In a pivotal meeting held on June 19, 2025, the Walworth County Zoning Agency addressed significant developments regarding local zoning amendments and conditional use permits, particularly focusing on the Westrod Cottage Industries marina proposal and a solar array project by Dessler Farm LP.

As the meeting commenced, Vice Chair Sue Pruzin took over after Chair John Stoss recused himself due to his involvement with the Lake District Management, which directly relates to the marina project. The Westrod Cottage Industries proposal seeks approval for a marina featuring eight parking stalls and eight mooring spaces, designed to operate year-round, including winter use for airboat watercraft. The committee had previously held a public hearing on May 15, where several questions arose regarding the legality of the substandard C2 zoning lot and its implications for the marina's operation.

Darren, a staff member, clarified that the parcel had been legally rezoned to C2, allowing for conditional uses despite its smaller size. The committee also discussed the interplay between C4 zoning along the shoreline and the marina's operations, emphasizing that while the marina's structures would be on C2 land, they would extend into C4 areas. This raised concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding the use of heavy equipment near sensitive shoreland areas.

The discussion turned to the authenticity of a photo submitted by the applicant, which purportedly showed nine boats at the pier in 2011. The committee acknowledged the difficulty in verifying the photo's date but decided to proceed based on the information provided.

In a separate agenda item, the committee reviewed a conditional use application for a 6-megawatt solar array system proposed by Dessler Farm LP. The project aims to utilize approximately 32 acres of land, with plans for vegetative screening to mitigate visual impacts. The applicant, Nolan Stumpf, assured the committee that the solar panels would not pose environmental hazards and would be maintained to prevent overgrowth that could obstruct their efficiency.

Concerns were raised about the long-term implications of the solar project, including decommissioning responsibilities and potential impacts on local aesthetics and public health. The committee discussed the need for clear conditions to ensure that the project aligns with both county and town regulations.

Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the marina project with amendments to the conditions regarding equipment use, ensuring that heavy machinery would not be stored or operated on sensitive C4 areas. The solar array project also moved forward, with the understanding that it met all necessary requirements and conditions set forth by the town.

As the meeting concluded, the agency underscored the importance of balancing development with environmental stewardship, setting a precedent for future projects in Walworth County. The discussions highlighted the ongoing dialogue between community needs and regulatory frameworks, reflecting the complexities of local governance in the face of evolving land use demands.