The Wisconsin River will be up to 15 feet lower than usual between Stevens Point and Whiting as crews repair a mechanical failure at the Whiting dam.

The city has been discussing plans to replace the Tainter gate since January, when floodwaters caused the gate to partially break off until it was attached to the larger structure by chains alone.

Although the canal and long-term replacement of its Tainter gate was expected to be a main topic of discussion, Freed said other things like sonar dredging for the canal or the city’s recent ...