Salem Lakes, Wisconsin Development News
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Village of Salem Lakes Board Meeting July 7 2026
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Residents Challenge Building Permit Validity, Citing Ordinance Violations
Resident Mia Solders and Robert Ross addressed the board regarding a building permit issued for a property at 7102 284th Avenue. Solders stated she had requested a review of the building permit by the board of appeals on March 26th, but the village administrator determined it was not within the zoning board's jurisdiction. She argued that the primary role of the appeals board is to review zoning decisions and that the permit, which has been ongoing for over two years, violates village ordinances in size and use. Specifically, she described a 2200 square foot two-story garage being built in the homeowner's front yard, which would be the third multi-vehicle garage on the property. She also raised concerns about the homeowner's business being a home business in violation of village ordinance and the lack of required as-built foundation survey plat, grading plan, and inspections. Ross supported Solders' concerns, emphasizing that permits must be in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and zoning ordinances, and that violations render permits null and void. He referenced the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection and cited a Wisconsin Supreme Court case stating that a municipality cannot be stopped from enforcing a violation even if a permit was issued erroneously by staff. He urged the board to either address the issue directly or put it on the agenda for the board of appeals.
Property Maintenance Policy Overhaul Proposed to Streamline Enforcement and Communication
The board discussed proposed changes to the property maintenance policy, primarily to shift the process for handling extensions from the village board to the village administrator. The aim is to streamline the process, utilize the board's time for appeals, and have the administrator manage extensions with a defined plan of action. This plan would involve documented timelines for completion (e.g., 50% and 100% completion dates), with the administrator having the discretion to grant further extensions based on reasonable review. If agreement cannot be reached, the matter could then be appealed to the village board. Another discussion point involved improving the clarity of property violation notices, moving towards a checklist format with potential photo references, and attaching relevant ordinance sections rather than including them in the main body of the notice. Font size and specificity of violations were also discussed, alongside concerns about the contradictions within the current policy regarding how staff should interact with complainants and the scope of enforcement. The board agreed to have the administrator work with staff to draft a redlined version of the policy for review and potential vote in August.
Tri-Village Library Agreement Approved, Enhancing Salem Lakes' Board Representation
The village board approved a joint operating agreement for the community library between the villages of Paddock Lake, Salem Lakes, and Twin Lakes. This revised agreement removes Randall from the partnership and grants Salem Lakes an additional seat on the library board, increasing its representation. The new structure requires approval from Twin Lakes and Paddock Lake. Following approval, library board appointments will need to be redone due to the change in board size and term structure. The financial responsibilities, including bookkeeping, will now be handled by Twin Lakes. Residents will continue to pay a library tax, which will now go directly to the local library instead of the county.
Village Approves $6.3 Million in Sewer Revenue Bonds for System Upgrades
The board discussed and approved Resolution 2026.07-168, authorizing the issuance and sale of up to $6,293,000 in system revenue bonds for the 2026 sewer system revenue bonds. This is a 20-year term loan at 2.365% interest, secured by the revenues of the sewer utility. Financial advisors Ellers assisted in preparing the application for the 2026 clear water fund loan program to fund the Vanlar yaw sanitary sewer project. The projections indicate that current rates, with a previously authorized increase in 2027, will meet the required debt coverage to close on the loan. Ellers recommended annual review of rate increases to maintain debt coverage. If approved, the village plans to close on the loan on July 22, 2026.
Salem Lakes Secures Major Innovation Grant Funding
The village was approved for an innovation grant, with Salem Lakes set to receive up to $2,175,000. This grant is a first in the state, with other participating villages including Paddock Lake and Worth. Paddock Lake was awarded $163,150 per year for three to five years, Salem Lakes received $436,914, and Wallworth received $179,000. This funding is a significant win for the community and is not expected to be funded by taxpayer pockets. The grant will support community development programs and a road consortium, potentially improving roads. This achievement is attributed to the hard work of individuals like Brian, who found and presented the grant, and administrator Michael. The collaborative effort has also improved relationships with surrounding communities.
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