Centergy Announces 2025 Central Wisconsin Days Issue Papers
[Central Wisconsin] – is unveiling its 2025 policy priorities ahead of the annual Central Wisconsin Days event on April 10th in Madison. Nearly 60 Central Wisconsin residents will meet with state lawmakers to advocate for key policy initiatives aimed at promoting long-term growth, stability, and prosperity for the region. These priorities focus on crucial areas such as infrastructure, workforce housing, education, and economic development. Through these efforts, Centergy seeks to ensure that Central Wisconsin remains a vibrant, competitive, and sustainable region for years to come.
-
Preserving Quality of Life and Economic Stability
Centergy advocates for a one-time state investment of $56 million to modernize the Rothschild Dam. The dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels in Lake Wausau, supporting local recreation, tourism, and property values. Without modernization, the region faces environmental disruption and financial instability. Domtar has committed to funding one-third of the $84 million modernization, and a state investment will safeguard a critical community asset for future generations, ensuring continued economic vitality and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.DamStrongRegion.com
-
Supporting the Workforce of Tomorrow – Our Students
Centergy calls for increased funding in Wisconsin’s education system to support special education, reduce local tax burdens, and provide greater financial assistance to students from low- to middle-income families. The Wisconsin Grant Program, which assists students in accessing post-secondary education, has not kept pace with rising tuition costs, leaving many students without the support they need. Additional investment in the University of Wisconsin System, particularly UW-Stevens Point, is essential for maintaining a skilled workforce and retaining talent for the region.
-
Modernizing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Historic Tax Credits For Community Growth
Centergy advocates for comprehensive TIF modernization to provide local governments with greater flexibility in driving economic development, workforce housing, and infrastructure investment. Raising the TIF valuation cap, extending TID lifespans, and allowing residential development eligibility will enhance growth. Additionally, Centergy supports adjustments to the Historic Preservation Tax Credit to enable smaller cities and rural communities to better utilize it for revitalization efforts. Modernizing these programs will equip Wisconsin communities with the tools needed to drive sustainable growth and stay competitive in the 21st-century economy.
-
Expanding Housing Solutions for Small Cities and Rural Communities
With a housing shortage particularly impacting small cities and rural areas, Centergy urges an expansion of the Housing Tax Credit program to direct at least 35% of funds to rural communities. Modifications for WHEDA’s Competitive Loan Financing Programs and a greater tax credit allotment will support smaller housing projects in these regions. These changes would help small cities and rural communities better access resources to address the housing shortage and foster economic growth.
These policy proposals are designed to address the pressing challenges facing Central Wisconsin, ensuring that the region remains economically competitive, environmentally sustainable, and a vibrant place to live and work.
For more additional information, please contact [email protected] or visit https://centraltosuccess.com/event/central-wi-days-2025/
###
Centergy, Inc. is a 501(c)4 nonprofit regional marketing and economic development organization. Centergy is committed to advancing prosperity and vibrancy in the five-county region of Central Wisconsin: Adams, Lincoln, Marathon, Portage, and Wood Counties.