Chapter 1

ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES

 

1.1       Background

 
 
This is the first of nine elements that compose the City of Park Falls’ Comprehensive Plan.  The nine elements are:

 

*      Issues and Opportunities

*      Housing                                                                                        

*      Transportation

*      Utilities and Community Facilities

*      Land Use

*      Agricultural, Natural and Cultural Resources

*      Economic Development

*      Intergovernmental Cooperation

*      Implementation

 

The City of Park Falls is located in northern Price County.  Park Falls has a current population of about 2,700 people.  There are 900,000 acres of federal, state, and county forests surrounding the city.  Although it is a small community, there is and has been a great sense of pride in what accomplishments can be done and the materials available for use.  Natural resources abundant with major industries being ones associated with wood, health care, metal manufacturing and tourism.  Opportunities throughout the area are bountiful from a quality education to exploring the beautiful Chequamegon National Forest.      
 
 


           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below:  Promoting tourism in Park Falls during the 1950’s.

 
 

 

Above: One of the first signs on Highway 13 entering Park Falls after World War II.

 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


A.  Geography

 

Park Falls is the largest community in Price County and is located in the northern end of the county.  The city lies along the North Fork of the Flambeau River, at the intersection of State Highways 13 and 182.  Nearby communities in Price County include Phillips, the county seat, which lies 18 miles to the south, and Fifield, an unincorporated community four miles south of Park Falls.  Because of its proximity to Park Falls compared to surrounding municipalities in Ashland County, the Village of Butternut—located in southern Ashland County—uses Park Falls for shopping and work.  The elevation is 1,530 feet above sea level.  There are two kinds of topography in this Northern Highland region—upland plains and ridges.  Lakes and swamps are prevalent.  The Flambeau River travels through Price County and is a major attraction for all.     

 

B.     Climate                 

                                   

Park Falls has a continental climate type with four distinct seasons.  Summers tend to be warm with an average July temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit and a growing season lasting about 85 days.  Winters are cold with an average January temperature of 10 degrees Fahrenheit.  The average rainfall accumulation is 33 inches and snowfall is 51 inches, double the national average.  The latitude is 45.93 N and longitude is 90.45 W.  The average annual wind speed is 10.5 miles per hour. 

 

C.     History

 

Wisconsin began under French control when Jean Nicolet discovered the land in 1634.  They held control until the 1750’s when Great Britain took over with a flourishing fur trade.  Settlers began arriving in the 1820’s and came for the lead mining and excellent farmland.  During this time conflicts over land with the Native Americans arose, but after negotiations were made, settlement continued.  Two men are acknowledged for founding Park Falls, John LeValley and William F. Turner.  LeValley was the first man to search the area for timber while Turner set up the railroad track route and established Phillips, Fifield and Park Falls.      

 

Chippewa roamed northern Wisconsin in the 1600’s and participated in the fur trade.  The area now known as Price County was abounding with the resources needed to be successful, especially with the coveted beaver pelts.  The furs were then sent on a waterway journey to Canada and throughout Europe.  This brought an increase in the number of Canadians to northern Price County. 

 

In addition to trading, people took advantage of fishing, collecting wild rice, turning sap into maple syrup, and berry picking.  In fact, the Native Americans speared muskies which eventually led to the town’s first name of Muskellunge Falls.  The food sources available and the location along the mighty Flambeau River made this a region that people would inhabit and to this day, provides an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors.  The ruffed grouse (left) is a regular sight. 

 
 
Ruffed grouse

 

The history of Park Falls cannot be discussed without mentioning Henry Sherry, purchaser of the falls on the Flambeau River and adjacent lands in December 1885. Using his own innovation and the geographic location, railroad network and natural water power, Sherry chose Park Falls as the site for  development.  Within five years a dam, sawmill and pulpmill (pictured right) were built.  Soon after, the infamous log drives began, and he built new companies along the river where logs were to be taken from the water and loaded onto trains.  As an incentive to get workers, Sherry offered people enough wood to construct a house; however, Sherry’s establishments would not go without their share of problems.  Many fires blazed through the sawmills and accidents were more common than one would hope for:  Timber work was not an easy job.  Numbing, rushing rivers, axes, fires and tree felling proved to be the greatest hazards. 

 

Flambeau Crossing School, the first school in Park Falls, began on June 11, 1877.  This was a log, one-room schoolhouse.  Between 1901 and 1918 three schools were built: Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson.  The top building in the picture to the right is Washington School, constructed from 1901-1902, and the bottom is Lincoln School, constructed in 1918.  The names were given to inspire the children by honoring American Presidents during World War I.  The first students to earn a high school diploma—Lily Cohen and Charlotte Galvin— were from Washington High School in 1907.  At this time high school was a luxury and an expense because of the number of able people needed to work at the mill or at home on the farm.  Enrollments increased greatly over the next several years due to mandatory attendance and child labor laws.  For example, in 1920 the total number of students was 677 and by 1922 the number increased to 916.  Over the next several years, many propositions were made and opposed until the building of a new elementary/high school was passed in 1977.  Classes in Park Falls Elementary/High School began in January 1979, and the building continues today as the public K-12 school.             

 

The first two medical doctors were Albert Gibson and George H. Haddy.  They traveled throughout rural Price County tending to the sick, doctors going to patients.  It was a difficult task with gruesome logging accidents and traveling by candlelight to cold, late night births.  With a growing population and an increased number of loggers getting injured, a medical facility was needed.  By 1910 Edwin Riley and his wife, both doctors and pictured left, built Park Falls Hospital containing 31 beds, a radiology room and an operating room.  In 1931 Maude Murphy—a nurse—bought the hospital and added to it.  Under Murphy, workers kept the facility opened during the Depression, providing care to people even when finances were not available.  Park Falls Memorial Hospital opened in 1960 after land donations on Sherry Avenue were made but did not become Flambeau Medical Center, Inc. until 1977. 

 

The renovated Flambeau Hospital, a Marshfield Medical Center, continues to be the heart of health care in the area.  In addition to this clinic/hospital, Marshfield Clinic Park Falls Dental Clinic was opened in March 2008 and is one of four facilities that provide dental hygiene needs.  The significance of this is enormous because care is given to all people, regardless of insurance or income levels, and focuses directly on the underserved that are denied service at private dental offices.    

 

Park Falls has its own fire, rescue, and ambulance services.  The ambulance service was formed in 1968 and the first run was on December 25 with a Pontiac stationwagon.  It provided life support and transportation to Flambeau Hospital, covering over 600 square miles throughout Price and Ashland counties.  The First Responder System began in the early 1980’s because of the difficulty in ambulances getting to places in the northwoods.  This system, where a volunteer contact near the accident would be notified to provide assistance, was one of the first in Wisconsin and a model for all to follow.  Partnering with the ambulance service, there is a crew of 40 volunteer firefighters at Park Falls Fire Station.         

 

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the combined name for the two areas, has been a source of beauty, recreation and wildlife for northern Wisconsin since being named in 1934.  It was formed after millions of trees were cut in the 1800’s and early 1900’s with logging.  The barren lands were granted to the government and restoration acts began immediately.  The Chequamegon National Forest has had its headquarters in Park Falls since 1929 and continues to today (in addition to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) headquarters).

 

The majority of land for the Chequamegon National Forest was purchased for $1.25 an acre and Price County was offered 157,000 acres.  In 1934 Price, Sawyer, Bayfield and Taylor counties purchased 197,248 acres of land for $410,097.  The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) formed March 31, 1933 to fulfill many projects dealing with fire, preservation, and restoration.  It began as a group of young city boys being taught about the outdoors.  Their efforts have made the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forests more than old stumps; there are now 850,000 acres of Chequamegon National Forest surrounding Park Falls for all to benefit from.

 
 

 

With the newly established railroad tracks in 1877 hauling logs out, tourism was brought in.  People from southern Wisconsin and Illinois came north to enjoy outdoor recreation.  Resorts and hotels became popular.  Butternut Lake was a common vacation spot with the Idlewild Hotel and the first summer housing subdivision on its banks in the early 1900’s.  Today anglers still recognize the lake for its musky population.  As can be seen from the photo on the right, workers from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) take data after collecting and later releasing muskies. 

 

In the winter Lawrence Gibson brought the first snowmobile to Park Falls in 1963 and opened a dealership.  Groups like the Snow Gypsies formed in the 1960’s and continue today.  Not until the 1960’s and 1970’s did an interest for cross-country skiing bloom with the DNR and Forest Service maintaining groomed trails.  Tourism continues to grow, with a number of resorts located in the vicinity of Park Falls.  The extensive network of trails in the area draws snowmobilers in the winter and ATVs in the summer.  Park Falls’ reputation as the “Ruffed Grouse Capital of the World” attracts hunters from throughout the Midwest and East in the fall, while many other hunters also come to the area during white-tail deer season. 

 

In 1896 Boyd’s Mason Lake resort was one of the first resorts opened in northwest Price County.  Hugh Boyd and his family came from Canada to log; however, they seized the opportunity to create a tourist attraction.  From 1895 to 1926 Hugh and his two sons built all 31 cabins and several lodges from hemlock.  The old sawmill remains and these buildings are used as cabins today.  It is one of the finest American Plan Family Resorts with historically preserved buildings and refurbished interiors.   

D.     Public Participation

 

The public participation plan to initiate Park Falls’ Comprehensive Plan will follow the duration of June 2008 through the fall of 2009.  In July 2008 there will be a public meeting to discuss the Issues and Opportunities section of the plan.  Summer 2008-2009 another public meeting will be held prior to the city council meeting when each of the nine elements is completed for public and city council comments.  Fall 2009 a draft plan will be sent to DOA, NWRPC and the Park Falls Public Library.  In the fall 2009 there will be a final public hearing prior to adoption and a Class 1 Notice to be held one month prior to adoption meeting.  Prior to January 1, 2010, the city council will adopt the comprehensive plan.     

 

E.      Discussion of Issues

 

Throughout the nine elements, city issues will be discussed that are currently being pursued or planned.  Some are problems that Park Falls and Price County are facing while others are improvements to existing buildings and utilities.  The outline for these issues is:

 

            1.  Issues and Opportunities:  Outline of issues addressed

 

            2.  Economic Development:  Aging Population, Lack of Industrial Space,       Adequate Employee Training

 

3.  Housing:  Affordability, Appearance and Maintenance, Elderly/Retiree and Subsidized/Special-Needs Housing Needs

 

            4.  Transportation:

 

            5.  Utilities and community facilities:

 

            6.  Agricultural, natural and cultural resources:

 

            7.  Intergovernmental cooperation:

 

            8.  Land use: 

 

            9.  Implementation

 

F.      City Survey

 

The Park Falls Comprehensive Plan Survey is shown with the results as Attachment #2.  This survey was given to 15 people at the Park Falls Area Community Development Corporation (PFACDC) Board of Directors meeting who were asked to choose and rate the list of strengths and weaknesses of the city from one to five.  

 

G.      Planning Context

 

1.      State of Wisconsin

 

On October 27, 1999 Wisconsin’s Comprehensive Planning Law was signed by former Wisconsin governor Tommy Thompson.  This 20 year plan is used as a guide to local governments about land use decisions and future development.    

 

Beginning on January 1, 2010, the below actions must be consistent with that local governmental unit’s comprehensive plan:

 

(a) Official mapping established or amended under s. 62.23 (6).

 

(b) Local subdivision regulation under s. 236.45 or 236.46.

 

(c) County zoning ordinances enacted or amended under s. 59.69.

 

(d) City or village zoning ordinances enacted or amended under s. 62.23 (7).

 

(e) Town zoning ordinances enacted or amended under s. 60.61 or 60.62.

 

(f) Zoning of shorelands or wetlands in shorelands under s. 59.692, 61.351 or 62.231.

 

The Comprehensive Planning Program was formed to assist communities develop and adopt comprehensive plans.  Fourteen local comprehensive planning goals are suggested in section 16.965 of the Wisconsin statutes.

 

1. Promotion of the redevelopment of lands with existing infrastructure and public services and the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing residential, commercial and industrial structures.

 

2. Encouragement of neighborhood designs that support a range of transportation choices.

 

3. Protection of natural areas, including wetlands, wildlife habitats, lakes, woodlands, open spaces and groundwater resources.

 

4. Protection of economically productive areas, including farmland and forests.

 

5. Encouragement of land uses, densities and regulations that promote efficient development patterns and relatively low municipal, state governmental and utility costs.

 

6. Preservation of cultural, historic and archaeological sites.

 

7. Encouragement of coordination and cooperation among nearby units of government.

 

8. Building of community identity by revitalizing main streets and enforcing design standards.

 

9. Providing an adequate supply of affordable housing for individuals of all income levels throughout each community.

 

10. Providing adequate infrastructure and public services and an adequate supply of developable land to meet existing and future market demand for residential, commercial and industrial uses.

 

11. Promoting the expansion or stabilization of the current economic base and the creation of a range of employment opportunities at the state, regional and local levels.

 

12. Balancing individual property rights with community interests and goals.

 

13. Planning and development of land uses that create or preserve varied and unique urban and rural communities.

 

14. Providing an integrated, efficient and economical transportation system that affords mobility, convenience and safety and that meets the needs of all citizens, including transit–dependent and disabled citizens.

 

2.      City of Park Falls

 

The City of Park Falls will use this comprehensive plan to identify strengths and weaknesses in the municipality and with public participation, develop the goals for improving community development.  By having written objectives and a compiled plan, Park Falls will use this to be further prepared for the future and build a stronger, unified city. 

 

Citizens from a variety of backgrounds were given numerous opportunities to provide valuable input—websites, newspaper, local meetings and a public hearing.  With community assistance the most important strategies will be selected and developed.  Efforts will continue so as to implement these ideas by an assigned group and by a set year. 

 

This document will especially be of assistance in capitalizing on the positive assets in Park Falls and improving the weak points while appreciating the beauty and resources this community holds.  Because Park Falls has not previously adopted a Comprehensive Plan, there is a sense of optimism with the impact these changes could make for Park Falls, Price County and Wisconsin. 

 

In 1959 the Northwest Regional Planning Commission (NWRPC) was formed with the goal of providing economic assistance to counties in northern Wisconsin.  Counties involved include Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, and Washburn, in addition to several tribal nations.  These development leaders work with the counties, tribal nations and local governments to improve economic conditions while keeping the public informed about the processes taking place.      

The NWRPC has formed a Community and Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) new projects list for Park Falls.  The 2008 to 2010 CEDS new projects list is included as Attachment #2.  This information includes the project title and description, proposed year of implementation, estimated cost, estimated jobs retained/created and local priority ranking.  Projects involve the Park Falls Paper Mill, sewers, roads, Park Falls Airport and apartment complexes.  The completion of these are usually dependent on the amount of federal and state funding received in conjunction with the local priority rating.

 

In 1999 NWRPC prepared the Community Economic Development Plan for Park Falls, which was adopted by the Park Falls Common Council on February 10, 1999.  This book was used for the following information with adjustments being made accordingly to bring the information up to date. 

 

1.2              Demographics

 

A.     Population

 

Population is an important contributing factor to the pattern of settlement and economic development of an area.  Significant increases or decreases in the number of residents, along with the population characteristics of age, education, and income all impact the city’s economic development, land use, utility, transportation, housing, and recreational needs.

 

Population Change

 

On March 12, 1912, when Park Falls was incorporated as a city, the population numbered approximately 2,000.  Since that time, the population has fluctuated as shown in Figure 1. 

 

Figure 1

Population Trends, 1920-2000

 

 

1920

1930

1940

1950

1960

1970

1980

1990

2000

Park Falls

2,676

3,036

3,252

2,924

2,919

2,953

3,194

3,102

2,793

Price Co.

18,517

17,284

18,467

16,344

14,370

14,520

15,788

15,600

15,822

Wisconsin

2,632,700

2,939,000

3,137,600

3,434,600

3,951,800

4,417,900

4,705,800

4,891,800

5,363,675

 

Source:  U. S. Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau

 

Following a drop between 1940 and 1960, Park Falls’ population increased for a period of time.  In 1980, the population began to show a downward trend once again.  The decrease between the years of 1940-1960 was fairly typical in rural northern Wisconsin, although the state’s population as a whole increased during the same period.  The decrease in population starting in 1980 seems to be continuing its downward trend with the Department of Administration’s current population estimate for Park Falls to be 2,657.

 

Current studies have shown that residents that move to the area are generally older, while those who leave are more often high school graduates, which means that the trend is toward an older population that will outnumber a younger population in future years.

 

Population Projections

 

Population projections by the Wisconsin Department of Administration indicate a slowing in population growth for the city beginning in 2000, while the county population fluctuates slightly until 2010 and then begins a steady decline, Figure 2 below.

 

Figure 2

Population Projections 2000-2010

 

 

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

City of Park Falls

2,793

2,647

2,512

2,370

2,224

2,059

Price County

15,822

15,797

15,831

15,791

15,728

15,464

Source:  WI Department of Administration

 

 

Statewide, population is projected to continue to increase, although growth is projected to slow after 2010.  The largest increase in the elderly population is expected statewide after 2010, when the first of the “baby boomers” reach age 65.  Since northern Wisconsin is already experiencing sharp increases in the elderly population due to retirees moving into the area, the retiring baby boomers can be expected to follow a similar pattern with much of the increase being felt in areas which are especially attractive to retirees.

 

Population Characteristics

 

In addition to knowing how many people live in the City of Park Falls, it is important to know the key characteristics, such as age, sex, and educational attainment of the population.  State and national trends point to an aging population that will require more services.

 

Figure 3 compares male and female populations in 1990 and 2000.  This demonstrates the life expectancy of females is longer than males and the population is aging.  The majority of people in 1990 were 25 to 34 years old.  In 2000, the majority were 35 to 44 years. 

 

 

Figure 3

AGE – MALE/FEMALE POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

CITY OF PARK FALLS

 

 

            1990                                                          2000

 

Total Males:  1,477                                  Total Males:  1,311

Total Females:  1,627                             Total Females:  1,482

Total Population:  3,104                         Total Population:  2,793

 

 

 

 

 

 

B.     Age Distribution

 

An Aging Population

 

Park Falls’ population was older in 2000 than in 1990, with a median age for all persons in 2000 of 42.3 years, compared to 1990’s median age of 37.1.  A comparison of the age distribution for the residents of Park Falls for 1990 and 2000 is shown in Figure 1.  The largest age group in 1990 was the 25-34 year olds, while the smallest age group was residents over the age of 85.  In 2000, statistics show the largest group to be 35-44 year olds; however, the smallest group is no longer residents over the age of 85, but the under 5 year old group.  The increase in the numbers of elderly persons in this area is typical of northern Wisconsin where the increases have been disproportionately high in recent years.  The increased numbers of people who are elderly, or who in the next 10 years will become elderly, have an impact on many local issues, including housing, employment, taxation and health care.

Figure 4

City of Park Falls Age Distribution-1990 & 2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

These charts confirm what rural communities such as Park Falls already suspected—young people are leaving the community at the ages at which they begin to enter the labor force.  If this trend continues, combined with smaller family sizes and families which postpone having children or decide not to have children, the younger age classes of the population will continue to shrink. 

 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Figure 5

AGE – MALE/FEMALE POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

PRICE COUNTY

 

            1990                                                          2000

 

Total Males:  7,830                                  Total Males:  7,949

Total Females:  7,770                             Total Females:  7,873

Total Population:  15,600                       Total Population:  15,822

C.  Households

 

Another measure of the quality of life is housing.  The median value of homes in Park Falls and Price County is less than the national average as the homes are, on average, older.  The majority of the housing units in the City of Park Falls are owner-occupied single-family homes, primarily with two to three bedrooms.  The median value of an owner-occupied home in Park Falls is $61,300.  In Price County and the state, the values are $70,100 and $112,200, respectively.  In 1996 the city undertook a survey of housing and community development needs.  That survey tabulated the results of some 712 dwelling units of the 1223 units in the city.  Therefore, the results are not directly comparable.  The survey results were comprised of 271 elderly responses, 330 long term residential and 120 short term residential responses, 308 low and moderate income responses and 136 tenants of substandard dwellings.  This survey does make the finding that more housing units, especially affordable units, are needed in the Park Falls area.  Targeted affordable units such as elderly care units and low/moderate income rental units would greatly benefit single families and elderly.

 

Housing in Park Falls is typical of northern Wisconsin in that many of the housing units are relatively old.  In 2000, 413 units, or 32 percent of the total housing units, were reported as being built in 1939 or earlier.  Furthermore, homes in Park Falls and the county are appreciating at a slower rate than that national average.

 

D.  Educational Levels         

 

Looking at the educational attainment of a community is also important because it is generally an indicator of the overall economic well being of that community.  Figure 7 illustrates the level of educational attainment for persons age 25 years and over in the City of Park Falls, Price County and Wisconsin in 2000.  Approximately 13 percent of Park Falls’ residents have attained a bachelors or higher degree compared to 22.4 percent for all Wisconsin residents.  The lack of four year colleges and universities in the area may account for the lack of higher educated individuals in Park Falls and the county.

 

Figure 6

 

Persons 25 and Over Who Have Completed Four Years of High School or More

 

Minor Civil Division

1990

2000

1990-2000 % Change

1990-2000 Net Change

City of Park Falls

-----

1,629

N/A

N/A

Price County

7,636

9,163

20.0%

1,527

State of Wisconsin

2,432,154

2,957,461

21.60%

525,307

Source: U.S. Census

 

 

 

Figure 7

Educational Attainment, 2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Source:  U.S. Census Bureau

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 8

 

Persons 25 and Over Who Have Completed Four or More Years of College

 

Minor Civil Division

1990

2000

1990-2000 % Change

1990-2000 Net Change

City of Park Falls

-----

251

N/A

N/A

Price County

1,105

1,443

30.6%

338

State of Wisconsin

548,970

779,273

42.00%

230,303

Source: U.S. Census

 

C.     Employment

 

Price County is one of the most industrialized counties in the state, when measured by the amount of the total local payroll which is provided by manufacturing jobs.  Currently, 20 percent of the county’s employment is provided by manufacturing as shown below.

 

 

 

 

Figure 9

2006 Employment by Industry for Price County

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source:  WI Department of Workforce Development

 

 

In the City of Park Falls, the largest private employer is Weather Shield, followed by Flambeau River Papers, LLC.  Other local industries include St. Croix Rod Company, Saunders Wood Specialties, Park Falls Hardwoods and Flambeau Metal Products.  See the table below for the list of the top private employers in Park Falls and the products they provide. 

Top Private Employers in Park Falls-2006

 

Rank

Employer Name

Product

1

Weather Shield

Windows and Doors

2

Flambeau River Papers, LLC

High-grade Paper

3

Flambeau Hospital, Inc.

Health Care

4

Park Manor

Nursing Care

5

St. Croix Rod Company

Fishing Rods

6

Gustafson’s Inc.

Grocery

7

Park Falls Hardwoods

Wood Products

8

Saunders Wood Specialties, Inc.

Wood Products

9

Pamida

Retail

10

Super One Foods

Grocery

11

First National Bank

Financial

12

Community Health Resources, Ltd.

Home Health Care

13

Non Typical, Inc.

Outdoor Cameras

14

McDonald’s

Fast Food

15

Northwoods Community Credit Union

Financial

16

Health Management Consortium, Inc.

Home Health Care

17

Park Pharmacy, Inc.

Pharmaceutical

18

Supportive Home Services, Inc.

Home Health Care

19

Price County Publications

Publishing

20

Hardee’s

Fast Food

Source: Department of Workforce Development

Labor force participation represents the share of the population that is 16 years old and older that is either employed or looking for work.  In 2005, participation rates in Wisconsin and the United States were 69.9% and 65.9% respectively.  In Price County, the rate was 67%. 

 

As residents grow older, their participation in the labor force declines.  Labor force participation rates among the population 25 to 29 years of age in Price County generally exceed 62 percent. 

 

D.     Park Falls Employment Characteristics

 

1.      Manufacturing

 

Manufacturing, which has been strong in Price County, is using tools and work to make things for use and to sell for profit.  Although much of the recent growth has been in southern Price County, Park Falls is actively striving to recruit new industry and to diversify its economic base with hopes of encouraging growth in the community.  Employment has continued to grow in this sector, despite state and national trends towards a service sector.      

 

2.      Retail

 

The retail trade division, represented by three industry groups:  eating and drinking places, food stores, and automotive dealers and service stations, had no representation on the largest employers list in 1999.  Since then the retail industry has increased and there are two in the top ten.  Most retail trade employers are small, but together they employ many workers.

 

3.      Service

 

The services industry division is represented by only two industry groups:  health care and education.  Both of these groups are represented on the list of largest employers.  The Park Falls School District is grades K-12 and St. Anthony’s Catholic School is grades K-8, both excellent educational facilities.  Park Falls is also home to Flambeau Hospital, a 42-bed clinic/hospital.  This branch of Marshfield Clinic offers services in medical, surgical, intensive care, obstetrics, pediatrics, and geriatrics. 

 

4.      Public Sector

 

The public sector is also a major source of employment in the Park Falls area.  The United States Forest Service and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) employ a large number of people and both have headquarters in Park Falls.  The city values the preservation of the resources it has and maintaining the forests, lakes, and rivers. 

 

 

 

E.      Income Levels

 

There are two measures of income levels:  median household income and per capita income.  Median household income is the sum of income received by a household—not defined to family members—15 years and older.  Income comes from numerous sources including interest, Social Security, net rental income, dividends, public assistance and salary income.  Per capita income is the mean income for every individual in a specific geographic area, the total income of all people 15 years and older divided by total population in that area.  

 

Incomes in Park Falls and Price County have lagged behind state and national averages for many years.  In 1990, Price County had one of the highest per capita incomes in northwest Wisconsin, primarily due to the high percentage of manufacturing jobs in the county, but this number still was well below the state average.  Family and household incomes were also below statewide averages. 

 

Annual Average Wage by Industry Division in 2005

 

 

Industry                        Price County       Wisconsin         % of State        % Change

 

Construction                            $35,361                        $42,891                           82%                 4.3%

 

Education & Health                $23,527                        $37,228                           63%                -0.3$

 

Financial Activities                 $21,546                        $46,267                           47%                 2.3% 

 

Information                              $19, 344                       $43,439                           45%                 3.4%

 

Leisure & Hospitality             $  7,866                        $12,468                           63%                 3.6%

 

Manufacturing                        $35, 958                       $44,430                           81%                -0.6%

 

Natural Resources                  $25,758                        $27,765                           93%               11.0%

 

Other Services                         $11,505                        $20,604                           56%                 2.8%

 

Professional & Business

Services                                    $36,971                        $40,462                           91%                 4.3%

 

Public Administration            $28,211                        $37,244                           76%                -0.8%     

 

Trade, Transportation &

Utilities                                     $22,704                        $27,296                           83%                 2.6%

 

All Industries                           $28,036                        $35,503                           79%                 1.2%

 

The 2000 census revealed that statewide, 8.7 percent of all persons were below the poverty level.  In Price County 8.9 percent were below the poverty line, while 10.3 percent of all persons in the City of Park Falls were in poverty status.

Figure 10 demonstrates the per capita, median household and median family incomes for Park Falls, Price County and the state.  The current per capita income for Price County is $17,837, still the highest in the northwest ten counties.  The same figure for the state is $21,271.

Figure 10

Income, 1990 and 2000

 

 

Per Capita Income

Household Income

Family Income

 

1990

 

2000

 

1990

 

2000

 

1990

 

2000

 

Park Falls

10,887

 

17,929

 

22,455

 

33,860

 

31,518

 

42,930

 

Price Co.

10,564

 

17,837

 

22,662

 

35,249

 

27,721

 

42,837

 

Wisconsin

13,276

 

21,271

 

29,442

 

43,791

 

35,082

 

52,911

 

Source:  U.S. Census

 

 

Sources of income in Price County reflect the changing age structure of the population.  The percentage of local income which comes from transfer payments (government paid retirement disability and health insurance benefits, unemployment insurance, veterans’ benefits, etc.) is higher than the state average, reflecting the higher number of retirees and elderly persons in Price County.

 

F.      Race and Origin

 

Park Falls and Price County are less culturally diverse than the state-wide average and the statistics have changed very little over the past decade.  The majority of the population in Park Falls is White at 98.00% followed by Hispanic at 1.10% and Asian and Pacific Islander at 0.90%.  Figure 12 demonstrates the percentages in Park Falls, Price County and Wisconsin of each race.

 

Figure 11:  Race in 2000

 

Minor Civil Division

 

Percentages

 

 

 

City of Park Falls:

Total Population:

2,793

 

White

98.00%

 

Hispanic

                                       1.10% (30)

 

Black

0.10%

 

American Indian

0.40%

 

Asian & Pacific Islander

0.90%

 

Other Race

0.10%

Price County:

Total Population:

15,822

 

White

 

98.2%

 Price County:    (continued)

Hispanic

0.70%

 

Black

0.10%

 

American Indian

0.60%

 

Asian & Pacific Islander

0.30%

 

Other Race

0.10%

State of Wisconsin:

Total Population:

5,363,675

 

White

88.93%

 

Hispanic

                            3.60%  (192,921)

 

Black

5.68%

 

American Indian

0.88%

 

Asian & Pacific Islander

1.68%

 

Other Race

2.83%

Source: U.S. Census

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.3       Results of Survey

 

On June 5, 2008 the strengths and weaknesses survey (Attachment #1) was taken at the Board of Directors meeting for Park Falls Community Development Corporation (PFCDC).  Representatives at the meeting included Tom Ratzlaff, Mayor of Park Falls; Shawn Morgan, Local 2-0445 Union President Flambeau River Papers; Bob Hennes, District Ranger Chequamegon-Nicolet National  Forest; Bob Kopisch, Price County Board Chair; Susan Schmidt, President/CEO Northwoods Community Credit Union (NCCU); Len Schmidt, President Park Falls School Board; Dr. Tim Wakefield, Allied Health Chiropractors and secretary PFCDC; Brenda Neumann, Clerk/Treasurer Village of Butternut; Rick Svehla, Retired City Engineer; Dave Grundstrom, Administrator; Bruce LaRose, Coordinator/Planner PFACDC; Randy Steckel, Flambeau River Papers; Sam Pritzl, President PFCDC; Frank Kempf, Administrator PFACDC.  Surveys were given to every member present and ten were anonymously received back.

 

On July 14, 2008 the same survey was given at the Park Falls City Council Meeting and 13 surveys were anonymously received back.      

 

Members were asked to number the top five strengths and weaknesses with five being the strongest and weakest.  The ratings were figured by totaling the numbers from the survey of each point.  The strength/weakness with the largest number after adding received a rating of 1 and continued downward accordingly.  The numbers in parenthesis are the summation of the survey rankings.  The results show Park Falls’ greatest strength as the high quality of life and friendly atmosphere (104) followed by excellent health care, police, fire, EMS and public utilities (54) and a good public school system (49).  A good work ethic (48) was fourth and good highway, air and rail transportation network (24) fifth.  The remaining strengths were as follows:  community understand the need for natural resource sustainability (20), available skilled workforce (19), NTC opportunities (8), low utility rates (6), tax credits available (6), high speed internet available (2) and others (2).  There was a write-in for the values of low population density becoming much more difficult to find elsewhere, where population has exploded.  The individual feels this, in turn, should be a strong attraction for moderate, regulated growth. 

 

The weakness responses were much more spread out with every point receiving at least one rating.  The greatest weaknesses considered respectively were decreasing enrollment in schools (41), lack of available industrial space (39) and no new businesses in the last few years (39), limited population/labor pool (37), gas prices—highest in area (32) and lack of retail to draw people to area causing tax dollars to flow out of county (32).  The remaining weaknesses were rated as follows:  low wages in certain industries (29), commerce not focused on northern Wisconsin (24), high local property taxes (20), dominance of a few large employers (15), no business development center (13), cannot compete with low labor costs that exist overseas (13) and others (5).  There was a write in that ranked weakest:  very visible low numbers of younger adults with the aging demographic very noticeable to people coming to area.  The size of the Park Falls Municipal Airport was commented on in one sheet, but it was not given a priority mark.

 

From this information is can be seen that quality education is a central goal with a concern for decreasing enrollment but, still existent, is an immense amount of pride for the school system that has run in Park Falls High School since 1979.  In addition, the technical college in Phillips provides a post-secondary option and transferable college credits.  This may coerce graduates into coming back to the area for summer employment and academic classes/programs. 

 

The average commute to work in Price County is just under 20 minutes.  With gas prices soaring weekly and Park Falls having the highest in the area, apprehension is resulting.  The nearest shopping mall is Wausau at 100 miles south.  Meanwhile, school sporting events enter the Marawood North Conference for the 2008-2009.  Teams included with Park Falls are Abbotsford, Athens, Colby, Gilman, Phillips, Prentice and Rib Lake.  Traveling those distances with an average of an hour and half bus ride will by costly for both the school and community.    

 

Development is desired in Park Falls; however, to do this more industrial space and small to medium-sized business are needed.  This would decrease the dependence on a few large employers and make a market for more competitive salaries in the area.  With profitable businesses, more people would be attracted to Price County as a place to visit and live. 

 

1.4       Bibliography

 

Applied Population Lab.  Home page.  2004.  UW-Extension.  June 2008. 

            <www.wisstat.wisc.edu>.

 

Applied Population Lab.  2004.  UW-Extension.  June 2008.  <www.getfacts.wisc.edu>.

 

“History.”  Boyd’s Mason Lake Resort, Inc.  29 April 2005.  June 2008.              <www.boydsmasonlakeresort.com/History.htm>.   

 

“Chequamegon National Forest Wisconsin.”  6 December 2006.  Flickr by Yahoo.  May          2008.  <http://www.flickr.com/photos/jimbrekke/315749514/>.

City of Park Falls.  June 2008.  <www.cityofparkfalls.com>.

 

City of Park Falls:  Community Economic Development Plan.  Spooner, Wisconsin:       Northwest Regional Planning Commission, 1999.

 

“Comprehensive Plans.”  State of Wisconsin-Department of Administration.  2008.  June

            2008.  <www.doa.state.wi.us>.

 

Dow, Fred and Suzi.  U.S. National Forest Campground Guide.  Home page.  2008. 

            Moon Canyon.  June 2008.  <www.forestcamping.com/dow/eastern/chq.htm>.

 

“Forest History.”  Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.  20 March 2007.  U.S.         Department of Agriculture/Forest Service.  June 2008.  <http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/

            cnnf/general/history/index.html>.

 

Institution of Educational Services:  National Center for Education Statistics.  Home       page. 3 June 2008. June 2008.  <www.http://nces.ed/gov/surveys/sdds/census90>.

 

Northwest Regional Planning Commission.  “About NWRPC.”  5 June 2008.  June 2008.         <www.nwrpc.com>.

 

Park Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.  Park Falls, Wisconsin.  “About Park Falls.”  June 2008  <http://www.parkfalls.com>. 

 

Park Falls Centennial Committee.  100 Years on the Flambeau:  A Centennial History of           Park Falls, Lake and Eisenstein.  F.A. Weber and Sons, Inc.:  USA, 1989.

 

“Ruffed Grouse.”  Discovering Lewis and Clark.  2008.  VIAs Inc.  May 2008.            <http://www.lewis-clark.org/…/brd_grouse-ruffed.jpg>.

 

U.S. Census Bureau.  12 June 2008.  United States Department of Commerce.  June

            2008  <www.census.gov>.

 

Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.  Home page.  May 2008.  June 2008.        <www.dwd.state.wi.us>.

 

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENT #1

 

City of Park Falls Comprehensive Plan Survey

(with Responses)

 

Strengths

 

#1------------5 x 19, 4,3,2 High quality of life and friendly atmosphere ( low crime rate, clean air and water, great outdoor recreational opportunities, close to large state and federal forests,  lots of lakes, and low population density)

 

1,2,2,2,2,3,4,4 Community understands the need for natural resource sustainability

 

    #5------------4,3,3,2,2,2,2,2,2,1,1 Good highway, air, and rail transportation network

 

    #2------------5,4,4,4,4,4,4,4,3,3,3,3,3,3,1,1,1 Excellent health care, police, fire, EMS

                        and public utilities

 

3,3,3,3,2,2,1,1,1 Available skilled workforce

 

     #4------------          5,5,4,4,4,4,3,3,3,3,2,2,2,2,1,1 Good work ethic

 

#3------------           5,4,4,4,4,4,4,3,3,3,3,2,2,2,1,1 Good public school system – superior test scores

 

4,2,1,1 Technical college (NTC) opportunities

 

UW-Extension

 

4,1,1 Low utility rates

 

1,1 High speed internet available

           

1 Fiber optic service available

 

                         3,2,1 Tax credits available

 

2 Others

 

Values of low population density are becoming much more difficult to find elsewhere, where population has exploded.  This should be a

strong attraction for moderate, regulated growth.                                    

                                                                                                                

                                                                                                           

                                                                                               

Rating         

Weaknesses

 

                        5,5,2,1 No business development center

 

    #3------------5,5,5,5,4,4,4,2,2,2,1 No new businesses in the last few years

 

5,5,4,3,2,2,1,1,1 Commerce not focused on northern Wisconsin

 

4,3,3,2,1 Cannot compete with low labor costs that exist overseas

 

     #2------------5,5,5,4,4,4,4,3,2,2,1 Lack of available industrial space

 

#5------------5,5,4,4,4,3,3,2,2 Lack of retail to draw people to area causing tax dollars to flow out of county

 

4,4,3,3,3,3,2,2,2,1,1,1 Low wages in certain industries

 

5,4,3,3,2,2,1 High local property taxes

 

     #1------------5,4,4,3,3,3,3,3,3,2,2,2,2,1,1 Decreasing enrollment in schools

 

    #5-----------5,5,4,4,3,3,2,1,1,1,1,1,1 Gas prices – highest in area

 

3,2 Lack of affordable, decent housing

 

                         5,5,4,1 Dominance of a few large employers

 

     #4------------          5,5,5,4,4,4,3,3,2,1,1 Limited population, labor pool

 

 5 Others

 

-Very visible low numbers of younger adults, aging demographic very noticeable to people coming to area.                                                           

                       

*Size of airport (comment only)                                                           

                                                                                                           

                                                                                                           

 

                       

 

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENT #2
 
2008 – 2010 CEDS NEW PROJECTS Information

 

Please complete the following:

 

Unit of Government:  City of Park Falls                                                 Contact Person:  Thomas Ratzlaff, Mayor

 

County:  Price                                                                                                   Phone Number:  715-762-2436

 

                                                                                                                        Email Address:  pfmayor@pctcnet.net

 

           

 
 
          Please check this box if no projects are anticipated for 2008-2010 and return by April 18, 2008.

 

 

Community and Economic Development Project Title and Description

Proposed Year

of

Implementation

 

Estimated

Cost

 

Estimated Jobs

Retained/Created

Local

Priority

Ranking

 

Park Falls Industrial Park

 

 

2008-09

 

$2 million

 

100

 

2

 

Park Falls Comprehensive Plan

 

 

2008

 

$35,000

 

0

 

1

 

Park Falls Bio-Refinery Project

 

 

2009

 

$214 million

 

75

 

2

 

Park Falls Paper Mill Boiler Project

 

 

2007-08

 

$30 million

 

Retain 300

 

1

 

Lincoln School Apartments

 

 

2008-09

 

$3-4 million

 

Const. 25

 

2

 

Community and Economic Development Project Title and Description

Proposed Year

of

Implementation

 

Estimated

Cost

 

Estimated Jobs

Retained/Created

Local

Priority

Ranking

 

Housing Rehabilitation

 

 

2008-09

 

$650,000

 

0

 

1

 

Park Falls Area Community & Fitness Center

 

 

2008

 

$500,000

 

5-10

 

1

 

Well Project / Public Facilities

 

 

2007-08

 

$3.5 million

 

 

 

1

 

Sewer Replacement on Hwy 13 / Public Facilities

 

 

2009-10

 

$1 million

 

 

 

2

 

Storm Sewer on 2nd Ave. / Public Facilities

 

 

2010

 

$100,000

 

 

2

 

Backhoe for Water Dept. / Public Utilities Equipment

 

2010

 

$80,000

 

 

 

3

 

Sewer Jet for Sewer Dept. / Public Utilities Equipment

 

 

2010

 

$50,000

 

 

 

3

 

Sewer Rehabilitation

 

2009-11

 

$4 million

 

 

 

 

Hwy 13 / Roads

 

 

2011

 

$1.4 million

 

 

3

 

 

 

Community and Economic Development Project Title and Description

Proposed Year

of

Implementation

 

Estimated

Cost

 

Estimated Jobs

Retained/Created

Local

Priority

Ranking

 

1st Avenue  (10th St. to Division St.) / Roads

 

 

2010

 

$250,000

 

 

 

3

 

2nd Avenue  (Hwy 182 to 1st St. N) / Roads

 

 

2010

 

$150,000

 

 

 

3

 

Development of Walking Trails & New Park Equipment / Recreation

 

 

2010

 

$200,000

 

 

3

 

Upgrade Airport Avgas Fueling System / Airport

 

 

2008

 

 

 

 

1

 

Resurface Apron / Airport

 

 

2008

 

$7,500

 

 

 

1

 

Develop Hangar Area / Airport

 

 

2008

 

$250,000

 

 

 

1

 

Update ALP / Airport

 

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

Construct / Reconstruct Auto Parking / Airport

 

 

2008

 

$25,000

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

Community and Economic Development Project Title and Description

Proposed Year

of

Implementation

 

Estimated

Cost

 

Estimated Jobs

Retained/Created

Local

Priority

Ranking

 

Construct Snow Removal Equipment Building / Airport

 

 

2009

 

$150,000

 

 

3

 

Purchase Snow Removal Equipment / Airport

 

2011

 

$150,000

 

 

 

4

 

Land Acquisition in Runway Approaches / Airport

 

 

2011

 

$150,000

 

 

 

5

 

Expand Apron / Taxiways / Airport

 

 

2012

 

$150,000

 

 

6

 

Return to WAYNE LINDEMANS @ Northwest Regional Planning Commission, 1400 South River Street, Spooner, WI  54801 - Phone:  715/635-2197