City of Antigo Appoints Michael Wetzel, MPA, to Serve as City Administrator

The City of Antigo is pleased to announce the unanimous Common Council appointment of Michael Wetzel, MPA, to serve as City Administrator. Wetzel will begin his service with the City on Tuesday, May 26.

Wetzel currently serves as Village Clerk and Deputy Administrator for the Village of Marshall in Dane County, where he supports daily municipal operations, assists with budgeting and capital planning, oversees statutory clerk responsibilities, and helps advance economic development and planning initiatives. He earned his Master of Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh and brings a background in organizational leadership, operations management, and team development to the role.

As City Administrator, Wetzel will serve as the City’s chief administrative officer, responsible for overseeing day-to-day municipal operations, implementing policies established by the Mayor and Common Council, and providing leadership across City departments. The role also includes responsibilities related to budgeting, personnel management, economic development, and community engagement.

Mayor Tom Bauknecht expressed enthusiasm about Wetzel’s appointment and confidence in his leadership. “Michael is an intelligent and thoughtful leader with a strong understanding of municipal operations and organizational management,” said Mayor Bauknecht. “His collaborative approach, professionalism, and commitment to public service position him to excel.”

The City Administrator serves as a key leader for the organization, working closely with elected officials, staff, and community stakeholders to advance strategic priorities, strengthen municipal operations, and support Antigo’s continued growth and long-term success.

“I am honored to serve as City Administrator for the City of Antigo and am eager to become engaged in the community,” said Wetzel. “I look forward to working with the Mayor, Common Council, dedicated and talented staff team, residents, and business owners.”

The executive recruitment process was facilitated by Innovative Public Advisors (IPA), a public-sector executive recruitment and strategy firm. For more information, please contact IPA Partner Jess Wildes at 262-339-5658 or jess@public-advisors.com.