July 3, 2026

Electronic Mobility Devices and Safety

Safety Reminder: Electric Bikes and Scooters on Two Rivers Streets

Electric bicycles and electric scooters have become increasingly popular in our community, especially among young riders. While these devices can be a fun and convenient way to get around, we're also seeing a rise in unsafe riding behaviors, including ignoring traffic laws, riding with multiple passengers, failing to yield, and operating at unsafe speeds.

As summer continues and more children are out enjoying the weather, the Police Department will increase education and enforcement efforts related to the safe operation of electric bikes and scooters.

Our primary goal is not to issue citations, but to prevent injuries through education and awareness. Officers will stop riders to discuss safety concerns, provide warnings, educate parents, or take enforcement action when necessary.

Parents are encouraged to take a few minutes to review the rules of the road with their children and ensure they understand how to operate these devices safely and responsibly.

A few simple reminders:

✅ Obey traffic laws and signs

✅ Yield to pedestrians

✅ Stay alert and ride responsibly

✅ Wear a helmet

Together, we can help ensure everyone enjoys a safe summer while preventing accidents before they happen.

Hamilton Property Design Concepts

The Future of the Old Hamilton Property is Being Shaped.

Make Plans to Get Involved. 

The City of Two Rivers invites residents to shape the future of the former Hamilton property.

At this week's meeting, your City Council reviewed three preliminary redevelopment concepts representing low-, medium-, and high-density development options. These concepts were developed using more than 600 individual pieces of community feedback, along with planning and market analysis completed over the past several weeks.

They are not final plans, but conversation starters designed to gather additional public input.

Beginning July 6, residents will participate in an online community survey to review the concepts, rank the three development options, and share what they like and what they don't. The survey will remain open through mid-August.

The City will also host three public listening sessions on these concept plans. Mark your calendars for:  

• July 15 at City Hall (5:30 pm)
• July 21 at J.E. Hamilton Community House (6:00 pm)
• August 5 at Lester Public Library (5:30 pm)

Beginning July 14, concept boards and paper surveys will also be available at the Senior Center and Lester Public Library.

Your feedback will help guide the selection of a preferred redevelopment concept before planning moves into its next phase. We encourage everyone to participate and help shape the future of this important waterfront property.

To view the redevelopment concepts, learn more about the project, and participate in the survey beginning July 6, visit the Hamilton Community Visioning page on the City website by CLICKING HERE.

When Do I Need a City Building Permit?

Building This Summer? Don't Skip This Important First Step.



Summer is one of the busiest seasons for home improvement projects. Whether you're building a deck, remodeling a room, or putting in a swimming pool, taking a few minutes to determine whether a permit is required can save you time, money, and headaches later.

Building permits aren't just paperwork: they help ensure projects are completed safely, comply with building codes, and protect homeowners by verifying that construction is properly inspected. They can also prevent issues when selling your home, as unpermitted work may create delays or require costly corrections.

Common Projects That Require a Permit

A building permit is generally required for:

• Home additions
• Garages, sheds, and other accessory buildings
• Decks and porches
• Structural remodeling or major repairs
• Moving a structure on the same property

Additional permits may also be required for specific types of work.

HVAC Permits are generally required for:

• Installing or replacing furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, or other heating and cooling equipment
• Adding to or modifying an existing heating or cooling system
• Altering ductwork or air distribution systems

Swimming Pools require a permit in most cases. The only exception is a portable "kiddie pool" with a maximum surface area of 40 square feet and a maximum depth of 24 inches.

Fence Regulations

If you're installing a new fence, there are a few important rules to keep in mind.

• Front yard fences are generally limited to 4 feet in height.
• Side and rear yard fences are generally limited to 6 feet in height.
• Corner lots are subject to vision clearance requirements to help maintain safe visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
• If a fence has a finished side and a side with exposed posts or support rails, the finished ("good") side must face outward toward neighboring properties or public streets.

Every property is different, so it's always a good idea to verify your project meets local zoning requirements before purchasing materials.

Projects That Typically Do Not Require a Permit

In general, a permit is not required for minor repairs or alterations costing less than $1,000, provided the work does not affect the building's occupancy, size, structural integrity, fire protection systems, exits, entrances, lighting, or ventilation.

Examples Include

• Interior or exterior painting
• Installing draperies or blinds
• Replacing carpet or flooring
• Installing an uncovered patio at ground level
• Replacing light fixtures

Depending on the scope of work, separate electrical, plumbing, or zoning approvals may still be required.

When in Doubt, Ask First

Not every project is the same, and permit requirements can vary based on the details of your work. If you're unsure whether your project requires a permit, contact City Hall before you begin.



A quick phone call before construction starts can help ensure your project is safe, code-compliant, and completed without unnecessary delays. We're here to help make your next home improvement project a success.

Protect Wisconsin's Native Landscapes

Its bloom may be beautiful, but removing Dame's rocket helps preserve native habitats

You may have noticed Dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis) blooming throughout our yards, fields, woodlots, and along roadsides. While its purple flowers are attractive, this plant is considered a restricted invasive species by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources because it produces large numbers of seeds that can spread quickly and displace native plants.

Now is a good time to remove Dame's rocket if you see it growing. Pull the entire plant, including the roots, and dispose of it in the garbage or allow it to dry completely before burning where permitted. Do not place it in compost piles or yard waste, as doing so can help spread this invasive species.

By removing invasive plants and protecting native habitats, we can all help keep our parks, natural areas, and neighborhoods healthy and beautiful.

This message is brought to you by City residents from the Two Rivers Environmental Advisory Board.

School Supply Drive for Two Rivers Students

Help local students start the school year prepared by donating to the Back to School, School Supply Drive. Donations of new school supplies will be distributed to students in the Two Rivers community.

Residents can drop off donations at the Two Rivers Senior Center or Two Rivers City Hall from July 24 through August 10.

Every donation, big or small, helps ensure local students have the tools they need for a successful school year.

For more information, please contact Heather at 920-793-5590.

Upcoming Events

A day of incredible music performed by renowned blues artists from across the country.

Join friends, family, and fans at this sixth annual tribute to “Braille Blues Daddy” Bryan Lee. Enjoy fantastic food and beverages as you celebrate the legend in Two Rivers' beautiful Central Park West.

• Saturday, July 11, 2026

• 1:00PM - 9:00PM

• Central Park West

The artist, born Brian Leroy Kumbalek in 1943 in Two Rivers, passed away in 2020. He began performing professionally at the age of 13 despite having completely lost his sight by age eight. He was based in New Orleans much of his career, and was a fixture on Bourbon Street for decades.

Find more information about the festival and Bryan Lee, CLICK HERE.

Harmony Lives on the Schmitt Brothers Stage

Two Rivers celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Schmitt Brothers (Jim, Joe, Paul and Fran) winning an international barbershop championship.  

The Clipper City Chordsmen host this family-friendly, free event on the Schmitt Brothers Stage, the only stage in the country dedicated to a barbershop quartet. See award-winning performers including:

• Three-time international bronze medalist Midwest Vocal Express chorus 
• 2024 Land O’Lakes District Champion Forward Harmony chorus
• 2021 Land O’Lakes District Champion Coulee Classic quartet,
• What’s New quartet from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
• 2025 Wisconsin Youth Harmony Festival High School Champion Quad Aces quartet

During the show, purchase food and beverages from the Rotary Club of Two Rivers; from noon-6 p.m. at the Washington House Museum (1622 Jefferson St), pick up a Schmitt Brothers Signature Sundae topped with strawberries, nuts, hot fudge and whipped cream with a cherry on top; get Schmitt Brothers Barbershop Brew commemorative crowlers at Cool City Brewing Company (next to the park); and purchase custom T-shirts from Port Cities Screen Printing.

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SnowFest 2026: Three Days of Summer Fun for the Whole Family!

Mark your calendars for July 24–26 and get ready for an unforgettable weekend at SnowFest 2026! Whether you're looking for great live music, family activities, delicious food, shopping, or just a fun way to spend time with friends and neighbors, SnowFest has something for everyone.

The festivities kick off Friday evening as the park opens at 5:00 p.m. Grab dinner from one of the food vendors, visit the SnowFest food stand, or enjoy a cold beverage in the beer tent before taking in an evening of entertainment. Meet the talented Two Rivers High School Robotics Team, cheer on the exciting Two Rivers Police K-9 Demonstration, and enjoy live music from Jordan Blanchard followed by Smoke Road to keep the party going into the night.

The excitement continues Saturday with a full day of family-friendly fun. Start the morning by finding a spot along Garfield Street for the SnowFest Parade, then head into the park to browse the Vendor Fair, featuring a variety of local businesses, artisans, and organizations. Kids will love balloon animals, Rondini's Bombtastic Bubble Show, and the spectacular Glow Bubble Show after dark. There will also be snow in the afternoon and a variety of inflatables and kids games all weekend. Families can also enjoy FREE Bingo with prizes, while music lovers won't want to miss performances by Listening Party, Suzie and the Detonators, The Nix, and Wet Possum. There's something happening around every corner all day long!

On Sunday, the fun continues with another opportunity to explore the Vendor Fair, enjoy delicious food, and take in more live entertainment. Kids can dance with Steppin' with Style Line Dancing, learn during the Lincoln Park Zoo Demonstration, and experience the hands-on excitement of Cool Chemistry. Families can once again enjoy FREE Bingo, while live performances from Koepke/LaForce/Kimmes and Whole Yachta Love provide the perfect soundtrack to wrap up the weekend.

Throughout the festival, you'll find plenty of great food, refreshing drinks, live music, activities for all ages, and opportunities to make lasting summer memories.

Bring your family, invite your friends, and join us for one of the community's favorite summer traditions. We can't wait to celebrate with you at SnowFest 2026!

For more information and schedule of events CLICK HERE.

For more events and things to do in Two Rivers, click the link below.

Agendas are available for public meetings at least 24 hours prior to meeting times. Click Here