Wausau City Council Debates $15K Attorney Fee Cap for Ongoing Ethics Hearing

The Wausau City Council meeting on August 26, 2025, was dominated by discussions surrounding the allocation of additional funds for legal representation in an ongoing ethics investigation. Council members grappled with the unpredictability of legal costs and the necessity of ensuring adequate representation for city employees involved in the case.

City Attorney Doug Hall expressed concerns about the current cap on legal fees, which has been reached, leaving him unable to proceed with necessary actions. He emphasized the ethical implications of halting representation, stating, "I'm not authorized to do anything further... and my concern is that when we do set a cap... everything gets put on hold." This sentiment resonated with several council members who recognized the urgency of moving forward with the investigation.

Alder Rasmussen proposed an amendment to increase the cap on legal fees to $15,000, with a split allocation of $10,000 for preparation and $5,000 for hearing representation. This amendment sparked a debate about the need for clear financial oversight, with Alder Neal suggesting a more structured approach to ensure that funds are appropriately allocated between preparation and actual hearing costs.

The council's discussions highlighted a shared commitment to accountability, with Alder Larson stating, "We need to finish this... we can't just throw in the towel halfway up the stream." However, concerns about the rising legal costs were palpable, as several members voiced apprehensions over the financial implications for taxpayers.

As the council moved toward a decision, the emphasis remained on balancing the need for thorough legal preparation with fiscal responsibility. The anticipated outcome of the hearing, set for September 5, loomed large, with council members eager to ensure that city employees are adequately prepared without overspending. The meeting underscored the complexities of navigating legal processes while maintaining transparency and accountability to the public.