This story was updated on April 8 , 2026 at 12:40 a.m.
The cities of Rhinelander, Merrill, and Tomahawk all had contested races on the April 7 ballot.
Rhinelander Mayor
In Rhinelander, Incumbent Mayor Kris Hanus was challenged by Alderperson Tom Barnett. Hanus was first elected Mayor in 2022.
Results posted early Wednesday morning show Hanus beating Barnett 798 to 783.
In a candidate forum last month, Hanus brought up multiple major projects happening within the city including treating wells and creating TIF Districts.
"I don't want to see those projects fall behind or not happen based on a change of leadership. That's the main reason why I've decided to run for a second term," Hanus said during the forum.
Tomahawk Mayor and Referendum
In Tomahawk, Mayor Steve Taskay did not seek another term after holding the office since 2016.
Michael “Hob” Habeck will be Tomahawk’s next mayor. He beat Jeffrey Koth 655 to 277.
In a Facebook post, Hob said, “I am deeply honored to be the elected mayor of Tomahawk! Thank you to every voter and supporter who made this possible. This victory belongs to all of us! I am excited to get to work for our community and to serve as a voice for everyone.”
He’ll face a challenge leading the city as it faces a potential budget deficit.
Tomahawk voters were asked if they approved increasing the city’s tax levy to cover day-to-day services.
That referendum failed 511 to 419.
On the city’s website explaining the referendum, the city stated if the referendum didn’t pass, “Facing a budget deficit starting in 2027, difficult decisions will have to be made each year about how to cut services, programs and staffing levels to balance the budget. Decisions about specific cuts would occur at the City Council during annual budget deliberations.”
Merrill Mayor
It appears incumbent Merrill Mayor Steve Hass will remain in office. Hass, who was first elected in 2022, was challenged by former Mayor Derek Woellner.
With 7 of 8 districts reporting as of 11:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Hass was up 1,255 to 415.
Hass posted to Facebook Tuesday night:
“Thank you, Merrill.
I’m truly grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me today. This city means a lot to me, and it’s been an honor to put in the work for our community as mayor these past few years.
We’ve come a long way, and I’m ready to keep it going. I’ll keep showing up and doing everything I can for this city every day.
Thank you again,
Steve J Hass”
Note: all election results are unofficial until confirmed by the state.
