On April 9-10, nearly 60 business and community leaders from across Central Wisconsin gathered at the state capitol for the 20th Annual Central Wisconsin Days — hosted by the Central WI Alliance for Economic Development (Centergy), the region’s leading economic development organization.
This signature event continues to drive collaboration and strategic investment across the region’s five counties — Adams, Lincoln, Marathon, Portage and Wood. With Domtar’s Rothschild Mill located in Marathon County and the nearby Nekoosa Mill located in Wood County, the event was ideal for advocating core policy priorities that support the region’s long-term economic growth, stability and competitiveness.
Discussions centered on pressing workforce challenges, including housing, business tax credits, education and infrastructure. Participants formed teams to meet with lawmakers, presenting issue papers and sharing firsthand experiences to underscore the urgency of these matters.
Dan Persica, public affairs, represented Domtar’s Rothschild and Nekoosa mills at the event and joined other attendees to discuss the challenges facing local residents and businesses during meetings with dozens of lawmakers and their staff. Joining Persica was Dave Faucett, general manager of the Rothschild Mill.
“Engaging directly with policymakers allows us to convey the real-world impacts of legislative decisions on our businesses and communities,” Persica said. “Central Wisconsin Days provides a platform for unified voices to drive meaningful change.”
Central Wisconsin Days continues to be a powerful example of what is possible when regional stakeholders unite to shape public policy. The event highlights the importance of consistent, collaborative advocacy to support the long-term success of Central Wisconsin’s communities and economy.
“Central Wisconsin’s future depends on smart, strategic investment in the foundations of our regional prosperity,” said Angel Laidlaw, president and CEO of Centergy. “These priorities reflect what our communities need now — and what they’ll need to stay competitive and resilient in the years ahead.”
