Racine, Waukesha mayors debate lake diversion →

MILWAUKEE — As Waukesha’s quest for Lake Michigan water reaches the home stretch, so does the debate over the issue — and Racine’s opposition.

Racine Journal Times, February 4, 2016
Author: Mark Schaaf

Racine Mayor John Dickert and Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly traded arguments before about 240 people Thursday at “On the Issues with Mike Gousha,” a forum held on the campus of Marquette University.

Due to problems with its water supply, Waukesha is proposing to divert an average of 10 million gallons of Lake Michigan water per day and returning treated wastewater to the lake through the Root River.

The years-long debate figures to intensify with the decision now in the hands of Great Lakes governors. The eight governors, all of whom must sign off for Waukesha’s application to be approved, are expected to decide in late May or early June, Reilly said.

Dickert reiterated his stance that Waukesha obtaining Lake Michigan water would harm the Root River, pointing to more phosphorous and pharmaceuticals being brought into the water.