Wood County parks director Chad honored; parks report highlights upgrades, events and $800K levy support

Chad, Wood County parks director, was honored by the board for 25 years of service and delivered the parks department's annual report, outlining major projects, events and operational details. He highlighted lasting improvements at Powers Bluff and the addition and upgrades at Sarah Park, the county's takeover of Sarah Park management as of Jan. 1, 2025, and construction and accessibility work at Howard's Bluff and other park facilities.

Chad described key projects completed or underway: restroom remodels and shelter improvements at Sarah Park; a storm shelter at South Loop County Park that can be unlocked remotely for emergency response and equipped with a generator; a new maintenance shop near the tubing hill at Howard's Bluff; and a grant-supported renovation for Dexter County Park's beach house supported by a $300,000 DNR matching grant. He said the parks depend on a mix of user fees, timber revenue, grants and a tax-levy contribution—"approximately $800,000 of tax levy" in 2025—for operations. "It's been a wonderful career here in the county," Chad said as he accepted the recognition.

Board members asked logistical questions about reopening pools and the possibility of a beach or splash pad at the acquired park property; Chad said decisions about operating a pool would be subject to operating costs and likely would be considered in partnership with municipal operators. The transcript indicates the county is working through legal transfer steps with Quipco for the property and aims to finalize ownership by year-end.