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Minocqua board authorizes Winter Park to pursue snowmaking project, contingent on funding and approvals
Summary
The board authorized Minocqua Winter Park to proceed with fundraising and planned installation of snowmaking guns, provided all funding is secured, the operating agreement is amended and Public Works approves proposed snow-gun locations; the board also approved a temporary alcohol license for the Loopy Loppet event.
Representatives of Minocqua Winter Park told the board on Feb. 17 that the tubing-hill layout is nearly fully booked but limited volunteer staffing and inconsistent natural snow have constrained hours. The group presented photos and specifications for snowmaking guns and asked to begin fundraising to install equipment in spring 2027 for operation in the 2028 season.
The board approved a motion authorizing Minocqua Winter Park to proceed with the snowmaking project on the conditions that all project funding be in hand before work begins, the operating agreement be amended accordingly, and the Director of Public Works, Mark Pertile, give final approval of snow-gun locations. The motion was offered by Supervisor Brian Fricke and seconded by Supervisor Erika Petersen and carried by voice vote.
Town Clerk Roben Haggart presented a Temporary Alcohol Beverage License application for Minocqua Winter Park’s Loopy Loppet event on Feb. 28, 2026; the board approved that license (motion by Fricke, seconded by Petersen).
Minocqua Winter Park representatives—Joe Handrick, Chad Metzger and Judy Popovich—said they plan to begin fundraising and seek donor support and grants; the board emphasized that no installation should begin until funds are secured and site locations are cleared by Public Works. The motion leaves additional administrative steps (operating agreement amendments and funding verification) to town staff and the park’s leadership.
