Merrill leaders pitch TID 13 to industrial developers, highlight utilities and workforce

Presenters told the redevelopment authority that TID 13 is being actively marketed to industrial and manufacturing developers, stressing Merrill’s manufacturing history, training partners and highway access.

"For at least the next few years, this TID is considered an industrial TID," the presentation stated, and presenters walked the council through a developer-facing packet that included site photos, workforce data and utility options. The materials show roughly 65 acres total with about 56 acres developable and currently zoned industrial; staff said they are asking approximately $11,600 per acre.

The pitch emphasized workforce and training partners as selling points. Presenters pointed to North Central Technical College and University of Wisconsin outreach programs as sources of skilled labor and flexible training for employers. The packet highlighted local apprenticeship links and NTC’s capacity to tailor short-term credentials and mobile, worksite-based instruction.

Utilities and connectivity were described as the limiting factors. Presenters displayed quotes from fiber providers and told the board, "We can achieve 3 megawatts. 50 megawatts might be possible," noting that water and wastewater extensions remain the principal barrier to landing a tenant. Consultant feedback after an in-person pitch recommended closer work with utility providers and additional workforce drive-time demographics for the marketing materials.

Council members asked about target industries and funding. Presenters said SSG and Centergy are developing a short list of target industries for Central Wisconsin; they cautioned that state funding availability may fluctuate in an election year and that the team is preparing multiple scenarios. The board was told the city may pursue grants or a TID borrowing to support sewer and water extensions if partners and funding align.

The presentation closed with an acknowledgement that marketing will be a multi-year effort and that the city controls the site, which the presenters argued is attractive to developers because it reduces permitting complexity. The authority received copies of the presentation and the team said they will circulate the full packet by email.