Town of Gibraltar

The meeting included comprehensive reports from various departments, including the Building Committee, Fire and Rescue, Harbor Commission, Law Enforcement, Parks and Lands, Plan Commission, Watershed, Airport Commission, Tourism Commission, Visit Fish Creek, the Historical Association, Sanitary District, and the Broadband Ad-Hoc Committee. Discussions covered ongoing projects such as affordable housing, TID developments, infrastructure repairs at town facilities, and the acquisition of the Redmann property. New business included the approval of ordinances regarding noise control and light pollution, the consideration of a Vice Chair position, a wage increase for the town board, and updates on broadband expansion and transportation systems.

The Commission considered and approved a request from Northern Door Boat Rental to add a fourth pontoon to their lease for the 2026 boating season, subject to specific conditions. Additionally, the lease was amended to mandate that rental vessels include safety placards detailing navigation rules and no-wake regulations. The Commission also reviewed the Waterfront Master Plan and directed staff to initiate negotiations for rights of first refusal or land agreements regarding identified opportunity properties. Reports were provided on the Summerset contract, marina operations, and upcoming dredging permit preparations.

The committee reviewed and compared findings from various town-owned building walkthroughs and inspections conducted throughout the summer. Key actions included recommendations to the Board regarding the restoration of the Noble House porches and roof, as well as the replacement of carpeting in the library, hallway, and the main meeting room of the Town Center. The discussion also addressed maintenance and repair needs identified across several municipal properties, including the Airport, Fire Station, Town Shop, Old Town Hall, and Town Dock.

The commission reviewed an update regarding the status of dredging permits and associated DNR regulations. A proposal from the Sanitary District to install a submersible pump for sewer line flushing was discussed, with concerns noted regarding noise and site location. Additionally, progress on dock repairs and design updates was reviewed, along with planning for a future workshop with the Town Board regarding capital improvement projects. Administrative reports included updates on harbor construction and preparations for the upcoming dockmaster season. A closed session was held to discuss personnel compensation, which was subsequently approved in the open session.

The committee reviewed progress on community broadband sign-ups, noting an increase in participation and ongoing efforts to secure right-of-entry agreements with condo associations. Discussions included service expansion to Chambers Island, the anticipated engineering and construction timeline, and strategies for communicating with out-of-town property owners. The committee also reviewed updates on construction activities, including conduit installation, and discussed the current status of grant and loan applications for the project.