A Big Win for Central Wisconsin: Centergy’s Advocacy Delivers Results It’s a great week for Central Wisconsin! Centergy is excited to share some incredible news that highlights the power of regional advocacy and collaboration. Advocacy is one of Centergy’s core pillars, and each year we bring together businesses, communities, and leaders during Central Wisconsin Days to meet with legislators and discuss issues that matter most to our region. Over the past three years, Centergy has supported more than 50 pieces of legislation, and we’re proud to say that 18 have been signed into law. This week, two major bills joined that list and they will have a lasting impact on our communities. Modernizing the Rothschild Dam For more than a century, the Rothschild Dam has been a cornerstone of our region, supporting recreation, property values, and economic stability. Centergy and community stakeholders worked tirelessly to advocate for a one-time state investment to modernize the dam and protect the long-term stability of Lake Wausau and surrounding communities. On December 9, 2025, the Governor signed SB 421 legislation allocating $42 million in state funding toward the $84 million Rothschild Dam Modernization Project. A groundbreaking ceremony was held earlier this year on August 19, and now, with this funding secured, the project is officially moving forward. We want to thank our partners who made this possible: The Lyons Group, The Wisconsin Paper Council, and Domtar. This investment ensures that Lake Wausau remains a vibrant resource for generations to come. The bill details can be found here: Senate Bill 421 Expanding Workforce Housing and Childcare Incentives The second legislative success is AB 280, a bill designed to address two critical workforce challenges: housing and childcare. Originally introduced as part of Centergy’s 2024 Issue Paper, this legislation expands tax credit incentives under the Business Development Tax Credit (BTC) Program. AB 280 allows businesses to contribute to third-party organizations for workforce housing and childcare, creating flexible, community-oriented investments that benefit entire regions—not just BTC-eligible companies. This innovative approach will help employers and communities work together to solve pressing workforce issues. On December 9, 2025, the Governor signed AB 280 into law. We extend our gratitude to the Wisconsin Economic Development Association for partnering with us to make this happen. Bill details: Assembly Bill 280 Why These Wins Matter These legislative victories are more than policy changes, they’re investments in the future of Central Wisconsin. By modernizing critical infrastructure and addressing workforce needs, we’re building stronger communities and creating opportunities for businesses and families alike. Centergy is proud to lead these efforts, and we remain committed to advocating for policies that enhance quality of life, economic vitality, and workforce development across our region.