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Public meeting on potential new county park in Lyons slated

WALWORTH COUNTY — The Walworth County Board of Supervisors has scheduled a public information meeting on the potential acquisition of new parkland along the White River in Lyons Township. The meeting is scheduled for Mon., March 18, from 6 to 8 p.m., in County Board Room 114 of the Government Center, located at 100 W. Walworth Street in downtown Elkhorn.

The Walworth County Park and Open Space Plan will discuss acquisition of this 195-acre parcel with approximately 9,200 feet of frontage on the White River, which would provide public recreational opportunities, particularly to residents and visitors in the southeast quadrant of the County.

Walworth County has secured an option to purchase this property from the Duane B. Clark Trust in the amount of the $1.91 million appraised value. Any purchase would be contingent upon receiving a Wisconsin Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Grant which would pay for one-half of the total acquisition cost. Stewardship grant funds are awarded to both Wisconsin local units of government and non-profit conservation organizations to preserve valuable natural areas and wildlife habitat, protect water quality and fisheries, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The public information meeting will include visual displays and handouts that describe the potential park property, possible future uses, project financing and the Stewardship grant process. At 7:00 p.m., a brief presentation will be made by County, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission staff about the proposed land acquisition and park development. The County Board wants to hear from residents before making a final decision in this matter. A public comment period will follow the presentation. Written comments will also be encouraged and accepted at the meeting.

Public comments may also be submitted in writing to the Walworth County Park Committee, c/o the Public Works Department, W4097 County Road NN, Elkhorn, Wisconsin 53121, or via email to kbrunner@co.walworth.wi.us.