Demolition of former Weber Tackle building approved

STEVENS POINT — The Historic Preservation/Design Review Commission has unanimously approved the demolition of the building at 1039 Ellis Street, the future site of the new city hall.
During the Jan. 13 meeting, the commission discussed the history of the building that stretches back almost one hundred years. Built in 1928, the original business in the building was Weber Tackle, one of the biggest fishing tackle companies in the nation. Over the decades the building has seen several new faces and businesses, most recently housing CREATE Portage County, which has since relocated to Maria Drive.
Mayor Mike Wiza spoke at the meeting about the future city hall and how it will honor the historic building that stood before it. Wiza stated that while working with the contractor for the new city hall they have incorporated elements of the original Weber Tackle building into the design.
Prior to considering demolition, the Ellis Street building had been considered for the new city hall with renovations and remodeling. Wiza said, “It was determined that there were enough issues with the existing building both structurally and in regards to efficiencies for City Hall.”
Following the commission’s approval, a final approval for demolition will be decided on Jan. 20 at the Common Council meeting.
During a Nov. Common Council meeting, Somerville Project Architect, Justin Marquis, gave an update on the design and construction of the new building. According to Marquis, construction on the new building is estimated to start on May 18, 2026.