Room Tax Commission approves $25,000 toward Domtar Dam modernization

The Room Tax Commission in Wausau approved a $25,000 allocation from room-tax funds to support modernization of Domtar Dam, the body said during a short meeting in 2026.

Chair opened the meeting and introduced the single agenda item: a request for $25,000 to help match a grant for the Domtar Dam modernization project. The Chair said neighboring communities with an interest in Lake Wausau were being asked to contribute and referenced a matching grant from the Alexander Foundation.

Alderman Neil said he supported the request in principle but raised a procedural concern about whether infrastructure spending fits the commission's charter, which he described as focused on "events and marketing." He said, "This is more infrastructure. Just want to make sure that you know, since our charter is that you know, we support events and marketing... this is more infrastructure. Just want to make sure that we're within our charter to be doing this for infrastructure."

Mary Ann Lewitsky responded that the commission has previously used room-tax dollars on infrastructure projects that are reasonably likely to generate overnight stays, citing the Peckham Way Trail as a recent example. Lewitsky said the commission's authorized uses include "tangible municipal development that's reasonably likely to generate room tax stays or overnight stays," and that under that standard the Domtar Dam request is appropriate.

After no further discussion, Alderman Neil moved to approve the $25,000 contribution; Lewitsky seconded. The commission approved the motion by voice vote and the Chair declared it carried. The transcript records multiple "aye" responses but does not give a numerical roll-call tally.

The Chair then moved to adjourn; Lukens seconded and the commission voted to adjourn.

The funding item will be implemented according to the commission's usual procedures; the transcript does not record any specific follow-up steps, a timeline for disbursement, or the exact number of commissioners who voted in favor.