

The council recognized first-district Alder Mike Milke and second-district Alder Diane Wolf for their years of service. Dan Wick presented a plaque and tribute to Recreation Manager Craig Cable, who is retiring after 36 years with the parks and recreation department. "If you've lived in Onalaska for any length of time, your family has likely been touched by Craig's work," Dan Wick said. Craig Cable thanked colleagues and family and reflected on his career, noting long-time mentors and staff.

On finance matters, Alder Mike Milke reported expenditures since the last meeting totaling $3,445,844.30 and moved to approve the vouchers; the council approved them unanimously. The council also approved a claim from T. Nickel in the amount of $7,342.31 payable to Al's Auto Body; meeting discussion noted the full claim was in the packet and no further action was requested.

City Administrator Rick briefed the council on several administrative items: the first and second rounds of police chief candidate interviews are scheduled for this Thursday and next Thursday; interviews for council chamber technology upgrades were conducted with a recommendation forthcoming; the Baker Tilly wage study is pending final report; and an emergency operations center tabletop exercise is set for Aug. 17, with associated policy and ordinance updates to follow.

The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.