Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Antigo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in public safety
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.
Habitual ordinance violations at 724 Dorr Street
City staff have responded to this property ten times since 2019 for ordinance violations, and the committee unanimously kept the special assessment charging the owner for a couch removal. The owner didn't attend to argue otherwise.
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.
Automated License Plate Reader Policy
The council put official rules in place for how police can use and access license plate reader data, aimed at protecting privacy while supporting investigations.
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.
Urban Search and Rescue Agreement Renewal
The fire department stays in Wisconsin Task Force 1 through 2028, giving the region extra rescue capability during disasters, with the state reimbursing costs.
Incoming police chief salary
After 28 years with the department, Chief Daniel Duley retired, and Joseph Husnick was sworn in as the new chief, pledging continuity and professional service.