Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Manitowoc public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in taxes budget with high priority
2027 City Budget for Police and Fire
The Finance Committee got its first look at the 2027 Executive Budget and will hold deliberation meetings on November 2, 4, and 5. No decisions were made yet — this is where spending priorities get hammered out.
2027 Executive Budget and property tax increase
The mayor's proposed budget raises the city tax rate 2.78% — about $41 a year on a $250,000 home — while adding six positions and borrowing $7.84 million. For the first time in years, the city would borrow more than it pays off, and $3.5 million of reserves would be used.
2027 Health Insurance Premium Increase and Plan Deficit
City employees face a proposed 13% health premium increase for 2027, and the self-funded plan is already $1.4 million in the red. The committee wants cost-saving options — like a spousal surcharge — priced out before the Council decides on October 19.
2027 Employee Health Insurance Premium Increase
City employees face a proposed 13% health premium increase for 2027, and the self-funded plan is already $1.4 million in the red. The committee wants cost-saving options — like a spousal surcharge — priced out before the Council decides on October 19.
FY27 Budget and Wages at Manitou Manor
Housing Authority staff keep their Prevea 360 coverage with only about a 4-4.5% premium bump — far less than the ~13% increase the city itself is facing.
School voucher cost transparency on tax bills
The council is considering adding a line showing how much of a property tax bill goes to voucher schools versus public schools. It was tabled this meeting but will return; supporters say taxpayers deserve transparency as voucher costs have grown from $82,000 to a projected $7 million.
Employee compensation and retention
On behalf of HR Director Jessica Lillabridge, the city attorney flagged workers stuck at hiring or midpoint pay rates years in, and Manitowoc spending 5-10% less of its general fund on personnel than peer cities. The mayor said a performance evaluation and compensation plan is in the works.
2027 Parks and Recreation Budget Priorities
The mayor laid out big-picture parks spending through the rest of the decade — Silver Creek as a winter destination park, equipment needs, and parking lot work — while members suggested pickleball courts, playgrounds, splash pads, and a park-usage survey.
Library Staff Reorganizational Plan
The board approved a restructured library organization with new manager and associate roles in Technical Services and Circulation. A former employee claims the cost-saving reorganization drove targeted terminations.
2027 Library Budget Adoption
The board approved next year's library budget with operating spending held close to current levels, but some city-provided figures like healthcare aren't final and may require amendments later.
Library board quorum problems
Only five of ten trustees showed up, so the board couldn't vote on budgets, minutes or appointments. Three months of financial approvals are now piling up for July.
City Goals 2026-2030
Department heads made their first-ever joint pitch to the council on five-year priorities: aging sewers and pipes, fleet and building maintenance, fire/police facility needs, senior housing, and staffing/compensation. The mayor will draft a one-page goals document.