FOND DU LAC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Fond du Lac city leaders are hoping to make changes to one of the city’s main attractions — Lakeside Park.
The plan includes rehabbing the current peninsula, adding a multi-purpose building on the lighthouse peninsula and adding an amphitheater.
Disagreement over the multi-purpose building has created what some locals are calling a grassroots movement.
A Facebook group against the peninsula redesign has had more than 2,500 people join in a matter of weeks.
“That’s what’s generated the most controversy lately. The multi-purpose building would have a restaurant, it would have a meeting space for up to 50 people, restrooms, and then probably an exhibit area or a museum,” Fond du Lac Public Works Director Jordan Skiff told FOX 11.
Following Monday’s meeting, the Advisory Park Board will advise council to halt progress on the pavilion until a feasibility study is complete.
It will also recommend council discuss putting a referendum on the November ballot.
Jane Puddy Ricchio is one of local leaders against the plan.
“Why squeeze a permanent structure on what is an iconic, historic drive on a 360 degree view no matter where you are of the lighthouse.”
Public comment lasted for nearly an hour at the committee meeting Monday. All but one person was against the plan.
“Sorry if I get emotional, because this is my yard. I’m out there in the morning, the night, the afternoon, I’ve had a slip for 20 years. And to have a building on there would be ridiculous!” one resident told the committee.
Public concern has grown in recent weeks as residents learn more about the plan.
Skiff says the city recognizes the worry.
“It’s very fair for people to say they didn’t know this was happening. This alternative plan that’s been talked about for the last 6 or 8 months is moving relatively quickly. I’m glad so many people are now becoming aware of this and are having their voices be heard.”
Fond du Lac resident Matt Givvons tells FOX 11 he supports the plan and would eat at the restaurant.
“I think our park needs a little bit of updating. The beaches are disgusting. There’s a black sludge that is everywhere.”
A feasibility study will be completed in October. The plan will then go to council for a vote.
Comments