|
Two Rivers City Hall
1717 E. Park Street
Two Rivers, WI 54241
920-793-5523
| |  | |
FROM THE
CITY MANAGER'S DESK
| |
Shaping the Future Together
One of my top priorities coming in as City Manager is to increase public engagement—because good decisions start with listening to the people we serve. Good planning takes listening.
Over the past week, more than 110 residents shared their thoughts via the Cool City Connect about the future of the Neshotah Beach concession stand. Others have called City Hall and reached out to the City Council. We are still listening.
I see how much this community values Neshotah Beach and the process of shaping its future together.
Some residents see opportunity in expanded food options and event space that could reduce the property tax burden while enhancing the beach experience. Others expressed interest in preserving the existing building with smaller updates and not using tax dollars for a rebuilt structure.
Every perspective matters. The City will position itself to make choices that reflect community priorities and support our goal of long-term financial sustainability.
I want to thank everyone who took the time to contribute ideas. Your input will help guide the City Council’s consideration of how we can best protect and enhance one of Two Rivers’ most cherished community spaces.
Kyle Kordell
City Manager
| | | Honoring Officer Thomas R. Dodge | | |
A Lasting Legacy in Two Rivers
On September 10, the City of Two Rivers held a remembrance ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Officer Thomas R. Dodge’s line-of-duty death in 1975.
Family, community members, and fellow officers gathered at Central Park to honor his courage and sacrifice. Officer Dodge’s story continues to inspire and his legacy remains a guiding reminder of service and dedication in Two Rivers.
Speakers reflected on Officer Dodge’s bravery and the enduring impact of his sacrifice. Although his watch ended far too soon, the values he embodied—service, courage, and dedication to protecting others—continue to guide the men and women of the Two Rivers Police Department today.
| | Exploring Beneath the Waves | | |
Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast
Right off the shores of Two Rivers lies a national treasure: the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Spanning 962 square nautical miles of Lake Michigan, it protects 36 known shipwrecks—many preserved in incredible detail thanks to the lake’s cold, fresh water.
For Two Rivers, this isn’t just history under the waves—it’s part of who we are. The sanctuary draws divers, paddlers, and visitors from across the country, boosting our local businesses while putting our city on the map as a hub for maritime heritage and adventure.
Everyday views of Lake Michigan now carry new meaning: beneath the surface are stories of courage, commerce, and discovery. As more shipwrecks are researched and shared, Two Rivers residents can take pride in living alongside one of America’s most unique national sanctuaries.
| | Honoring History, Celebrating Friendship | | |
Welcome Domažlice Students and Teachers
This past spring, Two Rivers proudly presented a commemorative bronze medallion to our Sister City of Domažlice, Czech Republic. The gift honors the 80th anniversary of liberation in May 1945, when Two Rivers native Lt. Col. Matt Konop led U.S. Army troops into western Czech villages—including his ancestral hometown of Domažlice. He was embraced not only as a liberator, but as one of their own returning home.
On September 13, we welcome thirteen Domažlice students and teachers who will be here for a week to enjoy our culture and Two Rivers High School homecoming traditions. A delegation from Domažlice will provide a companion medallion for Two Rivers, which will remain on display at City Hall, serving as a lasting reminder of this shared history.
Since forming our Sister City partnership in 2017, Two Rivers and Domažlice have built a strong bond inspired by Col. Konop’s legacy. Together, we’ve celebrated seven adult and five student exchanges—bridging cultures, honoring history, and deepening a friendship that continues to grow across generations.
| |
Join the Two Rivers
Zoning Board of Appeals
| | |
Care about Two Rivers? Volunteer Needed
The City of Two Rivers is currently seeking a civic-minded resident to serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). This is a volunteer position. The ZBA meets as-needed to review zoning variance requests, which is usually 3 or 4 meetings per year. Meetings are usually held at 4:00 pm on the first Thursday of the month (as needed) at City Hall.
The ZBA plays a key role in local decision-making, reviewing requests for zoning variances and hearing appeals of zoning decisions. Members help ensure fairness, consistency, and transparency in how the City applies its zoning regulations.
If you’re passionate about Two Rivers’ future, enjoy problem-solving, and want to give back to your community, we encourage you to apply.
Drop of your completed Volunteer Application at City Hall or email to valvan@two-rivers.org, along with a copy of your resume if you wish.
| |
Paddle Palooza
FREE EVENT
Veterans Park
TODAY- ALL DAY
Second annual paddling event for all ages and skill levels!
Meet up with other paddlers or learn how to get started navigating our beautiful waterways at this free, fun and educational event.
The following schedule is subject to change:
• 8-9:30am: Introduction to kayaking lesson
• 10am-3pm: Canoe/kayak float on the Twin Rivers
• 12-5pm: Kids' activities and education booths
• 12-5pm: Food and beverages available
• 6:30-7:30pm: Sunset West Twin River paddle
Bring your own canoe or kayak.
A limited number of sit-on-top single kayaks available free with preregistration.
Preregistration is preferred for all participants.
| | Click above to watch video | |
German Community Life and Traditions
FREE EVENT
Lester Public Library
Thursday, September 18, 2025
6:00 PM
Discover the lively legacy of German immigrants in Wisconsin through this engaging presentation that explores how Old World traditions blended with a uniquely Wisconsin identity. From singing societies and beer halls to vibrant theater, music, and a bustling German-language press, these communities helped shape a rich, multi-ethnic culture. Learn how their influence lives on today in events like Christmas markets and Oktoberfests—celebrations that may be German in origin but are unmistakably Wisconsin in spirit. A University of Wisconsin Badger Talk.
Antje Petty is the Associate Director of the Max Kade Institute for German-American Studies, where she shares her expertise on German-speaking immigration and heritage through lectures, workshops, and public programs. Her research explores emigration from German-speaking Europe and the experiences of German immigrants and their descendants in North America.
| | |
|
Saturday, September 20, 2025
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Downtown Two Rivers
Experience sights, sounds and savory tastes of the world at this 34th annual event.
Music and dance reflecting different cultures. Great food, a parade of flags, family activities, and arts and crafts vendors.
| | Meetings Scheduled for Next Week | | Agendas are available for public meetings at least 24 hours prior to meeting times. Click Here | | | | |
