The Wausau Finance Committee convened on September 29, 2025, to discuss the city’s budget for the upcoming year, highlighting significant financial challenges and strategic planning for the future. A key focus of the meeting was the sustainability of funding for public safety positions, particularly as the city prepares for the expiration of several grants that have supported these roles.

City officials expressed concerns about the impact of one-time budget cuts and the need for a long-term financial strategy. The budget for 2026 includes a levy of approximately $38 million, reflecting a modest increase of about 1.98% from the previous year. However, the committee acknowledged that without careful planning, the city could face a budget shortfall in 2027 when federal SAFER and ARPA grants are set to expire.

The budget incorporates a 3% cost-of-living increase for non-represented employees and a 4% increase for public safety personnel, alongside rising health insurance costs. Notably, the budget also allocates $350,000 for a homeless shelter, with half of that amount expected to be reimbursed by the county.

Committee members discussed the necessity of maintaining a vacancy allowance of $300,000 to account for staff turnover, which has been a consistent practice in previous budgets. Additionally, various departments have been asked to scrutinize their budgets, leading to reductions in training and equipment replacement costs.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the future of 15 public safety positions funded by grants. With the SAFER grant expiring soon, the city is exploring alternative funding sources, including potential referendums to secure ongoing financial support for these critical roles. The committee plans to issue a request for proposals (RFP) to engage professional assistance in communicating the need for these positions to the community.

As the city navigates these financial challenges, officials emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement in the budgeting process. The committee aims to ensure that residents understand the necessity of funding public safety and other essential services, setting the stage for future discussions and decisions that will shape Wausau's fiscal landscape.