Wausau School District’s Referendum Doesn’t Pass

WAUSAU, Wis. (WXCO) – A total of $40 million over 5 years was voted down, after it was said it wouldn’t raise taxes, and may force the district to make significant cuts.

Over 10,000 Wausau residents voted no for a $8 million dollar per year for 5 years referendum. The measure failed by 350 votes. Rosholt also shot theirs down. Meanwhile, Auburndale approved it.

Officials said property taxes would not have went up if the referendum had passed. This District said with restructuring and prepaying debt, it would of kept the tax rate stable over the long term and minimized the tax impact of the referendum.

With Wausau’s growing budget deficit, it leaves the future of the district uncertain. Now, teachers may face cuts and the buildings needed maintenance may not be fixed as the District faces challenges. Things that needed attention were the roofing, HVAC/air conditioning, and upgrades to mass communication, cameras, and energy efficiency. They also fear the ability to attract and retain staff will dwindle.

Local races of note in Marathon County:

For Village President in Kronenwetter it came down to a narrow race that was won by an 18 vote difference. David Baker brought in 1,528 votes, beating Aaron Myszka’s 1,510.

In Unity, it was tight there too. Tony Johnson pulled in just 5 more votes than Dillon Cook, taking the title for Village President, replacing Melissa Brost.

In Weston, Mark Maloney raked in 470 more votes than James Pinsonneault, keeping his seat as Village President. Meanwhile, Pinsonneault did secure Village Trustee, alongside Barbara Ermeling. 

Also in the town of Bergen, a write in beat the candidate running. Town Clerk Gloriann Doyle picked up only 67 votes to 188 write-ins. Now, Doyle is charged with embezzling more than $100,000 from the town, which could of hurt her campaign.

The Town of Wausau’s referendum asking if the person holding the office as Town Clerk in the Town of Wausau, should be appointed by the Town Board, failed. 503 voters checked no, beating the yes votes by 29.