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Committee backs DNR purchase of 77 acres in Minocqua; vote splits 4–2
Summary
The Oneida County Executive Committee voted 4–2 to forward a resolution supporting the Wisconsin DNR’s proposed purchase of about 77 acres in the Town of Minocqua using Knowles‑Nelson funds; two committee members opposed using tax dollars to remove residential property from the tax roll.
The Oneida County Executive Committee voted on May 6 to forward a resolution supporting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ proposed acquisition of roughly 77 acres in the Town of Minocqua, directing the measure to the County Board as a regular agenda item. The committee vote was 4 Aye, 2 Nay (Scott Holewinski and Debbie Condado); one member was absent.
The resolution, as presented, identifies parcels MI‑1083 and MI‑1086 totaling approximately 77 acres with two‑bank frontage along the Tomahawk River and access from a town road. It notes the property lies within the Upper Tomahawk River corridor and connects to the Willow Flowage, which has an Outstanding Resource Water designation, and cites Wis. Stats. 23.0917(5t)(b) as the statutory authority for using Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship funds for the acquisition. The resolution text states that ‘‘Oneida County supports the proposed acquisition of subject property described above and the use of Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship funds to acquire the property as per Wis. Stats. 23.0917(5t)(b).’’
Scott Holewinski told the committee he received a letter from the DNR and said he is ‘‘against using tax dollars to buy residential property and take it off the tax rolls.’’ Chairman Billy Fried said the Town of Minocqua had already considered the matter and passed a 4–1 vote in favor and that he represents the town; Fried urged forwarding the resolution to the County Board where it could be amended and further discussed.
Fried moved the motion and Michael Tautges seconded; the committee voted to forward the resolution in support. The committee discussion also touched on coordination with the town and local clubs for public access, motorized vehicle routes and development of dry hydrants to support emergency services, as noted by town representatives at the local meeting.
The measure will next be considered by the full Oneida County Board; the County Board process may include amendments requested by local officials or members of the public.
