Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Green Bay public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues in taxes budget with low priority
Revolving loan fund health and delinquent borrower
One borrower that was behind is now current, the city is moving toward foreclosure on the GeneTax Solutions building, and a few newer loans are slightly late on first payments. Staff says it's a timing issue, not a crisis.
Agricultural lease rates on city farmland
The city leases about 105 acres of farmland to local farmers while it waits to develop it. Rates go up $20 to $150 per acre — still below state and county averages — with one parcel on a shorter lease because of the coming solar farm.
Mason Manor rent adjustment
At the December 1 contract renewal, rents will move to project-based voucher standards, bringing in about $9,866 more per month (roughly $118,000 a year) without raising what tenants pay.
Revolving loan fund reallocation to parks
HUD rules forced the city to move $200,000 out of the business loan fund because early payoffs pushed it over carryover limits. The money goes to park improvements in lower-income neighborhoods instead of new business loans.
Foreclosure at 1028 9th Street
The RDA will foreclose on a delinquent business loan after the borrower — a tax prep business — stopped communicating and paying in April, owing roughly $195,000 plus back taxes.
Communication process for appointed city members
Ald. Delie's petition would let appointed commission members submit agenda communications, not just alders. The committee sent it to staff for a memo on current onboarding and what neighboring cities do.
2027 Employee Insurance Changes
The council set up income continuation insurance for employees starting in 2027 and switched the pharmacy benefits manager to SmithRx and the Family Savings Plan administrator to Associated Bank.
Funeral leave modernization
Employees can now use bereavement days for tasks around a death — handling affairs, travel, family needs — not just the funeral itself. No extra days, just more flexibility.
Volunteer time limited to city charities
The committee approved paid volunteer time for employees but added a restriction — hours can only be served with City of Green Bay charities. One alder objected to the limit.
36-month Cellcom contract
A three-year Cellcom contract was approved after being referred to staff in May — routine telecom procurement.
Paid volunteer day for city employees
Full-time employees get one paid day per year to volunteer, with verification and no carryover. The committee limited it to City of Green Bay charities on a 3-1 vote, so taxpayer-funded time benefits the city itself.
Official newspaper designation
The annual state-required bid for the city's legal notices went to the Press Times again for the next twelve months.
Parking violation penalty changes
A code ordinance updating penalties for parking violations was adopted.
Firetruck antitrust litigation
The city moved to get involved in antitrust litigation against firetruck manufacturers in federal court in Green Bay.