Manitowoc Development News
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Finance Director Focuses on Fiscal Responsibility and Enabling Departmental Goals
Finance Director Sean Alfred stated his department's main goal is to support the aspirations and goals of other departments and elected officials in a fiscally responsible manner, adhering to legal expenditure and debt limits, and fulfilling fiduciary duty to taxpayers. He emphasized finding ways to achieve departmental goals rather than simply saying 'no.' Alfred noted that collectively, department heads presented approximately $100 million in potential needs. He also mentioned that the city's approach to budgeting, where personnel costs are considered last, may be a contributing factor to lower overall personnel spending compared to similar cities, as indicated by HR Director Lillebridge.
City Attorney Raises Alarms Over Aging Infrastructure; HR Director Highlights Personnel Compensation Concerns
City Attorney Eric Nitch expressed strong concern regarding the city's aging infrastructure, particularly the wastewater treatment plant, which is nearing 100 years old. He highlighted the potential for catastrophic failure, leading to significant lawsuits, claims, and fines. Nitch also underscored the importance of technology investment for his department, noting that underfunding it leads to inefficiencies and higher costs. He spoke on behalf of HR Director Jesse Lillebridge, who believes Manitowoc spends less on personnel (5-10% of the general fund) compared to similar cities like Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan. Lillebridge's concerns include hourly and salaried employees remaining at hiring rates for years, leading to pay compression, and a lack of a consistent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) or step program for city employees, unlike MPU. She also pointed to the need for additional positions due to city expansion and increased responsibilities.
Alder Emphasizes Continuous Growth and Fiscal Prudence in Meeting City Needs
Alder Norell stated that the city should always be in a growth mode, focusing on enhancing services and improving infrastructure, rather than maintaining a stagnant status quo. He emphasized the importance of addressing these goals fiscally, acknowledging the significant financial needs presented, estimated at $100 million. Norell expressed anticipation for collaborative work between city leadership and the council to meet the city's and residents' needs.
Mayor Defines 'Growth' as Tax-Base Expansion and Stresses Revenue Generation for Projects
The Mayor discussed the importance of defining terms like 'growth' and 'best use for properties.' He suggested that 'growth' should primarily mean tax-based growth to increase city revenue without necessarily raising taxes, thereby funding necessary projects. Regarding 'best use for properties,' he indicated it should be evaluated based on its ability to generate the most tax dollars, rather than purely aesthetic considerations. The Mayor noted that while revenue sources were not detailed by department heads, it's crucial to consider funding mechanisms for proposed projects. He expressed satisfaction with the department heads' presentations, which highlighted needs including significant investments in sewers and trucks, and aims to develop a one-page strategic document and a map to guide future planning and budgeting.
Fire Department Staffing Levels Discussed; Recruiting Efforts Show Significant Improvement
Alder Schlei inquired about persistent staffing challenges within the fire department. Chief Kranik explained that while the department has regained battalion chiefs and three line personnel, those battalion chiefs were promoted from the ranks, leaving three positions technically short. He noted that call volumes and city growth have increased, stretching the department thinner than when he started 26 years ago. Alder Schlei offered to volunteer assistance with recruiting campaigns and suggested leveraging tourism department resources, to which Chief Kranik responded that recruiting has improved substantially due to changed requirements and outreach efforts, with a 100% increase in applicants for the last spring recruit class.
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City of Manitowoc Parks & Recreation Committee meeting 6-25-26
06/22/2026 Special Board of Education Meeting
Library Board
06/19/2026 Special Board of Education Meeting
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