Hello City of Eau Claire employees, residents, and Council Members –

Here are some updates from around Eau Claire. Note that prior updates can be found here, and you can use these linked forms to send feedback to the City Manager’s Office or City Council.

City Manager Stephanie Hirsch

CITY UPDATES

Eddy Street Bridge to Re-Open Monday (with Weight Restrictions): The City just received the excellent news from Union Pacific that the Eddy Street Bridge can be re-opened, posted with a 15-ton weight limit. (Most personal-use vehicles, including passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks, weigh less than 15 tons.) More information will be released next week, and our Streets and Fleet Division will plan to make that change to traffic flow on Monday. Pictured below is the currently closed Eddy Street Bridge.

New Police Officers and Firefighters: In recent weeks, we welcomed new staff to our public safety departments.

Police Swearing In: At the Police Department Swearing-In Ceremony, held on October 28th, the following officers joined the Eau Claire Police Department: Officers Andrew Brinkmoeller, Luis Martinez, Emmanuel Osunlana, Dylan Castro, and Lucas Easker.

Each ECPD swearing-in ceremony asks officers to take an “Oath of Office”, which is a pledge to support and defend the constitutions of the country and state. They also take an “Oath of Honor”, which is a pledge to uphold the values that are specific to our ECPD. That oath includes these promises: “On my Honor, I will never betray my badge, my integrity, my character, or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions.”

At the PD ceremony, Council President Emily Berge shared these comments: “Our officers are leaders in community policing, collaboration, and compassion. You serve with professionalism, empathy, and integrity, and that shows every day. This is not an easy job. You are asked to do things that, frankly, most people can’t imagine. You respond to emergencies, mediate conflicts, comfort victims, and sometimes witness unimaginable tragedy. You protect the safety of 74,039 people in this city (plus visitors), and that responsibility can weigh heavily.

But you also build relationships. You help a lost child find their parents. You check on someone in crisis. You stop to talk with neighbors at a block party or in a park. These moments of connection are the foundation of trust, and that trust is what makes Eau Claire strong.”

Fire Badge Pinning: Two days later, on Friday, October 31st, we held a Fire Badge Pinning Ceremony. This event celebrated our newly hired firefighters, newly promoted staff, new HazMat team members, the newly formed TEMS team, and community service award recipients. The FD's newest firefighters are: Tucker Stary, Lance Loftus, Jason Bauer, and Jackson Berry.

At the FD ceremony, Council President Berge shared these words:

“Today represents the culmination of years of training, sacrifice, and commitment. You’ve chosen a path that demands not just skill, but courage, compassion, and service to others. And that choice says a lot about who you are. I often say that public service is one of the highest callings, and you all embody that spirit. You run toward emergencies when others run away. You stand ready at all hours, in all conditions, not knowing what the next call will bring, but knowing that when it comes, someone in our community will need you. Whether it’s a structure fire, a medical emergency, a car accident, or a rescue operation, you are there. You are often the first face that people see on what might be the worst day of their lives. And your calm, steady professionalism makes all of the difference.”

At both ceremonies, our Police and Fire Commission President, Disa Wahlstrand, shared appreciation for the new recruits. The PFC oversees an extremely rigorous selection process for both our officers and firefighters. The selection process tests candidates on physical preparedness, skills developed, and character traits. After selection, they must then complete challenging training academies and successfully complete probationary periods. Disa described this process, and she promised the new personnel: “You will not be alone as you serve the community.”

Pictured below are the newly sworn-in police officers, plus two photos from the Fire ceremony.

Change Batteries with Time Change: Our Fire Department shared this request... "The Fire Prevention Division warmly reminds everyone that Daylight Savings began this week. Please take a moment to ensure your smoke and CO detector batteries have been changed. It's a small step that could make a life-saving difference."

Listening Sessions from UWEC Chancellor Search and Screen Committee: Our UW partners asked that we spread the word about upcoming public input sessions that will help shape the search for a new UWEC Chancellor. They wrote:

"The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Chancellor Search and Screen Committee will hold two listening sessions on Tuesday, November 11th, to gather input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members. These sessions are an important opportunity for attendees to share perspectives about UW-Eau Claire’s strengths, needs, and priorities, as well as the qualities and experience they believe are most important in the next chancellor." The two sessions will be held both in person and online at 11AM and at 2PM on Tuesday. More information can be found here: UW-Eau Claire Chancellor Search | UW-Eau Claire

One Better Way Launch: With some of its ARPA funding, the City has helped support the creation of a permanent Day Resource Center. For the last several years, a Day Resource Center has operated out of temporary spaces. The permanent Center will be located downtown at 630 Gibson Street, which has been renamed One Better Way. Leadership from partners Western Dairyland and Hope Gospel describe the Center's mission as follows: "Together, we’re creating a compassionate, coordinated response to homelessness and housing insecurity in our community."

This exciting project needs additional funds to operate. Next Thursday, there will be an event to communicate with the community about the purpose of and progress on the project, with the goal of encouraging additional fundraising.

Here are more details on the event from the organizers:

When: Thursday, November 13th, 5:30 to 7:30PM

Where: The Florian Gardens, Eau Claire

What: "Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council invites you to celebrate the launch of Eau Claire’s new Day Resource Center, developed in partnership with Hope Gospel Mission. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and punch; a cash bar will also be available. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited."

How to Help: "Register today at onebetterway.org/launch or call 715-836-7511. If you can’t attend but would like to be part of this transformative effort, please consider making a gift at onebetterway.org/donate."

More about the Day Resource Center: "The Day Resource Center will provide a safe, welcoming space where individuals can:

• Access showers, laundry facilities, and mail services;

• Connect with case management, counseling, and employment resources;

• Receive help with housing applications and vital documents; and

• Find hope, stability, and support on their journey toward long-term housing and wellness."

The new street sign reading Better Way and South Dewey Street is pictured below.

Two Adult Library Events: There is always something interesting going on at the Library. Below are just two examples of events that, in this case, focus on adults. See more here for events for people of all ages and interests: lephillips.librarycalendar.com

Cozy Coloring: “Don't miss Cozy Coloring for Adults on the first Wednesday of each month -- down in the Dabble Box -- all fall and winter! Relax, color, and enjoy meeting new people or just spending time quietly around others. Coloring sheets and art supplies for all ability levels will be provided. Each month will also feature a different, non-traditional coloring medium (watercolor, fabric, gouache paint, and so on.)”

Vision Board Workshop: Attend this workshop, which is scheduled for Saturday, November 22nd, at 10AM in the Dabble Box..."Ready to turn your goals into reality? Create a personal vision board! Relax and enjoy our art supplies, magazines, and supportive atmosphere. Just bring your imagination and an open mind ­— no artistic experience required. Cut, arrange, and glue your way to a beautiful visual portrayal of your future self." Register here. 

COUNCIL UPDATES

Next week is a City Council Meeting week, and packets for the meetings can be found here: 11/10/2025 and 11/11/2025 City Council Packets | News | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin Here's some Council news:

Budget Hearing: A public hearing on the proposed 2026 Operating Budget will be held at the Council’s meeting at 6PM on Monday, November 10th. You can find more detailed information on the budget here, including presentations to the Council that outlines some of the constraints: Budget | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin Budget documents can be found here:

Budget: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/government/budget/process-current-documents

FAQ on LVRF: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/government/budget/lvrf

We welcome your feedback at the City Council Public Hearing on November 10th. The Council will then deliberate on and adopt the FY26 budget on Tuesday, November 11th.

Haymarket Programming Agreement: At our last City Council Meeting, the Council approved a new use agreement with Pablo Center at the Confluence for programming of special events and pre-show use of a portion of Haymarket Plaza. We hope that this agreement will enhance use of the Plaza and provide another reason for residents and tourists to come visit our downtown and the many shops and businesses in the area.  An evening view of Haymarket Plaza is pictured here.

SHOUT OUTS: Here's a round-up of thank yous.

Thank You for Health Insurance Transition Efforts: Some of our staff have been very busy trying to shift all of our employees and retirees to new health insurance. It has been a long and very intensive process to select an insurer, create the benefit plan, and then help employees during open enrollment. I would like to thank Tennille Goshaw, Carrie Riepl, and Kitzie Winters for all the time and effort put forward into obtaining a health care broker and new health insurance carrier and benefits package for our hard-working staff. The City of Eau Claire made this transition in 2025 to combat rising health care costs and to remain an employer of choice for the region. Special thanks to Tennille Goshaw, Tegan Ruland, Patti Grant, Barb Langreck, and Jessica Gruber for assisting staff through the new transition.  

Thank You to Leadership Eau Claire Organizers and Hosts: Thursday, October 9th was Leadership Eau Claire’s Government and Law Day. (You can learn more about this Chamber of Commerce program here: Leadership Eau Claire - Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce.) The group toured several City facilities and visited Departments that keep our residents safe and healthy, but may be taken for granted. Visits included the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, Water Treatment Plant, Fire Department, Police Department, City Parks and Rec, City Manager, Circuit Court, and County Corporation Counsel, with transportation provided by our Transit Division. The group saw the City’s facilities and staff in action, including firefighters leaving to respond to a potential fire in the middle of the Fire Department tour.

Many of our staff contributed to making the day a success through co-chairing and leading tours or giving demonstrations. Special thanks to Jenessa Stromberger, Deputy City Attorney, who co-chaired the day and our many participating staff: Fire Department Chief Matt Jaggar, Deputy Chief Bob Haller, Lieutenant Natasha Myre, Utilities Supervisor Mark Nelson, Utilities Supervisor Joseph Dahl, Operations Manager Ty Fadness, Police Department Chief Matt Rokus, Deputy Chief Derek Thomas, and Officers Tony Briski, Austin Summers, Joshua Miller, Art Jaquish, Ryan Prock, Cory Reeves, Thomas Ramboldt, and Jeremy Reeves.

The tour's stop at the Police Department is pictured below.

Thank You to Water Main Break Responders: We experienced a water main break on London Road this week. This required quick responses so that water service could be restored. Hass Sons started excavating to the watermain at 6:30AM. At 8:30AM, the water main was exposed, and the leak was located. At 8:50AM, the water was turned off to the affected area, and the leak was repaired. A shout out the Haas Sons and City staff for putting their work aside and quickly addressing this emergency repair. 

Utilities Manager Ben Spanel shared this information: “Water main breaks can be a bit of a mystery when they happen. They typically happen in the winter and early spring when the ground is shifting due to frost. When breaks happen during the summer and fall, it’s difficult to determine why the break happens. One positive note is that locating the leak and excavating for repairs is much easier when there is no frost. This results in a much more rapid repair.” The location impacted by this week's break is pictured below.

Thank You for Cat Rescue: We heard a tip from a resident that a cat was rescued as part of this fall’s significant fire on State Street. I checked in with Deputy Chief Hollar, and he shared the details: “I can confirm this as accurate. During our initial rapid searches of that apartment, the cat was well hidden and not located. Due to extensive fire spread in different areas of the building and significant collapse hazards, all personnel were ordered out of the building. During defensive exterior operations, the owner was able to provide us information on where the cat usually hides. After the fire was brought under control and collapse hazard areas were identified, we decided that the first-floor apartment where the cat might be located was adequately safe to enter. The cat’s probable location was conveyed to a search group, and they were assigned to search the target area for the cat. Personnel were able to locate the hiding cat right where the owner thought it would be. They were able to bring the cat out of the building safely and handed it to the owner. It was wet and scared, but it appeared live and well. The owner was extremely appreciative and thanked the crew for their efforts in rescuing her cat.” A photo of the fire is pictured below.

Thanks for the District Discussions: Thank you to everyone who came out to our District Discussions! This week’s conversations focused on construction progress on Eddy Lane (mentioned below) and a few other street issues. We discussed the FY26 budget, and the trade-offs of cutting expenses or increasing revenue. We also discussed bigger-picture community issues like health care, how to retain/attract families especially in the core of the city, how to support downtown businesses, and how to support child-care providers. We also received a question about the status of the Boyd Park Solar Tree and how to make sure that inoperable vehicles are towed quickly.

We were appreciative that County Board Supervisors Heather DeLuka and Tami Schraufgnagel joined in the discussion this week, along with Council President Berge and Council Members Brewster, Werthmann, Miller, Anderson, and Otto, and leaders of neighborhood associations. Pictured here are: Community Services Staff Member Jana Oldenberg who helped us set up and also pinch-hitted with some minor first aid, and attendees at the Putnam Heights and Boyd Park meetings.

Appreciation for Fire Prevention: Our Fire Department shared this message…. “The City of Eau Claire Fire Inspectors attended the Wisconsin State Fire Inspectors Conference in Wisconsin Dells. While in attendance, they received updates on DSPS codes, training on various fire suppression systems, and information about enhancements on Community Risk Reduction initiatives throughout the State. There was also the election of our own City of Eau Claire Lead Fire Inspector, Jason Knecht, as President of Wisconsin State Fire Inspectors Association.

We are proud of Inspector Knecht’s accomplishments and his dedication to fire prevention for the City of Eau Claire and the State of Wisconsin. Besides being a vital member of the Eau Claire Fire Department, Jason is also a member of Township Fire. Aside from protecting our communities, he also helps train the next generation of fire inspectors at CVTC. His expertise and knowledge make him a valuable asset to this organization. We are very proud of all his hard work, and we are looking forward to his leadership with the association. Congratulations Jason! This was well deserved!! “ Jason is pictured below.

Thank You for Our Planters: All summer, people at City Hall or passing by City Hall have been enjoying the spectacular plantings in the flower beds by the Farwell Entrance. The plantings have changed over the course of the summer, with different parts blooming and growing. We’ve seen many people come by and pose for photos in front of the planters. With the weather changing, the planters were put to bed this week. (Maybe making room for our City Hall Duck Family next spring?) Thank you to our staff who created these scenes for everyone to enjoy. Pictured below are the planters in the spring with small sprouts, in mid-summer in full bloom, and empty again this week.

Guest Lecturer at UWEC Local Government: Appreciation goes to City Attorney Steve Nick for encouraging future generations to work in public service. He recently presented as a guest lecturer at the UWEC Local Government course, which he has been doing for about 20 years, and most recently in coordination with former Council President Kerry Kincaid.

Thank you for Princeton Valley Park Crosswalk: Neighbors wrote in to thank our Community Services Staff for the new crosswalk that helps residents get to the park. They said: “Thank you so much. So many neighbors are delighted with the crosswalk being done.” 

WAYS TO SERVE: 

Employment Openings: Take a look at our open positions here: Job Openings | Sorted by Posting Date descending | JOB OPENINGS (governmentjobs.com)

Part-Time WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (Health Department) The Eau Claire City-County Health Department has an opportunity for a part-time (up to 28 hours/week) WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor in the Healthy Beginnings Division. This position counsels pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in the WIC program, assists the WIC team, and provides health related and social service referrals among other duties. Candidates must have successful breastfeeding experience of at least six months, within the last seven years. Candidates do not need to be currently breastfeeding. Wage range starts at $17.91. Deadline to apply: November 9th.

Constituent Services Associate II: Do you have great customer service skills? Excellent de-escalation skills? If yes, join us! We are currently accepting applications for two full-time Constituent Services Associate II positions in our Community Services Department. Each position will perform complex and varied administrative duties for the Community Services Department and across the City. Deadline to apply: November 10th at 11:59PM Watch a video about the role here: Working for the City

Firefighter (Fire Department): We are seeking responsible, compassionate, and courageous individuals who value community service and are interested in a rewarding career. As a member of our team, you will enhance the quality of life for City of Eau Claire residents and visitors by protecting lives and property through fire suppression, emergency medical services, disaster response, fire prevention, and public education. Join the Eau Claire Fire Department to be part of a professional, inclusive, and progressive team. We are now accepting applications for current Firefighter openings and the hiring eligibility list. Deadline to apply: Open until filled, apply by November 10th to be considered for an interview.

NEW - Transit Supervisor (Transit): Do you have great communication skills, supervisory experience, and an interest in public transit? The City of Eau Claire is now accepting applications for a Transit Supervisor! In this role, you’ll support our Bus Operators and help ensure safe, reliable, and efficient transportation for our community. Deadline to apply: Sunday, November 16th at 11:59PM.

Volunteer Roles

Clearwater Parade: We are calling all volunteers to help make the Clearwater Winter Parade shine! Join in the fun and help bring this festive event to life. For more information, visit Clearwater Winter Events | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin The parade will be held on Friday, December 5th on Grand Avenue, at 6:30PM, and it gets kicked off with fireworks over the Grand Avenue bridge.

CLOSURES/DETOURS, OPENINGS, DEADLINES, ALERTS, & REMINDERS:

Eddy Lane Update: Residents on and around Eddy Lane have been patiently waiting for completion of the road reconstruction project, after there have been some delays. Our Engineering Director shared these updates: “Water issues were resolved, and final water connections were completed this week. Concrete forming and pouring was scheduled to be completed this week, and concrete sidewalk and driveway work will continue into the week of November 10th.  The paver is tentatively scheduled for Friday, November 7th continuing into the week of November 10th, pending weather. Please note that the schedule is pending weather, equipment, and other factors that we may not have control over, but we now have safe water which was the big hurdle that was extending this project. We apologize for the inconvenience for neighborhood residents, and we hope to have the project wrapped up the week of November 17th." Questions can be directed to Engineering at engineering@eauclairewi.gov or 715-839-4934.

Compost-Palooza: Free compost will be available again on Saturday, November 8th (8AM to 3PM) and Wednesday, November 12th (10AM to 6PM) at the Green Waste Site. This is self-serve, load-your-own event. Bring containers and tools! The Green Waste Facility located at 5710 Jeffers Road will close for the season at 3PM on Saturday, November 22nd. This date is subject to change if weather conditions warrant. For further details, please visit www.eauclairewi.gov/brush. The event flier is shown below.

Odd/Even Parking Restrictions: As of November 1st, the City is enforcing winter odd/even parking restrictions. Alternate Side Parking rules are in effect even if there is no snow. If you're new to Eau Claire or just need a refresher, visit EauClaireWI.gov/AlternateSideParking for what you need to know. Alternate Side Parking rules do not replace more restrictive parking regulations, including any street posted with No Parking sign. Pictured below is a car with a warning parking citation.

FoodShare Updates: The news about the status of FoodShare has been evolving. Full November FoodShare benefits are now available on all QUEST cards. FoodShare members can check their FoodShare balance by calling QUEST Card Services at 877-415-5164. Further updates can be found here: FoodShare: News for Members | Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Residents may access food or contribute to help others at these locations: the Community Table and Feed my People Food Bank.  

Street Updates: Take a look at an updated Street Closure Report.

Closures/Work Underway:

• South Dewey Street (Emery to Lake)

• East Polk Ave (Nimitz to East Lexington)

• Eddy Lane (Wellington Drive East to Venus Avenue)

• Emery Street (South Farwell to South Dewey)

• First Street (Platt Street to Third Street)

• May Street (East Polk to East Lexington)

• Mars Avenue (Eddy Lane to Virginia Lane)

• Otter Road (East Clairemont Ave Frontage Road North to Vernon Street)

• Pleasant Street (South Hastings Way to Vernon Street)

• Vernon Street (Otter Road to Pleasant Street)

Upcoming Construction and Closure

• Festival Foods Turkey Trot, Thursday, November 27th, 7 to 10AM (sections of: Graham, Eau Claire Street, Riverfront Terrace, Madison, Oxford, First, Lake)

WAYS TO GET IN TOUCH: We encourage you to use these different ways to follow City news and reach out to us.

• Follow our social media accounts. Those accounts include: Police, K9 Murphy, Fire, Transit, Parks/Recreation, Fairfax Pool, Hobbs Ice Arena, Economic Development, and the General City account. Some of the accounts allow constituents to send direct messages, which staff will respond to.

• Use web forms. Submit a question or comment via our web forms: Service Request | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin We will reply, and I will continue to share the FAQs we hear in the weekly newsletter.

• Contact City Council. Council Members welcome contacts, and you can reach them here: City Council

• Sign up for City notices. The City sends out notices on many different topics, and you can elect to receive any of them here: Sign Up for eNotifications | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Attend Council Meetings. Individuals can stream or attend City Council meetings, and each Monday evening session has a period of public comment. Meetings can be found here: Meetings | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Attend (or apply to be part of) a Board, Commission, or Committee: Individuals can also attend the meetings of our different volunteer committees. Those also have a public comment period. Residents can learn more here: Boards, Commissions & Committees | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Invite us to a meeting. We are also always happy to send staff and Council Members to other meetings residents or stakeholders would like to hold. We can attend book clubs, lectures, classes, church assemblies, etc. We will come to you -- just let us know where and when.

• Join (or form) a Neighborhood Association. Neighborhood Associations are the building blocks of community ties and community change. Visit this site to learn more about how to join or create a Neighborhood Association: Neighborhood Associations | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Try the ECPD app. Download the app to find the Report a Crime form, track career opportunities, and get instant alerts: https://www.joinecpd.org/ecpdapp

• Volunteer. Get involved in the nuts and bolts of City Operations by volunteering to staff the winter parade, to help maintain a park, or more. Learn more here: Volunteer Opportunities | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Contact the ADA Coordinator. Have a question about accessibility? Contact the ADA Coordinator here: ADACoordinator@EauClaireWI.gov, or learn more here: ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act Information

• Contact Us. Find more ways to reach us via this page: Contact Us - Service Directory | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

COUNCIL CALENDAR (Tentative – Please see: City Calendar | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin (eauclairewi.gov) for most complete and up-to-date list of public meetings)

• Monday, November 10th, Strategic Planning Session, Library Riverview Room, 4PM

• Monday, November 10th, Public Hearing, Council Chambers, 6PM

• Tuesday, November 11th, Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 4PM

• Monday, December 8th, Public Hearing, Council Chambers, 6PM

• Tuesday, December 9th, Council Meeting, Council Chambers 4PM

• December 22nd and 23rd Meetings Cancelled