LETTER: Beach walking rights do not include use of private spaces

To Ozaukee Press:

I have been here in Belgium township off and on since 1954. I have been here as a full-time property owner since 2000.  As a child, this shoreline was my playground. It was, and remains, a beautiful place.

I’m well aware of the recent disputes over Lake Michigan access. I delight in people’s enjoyment of the area, including the sometimes loud jet skis in our area. I like peace and quiet, but I believe their enjoyment is a positive.

I have no problem with people walking the beach. I do so myself. But I was disappointed when I went to my beach and saw several deep, wide holes dug well above the “wet feet” line, with rock sculptures and drift wood employed in various areas.

There is a public beach three houses down. This is an unnecessary abuse of the beach on my private property. And sadly, it’s not an isolated incident. I’ve found families spending an afternoon and debris including broken glass.

I welcome beach lovers, but I am saddened by this sense of entitlement to private property. This is what causes conflict. I do not want conflict. I seek only respect.

Holly Van Hecke

Town of Belgium