TOWN OF WILSON, WI (WHBL) - Local approval for a Kohler-owned golf course in the Town of Wilson may not be decided for several more months. The Town of Wilson’s Plan Commission approved Wednesday evening to delay action on a conditional use permit until future notice. Commission Chairman Doug Fuller said the board needs more information from Kohler regarding possible environmental impacts an 18 hole golf course would have on the proposed site, something Kohler said they are starting to look into. He added as long as that information is not available, the commission can not make a proper decision. Kohler officials agreed to comply, saying they may be able to provide some basic details within 30 to 60 days, but it could take longer.
Prior to this decision, the first official public hearing on the golf course was held. Dozens of people filled the Town of Wilson Town Hall to provide their input, ask questions, and listen to what was shared. The vast majority of the comments made were against the project. Those arguments fell into two categories. One was the potential environmental impact such as cutting down a vast number of trees, impacts on area wells, use of pesticides and herbicides on the course, and road ware with added traffic. Opponents also said the town’s 20 year comprehensive plan and zoning ordinances would make this project illegal on the proposed site.
There were a few people who spoke out in favor of the course, citing the other Kohler owned courses in the area as examples of the good it can bring to the area.
Earlier in the day, the Kohler Company did announce if the course was allowed to be built they would seek to get certification from the Audubon International group. Michael Belot, general manage of Destination Kohler, said they will work with the group to make sure they meet certain standards for protecting water quality, conserving natural resources, and providing wildlife habitats. The course would also try to earn a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification for the new course's clubhouse for being green.