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Resident raises riparian access dispute; Okauchee Lake board sets Aug. 24 election for open seat
Summary
A resident told the district he believes a Wisconsin appellate-court decision grants him deeded lake access amid a neighbor dispute over pier placement; commissioners clarified the OLMD lacks jurisdiction over access and reminded the public the district’s Annual Meeting election is Aug. 24.
A neighborhood dispute over riparian access and pier placement was raised during public comment at the Okauchee Lake Management District meeting on June 8, and commissioners reiterated the district’s limited jurisdiction while setting the schedule for an upcoming election.
Resident William Schimmels told the board he has maintained his pier for about 20 years and has obtained a Wisconsin appellate-court decision he believes establishes deeded lake access to his property. Schimmels said neighbors in his private-road subdivision are disputing the pier’s legality. He discussed the issue with Commissioner Brian Sichi and Evan Hoier at Waukesha County, he said.
Chair Tom Godar responded that the OLMD does not make determinations about who is granted lake access and suggested Schimmels contact the Village of Lac La Belle for next steps. The board did not take formal action on the dispute at the meeting.
On board business, Chair Godar and commissioners noted there is an open seat on the district board that will be filled at the Annual Meeting on Aug. 24, 2026 at 7 p.m.; Godar said a county representative will be needed and that the election will occur regardless of how many individuals run for the position.
The district did not vote on the access question; residents seeking resolution were directed to county or municipal channels, and the district will again consider governance items at its next meeting on July 13.
