Menasha · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Menasha public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Extended overnight street parking
A resident complained about how the city enforces its recreational vehicle ordinance.
Flock Safety cameras excluded from 2027 budget
The council formally directed staff not to put Flock Safety camera services in the 2027 proposed budget, keeping the license plate reader program unfunded next year.
Winnebago County 911 Emergency System participation
Menasha's annual joint powers agreement keeps the city connected to the countywide 911 dispatch network. Without it, emergency calls from Menasha residents wouldn't route through the regional system.
Emergency Bidding Waiver for Debris and Tree Removal
The Council waived competitive bidding so tree and debris removal can begin immediately under state emergency law.
Suspension of Non-Essential City Services
During the emergency, some services are suspended or modified: parks facilities and rentals, senior center programs, some health services, and some DPW collections. Residents should check for changes to garbage schedules and program availability.
Emergency Declaration After Tornado
A tornado hit the Fox Valley, and nearby cities—possibly including Menasha—have declared emergencies, with a curfew and boil-water order in effect. If you're in the area, stay off the roads and don't drink tap water until officials clear it.
Highway 10/114 traffic speed and noise
Residents near Highway 10/114 say drivers hit 60-65 mph, semis barrel through at all hours, and noise far exceeds the 67-decibel threshold based on expired 1992/2012 studies. They want updated traffic and noise studies and more consistent police patrols, and asked the city to champion the cause with the DOT and Calumet County.
Respirator requirement for sewer crews
Testing found toxic chemical vapors in the sanitary sewer at a contaminated site, and city staff found significant readings at two more locations. The new policy requires crews to wear respirators whenever jetting lines in mapped areas of concern, protecting workers while lab results are pending.
Police Hiring Controversy
Menasha hired a police officer despite a checkered record elsewhere, and now he’s been arrested. The city could face a lawsuit over how he was hired—meaning residents may pay for the fallout.
Fire Rescue Organizational Assessment
Menasha and Neenah are splitting the cost of an outside study of whether the joint fire rescue is organized for the future. Most aldermen backed it; Ald. Eisenach voted no both times.