A Message from the Mayor
Dear Racine Residents,
As summer winds down and we welcome the colors of fall, I’m reminded of the energy and creativity that make Racine special. In my recent State of the City address, I highlighted our progress in neighborhoods, public safety, and local business growth, while looking ahead to the opportunities before us.
This season, we’ve celebrated milestones that bring our community together—from welcoming Woodman’s Markets to recognizing sustainable development at Breakwater 233, to enjoying the Island Park Beer Garden. I also encourage you to join the upcoming film screening of The Body Politic, where we’ll explore approaches to violence reduction and community safety.
These moments reflect the spirit of Racine: a city where people care, collaborate, and create positive change every day. Thank you for all you do to make our community strong.
Sincerely,
Mayor Cory Mason
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In this issue:
- State of the City Address
- Island Park Beer Garden
- The Body Politic Film Screening
- Household Hazardous Waste
- Fall Leaf Collection
- Flu Season Protection
- Plus, a look at recent community events!
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Mayor Mason Delivers State of the City Address
Mayor Cory Mason delivered his annual State of the City address on September 8, highlighting Racine’s progress in neighborhood investment, public safety, community health, and workforce development, while also addressing the challenges ahead. He shared an optimistic vision for Racine’s future and the opportunities that lie ahead for our community.
Watch the full address here.
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Don’t Miss the Last Island Park Beer Garden of the Season!
Mark your calendars—this weekend, September 19–20, is your last chance to enjoy the Island Park Beer Garden this year! The City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) team launched this new tradition over the summer, and we’ve been thrilled to see so many residents and visitors join us at the park.
Featuring craft brews from Perspective Brewing Company, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere, the Beer Garden has been a place to gather, relax, and celebrate the season together.
Final Weekend Hours
- Friday: 4 PM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 7 PM
We are grateful to everyone who came out this summer to make the first Island Park Beer Garden such a success. Don’t miss your last opportunity of the season—join us this weekend to raise a glass and close out the summer together!
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Department of Community Safety to Hold Film Screening
A safer city starts in the community. Join us at the S.C. Johnson Golden Rondelle Theater on 9/24 for a free film screening of “The Body Politic,” a documentary following the city of Baltimore’s efforts to end gun violence and change the city’s trajectory.
Immediately following the screening, local leaders who have implemented a similar approach to public safety in Racine will lead an interactive community panel focused on violence reduction strategies.
Reserve your seat today!
Special thanks to our event partner, S.C. Johnson.
Note: Not suitable for young children.
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Household Hazardous Waste
The next Household Hazardous Waste collection of the year is Saturday, September 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Racine Residential Drop-Off Facility and Waste Transfer Station, 6300 S. 21st Street.
Held rain or shine every third Saturday from April through October, these collection events run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take advantage of this opportunity to dispose of hazardous materials safely and conveniently.
For more details, visit the Household Hazardous Waste page.
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Fall Leaf Collection
Get ready for fall! The City of Racine Department of Public Works will begin Fall Leaf Collection on Monday, October 6, running through Thursday, December 4, 2025. Residents can place loose leaves, yard waste, and bundled branches in the street gutter for collection. Please follow the guidelines for size and placement—bags, containers, or alley piles will not be collected.
Click here for full collection details and reminders.
Questions? Call the Department of Public Works at (262) 636-9171. Para información en español, llame al (262) 636-9458.
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Protect Yourself This Flu Season
During the 2024-2025 Influenza season, only 31.4% of Racine County residents received a flu shot, and the worst flu season was experienced in the last 15 years. Most people who get sick with influenza will have mild illness; however, the flu can cause serious illness or even death for some people, especially those with chronic health problems.
Protect yourself and your loved ones. During flu season, the flu shot is the best protection from influenza and its potentially serious complications. Vaccines prevent many diseases and stop viruses from spreading. Find out what groups of people are at high risk for complications.
Call the City of Racine Public Health Department at (262) 636-9431 if you have questions.
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Breakwater LEED Certification
Breakwater 233 at 233 Lake Avenue has earned Silver LEED Certification, recognizing its commitment to sustainability. The five-story apartment building features energy-efficient systems and a rooftop solar array that helps reduce emissions and lower energy costs for residents.
The project also added a public walkway and green space connecting downtown Racine to the lakefront.
Mayor Cory Mason praised the collaboration with Hovde Properties, noting the development creates a valuable community space while supporting environmentally responsible growth.
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Woodman's Ribbon Cutting
The City of Racine celebrated the official ribbon cutting for Woodman’s Markets last week, welcoming the store to the community after several weeks of serving customers.
This project reflects strong collaboration between the City and Hull Property Group, and the City thanks the Woodman family for choosing Racine for their newest location.
Beyond providing a convenient shopping option and local jobs, the new Woodman’s is helping bring new life to the Regency Mall area, marking an exciting step forward in revitalizing this important community corridor. We are proud to welcome Woodman’s to Racine and look forward to the positive impact this store will bring for years to come.
| | Thank you for staying connected with us. We look forward to keeping you updated with the latest from City Hall and beyond. | |
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