Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in De Pere, WI public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in parks rec with medium priority
Youth recreation project planning (skate park, ice rink, and other concepts)
The Signature Project subcommittee is discussing a possible skate park and ice rink, and Parks Department staff plan to visit a future meeting to hear teen ideas — including foot golf and a kickball tournament.
Downtown walking tour expansion
A joint project with Downtown De Pere to refresh the historic downtown walking tour on their website. Work is just getting underway now that summer business activity is slowing down.
Refurbishing Wisconsin Historical Society markers
The new historic/information kiosk sign for the De Pere Lock and Dam Historic District is now installed on the Riverwalk. It was approved by the DNR and the Fox-Wisconsin Heritage Parkway and matches the look of the city's other historic district signs.
NFL Alumni Youth Football Camp at VFW Park
A Packers-affiliated youth football camp for kids ages 6-14 will use VFW Park's field and shelter in June 2027 after losing its St. Norbert College site. The city earns a share of registration fees and the camp still needs a legal agreement and council approval.
Native gardens and planned natural landscapes in city parks
The commission reviewed proposed pollinator garden locations at four city parks and praised the native grasses and flowering plants going into city roundabouts. Emily Castellanos continues working with the Conservation Corps on planting projects.
Carney Park playground surfacing replacement
Volunteer Park gets turf surfacing, Carney Park will be rebid after a lone expensive tile bid was rejected — part of the city's ongoing playground safety upgrades.
Sister Cities youth leadership opportunities
De Pere Sister Cities wants to expand teen participation, including starting a club at West De Pere High School to match East's, plus opportunities like the 2027 Youth Leadership Summit and a global art and writing competition.
Voyageur Dock replacement
The council awarded two park contracts — a $231,139 Wilson Park project and a $221,577 Voyageur dock replacement — partially funded from unassigned reserves. A new Nelson family pledge of up to $25,000 will reduce the reserve hit for Wilson Park.
Volunteer Park recognition sign and project progress
The new Waterview Heights park is named 'Volunteer Park' after the De Pere-area Civil War volunteers of Company F, the 14th Wisconsin Regiment's 'De Pere Rifles.' A plaque will explain the history, and a Lee Recreation playground is coming.
Ice Arena flooring replacement
The ice arena gets new flooring for $149,490.70, with youth hockey families raising $50,000 and the arena fund temporarily dipping to zero until fall revenues return.
Fox Point Boat Launch repairs
About $14,276 from reserves will fix the boat launch and its restroom roof — good news for anglers and boaters.
Mystic Creek access trail to Southwest Park
Wisconsin United Football Club gets a field use agreement and, in return, is donating the full cost of a trail project at Southwest Park — good news for park users at no taxpayer cost.
De Pere Ice Arena electrical upgrades
The council approved the 'Stay the Course +1' option for ice arena improvements, targeting the dehumidification system, flooring, HVAC units and electrical panels. Arena users should see more reliable conditions.