KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – City of Kaukauna officials are jumping at the opportunity to add on to their 1000 Islands conservancy zone.
“Once I found out they were divesting some of their properties, I sent an email to the Girl Scouts,” Kaukauna Mayor Tony Penterman said. “We would like to acquire that and keep it in its original form.”
The Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes announced Tuesday the future sale of Camp Winnecomac. Brand and Communications Director Missy Brozek says the land wasn’t a logistical fit for the kids.
“There’s not really a place for us to expand or grow in that location,” Brozek said. “Parking is very limited, so we struggle with that each summer. But there’s also a nearby gun range. So, that just makes it not the best Girl Scout experience.”
Just days after the announcement, Penterman took to social media to share his hopes. He wants to see the privately-owned land be added to the public area.
“It’s another extra 40 acres of nature,” Penterman said. “We don’t want to let that go away if it’s in our grasp. That piece of property is too precious to us.”
The area, which is surrounded by the 1000 Islands Environmental Center, was originally sold to the Girl Scouts in 1977. Penterman says an agreement made during that sale gives the city a chance to reacquire it.
“The mayor at the time, Robert LePlante — he granted it to them with the caveat if the city ever wanted it back, that we could purchase it back for $3,600,” Penterman said. “There was a 50-year lease.”
But the Girl scouts are hoping for new opportunities after the sale.
“We will begin talking to realtors, investors, anyone who may be interested in the property,” Brozek said. “But, right now, that’s all a discovery phase. So, options are open.”
Penterman says he will be reaching out to city and 1000 Islands staff soon to start discussing a purchase.
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