Wausau Resident Criticizes City's Use of Tax Dollars for Luxury Housing

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Wausau resident and former city alder Tom Kilian has criticized the city's use of taxpayer dollars to fund luxury housing developments, such as the new Foundry on 3rd apartment complex. Kilian argues that the city should instead focus on leveraging public funds to address the real local demand for more affordable housing options, rather than subsidizing high-end rentals that many residents cannot afford.

Why it matters

Kilian's critique raises important questions about the city's economic development priorities and whether using public money to support luxury housing projects is the best use of scarce resources, especially when many Wausau residents are struggling with housing affordability.

The details

Kilian points to the Foundry on 3rd development, which received over $10 million in taxpayer-backed incentives, as an example of the city funding upscale housing that may not be in high demand. He notes that the complex is currently offering a $500 incentive to lease a studio apartment, suggesting the supply of luxury units may exceed local demand. Kilian also questions whether the city should be using public funds to support amenities like pools and golf simulators at these luxury complexes, when the community's own public pools have faced funding challenges.

• In February 2026, the Foundry on 3rd luxury apartment complex is offering a $500 incentive to lease a studio apartment and move in by March 1.
• In 2017, the city purchased the former Sears building for $650,000 as part of the redevelopment of the former mall site.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Kilian suggests that if the city provides more taxpayer subsidies for a second phase of the Foundry development, which could include additional luxury amenities like a pool and golf simulator, there may be significant public backlash and criticism from Wausau residents.