Menasha · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Menasha public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue Levy Limit Exceedance for 2027
A resolution would let the fire rescue service exceed the state levy limit for fiscal year 2027. That can mean higher property tax contributions from member municipalities, including Menasha.
City Attorney Appointment — David Rashid
The council was set to appoint David Rashid as City Attorney for an interim term from December 7, 2026 through April 20, 2027, following the hiring committee's recommendation.
2027 Employee Health Insurance Change
The city plans to move employee health coverage from Network Health to the Wisconsin Group Health Trust, a self-funded trust for public employers that partners with United Healthcare's national network. Premiums are projected to rise only about 2%, with dental, vision, and HRA benefits preserved.
Employee Bonus Program Proposal
A resident urged the council to create a standing bonus program for salaried public works staff who worked massive overtime during tornado response, suggesting at least $2,500 for two employees.
2027 Budget Review Timeline Pushed Back
A reconsidered resolution moves the 2027 budget review sessions to November 11, 12, 18, and 19, and sets a special council meeting for November 23 to adopt the budget — giving the council and public more time after the October 26 budget release.
$5 Million Tornado Financing (R-33-26)
The city will borrow up to $5 million from Community First Credit Union at 0% interest for 18 months to cover tornado costs until FEMA reimbursement arrives. If FEMA money doesn't come, the loan rolls into long-term financing.
Local 275 labor agreement
The council went into closed session to review the tentative bargaining agreement between Neenah, Menasha, and Local 275.
2026 Budget Amendment for Emergency Software
The city is spending up to $9,000 on a maintenance agreement with Constructive Analytics to keep police department software running — programs that handle overnight parking approvals, fleet tracking, and landlord notifications. Officials discussed the vendor's longevity and long-term software planning.
Declining general fund balance
Menasha's general fund balance dropped in 2025, and staff traced it to 2024 carryovers, municipal court debt, and a revenue shortfall. City code requires keeping at least 10% of annual general fund spending in reserve, so the trend matters for future budget decisions.
$3.215 Million General Obligation Borrowing
The council authorized up to $3.215 million in Series 2026A notes to reimburse 2025 capital projects, including pool work. Tax impact: an added $228,312 to the 2027 debt levy, roughly $0.95 per thousand; a $300,000 home's annual tax bill was shown in the pre-sale report.
Clean 2025 audit with one recurring finding
Auditors gave Menasha a clean 2025 audit. The only internal-control finding — the annual financial report preparation — is a recurring one that management says isn't worth fixing with added staff and training costs.
Police union MOA amendments and overtime savings
The 2024 patrol schedule change appears to be cutting police overtime costs, letting the city restore fitness incentives officers lost as part of the test of that schedule. The committee signed off on fixing the 2026 deal and a clean 2027 agreement.