River News: Baby Box Proposal, Park Preservation, and Short-Term Rental Debate

• The Rhinelander Fire Department is proposing a 'Safe Haven Baby Box' to allow parents to safely and anonymously surrender their infants during a crisis according to local reports.
• Vilas County Board rejected a proposal to sell Riverside Park in Eagle River, preserving it as public land after significant community opposition as reported.
• Oneida County amended its tourist rooming house ordinance to permit weekend stays in residential and other zoning districts, aiming to boost tourism while addressing enforcement and housing concerns according to the county board.

The 'Safe Haven Baby Box' initiative by the Rhinelander Fire Department is intended to provide a secure and confidential alternative for parents who cannot care for their newborns. The proposal is still under discussion with local authorities and community stakeholders as documented.

The decision to preserve Riverside Park was made following public concerns about converting the land into residential housing. Some board members suggested returning the land to the Lac du Flambeau Tribe due to its historical significance as part of the Anishinaabe ceded territory according to reports.

In Oneida County, the new ordinance allows for weekend stays in several residential and industrial districts, though it remains limited to one rental per seven-day period. The change aims to support local tourism and small businesses while raising concerns about housing shortages and neighborhood stability as noted.

What is the 'Safe Haven Baby Box' and why is it being proposed?

The Rhinelander Fire Department is exploring a 'Safe Haven Baby Box' as a means to provide a safe, anonymous location for parents to surrender their infants during a crisis. The box is intended to prevent infant abandonment and ensure the safety of both the infant and the parent. Discussions are ongoing with local authorities to finalize the initiative according to local reports.

Why did the Vilas County Board reject the sale of Riverside Park?

The Vilas County Board rejected the proposal to sell Riverside Park in Eagle River after receiving strong public opposition. Many residents and advocacy groups argued for the park's preservation as a public asset, citing its historical significance. County Chair Jerry Burkett had originally proposed the sale in 2024 to generate revenue, but the board ultimately voted 16 to 2 against the sale according to the vote count.

What are the implications of the Oneida County tourist rooming house ordinance amendment?

The Oneida County tourist rooming house ordinance amendment allows for weekend stays in several zoning districts, with the goal of supporting local tourism and small businesses. However, opponents have raised concerns about potential impacts on housing shortages and neighborhood stability. Enforcement of the new rule is also uncertain, as county officials rely on complaints rather than active monitoring of short-term rental listings as reported.

The amendment reflects an evolving trend in short-term rental regulations and the growing debate about how to balance tourism needs with local housing and neighborhood concerns. Some supervisors expressed frustration over the ongoing nature of the discussion, while others emphasized the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs and economic development according to county officials.