|
Mayor Lynette "Lyn" Cornelius (2026-2028) Email: [email protected] PO Box 1170 Bayfield, WI 54814 715-779-1206 |
Mayor's Report: July 21, 2026
Dear Residents,
I hope you are all enjoying the warm, sunny weather! I hope you are all enjoying your summers to the fullest—as we all know, winter is always right around the corner.
As we enjoy the season, I want to share a few important updates regarding our city's infrastructure and upcoming projects.
New Water Installation & Infrastructure Success
You may have recently heard that the city is in the process of installing new water meters. I recently attended a progress meeting and had the opportunity to personally see how well this new software system works—and I am incredibly impressed.
During the meeting, we looked at the data from the meters that have already been installed. The system is so precise that we were able to immediately detect an active water leak on the Main City Dock. Thanks to this instant alert, our crews were able to locate and fix the leak right away, saving both water and tax dollars.
Here is what you need to know moving forward:
Main City Dock Infrastructure Update
Speaking of the Main City Dock, we are closely managing some necessary structural changes. Due to immediate safety concerns regarding the integrity of the finger piers, these specific sections have officially been closed off. They are scheduled for complete removal this coming fall.
I want to extend a sincere thank you to our Harbormaster and staff, who worked tirelessly to safely relocate the affected boats to alternative locations with minimal disruption.
Looking at the long-term restoration of the Main City Dock, the overall project costs unfortunately came in significantly higher than the initial estimates. In response, the Harbor Commission is actively exploring alternative funding opportunities and grants to make the full concept design a reality. To ensure fiscal responsibility, this project will likely need to be completed in strategic phases.
East Dock Park Revitalization
Progress also continues for East Dock Park. Because the overall cost for the full transformation is high, the Parks and Recreation Department will be rolling out the concept designs in phases as funding becomes available.
Right now, our immediate focus is entirely on Phase One, which targets the park's most critical foundational needs:
Community Spirit: The Iron Bridge Flags
On a final note, I want to address the recent theft of the large American flag, donated by American Legion Post 49, from the Iron Bridge. While it was deeply disheartening to see this happen, what followed was a beautiful reminder of who we are as a community. Within just three hours of the news spreading, our residents immediately came together. By the afternoon, multiple American flags were generously brought forward, completely covering the entire bridge. Thank you to everyone who stepped up so quickly to turn a negative situation into an inspiring display of community unity and patriotism!
Please note that this matter is still under active investigation. If you have any information regarding the theft, please contact the City of Bayfield Police Department.
As the city gets busier, please remember to drive safely, look out for one another (especially in the cross walks), and enjoy everything Bayfield has to offer.
Warm regards,
Mayor Lyn Cornelius
Dear Residents,
I hope you are all enjoying the warm, sunny weather! I hope you are all enjoying your summers to the fullest—as we all know, winter is always right around the corner.
As we enjoy the season, I want to share a few important updates regarding our city's infrastructure and upcoming projects.
New Water Installation & Infrastructure Success
You may have recently heard that the city is in the process of installing new water meters. I recently attended a progress meeting and had the opportunity to personally see how well this new software system works—and I am incredibly impressed.
During the meeting, we looked at the data from the meters that have already been installed. The system is so precise that we were able to immediately detect an active water leak on the Main City Dock. Thanks to this instant alert, our crews were able to locate and fix the leak right away, saving both water and tax dollars.
Here is what you need to know moving forward:
- Upcoming Outreach: In the near future, residents will be contacted directly with instructions on how to schedule their individual meter replacements. Please keep an eye out for this correspondence and schedule your appointment promptly.
- Project Timeline: Our goal is to have all residential meters installed and the entire software system fully operational by September 1st.
- Stay Informed: We will be posting regular project updates on the city website to keep everyone informed.
Main City Dock Infrastructure Update
Speaking of the Main City Dock, we are closely managing some necessary structural changes. Due to immediate safety concerns regarding the integrity of the finger piers, these specific sections have officially been closed off. They are scheduled for complete removal this coming fall.
I want to extend a sincere thank you to our Harbormaster and staff, who worked tirelessly to safely relocate the affected boats to alternative locations with minimal disruption.
Looking at the long-term restoration of the Main City Dock, the overall project costs unfortunately came in significantly higher than the initial estimates. In response, the Harbor Commission is actively exploring alternative funding opportunities and grants to make the full concept design a reality. To ensure fiscal responsibility, this project will likely need to be completed in strategic phases.
East Dock Park Revitalization
Progress also continues for East Dock Park. Because the overall cost for the full transformation is high, the Parks and Recreation Department will be rolling out the concept designs in phases as funding becomes available.
Right now, our immediate focus is entirely on Phase One, which targets the park's most critical foundational needs:
- Site Ground Work & Water Mitigation: Addressing drainage issues to ensure a long-lasting, safe foundation.
- New Equipment: Upgrading the park features to provide fresh, modern amenities for our families.
Community Spirit: The Iron Bridge Flags
On a final note, I want to address the recent theft of the large American flag, donated by American Legion Post 49, from the Iron Bridge. While it was deeply disheartening to see this happen, what followed was a beautiful reminder of who we are as a community. Within just three hours of the news spreading, our residents immediately came together. By the afternoon, multiple American flags were generously brought forward, completely covering the entire bridge. Thank you to everyone who stepped up so quickly to turn a negative situation into an inspiring display of community unity and patriotism!
Please note that this matter is still under active investigation. If you have any information regarding the theft, please contact the City of Bayfield Police Department.
As the city gets busier, please remember to drive safely, look out for one another (especially in the cross walks), and enjoy everything Bayfield has to offer.
Warm regards,
Mayor Lyn Cornelius
