The City of Wausau Economic Development Committee on Nov. 4 approved a public participation plan to solicit neighborhood input on potential nonindustrial uses of 1300 Cleveland Avenue.

Committee members and staff said the process is intended to identify an agreed “end use” so that a remediation activity/option report (RAOR) required by the Department of Natural Resources can be tailored to that use. Randy, the staff lead on the item, told the committee that work with planning and economic development staff produced a plan that would include meetings with neighborhood stakeholders and return to the committee with direction before staff pursue development partners.

Public Works Director Eric Lindman said site investigation work has been completed “according to the DNR” and that the RAOR will follow once the committee and neighborhood better define the intended use. Lindman said staff are arranging an environmental consultant presentation for the full council in December that will review what has been done, outline remediation or enclosure options and provide budget estimates.

Committee members stressed two priorities: (1) giving neighbors meaningful, ongoing opportunities to weigh in rather than a one‑time meeting, and (2) keeping guidance broad enough so it does not preclude developer interest. Alder O'Neil asked that public meetings be iterative so neighbors can “put forth some of their ideas.” Staff said the proposed process anticipates approximately two neighborhood meetings and coordination with the district alder (Alder Killian) who had been consulted by email.

Aldo Neal moved to approve the public participation plan; Alder Henke seconded. The committee voted aye and approved the plan.

Staff said item 3b on the agenda was being withheld for additional work and will return to the committee at its December meeting.