County Board votes to approve Lake District boundary adjustments

Sawyer County officials have taken a significant step towards managing local lake resources by approving proposed boundaries for the Lake District during a recent meeting on March 14, 2025. The decision aims to ensure fair contributions from property owners benefiting from lake improvements, particularly those related to a new dam designed to stabilize water levels.

The meeting highlighted concerns from ten property owners who requested to be excluded from the district boundaries, citing reasons such as lack of lake visibility and access. Notably, areas like Falcon Ridge were discussed, where some properties do not have direct access to the lake. Despite these requests, the board emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the district, as all nearby property owners will benefit from the lake's enhancements.

A key point raised during the discussions was the concept of "keyholing," which refers to the practice of excluding properties from a district. While some members expressed concerns about this approach, others argued that it is essential for ensuring that all property owners contribute fairly to the costs associated with lake maintenance and improvements.

Ultimately, the board voted in favor of accepting the boundaries established by the Lake District, moving the recommendation forward to the County Board for further consideration. This decision reflects a commitment to equitable resource management and community involvement in local environmental stewardship.

As the process moves ahead, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these boundaries will impact property owners and the overall health of Sawyer County's lake resources.