Lake Geneva Committee Rejects Pier Proposal to Protect Scenic Lakefront and Public Access

Slips going back in Lagoon
No new 80 slip piers in front of parks

The Piers and Harbor Committee’s resolution to reject Alderperson Frame’s proposal for two 80-slip piers in front of Library Park and Flat Iron Park reflects a sound commitment to preserving the environmental and aesthetic integrity of Lake Geneva. The suggestion, which has resurfaced periodically over the years, primarily aimed to provide boat slips for condominium owners at the Cove Condominium Hotel, a proposition fraught with public opposition.

During the meeting, residents Kathy Bosworth-Aspinall, Peggy Schneider, and Al Bosworth articulated compelling objections to additional pier installations, citing their adverse impact on the visual and recreational quality of the lakefront. Peggy Schneider, a park board member, observed: “Tonight, the lake has been beautiful, and everyone enjoys walking along the lakefront. Historically, many visitors come here to traverse the pathway and experience the unobstructed view of the lake.”

Alderperson Frame had previously instructed Lake Geneva Harbor Master Eric to develop conceptual layouts and renderings for potential pier placements at Library Park, Flat Iron Park, and the Lagoon. However, newly appointed Alderperson Cathy Stoodley, alongside Sherri Aimes, Peg Esposito, and Sherri Straube, expressed unequivocal opposition to the installation of piers at Library Park or Flat Iron Park, favoring instead the addition of slips within the Lagoon. Consequently, the Harbor Master will now solicit bids for the Lagoon project.

“I just really want to be in the record that I am not a fan of permanent piers anywhere on this lake. I have a favorite saying when those piers are out and this is why I live here.” Cathy Stoodley

Cathy Stoodley encapsulated the committee’s prevailing sentiment: “I want to be on record as being firmly against permanent piers anywhere on this lake. This lake it exists for everybody putting more piers in there is a very limited amount of people and does I feel like even to myself does a huge disservice to the rest of us and I don’t think it’s necessary at this. But you know, we’re also extremely concerned about maintaining the aesthetics of Library Park, Flatiron Park in that lakefront.”

The committee voted to permanently table the park pier proposals, with Sherri Aimes emphasizing that the 80-slip piers near Library and Flat Iron Parks are definitively removed from consideration.

Additional deliberations addressed the approval of the Gage Marine contract for the maintenance and in-out service of the west-end piers and Riviera piers, including repair of damaged components, spanning 2025 through 2027. No alternative bids were submitted.

Further, the committee advanced a recommendation to the city council to increase lease fees for existing buoys and boat slips by 5%, excluding Lagoon slips, which had not undergone rate adjustments for several years. The Harbor Master noted that nearly all Lagoon renters accepted the updated rates, with only two opting not to renew.

The city’s sinking fund for pier replacement—currently valued at \$400,000—was underscored during the meeting. This fund, derived from rental income, is designated for the future replacement of the West End and Lagoon piers. While above-water wooden pier components generally require replacement every decade due to weathering, submerged cribs exhibit a longevity of approximately 60 years. Plans are underway to replace the Lagoon’s deteriorating sea wall with poured concrete, with bids for this project to be solicited imminently.

The committee also addressed the necessity of dredging the Lagoon as a precursor to any new pier installations. The prior dredging effort required property owners along the opposite Lagoon bank, who lease their slips to a boat rental company, to cover half of the costs. Current estimates for the dredging project stand at \$300,000.

Through its actions, the Piers and Harbor Committee has underscored a commitment to safeguarding the natural, cultural, and recreational values of Library Park, Flat Iron Park, and Lake Geneva. Their deliberative approach ensures these treasured public resources remain accessible and visually pristine for the enjoyment of both residents and visitors.