Mayor's Community Update - 05/31/2019

Now that warm weather has arrived and mowing season is in full swing, we are reminding citizens of Waupun Municipal Code Section 8.04 (2) which specifically prohibits residents from blowing grass clippings into the streets, on sidewalks, and other public surfaces.  Grass clippings pose a danger for bikes, motorcycles and others, particularly when wet.  Keeping clippings off hard public surfaces also helps the city manage stormwater runoff.  The city’s stormwater management plan helps to manage the amount (quantity) and cleanliness (quality) of stormwater runoff within the city.  Grass clippings that end up in the street eventually wash into the storm sewer.  This water is not treated and empties to the Rock River and eventually the Horicon Marsh.  When grass and all the chemicals that grass is commonly treated with enter the storm sewer, it impacts the quality of our rivers, streams and lakes.  Those chemicals include phosphorus.  According to the U.S. EPA, “phosphorus is one of the most troublesome pollutants in stormwater runoff and it is considered the primary cause of water quality problems in our lakes, ponds and stream.”  There are other steps the Department of Public Works (DPW) takes to manage stormwater runoff, including street sweeping; proper application, handling and storage of lawn chemicals, paints, fuel, etc.; inspection and enforcement of construction site erosion control standards; and review of new development for compliance with stormwater ordinance standards.  The WI DNR has set standards for stormwater phosphorus levels that we must meet and staff is working on a plan to lower our levels.  If we are unable to do that, we can anticipate future costs associated with stormwater management.  It starts with each of us working to comply with our city ordinance and we appreciate your support.  Currently, when DPW crews encounter grass clippings in the street they are handing out door hangers that explain the ordinance.  If we all work together we can improve the quality of our waterways for future generations.

Around town, the Waupun Farmer’s Market kicks off on Saturday, June 1, in the O’Connor, Wells & Vander Werff parking lot located at 111 E. Main Street near Waupun City Hall.  The market runs from 8 a.m. to noon each Saturday through the summer.  And, golf season is underway with a number of fundraisers at the Rock Golf Club next week.  Beginning on Tuesday, June 4, at 11 a.m. the annual “Chip In” for the Chamber Golf Outing will be held, and on Friday, June 7, at 11 a.m. the 11th Annual Lions Golf Classic will be held.  I hope to see you around town!