Town of Merton gathers public comment on proposed wake-enhancement ordinances for Moose Lake and Lake Keesus

The Town Board of the Town of Merton held a public hearing on May 4, 2026 at Town Hall to gather public input on draft amendments to sections 20.05 (Moose Lake) and 20.08 (Lake Keesus) of the municipal code addressing wake-enhanced boating. Chairman Tim Klink opened the hearing, Clerk Donna Hann read the notice and Attorney James Hammes explained the board would listen and review comments but not respond to questions during the session.

Residents split widely during nearly two and a half hours of testimony. Supporters of an ordinance described repeated safety incidents, shoreline damage, and ecological harm: "Lived on Lake Keesus since 1974 and a safety threat to her family with wake boats unable to see swimmers," said Chris Dierbeck. Opponents urged compromise, cited the Public Trust Doctrine and DNR enforcement responsibilities, and warned the town against costly litigation; "Wake surfing can be managed through distance, depth or operations not exclusion," said Brian Bence.

The hearing featured a mix of lived-experience anecdotes, survey data and technical claims. Patty Mueller reported 163 survey responses out of 220 properties on Lake Keesus with a split of suggested options. Several residents urged intermediate steps—better signage at launches, posted voluntary guidelines, time-of-day restrictions, and stronger enforcement of existing rules—rather than an outright ban. Multiple speakers warned a ban could depress property values or invite legal challenges.

Chairman Klink closed the hearing at 8:54 p.m. and said the board would review the record for at least 30 days before placing any formal proposal on a future agenda. Emails supporting opposition or support were added to the hearing record.