Appleton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Appleton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Special Revenue Funds and conservancy funding
The special revenue funds budget shows no withdrawals planned for 2027. Staff also noted the conservancy remains a passive park with no near-term development planned; a trailhead could come with the Power Line Trail around 2029-2030.
Holiday Closure Schedule for 2027
With Christmas and New Year's falling on weekends in 2027, the library will observe Christmas Day on the Thursday before Christmas Eve — closing Thursday through Saturday and reopening Sunday both holiday weeks.
College Avenue tree planter uplighting
A bundle of permits advanced downtown improvements: Edison-style alley lighting, tree planter uplighting as a trial, a pet waste station, and mannequin displays. All aim at walkability, safety, and downtown vibrancy.
Reid Golf Course record revenue
Reid Golf Course had its highest-grossing month ever in August 2026, with spending in line with prior years — signaling a very successful season that supports the course's financial health.
Rally for Equality special event
The committee recommended approval of a special event application for the Rally for Equality on August 26, moving it to the Common Council for final action.
Children's summer program success
The ten-week summer library program drew at least 1,100 kids, with new caregiver prizes and an ASL magic show drawing 400-plus attendees. Staff also brought story times to 17 childcare centers reaching 931 children.
New Parks and Recreation Director
Tom Flick, a 29-year parks and facilities veteran who has run the department on an interim basis since January, was confirmed as the city's next Parks and Recreation Director.
Grand piano repair
The library's donated Yamaha grand piano lost a key top and will be out for warranty repair for roughly six weeks this summer, pausing piano use after June 2. Scheduled recitals through the rest of the year are unaffected.
Houdini Plaza welcome tower panels
New photo and poster panels for the Houdini Plaza welcome tower were approved as part of the city's celebration of 100 years since Houdini's passing. The Appleton Public Arts Committee picked the images from more than 30 submissions.