Menasha · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Menasha public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Tornado-damaged structure demolition and raze orders
The council approved tearing down the 325 Broad Street building after the August 20 Twisted Pistons car show. Conceptual plans discussed include senior housing on Chute Street and townhomes along Broad Street, with the senior center's future and parking still to be worked out.
July 27 EF3 Tornado Disaster Declaration and Recovery
Building, zoning and demolition permit fees are waived for tornado repairs, with the waiver running through January 30, 2027.
Urban forestry grants for tornado recovery
The city's new plan covers 60,500 inventoried trees, calls for diversifying away from maples (22% of the stock), moving to a five-year inspection cycle, and planting at 500 high-priority spots. Every $1 spent on trees returns about $3 in value.
Tornado recovery spending increase
Residents are worried about how damaged neighborhoods will be rebuilt after the tornado — whether redevelopment will protect neighborhood identity or push people out. Staff floated zoning overlays and temporary R-1 protections, with a draft Disaster Recovery Plan due in January.