Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 8:30 am - 1:30 pm
VFW Weyerhaeuser, N3786 4th Street, Weyerhaeuser
The 14th annual series of Small Community Forums will be held in four locations in September and October to facilitate dialogue between small communities, address common issues, network, share best practices, and identify strategies to address shared concerns.
These convenings are about sharing ideas, learning, and networking concerning the health and future of rural Wisconsin. People interested in small towns and rural Wisconsin are invited to attend, including those involved in quality-of-life issues, business, government, education, the non-profit sector, and civic and community development.
Forum Agenda
Rusk County | October 1, 2025 | 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Weyerhaeuser VFW Post 5780, N3786 4th Street, Weyerhaeuser, WI
7:30 am Registration/coffee and rolls
8:00 am Welcome and Introductions
8:45 am Local Case Studies: Showcasing area projects.
- Weyerhaeuser Pickleball project
- The redevelopment of Weyerhaeuser's Historical Buildings
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- 1909 Soo Line Railroad depot
- Old Fire Hall
9:45 am Community Involved Employers: Impact on Community Development
Spotlighting an exemplary area employer who is creating or investing in local community development. The discussion will include the benefits to both the employer and the community, as well as how they became involved.
Highlighted Employer: Kyle Czekalski, Partner | COO, Centerline Architectural Solutions
10:30 am The Rural Livability Project: An Update
Project Leaders at the University of Wisconsin College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
11:00 am Roundtable Discussions: Local and area topics
Noon Wrap-up & Lunch with colleagues and resource leaders
1:00 pm Optional Tours:
- Centerline Architectural Solutions facility, You will quite surprised of Centerline
- 1909 Soo Line Railroad depot and Old Fire Hall
$25 registration, includes light breakfast and lunch
Who Should Attend: Civic leaders, elected officials, volunteers, business leaders, educators, and local and regional economic development associations are encouraged to participate. Representatives from various state and regional resource partners will be available to connect with attendees and offer guidance on specific concerns raised during the sessions.
