The future of the former UW-Green Bay Marinette campus continues to unfold in what has become a years-long community conversation filled with uncertainty, emotion, and debate. During this week’s Marinette County Board meeting, County Administrator Kevin Soloway provided a major update on redevelopment efforts — while supervisors later approved appointments to a special redevelopment committee. Marinette County Administrator Kevin Soloway says discussions are continuing with the City of Marinette, the YMCA, and state officials as the county tries to determine what comes next for the former UWGB Marinette campus. Soloway says the county is also moving forward with plans tied to a two-million-dollar state redevelopment grant.

Soloway also says one major hurdle has now been removed. Previously, the county had to fully exit its lease agreement with UW-Green Bay before applying for grant money. That requirement has now changed.

Supervisors also discussed the emotional and economic importance of the campus, particularly the theater and surrounding facilities, while debating appointments to a newly formed redevelopment committee. Supervisor Trygve Rhude, who has been involved with community advocacy efforts surrounding the campus, called the property a unique asset to Marinette County.

Rhude also stressed that the redevelopment process itself will be critical moving forward, adding that professional guidance may ultimately be needed to help shape the campus’ future.

The county’s newly approved redevelopment committee is expected to begin evaluating long-term options for the campus in the coming months.

FULL STORY