The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a resolution expressing support for designation of the Apostle Islands as a national park.

The resolution originated in the Economic Development Committee, which forwarded a unanimous recommendation to the county board. In committee and in floor discussion supporters said a national-park designation would draw attention to the region and could benefit tourism; they framed the measure as an advisory, nonbinding expression of the county's economic-development preference. Committee notes and board discussion recorded that Bayfield County had submitted a resolution in opposition to the designation and that the Northwest Regional Planning Commission had not taken a new position in deference to Bayfield County’s expressed concerns about infrastructure, workforce and housing.

The motion to approve the resolution was made by Supervisor Ringheimer (record shows “motion by mister Rickheimer”) and seconded by Supervisor Duffy. A single “nay” was recorded during the vote; the chair announced “Motion carries.” Board members emphasized the resolution is nonbinding and intended to voice local support for designation and the potential economic benefits.

No county commitments of funds were made as part of the resolution; the economic development committee reported broader tourism planning priorities including signage, sanitation, cellular coverage and housing as areas to address if visitation increases.