Fond du Lac council approves Alliant Energy easement at Lakeside Park

The Fond du Lac City Council on April 22 approved an easement requested by Alliant Energy to accommodate a 12‑foot‑wide permanent natural gas and communications easement and a 10‑foot temporary construction easement across city land at Lakeside Park.

Mr. Johnson introduced the request and said the easement runs on the east side of Doty Street, across from the wastewater treatment plant, down to West Harborview Drive. He said the easement is related to the city's natural gas renewal program for the wastewater treatment plant and that city staff and the planning commission recommended approval.

Council member Mullen asked whether any permanent above‑ground structures would remain after installation; Mr. Johnson responded, "From my understanding, there's nothing permanent above ground on these particular easements. This is all underground facilities." Council member Lering pressed about whether future above‑ground structures or additional digging might occur; Mr. Johnson said the easement agreement states the grantee agrees not to construct or place building structures or other improvements in the easement area without the city's express written consent.

Following the staff presentation and questions, the council moved, seconded and unanimously approved the easement.

Why it matters: The easement allows utility work for a municipal natural gas program at a city park. Council members asked about preservation of green space and whether future above‑ground structures would be allowed; staff said the current plan is underground gas pipeline and fiber and that the easement prohibits above‑ground structures without city consent.

Next steps: City staff will finalize the easement documentation and record the grant to Alliant Energy.