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Spring Election: Tomahawk Voters to Decide on Levy Referendum

Published on 04/06/2026 under News The spring elections are coming up Tuesday. In addition to local races, voters in the city of Tomahawk will decide on a levy referendum. After several consecutive years of difficult decisions to balance their budget, the Tomahawk City Council placed the spending request on the spring ballot. The City is seeking a 20% increase to the base levy, which amounts to approximately $276,000. If approved, it would result in an increase of $75 for a $100,000 property. The state largely restricts the ability of municipalities to increase their tax levy without voter approval. Ahead of the vote, city leaders hosted three public informational sessions in an effort to educate voters on why they are seeking the additional fund. They noted that costs have outpaced levy growth, while also discussing potential cuts if the referendum is not approved. While referendum questions have been common for school districts around the state, more municipalities are turning to them in recent years. Voters in the Town of Minocqua approved a referendum in 2024. As for Tomahawk, voters will ultimately decide on a ballot that will also feature a mayor, city council, school board and county board races. We'll have a ballot preview on election day.

Published on 04/06/2026 under News The Oneida County Health Department is inviting the community to take action and prioritize their well-being as part of National Public Health Week. This year's theme, "Ready. Set. Action!" highlights the importance of small, everyday steps that can lead to healthier communities. Public health officials say their work goes far beyond clinics and hospitals, focusing on preventing illness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring safe environments for everyone. From restaurant safety and vaccinations to emergency preparedness and health education, public health efforts play a role in daily life across Oneida County. To mark the week, the Oneida County Health Department is hosting a variety of events and activities highlighted by a pop-up clinic on Wednesday (at the YMCA of the Northwoods) where they will offer services like free blood pressure screenings, mental health assessments, and heart-healthy snacks. They've also partnered with some local coffee shops to offer specialty drinks this week, they'll post online trivia and a virtual scavenger hunt, and some free goodie bags Friday at the Health Department. Officials say the goal is simple: encourage people to take small, meaningful steps to help build a stronger, more connected community.

Published on 04/06/2026 under News Hunters and landowners across northern Wisconsin have a couple of opportunities to weigh in on how the state manages its deer herd. The DNR is teaming up with local Citizen Deer Advisory Councils to gather public feedback ahead of the 2026 deer season. Input will help shape decisions on harvest quotas, season structure and other key management tools. State wildlife officials say this process allows for more localized decision-making. Each deer management unit has its own advisory council, which meets annually to review herd data, including harvest numbers and winter conditions. The Northern Forest Zone will be working with the updated, habitat-based management units, which replaced the county-based system. The first opportunity for public input opened over the weekend via the online feedback. That period runs through Sunday April 12. Then, the last two weeks of April, each CDAC will hold a local meeting where attendees can review data, discuss herd health and share concerns. Final recommendations will be presented to the Natural Resources Board in June for approval ahead of the fall hunting season.

Published on 04/06/2026 under News It's that time of year when bears will be emerging from their winter slumber. The DNR is encouraging folks to 'Be Bear Aware' to avoid conflicts. Every spring, Wisconsin's estimated 24,000 black bears emerge from their winter torpor, leaving their dens in search of food and potentially new territory. The 'Be Bear Aware' campaign encourages people to limit attractants that may draw bears in to unwanted locations. According to the DNR, black bears are known for returning to spots where they've found good food sources, and prevention is the best tactic. Some common reminders if you are in bear territory:• Garbage and recycling containers. If stored outdoors rinse them out occasionally • Remove bird feeders when bears are active • Store pet food inside, and bring their food dishes in after feeding • Regularly clean grills, smokers, and picnic areas Experts also offered a few tips if you encounter a bear. In your yard, ensure it has a clear escape route, then try and scare it away with loud noises. If you encounter a bear in the woods, stay calm and make your self big, while slowly backing away. Try to stay calm and do not run. The DNR has additional information on Be Bear Aware on their website.

Published on 04/06/2026 under News A Highway 51 project near Tomahawk begins this week that will require a temporary detour. Construction crews will start work on US 51 between US Highway 8 and Oneida County L. This project involves repairing concrete pavement, resurfacing the asphalt and bridge repairs. The first phase of the project will include a full closure and detour. That's scheduled to begin this week and run through mid-May. Phase 2, the duration of the summer, work will continue, but Highway 51 is expected to remain open with single lane closures. A few other quick reminders on Northwoods road construction… The Highway 86/County D overpass over Highway 51 in Tomahawk is also currently closed due to bridge work.Work also began last week on Highway 51 in Minocqua. At least one lane of traffic will remain open in each direction throughout the summer-long project.Drivers can check 511 Wisconsin for updates and ongoing and upcoming road construction projects and traffic impacts.

Published on 04/06/2026 under News A Tomahawk native and THS Grad is making the most of her education participating in a national competition. Haley Liebelt, a student at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, recently competed in the 2026 Operation Stimulus Supply Chain Case Competition, held at Colorado State University. Liebelt, an operations and supply chain management major from Tomahawk, was one of five UW-Whitewater students selected to take part in the national event, which brings together 20 top college teams from across the country to collaborate, innovate, and solve real-world industry challenges. Now in its 43rd year, the competition is considered the longest-running of its kind in North America, highlighting emerging talent and connecting students with industry leaders. Back on campus, Liebelt also serves as president of UW-Whitewater's Association for Supply Chain Management, helping lead fellow students interested in the growing field.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News As cleanup continues from yesterday's ice storm, thousands are still without power, and another round of winter weather could be on the way. According to an update provided by Wisconsin Public Service last evening, crews had already restored electricity to more than 44,000 customers. As of daybreak Friday, more than 21,000 customers remain in the dark. Spokesman Matt Cullen says crews are working around the clock to repair widespread damage caused by heavy ice and strong winds, including downed lines, broken poles, and trees tangled in electrical equipment. The hardest-hit areas include parts of central and northeast Wisconsin, though outages are scattered across the Northwoods as well. Adding to the challenge, another round of ice is in the forecast for Friday night into Saturday morning, which could bring additional outages, especially further north in the service area. WPS says it appreciates the public's patience as crews continue working nonstop to get the lights back on. Customers can track restoration updates through the WPS app or online outage map, though officials warn repair times may change as crews assess damage. (Photo provided by Wisconsin Public Service: Icy storm damage in Stevens Point on April 2, 2026)

Published on 04/03/2026 under News The recent stretch of weather may have created a challenging situation for migrating birds, and a local rescue is asking residents to be on the look out for any loons that wind up on land. Local loon rescue duo Kevin and Linda Grenzer put out a message to their followers on social media warning of what is known as 'loon fall out'. This occurs when migrating loons develop ice on their bodies. It interfering with their flight ability, and they fall out of the sky. Loons have limited mobility on land and are unable to take off into the air. We've experienced this phenomenon on several occasions in recent years. The Grenzers encourage people to watch for any loons in unusual spots like roads, parking lots, fields, or small ponds. If you come across a stranded loon, call a local expert like REGI, Loon Rescue, or your local wildlife center to advise on the next steps. The bird likely needs to be checked out for injuries before a return to the wild.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News The spring election is just days away, and voters across the Northwoods will be heading to the polls to weigh in on local races, from city councils to school boards and county leadership. In Tomahawk, the spotlight is on the mayor's race, where the city will see new leadership for the first time in a decade. Current mayor Steve Taskay is not seeking re-election after serving since 2016. With the seat open, two newcomers to elected city office, Michael 'Hob' Habeck and Jeffery Koth, are making their final case to voters. Both recently joined WJJQ's morning conversation program to discuss key issues like housing, city finances, and the future of Tomahawk. Those conversations are available now in the WJJQ Audio Center for voters to check out before cast a ballot. Tomahawk isn't the only community with a closely watched mayoral race. In Merrill, incumbent Steve Hass is facing a challenge from former mayor Derek Woellner. And in Rhinelander, current mayor Kris Hanus is running against city council member Thomas Barnett. Election Day is Tuesday, April 7.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News Somo Avenue in Tomahawk is one of the roughest stretches to drive in the city. As they await a long-term fix, the city may work with the county on a temporary solution. The segment doubles as State Road 86, and the city has been awaiting a full reconstruction from the state for years. At Tuesday's Board of Public Works meeting, during his monthly report, Street Lead Nick Rosenmeier briefly discussed a possible plan. Recently, the previous overlay has started to come up, leaving large potholes that are difficult to fill and maintain. Rosenmeier had preliminary discussions with the county to wedge the top layer and put down an overlay. The project would likely take a couple of days, and ideally be completed ahead of the summer tourism season. It would likely require another project planned this year, on Bradley Farm Road, to be pushed into 2027. Details still need to be worked out with the county, and the Board of Public Works would need to approve the project.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News A new investment could help breathe fresh life into the Northwoods forestry industry. Governor Evers signed the Forestry Revitalization Act into law, a bipartisan measure co-authored by local Senator Mary Felzkowski. The legislation provides tax credits to support a proposed, new facility that will convert woody biomass into sustainable aviation fuel. Officials say the project is expected to bring billions of dollars in economic impact to Northern Wisconsin, while creating thousands of jobs, not only at the plant itself, but across supporting industries like logging, trucking, and forest management. That's welcome news for the region's forestry sector, which has seen declines in recent years due to changing markets and mill closures. Leaders say the new demand for woody biomass could help stabilize and grow the industry by creating a new, long-term market for forest products. Felzkowski called it transformative for the Northwoods economy and forest products sector, noting she was 'thrilled that, after months of hard work from all our Northwoods legislators, we were able to get this across the finish line." Governor Tony Evers says the move positions Wisconsin as a leader in the growing sustainable aviation fuel market, where demand is expected to rise sharply in the coming decades.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News Anglers across the Northwoods are gearing up for an early start to trout season this weekend. The DNR says the inland trout season opens April 4th this year, about a month earlier than in the past. The early start is for the state's inland streams and springs. The early open harvest season for trout does not apply to inland lakes and ponds. Officials say trout populations are strong statewide, and the earlier opener was supported by the public to expand spring fishing opportunities. Langlade County continues to stand out for high-quality trout streams, with clear, cold waters that attract anglers from across the region. Areas like the Wolf River and its tributaries are known for healthy trout populations and scenic fishing spots. The DNR reminds anglers they'll need a valid fishing license and trout stamp, and to check updated bag and length limits for the new season. They're also encouraging everyone to help protect local waterways by cleaning gear and preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News An Athens man accused of cutting the brake lines of another man's vehicles on multiple occasions will spend four years in prison. Back in December, David Genrich pleaded no-contest to one count of attempted first-degree recklessly endangering safety and three counts of criminal damage to property. In exchange 5 other charges were dismissed, but were considered during sentencing. The 24 year old was arrested in the spring of 2023 after an investigation into multiple instances of vehicle brakelines being cut. Court documents show Genrich later admitted to cutting the brakelines and stating he wanted to date the younger man's girlfriend. Following the four year prison sentence, Genrich will also have 5 years of extended supervision. He was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News More than 80 seniors and their advocates came together in Lincoln County over the weekend for the Northwoods Senior Breakfast, part of the Senior Empowerment Project...and the conversation was just as important as the meal. Attendees at the Saturday morning breakfast in Merrill shared their top concerns affecting local seniors. Transportation continues to be a challenge, especially to other communities and weekends. Social isolation was another major topic of concern, particularly for seniors who feel left behind by technology and struggle to stay connected to community resources. Access to healthcare, along with caregiver support and respite care, also ranked high on the list. Organizer Eileen Guthrie says the work doesn't stop there. The group will now take what they heard over the weekend and begin working toward solutions to better serve seniors in the Northwoods. The Senior Empowerment Project has grown into a statewide movement, building on efforts in several Wisconsin counties to preserve and expand services for older adults. Here in Lincoln County, the group emerged out of the efforts of People for Pine Crest. Organizers say they were encouraged by the strong turnout in Merrill and are eager to keep the momentum going. As for the meal, they asked for a $1 donation for the Merrill Area Food Pantry and raised more than $250. If you'd like to get involved, you can learn more by visiting their website at Senior-Empowerment.org, their Facebook page, or revisit our earlier conversation with Guthrie in the WJJQ audio center.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News Students at Rhinelander High School got a chance to experience some real world financial situations in a fictional setting. On Wednesday, the district collaborated with Rhinelander Partners in Education to offer their annual Mad Money learning event. They provided a full day of opportunity for students to learn more about home budgeting and job hiring process. The morning session was focused on finances. The students were assigned to fictional lives including jobs, families, bills, medical and childcare needs, and other real-world expenses. The students had to balance a budget within their assigned life. Then in the afternoon session, those same students experienced a job search which included mock interviews. The district brought in more than 30 local business professionals to conduct the interviews. The session also included a Shark Tank-inspired game and a presentation from speaker Michael McGowan. In addition to Rhinelander, students from Three Lakes were able to participate.

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