Hortonville residents demand stricter construction regulations and improved safety measures

In the heart of Hortonville, Wisconsin, residents gathered at a recent village board meeting, their voices echoing concerns that resonate deeply within their community. The atmosphere was charged as one resident passionately recounted the challenges posed by a generator running incessantly near his home. For 45 hours straight, the noise from a small fan used during construction disrupted his peace, leaving him and his wife sleepless. Despite reporting the issue to local authorities, he felt powerless as the generator continued to operate without any apparent oversight.

The resident urged the village board to consider stricter construction ordinances, particularly regarding noise levels from generators. He highlighted the need for regulations that would protect existing residents from disturbances caused by ongoing construction, emphasizing that the current noise ordinance only covers specific hours. “Why are they running generators anyway?” he questioned, suggesting that power should be connected before construction begins.

His concerns extended beyond noise. He pointed out the litter accumulating around the subdivision, calling for better waste management practices from builders. “Whoever's doing that subdivision, they're a bad neighbor,” he stated, advocating for construction ordinances that would hold builders accountable for their impact on the community.

The resident also raised issues regarding the maintenance of properties, specifically the presence of thistles and weeds that violate village ordinances. He expressed frustration over the lack of enforcement, noting that he had collected multiple buckets of thistles from his yard alone. “I’m trying to be a good neighbor here, but I’m reaching my limit,” he lamented.

Another resident, Corinne Robertson, brought attention to safety concerns at the intersection of Nash Street and Main Street. She described the hazardous conditions created by malfunctioning traffic signals and the absence of a working pedestrian crosswalk. “Every day, I witness carelessness in close calls,” she warned, recalling a recent incident where a child was struck. Her plea for a functional crosswalk underscored the urgent need for improved safety measures in the area.

As the meeting progressed, the board acknowledged the residents' concerns, with discussions about reviewing outdated policies and addressing the issues raised. The community's call for action was clear: residents want their voices heard and their needs prioritized as Hortonville continues to grow and evolve. The meeting served as a reminder of the delicate balance between development and community well-being, leaving attendees hopeful for a more harmonious future.