Manitowoc · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Manitowoc public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 City Budget for Police and Fire
The Finance Committee got its first look at the 2027 Executive Budget and will hold deliberation meetings on November 2, 4, and 5. No decisions were made yet — this is where spending priorities get hammered out.
2027 Executive Budget and property tax increase
The mayor's proposed budget raises the city tax rate 2.78% — about $41 a year on a $250,000 home — while adding six positions and borrowing $7.84 million. For the first time in years, the city would borrow more than it pays off, and $3.5 million of reserves would be used.
2027 Employee Health Insurance Premium Increase
City employees face a proposed 13% health premium increase for 2027, and the self-funded plan is already $1.4 million in the red. The committee wants cost-saving options — like a spousal surcharge — priced out before the Council decides on October 19.
FY27 Budget and Wages at Manitou Manor
Housing Authority staff keep their Prevea 360 coverage with only about a 4-4.5% premium bump — far less than the ~13% increase the city itself is facing.
2027 Health Insurance Premium Increase and Plan Deficit
City employees face a proposed 13% health premium increase for 2027, and the self-funded plan is already $1.4 million in the red. The committee wants cost-saving options — like a spousal surcharge — priced out before the Council decides on October 19.
School voucher cost transparency on tax bills
The committee debated how to show taxpayers what private school vouchers cost the local school district — a flyer insert, a line item, or website links. Older residents and non-internet users drove the push for a printed insert, and the final plan lets the school district produce and pay for its own flyer.