West of the I

From the village of Paddock Lake:

Paddock Lake and Wanasek Company will be beginning an emergency stormwater system repair project in October and will be completing the emergency stormwater system repairs with site restoration by November 13, 2026.

The purpose of this emergency stormwater system repair project is the result of a section of system pipe separating from an outfall head wall. Also included in the project is the removal of decades of sediment and debris that has collected at the system outfall.

The Village has received from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources an emergency approval for the work within the wetland located behind the Village Public Works Departments facility at 23201-62nd Street.

Project Scope: The project scope includes the following Wis. DNR approved activities:

— Removal of stormwater system outfall apron end wall.
— Removal of 24 linear feet of 36-inch failed reinforced concrete system piping at out fall.
— Removal of decades of sediment and debris within the wetland drainage channel.
— Installing approximately 275 Square feet of heavy Riprap at improved stormwater system out fall to separate future sediment and debris from stormwater.
— Restoration of disturbed sites includes the planting of vegetation.

Any residents having questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Village Administrator at 262-843-3617 or Sonya Ponzi of the Wisconsin DNR at Sonya.Ponzi@wisconsin.gov

Plan to spend some time in what’s left of your vegetable garden Friday.

The National Weather Service has issued a frost advisory. The advisory is set to be in effect from 1 to 9 a.m., Saturday.

The temperature is forecast to dip to 30 degrees overnight Friday. So maybe after harvesting those tomatoes you might want to turn on the heat inside.

The frost advisory is in effect for Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee and Racine counties. Much of the rest of Wisconsin has a freeze warning, except, interestingly enough, the most northern reaches.

There’s actually a warm-up in the forecast too. After a couple of days with highs in the 50s, temperatures will start to climb Sunday with high in the 60s through Tuesday and perhaps in the 70s after that.

Kenosha County voters have a contested election on the fall election ballot for clerk of circuit court.

On the ballot will be:

• Zach Rodriguez, a Republican
• Brian M. Sheffler, a Democrat

Incumbent Rebecca Matoska-Mentink did not run for re-election.

The same questionnaire was submitted by westofthei.com to each candidate by email. Here are the candidates’ biographical information followed by their question responses, presented in alphabetical order:

Thursday and Friday could be wet ahead of a frosty Friday night, says the latest, local National Weather Service forecast.

Rain is most likely Thursday after noon until about 8 p.m. Patchy fog also may be present. Thursday’s precipitation could total about half an inch.

Friday’s rain also is most likely in an afternoon range from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a total of .04 inches. Wind will be more significant Friday with a northwest wind of 15 to 20 mph and gusts as high as 35 mph.

High temperatures should be in the mid to upper 50s through Saturday. Friday night/early Saturday morning could see widespread frost, with a low temp at 32.

High temperatures are expected to climb back into the 60s starting Sunday.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

The block of Highway W between 113th and 114th streets in downtown Wilmot will be closed fully from 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, until 6 a.m. Monday, Oct. 19, as part of the ongoing roadwork project in the area, Kenosha County announced Wednesday.

Local access will remain during the closure.

Drivers are asked to use the posted detour, which is noted on the map below.

More project information available here.

Note: This is a paid announcement from H&R Block of Paddock Lake, Twin Lakes, Genoa City — DH

H&R Block is gearing up for the 2026 tax season, and we’re looking for friendly, dependable, and
customer-focused individuals to join our team! We are hiring for multiple seasonal positions at our offices in:

• Paddock Lake
• Twin Lakes
• Genoa City

Now Hiring for:

• Front Desk I Customer Service / Receptionists
• Tax Professionals (experienced or entry-level)

Front Desk Position Details

This is a seasonal opportunity (October 2026 through April 2027), ideal for individuals looking to gain
experience in a professional office environment while helping clients during an important time of year.

Responsibilities include:

• Welcoming clients and providing excellent first impressions
• Answering phones and scheduling appointments
• Managing client check-in/check-out processes
• Assisting with administrative and office support tasks
• Maintaining organized records and workflow

Tax Professional Opportunities

We are also seeking Tax Professionals for the upcoming season:

• Experienced tax preparers are encouraged to apply
• No experience? No problem!

H&R Block offers an Income Tax Course (ITC) for individuals interested in starting a career in tax preparation.

ITC Course Details:

Enrollment opens August 2026
• Learn the fundamentals of tax preparation
• Build valuable, in-demand skills
• Opportunity for employment upon completion

Candidates may qualify by:

• Successful completion of the ITC and passing the knowledge assessment

What We’re Looking For

• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Basic computer proficiency
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Positive attitude and reliability
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Why Join H&R Block?

• Flexible scheduling options
• Supportive team environment
• Valuable training and career-building opportunities
• Seasonal roles with potential for future growth

Apply Today!

Positions are limited and fill quickly—apply early!

Apply in person at your local H&R Block office.

Human Resources Contact:
Kameo lanson
Phone: 262-843-3557
Email: kameo.ianson@hrblock.com

Start your journey with H&R Block—whether you’re greeting clients or preparing returns, you can make a difference this tax season!

Note: The following is a paid announcement from Aging and Disability Resource Center Kenosha County — DH

Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period is October 15–December 7.  It’s an important time of year for those on Medicare to review current coverage of Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans and see if any changes are needed for the coming year. 

There are four basic reasons to check your plan:

1. Your plan may cost more next year
2. Your plan may no longer cover all your medications
3. Your plan may have put new restrictions on some of your medications
4. You may be taking new medications now

ADRC Benefit Specialists offer objective and reliable information and assistance. There is no charge for this service. The Benefit Specialists do not sell or endorse any insurance plans. Benefit Specialists at the ADRC are trained to carefully review current coverage and compare plans with other options based on medications and other details.  Benefit Specialists also check to see if beneficiaries qualify for programs or benefits that can save money.

Workshops are offered throughout Kenosha County and virtually. Appointments are limited. To ensure sufficient support, reservations are required. For further information or to make reservations call the Aging and Disability Resource Center Kenosha County at 262-605-6646.

See schedule to choose a location near you and be sure to register.

Locations WEST of I-94

Westosha Senior Center, 19200 – 93^rd St., Bristol

• Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 11, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Twin Lakes Library, 110 S Lake Ave., Meeting Room

• Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Kenosha County Center, 19600 75th St., Bristol, Rm. A

• Wednesday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m.–noon
• Wednesday, Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Sharing Center, 25700 Wilmot Rd., Trevor

• Friday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m.–noon

Paddock Lake Village Office, 6969 236th Ave., Salem

• Wednesday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m.–noon

VIRTUAL

• Monday, Nov. 2, 12:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
• Monday, Nov. 23, 1–4 p.m.

Locations EAST of I-94

Kenosha County Job Center, 8600 Sheridan Rd., Door D

• Wednesday, Oct. 21, 9 a.m.–11 a.m.  (ADRC)
• Tuesday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (ADRC)
• Wednesday, Oct. 28, 1 p.m.–3 p.m. (ADRC)
• Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 p.m.–3 p.m. (ADRC)
• Tuesday, Nov. 24, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (ADRC)

Southwest Neighborhood Library, 7979 – 38th Ave., Rm. A

• Tuesday, Oct. 20, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m.–noon
• Thursday, Nov. 5, 2 p.m.–4 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 13, 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 20, 10:30 p.m. –12:30 p.m.

Northside Neighborhood Library, 1500 – 27th Ave., Rm. A

• Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2 p.m.–4 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 10, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Dec. 1, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Dec. 3, 1 p.m.–3 p.m.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

At about 7:36 a.m., Wheatland Vol Fire Department, Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units are responding for a crash in at Highways 50 and W-south in Wheatland.

Per dispatch: Injuries being reported. Deputies already on the scene.

The Westosha Central High School District board is scheduled to meet Tuesday, starting at 5 p.m. in the upper commons at the school.

Agenda items are:

• 2026-27 Budget Update
• Staffing Report

The full agenda is available here.

At about 2:45 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue, Pleasant Prairie Fire and Rescue and Newport Fire Protection District units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a report of a crash in the northbound lanes of I-94 on the exit ramp for Highway 165.

Per dispatch: Two vehicles involved. Injuries unknown.

It is going to be unseasonably warm — hot even — early this week.

The latest, local National Weather Service forecast says Monday’s high temperature could reach 85 and Tuesday’s reach 80.

Monday night’s low will be 69.

Temps will cool off the rest of the week and actually be much cooler than recent weeks by Friday, when the high may be in just the mid 50s.

The Wheatland Town Board is scheduled to meet Monday, starting at 6 p.m. at Town Hall in New Munster.

Agenda iems inclcude:

• Continued Camera discussion and possible action
• Transfer station charges discussion and possible action
• Budget discussion

The full agenda is available here.

From Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue:

At approximately 5:27 p.m. on Sunday, October 11th, 2026, Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department, Town of Wheatland Fire Department, and Richmond (Illinois) Fire Protection District were dispatched to the 500 block of Bayview Avenue in Twin Lakes for a reported fire and black smoke inside a condominium.

Upon arrival, firefighters located a fire involving items on a dining room table. Crews brought the fire under control at approximately 5:38 p.m. with the use of fire extinguishers. Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue and Randall Fire Department remained on scene to complete overhaul operations and ventilate the residence, while Wheatland Fire Department and Richmond Fire Protection District were released from the incident.

Preliminary information indicates the fire may have originated from lithium-ion batteries charging on the dining room table for a remote-controlled electric airplane. The estimated damage from fire and smoke throughout the condominium is approximately $30,000. Due to the extent of the smoke damage, the residence is currently uninhabitable.

The occupants’ prompt actions and the fact that someone was home while the batteries were charging helped limit the potential for more extensive damage to the residence and surrounding condominiums. Following the incident, the occupants were provided with a Wagner Family Fire Fund Go Bag containing essential items to help them through the next several days.

Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue reminds residents to use caution when charging lithium-ion batteries and devices powered by them, including remote-controlled aircraft, electric scooters, and other rechargeable equipment. Always charge batteries while someone is home and able to respond if a problem develops. Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions, use the appropriate charger, and discontinue use of batteries that appear damaged, swollen, or unusually hot. Batteries should be charged away from combustible materials and never left charging unattended.

Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue extends its appreciation to all responding agencies for their assistance and thanks the Wagner Family Fire Fund for providing support to the affected occupants.

No further information will be released at this time.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

At about 5:26 p.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department and Wheatland Vol Fire Department units are responding to a fire in the 500 block of Bayview in Twin Lakes.

UPDATE 5:30 p.m. — Fire unit on scene reports light smoke showing.

UPDATE 5:38 p.m. — TL command reports fire is out. All units not on scene can return to quarters.

At about 3:35 p.m., Wheatland Vol Fire Department, Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash in the 4100 block of 392nd Avenue in Wheatland.

Per dispatch: Dump truck has rolled over.

At about 7:02 a.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue units are responding to the 500 block of Torrey Pines Drive in Twin Lakes for an investigation.

Per dispatch: A strong smell of natural gas being reported outside a home.

UPDATE 7:08 a.m. — Town of Randall Fire Department dispatched to the scene.

The Salem Lakes Village Board filled its vacant trustee position at a special meeting Monday.

The board voted unanimously to appoint Tom Strachan.

Strachan was one of five people interviewed for the position at a special Village Board meeting Monday. Two others had expressed interest, but one withdrew before Monday and another did not attend Monday and therefore was not interviewed, said village President Rita Bucur.

In his cover letter, Strachan cited “exceptional financial management experience” and “a strong understanding of planning and development” as among his qualifications for the post.

Strachan has served as the chairman of the village Board of Appeals and chairman of the Fire Commission. He also is chairman of the Camp and Center Lakes Rehabilitation District.

It was his lakes management exp0erience that motivated Bucur to vote for him, she said at the meeting.

“My decision on this is because of your lake experience,’ Bucur said of Strachan after the vote. “We need someone in our community and someone on our board that has that experience to carry on what (current Trustee) Dennis (Faber) has worked very hard for.”

Before the Strachan vote, Trustee Peter Poli moved to appoint one of the other candidates, John Walker, but that motion died for lack of a second. Walker is a member of the village Plan Commission.

Bucur encouraged Walker to run for trustee in the future.

The vacancy was created by the resignation in August of Trustee Amanda Procknow, who said in her resignation letter that she would no longer be a resident of the village as of Aug. 28.

Strachan will complete Procknow’s term, which expires in April 2028.

The Wheatland Town Board is scheduled to hold a special meeting Friday, starting at 2 p.m. at Town Hall in New Munster.

Agenda items include:

• Seno Temp Alcohol License approval event 10.10.2026

The full agenda is available here.