Wausau Alderperson Urges Voters to Seek Facts, Not Easy Promises

Incumbent Lisa Rasmussen says Wausau's financial challenges require realistic solutions, not misleading claims.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:50pm

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A serene, painterly image of a government building in Wausau, Wisconsin, bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of civic responsibility and the complexities of local governance.A nostalgic, cinematic depiction of Wausau's municipal government, reflecting the city's complex financial challenges and the need for nuanced solutions.Wausau Today

In a letter to the editor, Wausau Alderperson Lisa Rasmussen is urging voters to separate fact from fiction ahead of the April 7 election. Rasmussen addresses several 'myths' she says are being spread, including claims about reducing water rates, the city's debt levels, and the use of tax increment financing (TIF) districts. She argues that Wausau's financial situation is more complex than some candidates are portraying, and that voters should choose candidates who are honest about the challenges the city faces.

Why it matters

This letter provides important context about Wausau's fiscal situation and the complexity of issues like water rates, debt, and TIF districts. As voters prepare to head to the polls, it's crucial they have accurate information to make informed decisions about the city's future direction.

The details

Rasmussen addresses several 'myths' she says are being spread about Wausau's finances. She argues that water rates are set by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, not the city council, and that eliminating the payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) would not necessarily lead to lower rates. She also says Wausau's overall debt levels are well below the statutory limit, and that much of the utility debt is the result of mandated upgrades. Regarding TIF districts, Rasmussen says the city cannot simply close them early due to outstanding obligations. She argues the city's finance committee and council are prudent in their use of borrowing, guided by financial advisors.

  • The April 7 election is approaching.

The players

Lisa Rasmussen

Alderperson for District 7 on the Wausau City Council.

Wausau City Council

The governing body of the City of Wausau, Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Public Service Commission

The state agency that regulates utility rates in Wisconsin.

Ehlers

Wausau's financial planning firm that provides advice on the city's finances.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The state agency that mandated upgrades to Wausau's water and wastewater systems.

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What they’re saying

“Voters, please consider the facts and ask questions of your alders that have access to real info when things others say seem too easy. If there were simple solutions, we'd already have them.”

— Lisa Rasmussen, Alderperson, District 7

What’s next

Voters in Wausau will head to the polls on April 7 to elect city council members. Rasmussen's letter urges them to carefully evaluate the claims and promises made by candidates and to seek out factual information about the city's financial situation.

The takeaway

Wausau's financial challenges are complex, and simplistic solutions or unrealistic promises are unlikely to address the city's needs. Voters should choose candidates who are honest about the difficulties the city faces and propose realistic, sustainable approaches to improving Wausau's fiscal health.