Source: City of Menomonie Facebook Page

Growing up in Menomonie, I’ve witnessed many changes—some transformative, others deeply tragic. The tragedies, in particular, leave lasting scars. I still remember the car that went through the ice at Lake Menomin one spring…the great storm of 1980 that uprooted trees and destroyed buildings…devastating car accidents that claimed lives of people I knew…the pain of losing neighbors to methamphetamine addiction… accidents at the rodeo and races…the sudden passing of a Menomonie police officer…and most recently, the heartbreaking plane crash that took four cherished members of our community.

Now, we face another painful loss: a fire has destroyed a historic downtown building and severely damaged a neighboring business.

But what stands out to me through all of these moments of heartbreak is not just the sorrow—it’s the strength. Time and time again, Menomonie has come together. We lean on one another, lift each other, and rebuild—not just our buildings, but our bonds.

Bricks and mortar do not define Menomonie. Our resilience, our compassion, and our determination define us. We are a community that shows up in times of need, holds each other close, and rises stronger every time we are tested.

As your Mayor, your neighbor, your friend—and as a son of Menomonie—I have unwavering faith that the sun will rise again over a stronger, more connected, and more vibrant community.

Menomonie is not just a building, but a community of caring people, and that’s what makes Menomonie truly special.

Randy Knaack, Mayor of Menomonie, email at [email protected]