Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in De Pere, WI public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
15 issues in parks rec with low priority
Youth volunteer opportunities at community events
The commission was tracking volunteer needs, including the December 10 Holiday Lights event at Voyageur Park, which needs six youth volunteers.
Recreation scholarship donation
The Pink Flamingo Classic donated another $250 to the recreation scholarship fund, which helps local families afford city recreation programs. Staff are looking at loosening guidelines to help more families.
Fire truck history project pays off
The completed fire truck history research is already useful — the fire chief says it will help apply for grants to restore the old wagon and could become a brochure or parade material.
Business sponsorships for community events
Local businesses fully funded the summer fireworks show and sponsored beer gardens and special events, keeping those costs off taxpayers.
'See a Sign, Lend a Hand' neighbor-help initiative
Launching in October during Good Neighbor Week, residents in need can post a yard sign asking for help with mowing, raking, or shoveling — and neighbors, including high school and college students, can lend a hand.
Teen Movie in the Park and FAFSA Night
Two youth events are in the works: a free Teen Movie in the Park on August 19 (rain date August 20) at Voyageur Park, with a social-media poll to pick the film, and a free FAFSA Night tentatively set for Fall 2026 to help families navigate college financial aid.
Fox Point restroom roof repair
A storm damaged the Fox Point restroom roof; instead of patching shingles, the Council is spending $4,504 from reserves on a metal roof it already planned.
James Street Parkway dock signage
Alderperson Hansen asked for a sign at James Street Parkway near the docks to make clear the area is publicly accessible, not private property of the adjacent restaurant.
Youth Commission involvement in historic preservation
The new Youth Commission is now official via ordinance — the city can start recruiting young members.
Park Donations Accepted
The council accepted a $2,500 tree donation from the Packers and Green Bay Packaging, plus $2,500 from WI United FC Soccer for soccer field treatment at Southwest Park.
Legion Park Disc Golf Course Improvements
Alderperson Hansen wants a course map display, scorecards, and hole signage with distances at the recently improved Legion Park disc golf course. The idea will go to the Park Board.
De Pere City Band 50th Anniversary
The city band has been bringing free summer concerts to Voyager Park since 1976. The mayor proclaimed its 50th anniversary and band members invited residents to five summer concerts.
Brown County trail extension at Perkofski Boat Launch
Brown County will extend a trail from Ashwaubomay to the boat launch, crossing about 30 feet of city property to connect.
Downtown summer event alcohol permits
Three Definitely De Pere events — Tour De Pere, Alley Nights, and Music on the Plaza — sought special permits letting attendees drink beer in public areas downtown. The committee approved all three unanimously; final sign-off comes from the Common Council.
Robotic mowers for city baseball fields
De Pere Baseball is chipping in $5,000 so parks staff can deploy quiet robotic mowers at Kelly Danen and Southwest Park. Mowers run overnight until 9 a.m., with signs keeping players off freshly cut fields.