In a significant development, the Finance Committee of Stevens Point has approved changes to an ordinance that was initially passed by a narrow margin nearly two and a half years ago. The amendments, which will now be forwarded to the Common Council for final approval, modify the threshold for public votes on infrastructure projects and exclude utility costs from the calculation. This decision comes as the city prepares for major construction on Business 51, a project that has faced considerable scrutiny and debate.

The original ordinance, crafted by local business owners in opposition to the city's plans for rebuilding Business 51, mandated referendums for any road construction project exceeding $1 million. However, this requirement proved cumbersome, leading to delays and rising costs. In response, the committee voted 4-1 to amend Subsection 4.18 of the Revised Municipal Code, raising the referendum threshold to $20 million and excluding utility-related expenses from the total project cost. District Eight alderperson Dean Shuda cast the lone dissenting vote.

Shaun Morrow, representing District 11, highlighted the challenges posed by the existing ordinance during the meeting. He noted that most public works projects, particularly those involving roads and utilities, exceed the $1 million threshold, resulting in prolonged processes and escalating costs. "Each delay drives up the price tag," Morrow emphasized, pointing to the extensive consultations and planning sessions that have already taken place over the past few years.

Mayor Mike Wiza also expressed concerns about the impact of the original ordinance on project timelines. He explained that the requirement for referendums had slowed down the process significantly, with some projects taking up to a year and a half just to determine feasibility. The mayor stressed the importance of moving forward efficiently, especially as the north section of Business 51 is set to begin construction soon.

The City Council is expected to review the amended ordinance at its next regular meeting, scheduled for January 21st, following the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This move represents a pivotal moment in the city's approach to large-scale infrastructure projects, aiming to streamline processes while still ensuring transparency and public involvement.