MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – During a meeting on Tuesday, January 14, the Marshfield Common Council approved Resolution No. 2025-03, directing that a referendum be placed on the ballot for the April 1 Spring Election. The referendum seeks funding to hire and retain two full-time firefighter/paramedics, after this was removed from the City’s 2025 budget.
This decision aims to address staffing needs within the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department. The funding request will allow the department to restore staffing levels to what they were in 2021, ensuring the community receives timely and effective emergency services.
If approved, the referendum will authorize funding specifically to hire and retain two additional firefighter/paramedics. The estimated impact on property taxes would be approximately $14 per year for a $100,000 home (with the amount increasing proportionally for higher property values).
Council members engaged in a detailed discussion about the referendum’s wording to ensure clarity for voters. The final approved language reflects this intention, specifying that the funding is for “the purpose of returning to 2021 staffing levels by hiring and retaining two full-time firefighter/paramedics.”
City Administrator Steve Barg noted that the city will undertake an extensive public education campaign to ensure residents understand the purpose and implications of the referendum.
The referendum will be included on the April 1 Spring Election ballot. Leading up to the vote, residents are encouraged to participate in informational sessions and review available materials to make an informed decision.
We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!
Author: News Desk
This piece was posted by our news team! Contact us or submit stories at [email protected].
