GREEN BAY, WI – Today, Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner (D–Green Bay) issued the following statement celebrating the passage of a historic agreement to relocate the coal piles from Green Bay’s waterfront—an achievement decades in the making, and powered by the persistent voices of Green Bay residents.
“This is a once-in-a-generation victory—and it belongs to the people of Green Bay,” said Rivera-Wagner. “Residents spoke clearly: they wanted their elected officials to step up, work together, and do more. Today, we did. And because of that, we are unlocking economic potential for all of Green Bay.”
The agreement not only addresses a longstanding challenge but also opens the door to economic opportunity, community development, and a waterfront that reflects the vision and values of Green Bay’s residents. It also honors the critical role of legacy companies that have helped shape the city’s identity—and now, its next chapter.
Rivera-Wagner, who served as Chief of Staff and led negotiations on behalf of the City of Green Bay before being elected to the State Assembly, called the outcome a defining moment in what’s possible when government listens and leads:
“I was proud to help guide this process before stepping into elected office, and even prouder to see it through today. This is what responsive government looks like—when we center people, not politics, and act with purpose.”
Rep. Rivera-Wagner extended deep gratitude to the many people and institutions who made this agreement possible—including the dedicated City and County staff, the Brown County Board, and local leaders who never gave up. He offered a gracious and profound thank you to C. Riess and Mayor Eric Genrich, saying:
“Your unwavering commitment to Green Bay is a powerful reminder that good things do happen when we focus on taking care of one another. That’s what makes this community so special.”
He also credited Governor Tony Evers and his administration:
“This project would not have been possible without Governor Evers and his team. His relentless optimism that government can still take on the big challenges—and deliver—gave us the confidence to dream big and act boldly.”
Rep. Rivera-Wagner concluded with a message of gratitude and pride for the people of Green Bay:
“This is your win. You asked us to lead. You stayed engaged. You believed we could do more. And now, together, we’ve delivered a legacy project that honors our past and unlocks our future. Let’s keep showing the state—and the nation—what a united Green Bay can do.”