Antigo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Antigo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Potential Property Purchase or Sale
The city owns four lots from Langlade County tax deeds and is getting two ready for bid, while recommending buyers be required to build so small lots stay available for starter homes.
Zoning Ordinance Revisions
A former neighborhood store on Pine Street gets reclassified from business to two-family residential, clearing the way for it to be sold as a home.
Ordinance 1390B — Where Bikes and E-Scooters May Operate
The city wants to crack down on e-bikes and scooters zooming through downtown intersections, but riders — including mobility-impaired seniors on trikes — say the rules would ban them from the only safe crossing downtown. The ordinance got tabled 6-3 so a committee can gather community input before the next meeting.
Grease Trap Sewer Code Revision
A first step toward cutting the grease and fats flowing into the wastewater plant, which are over-taxing city equipment. Restaurants with grease traps will get official notice.
2027 City Budget Development
The 2027 budget is delayed by new staff and rising costs, with levy limits blocking revenue growth without new construction. A full budget discussion is set for September 30.
Guidelines for Nonprofit Contributions
Alderperson Edwards is pushing for clear rules on which nonprofits get city money, with a proposal coming to the finance committee.
Wastewater and Water Plant Equipment Repairs
The council approved a batch of fixes at the wastewater and water plants — a pump, a booster pump, a blower, and a UV disinfection evaluation — totaling roughly $78,000, plus lime slurry hauling.
Williams House of Hope loss of major funders
The group serving unhoused residents lost Newcap and Salvation Army funding in the past eight months and is asking the city for $30,000. The school district reports 29 homeless kids.
Ambulance Engine Replacement Funding
One of Antigo's ambulances suffered major engine damage that couldn't be diagnosed locally, costing about $35,000 to fix. The council was asked to dip into the ambulance replacement fund rather than the regular maintenance budget.
Park Vandalism, Splash Pad Incidents, and Cemetery Theft
Vandalism in park bathrooms, suspicious activity at the splash pad, and theft at Elmwood Cemetery have led the city to keep most restrooms locked except during reservations — a real inconvenience for park users.
Hiring a Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator
The city filled its long-open building inspector and zoning administrator post, hiring Luke Schmidtke at $78,000 a year starting July 6 — meaning permits, inspections, and zoning reviews will have a full-time point person.
Sale of Vacant Industrial Park Parcel to TSI Power and Innovative Industries
A city-owned parcel that's sat empty for over 30 years finally goes back on the tax roll as two growing local businesses split it and expand. Each pays $23,250 for its half.