Manitowoc’s mayor wants to do more than just an aggressive road program in 2025.
Mayor Justin Nickels gave his presentation of what he wants to see in the budget, which included the road projects, but also other improvements.
He explained that he wants to see the city borrow money for capital improvement projects, such as a new fire department tower truck and HVAC improvements at the Manitowoc Public Library.
He also wants to see the common council commit to making enhancements to places like the city’s skate park.
Nickels says it’s at the end of its life and wants the council to put $100,000 toward it.
“They want to go to the West Foundation for a match (matching grant) of $100,00\0, and they want to get that commitment,” he stated. “The West Foundation won’t do it unless the city commits. The money and the project won’t happen until 2026, but as long as the council commits this year, we should be able to get that project up and ready for 2026.”
The budget presentation also included a vision for TIF investment in the former mall properties and finishing investments in the River Point District.
Nickels also wants to see investment in the former Mirro site.
One major investment he wants to see is the city make on the lakeshore is improvements at Red Arrow Beach.
“Improve ADA accessibility, to have a platform to make it more of an event space,” he explained. “One goal is to replace the boat launch that’s there at the end of Green Street. But parking lot safety improvements. It’s really just making this a destination beach. It’s our most beautiful beach that we’ve put a lot of money into over the years.”
He first discussed several major road projects that would take place each year when he announced he wanted to see $35 million invested in roads which include the rest of Franklin Street, S. 30th Street, and some more of Reed Avenue.
There will be a listening session on the budget on Thursday, November 7th, at City Hall between 10:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
A public hearing will be held on November 18th, the day the next common council meeting takes place.
