Aquatic center shuttered for season

The Village of Grafton is taking measures to ensure public safety and economic stability during the coronavirus pandemic. 

On Monday, the Village Board voted to close the Grafton Family Aquatic Center for the 2020 season due to public health concerns and an expected negative fiscal impact if the center was to remain open. 

Village Administrator Jesse Thyes said the village spends approximately $69,000 to operate the pool, but with added measures in place, the expense was expected to be significantly higher.

“Considering what we know today about the current pandemic conditions, requirements for keeping the public safe and potential restrictions, I am anticipating this subsidy to be in excess of $100,000 in 2020,” Thyes said, noting maintenance will continue at the facility to prevent potential mechanical issues.

Cedarburg has also closed its municipal pool.

Officials said Grafton public parks are open, but shelter and restroom facilities are not available to the public. Refunds for park rentals are available until July 30. 

The board also approved tapping into the revolving loan fund to create an emergency loan fund for businesses affected by Covid-19.  The village has earmarked $125,000 for the fund, and businesses that qualify may receive up to $10,000 per loan on a first-come, first-served basis. 

On May 13, the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down Gov. Tony Evers’ Safer at Home order, which allowed certain businesses to return to normal operations. In a joint statement by the Village of Grafton and the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce, officials said the court’s decision allows businesses to open but doesn’t provide any framework or guidance.

“Both the village and the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce are very supportive of opening our local economy but would urge business owners to do so in a safe and responsible manner,” according to the statement.

“If you choose to reopen your business, you are not in violation of orders issued by the Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department. 

“The Village of Grafton is not setting forth any local public health orders. The village does, however, encourage efforts such as social distancing, hand washing, wearing a face covering when appropriate and asking groups to limit any large gatherings to no more than 50 people in accord with health department advice.”

Last week, the village decided to cancel all Independence Day events, including fireworks. Officials said other events such as the Giro d’ Grafton bicycle races are postponed and will be reviewed in the coming weeks.

“In the end, we are all responsible for public health and the Village of Grafton and Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce encourage you to take steps that you feel are necessary to keep you, your families, and your livelihoods safe,” the statement reads.