The City of Eau Claire has many divisions that oversee the day-to-day operations of the community. This interview shares some insight into just one that keeps development humming along.
What does someone in your specific role within your particular division do in a day’s work?
What is one or two projects right now that occupy your time/your team’s time? How does these projects impact other divisions (i.e. where’s the intersection and collaboration most present)? What role does the public play in regards to these projects and the management of them?
What excites you about being you—in your specific role within your particular division?
Ned Noel: I am fortunate to manage a fantastic and talented team of expert planners to help the City grow! I’ve been working here as a city planner for 17 years and it has been a privilege to see Eau Claire change! I’ve gotten to be involved in urban planning projects like downtown redevelopments and sustainability with solar farms and climate change plans. The city is maturing being over 70,000 people now, with a vibrant downtown, mixed use, more housing options and denser urban form. It is growing more diverse and that adds a lot of culture and interest in the community!
Katrina Berg: Most people we talk with are going through an exciting time in their lives; getting a fence for their dog, adding a deck, building a garage for their new boat, wanting signage for their new business, buying a new house, etc. It’s nice getting to be a part of someone’s exciting time. We also get to share our input on larger city-wide projects like parks and trails. It’s rewarding seeing things you helped plan on paper become reality.
Peter Baumgartner: Dealing with the myriad of puzzles that come in on a daily basis, solving them, and helping the public do what they want to do.
If you could spend a whole day bopping about Eau Claire, what would you be sure not to miss?
Ned Noel: I am always checking out Eau Claire as a city planner! I like to find places that refuel me and keep perspective. They are usually in nature, on trails or in one of our great parks. Cemeteries are places that can help to focus on what is truly important and learn a bit about who came before us.
Katrina Berg: I appreciate that Eau Claire offers a lot of experiences for people to gather without requiring them to spend much money. Pretty much every day of the summer you can find music in the park, a farmer’s market, or trivia being hosted at a local establishment. Eau Claire has a great network of trails and there’s always something new to check out. We also have a really neat library.
Peter Baumgartner: Lunch! Namely the following downtown favorite establishments: Thai Orchid, Grand Ave Café, and Valley Burger.
About The Author
Claire Stoiber
Business Relations Coordinator
Claire works on the Eau Claire Economic Development Division’s small business attraction and retention initiatives, serves as the Business Improvement District (BID) liaison, and assists with copywriting.
