Kohler Co. has been granted a one-year extension of a conditional use permit for its proposed 18-hole golf course in the Black River Forest. This extension comes after several court battles, with a 2019 decision denying a permit to fill wetlands. The City Plan Commission extended the CUP until Dec. 4, 2025, allowing time for plan revisions. The company is working on redesigning the golf course plan to achieve economic, recreational, and tourism benefits while mitigating natural resource impacts.
Kohler Co. acquired land along Lake Michigan in the 1930s and has been planning a golf course for about a decade. The current plans estimate creating jobs, generating revenue, and benefiting the local economy. Changes to the original plan include reducing impervious surfaces, moving facilities to Kohler-owned land, and eliminating wetland impacts. The company is committed to meeting the conditions of the CUP and is not using the extension as a delay tactic.
Community members, including the Friends of the Black River Forest, raised concerns about the extension, requesting a new site plan and CUP application. They highlighted potential economic and environmental impacts of the golf course, such as pesticide use and ground-level pollution. Some believe a new plan is necessary to address indirect impacts on the wetlands despite claims of no direct impacts. Transparency and accountability have been key issues in the discussion surrounding the CUP extension.
Supporters of the golf course extension argue that it is a simple request and could be a significant win for the city and county. They believe the project aligns with sustainability goals and will benefit those who enjoy golf and recreation. Alder John Belanger, employed by Kohler Co., voiced strong support for the project, citing the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. He emphasized the positive impact of projects like Whistling Straits on the local environment and economy.
The decision to grant the CUP extension was met with mixed reactions from the community. While some see it as a positive opportunity for economic growth and recreation, others are concerned about the potential environmental impacts and lack of transparency in the process. The debate surrounding the golf course project underscores the importance of balancing economic development with environmental conservation. Moving forward, stakeholders will need to address concerns, ensure accountability, and work towards a plan that benefits both the community and the environment.
