By Taylor J. Hale 

MMC Staff Writer

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Mayor Zach Vruwink provides an update on all things Wisconsin Rapids. This week, Vruwink discussed recreation center updates, committee changes, and more.

Recreation Center Updates

Area leaders are considering working with partners to help with funding and marketing for the city’s upcoming recreation center.

“Essentially, we are continuing to meet with prospective donors and now corporations that are interested in the project,” Vruwink said.

The city will offer packages for large-scale donations, allowing for possible employee usage or corporate days at the new facilities.

Vruwink noted that the Legacy Foundation is currently matching recreation center donations up to $500,000.  The city has raised roughly $2.5 million towards the project but is still seeking another $3 million.

Zoo Updates

A $300,000 donation made to the city zoo two years ago is slated to be used this year. Parks & recreation committee members discussed the updates at a meeting on Feb. 10.

“The idea is, over this year, we will work to institute at least $300,000 worth of improvements from the gift that we received,” Vruwink explained.

Vruwink said the improvements could involve a new aviary sanctuary or other attraction.

Legislative Committee Changes

Slight changes to the city’s legislative committee could be made this month. The amendments would alter the necessary number of agenda items that it takes to trigger an official meeting.

Vruwink said that on occasion, it could take months to gather four items to be discussed.

The changes would allow the body to meet with fewer planned items. While special meetings can be called to address a single issue, the amendment would give the body more flexibility.