Marshfield to stick to policy on nonprofit funding

By Hub City Times staff
MARSHFIELD – Marshfield Aldermen will stick with their policy of making non-government, nonprofit organizations “reapply” for city funding on an annual basis. The issue was discussed at the July 14 Marshfield Common Council meeting, as city leaders gear up for writing the 2021 budget.
Alderman Tom Buttke wanted to give organizations like the Marshfield Civic Band, Upham Mansion, and the Palm Sunday Concert Choir automatic renewals for next year.
A motion by Alderman Buttke to that effect failed on a vote of 7-3. Alderman Tom Witzel voted “no.” He wants to hear justification for any budget requests that go to the council.
City Administrator Steve Barg said it is worthwhile to critique those requests on an annual basis, especially this year.
Barg noted that nine agencies requested funding from the city last year, and all nine were ultimately given the funding they sought.
The city’s policy for dealing with such requests was adopted in December 2018.