HOWARD, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A popular swimming quarry in Howard will now be open to more than just village residents.
Duck Creek Quarry’s future was decided Monday night at the Village Board meeting.
When the Duck Creek Quarry first opened years ago to more than just Howard residents, safety was a concern.
“We had huge crowds of people, and a lot of law enforcement responses as well,” said Village of Howard Administrator Paul Evert. “One thing that people need to bear in mind is that we are talking about something that’s less than half an acre in size.”
After closing during the pandemic, it reopened in June of 2020 to Howard residents only with two guests per household.
But Evert says the beach was under-utilized last year.
“I know a lot of people get wristbands and never use them. They just want them if they’re home for the one really hot day.”
Evert says allowing non-residents would have an economic impact on the entire village.
The board considered four recommendations at Monday’s meeting:
Residents only with free admission
Allowing some access to non-residents with a fee
Charge a fee to both residents and non-residents
Limit access to residents only but with a fee
Board members discussed concerns before coming to the decision of allowing non-residents for a fee.
“The referendum didn’t pass for any extra law enforcement and stuff like that,” said board member Cathy Hughes. “I feel changing the way it is now is going to cost us more.”
“I think if we don’t test the waters and allow newcomers to it, I think we are making a mistake,” said board member Adam Lemorande.
Residents were also able to share their thoughts on the matter.
“I’m presuming that the Village board does not look forward to the city of Green Bay putting up a sign saying, ‘No Howard residents permitted at Bay Beach,’” said Howard resident Frank Ingram.
“You know, I like it the way it is because the family beach area is not that big,” said Howard resident Michelle Ettner.
The first 250 non-resident households to pay $50 will be allowed access, with a maximum of 1,250 wristbands distributed.
The Quarry opens Memorial Day Weekend.
