A new public, non-profit corporation has been created to bring the skills, interest, and actions of local citizens together to work with local government and infrastructure decision makers to preserve, enhance and expand the cultural identity of our area.
The Association for Community and Culture LTD (ACC) was established in 2024 to create a forum for public discussion and involvement in projects that enhance the rich history of Marinette and Menominee Counties, including all the cities, towns, and villages.
While the initial focus of the group of citizens who formed the ACC is to provide input and create discussion on the fate of the UWGB-Marinette campus, which is owned by Marinette County, the ACC plans to address and involve citizens in other matters of community interest in the future.
After the University of Wisconsin’s decision was made to close the two-year campuses, responsibility to care for the property in Marinette reverted to Marinette County, as did the decision about future use.
The initial group of citizens and local community leaders in ACC looks to meet with Marinette County officials to emphasize the important history of the area in and around the UWGB-Marinette campus. That area includes Native American historical sites, the Chautauqua assemblies of the 19th Century and the educational and cultural exposure of college students and the community since the 1960s.
The ACC held its first public meeting on Jan. 15, which featured Marinette County Administrator John Lefebvre, who spoke about the decision deadlines the county faces to address the lease with UWGB, as well as possible $2 million grants available for renovation or revamping plans.
“Having over 80 people attend our first Association for Culture and Community meeting highlights the shared passion and interest in shaping our community’s future,” said Wendy Dzurick, ACC president. “There seems to be genuine interest in citizen collaboration and partnership with local governments as we shape our future.”
In addition to Dzurick, the ACC Directors include Trygve Rhude, Kurt Hellermann, Amy Schwaba, and Paula Gruszynski.
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