Proposed legislation threatens to weaken shoreland protections

Released 12/07/09 (Contact Tami Jackson lakeinfo @ wisconsinlakes.org)

Assembly Bill 299 would immediately eliminate all shoreland zoning requirements for land that is annexed by a city or village. If passed, this bill would do away with shoreland protection standards for annexed areas allowing development to be close to the water and at high density. High density development can negatively impact our lakes by:

• Increasing polluted runoff from roads, lawns, construction sites, storm sewers, and other sources, which reduces water quality.
  
• Transporting phosphorus into lakes. Too much phosphorus can cause smelly algae blooms, contribute to fish kills, cause other plants to grow excessively, and increase lake management costs for local groups.
  
• Altering or destroying important shoreland habitat that supports fish and wildlife.
  
• Altering the scenic beauty and character of our lakes.
  

Thousands of lakefront property owners in unincorporated areas have invested millions of dollars in structures that meet the current statewide minimum standards for shoreland development. These property owners should not be penalized for following standards and protecting the quality of their lake, nor have their property values lowered by the impacts of high density development. Furthermore, it is unfair to hold annexed neighbors to lesser or no shoreland standards.

Shorelands are important to protect water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, natural scenic beauty, enhance private property values, and preserve everyone’s enjoyment of the water (anglers, boaters, tourists, and the businesses that depend on them).

The Wisconsin Association of Lakes feels AB 299 is likely to undermine property values and threaten the near shore environment; we oppose this bill. Please contact your state Senator, and let him/her know you want him/her to protect your lake by voting against AB 299.