By Joe Bachman

The first common council of the year was held on Tuesday night. Here are some notables from the meeting. 

Welcome Aboard

Pictured: Zach Mueller, Mike Duchrow and Josh Russell were sworn in by City Clerk Paul Przybelski. (City Times Photo)

Three probationary firefighters were promoted to regular status Wisconsin Rapids firefighters. Zach Mueller, Mike Duchrow and Josh Russell were sworn in by City Clerk Paul Przybelski. The trio were also presented with the department coin and wallet badge by Chief Kerkman.

They will start active firefighting duty, effective immediately.

Migratory Bird Days Established

A resolution was passed that established the dates of June 3, and Sept. 10 as International Migratory Bird Days for the city. These days are set aside for the education and conservation of birds, and to foster appreciation for birds. Wisconsin Rapids is currently recognized as a bird city. For more information, please visit http://www.birdcitywisconsin.org/birdcities/WisconsinRapids.htm

Jim Nietzel Recognized

Retiring Wastewater Superintendent Jim Neitzel receiving a plaque of recognition by Mayor Zach Vruwink. (City Times Photo)

Retiring Wastewater Superintendent Jim Neitzel was recognized for his service to the community. He will work his last day in February to end his 38 year run with the city.

“He has seen a tremendous amount of wastewater infrastructure and operation,” said Vruwink. “I can personally say that it’s been a tremendous pleasure to work with Jim.”

“I’ve worked with a lot of smart people — people with good hearts, and I had some fun,” said Neitzel. “I’ve had a lot of fun with a lot of people I work with — you got to have a sense of humor.”

City Counteroffers Northpointe Development

The city made a counteroffer to Northpointe Development for the future development of workforce townhouses on the 2300 block of 16th St. South. Workforce housing traditionally targets gainfully employed. low to middle income families. Northpointe introduced plans to buy out the property and build on Dec. 5 at the Finance & Property meeting.

The counteroffer includes certain contingencies that Northpointe must follow. This includes maintaining satisfactory improvements and upkeep on the area, obtaining a Phase One Environmental Report, Geotehnical Engineering Report, and an ALTA Survey, as well as land and forest conservation.

A limit of 32 apartments has been set, according to the contract.