MADISON – State Representative Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna) released the below statement following the announcement that all Outagamie County Parks have been closed, effective immediately:

“While I firmly believe action needs to be taken to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, I wholeheartedly disagree with the decision of Outagamie County’s leadership to close all parks. Governor Evers’ “Safer at Home” order makes clear that playgrounds and theme parks should be closed, however the closure of all county parks and hiking trails is simply a step too far.

“Being able to smartly and safely take to the outdoors is going to be key for our residents’ physical and mental wellbeing in the coming weeks, and taking parks off the table is unnecessary and unwarranted. In fact, just today the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources waived all fees for Wisconsin state parks and trails to give our people access to the outdoors during these times of isolation.

“County Executive Nelson needs to take a step back and follow the guidelines being outlined by our governor. Open the parks. Now.”

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