Council approves first reading of ordinance to ban winter lake aerators citing safety
Summary
The Common Council voted Nov. 18 to advance a first reading of ordinance 25-01112 to prohibit lake aerators Nov. 15–Apr. 15 annually, a public-safety measure prompted by water-rescue incidents tied to aerator use; staff will publicize the change if adopted.
Chief Bowen presented an ordinance (listed in the meeting as 25-01112) to the Oconomowoc Common Council on Nov. 18 that would prohibit the use of lake aerators from Nov. 15 through Apr. 15 each year. Bowen said aerator use creates open water and variable ice depths that have been linked to water rescues, citing last winter’s incident on Pewaukee Lake and noting existing marking requirements are not consistently followed.
Bowen said neighboring jurisdictions including Lac La Belle and Delafield have considered or adopted similar ordinances; he urged broader regional adoption to reduce mutual‑aid burdens on dive teams. Council members questioned outreach and notification procedures for property owners who use aerators; Bowen said communities that recently adopted the rule identified aerator users and mailed notices, and staff will use the city Facebook page and local newspaper for public education.
Alderman Mulder asked that the ordinance remain at first reading to allow residents time to weigh in; a motion to proceed with the first reading passed and the clerk recorded roll-call affirmation from aldermen present. The ordinance will return for a second reading and potential adoption at a future meeting.
