What’s Happening in Shell Lake!!

April Showers bring May flowers – a saying many of us grew up hearing.  I still remember waiting as a child for my mom’s tulips to pop through the soil.  As we step into April, I’m hoping for those much-needed showers to help green up our lawns, reduce the significant fire danger in our county and surrounding areas, and raise our lake levels, which have been noticeably low. Any moisture we receive will be a welcome boost.

April is also an important month for Shell Lake residents. On April 7^th, you will have the opportunity to vote on several key items. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  We are fortunate to live in a place where we can make our voices heard, and I encourage everyone to take part.

This year’s ballot includes:

. JUDICIAL: Justice of the Supreme Court and Circuit Court Judge

. COUNTY: County Supervisor in both District 20 and 21

. CITY: Alderpersons both District 1 and 2, Mayor

. School District of Shell Lake School Board Members

. School District Operating Referendum: Shell Lake, Washburn, Burnett and Barron Counties

These are meaningful decisions that shape our community. The principle of “one person, one vote” was affirmed in the early 1960’s, and in 1971 the 26^th Amendment extended voting rights to adults aged 18-20.  Please take time to exercise this important right. 

If any of you have been over by the new Shell Lake Art Center (SLAC) building, you’ve likely noticed the impressive addition nearing completion.  It has transformed the look of 1^st street as the project takes it final shape.  This effort represents more than a decade of planning and fundraising.  Mark your calendars for May 9 for their Fundraiser and Gala-tickets go on sale April 1.  The official ribbon-cutting is scheduled for May 22, 2026 from 3-5p.m.

Our Annual  Shell Lake Easter Hunt, sponsored by the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce, will be on April 4^th, at the Shell Lake School. The event begins at 9:00 a.m., with the Easter Bunny available for photos and egg hunting starting at 10:00 a.m.  This year also includes a special bike registration for children up to age 10, with a chance to win a donated bike.  Registration runs from 9:00 to 9:50 a.m.  A big thank you to everyone who works so hard to make this free community event possible.

Dates To Remember in April

1^st April Fool’s Day

3^rd Good Friday, office will be open until 5:00PM that day

5^th Easter Sunday

7^th VOTING DAY

13^th City Council Meeting 7:00 PM City Hall

22^nd Earth Day

25^th Northern Lights Choir at SLAC…time TBD

Spring is in the air, and soon we’ll see new life emerging all around us.  Take a moment to enjoy it-go for a walk, sit on the porch, stroll through the park.  Make  time for yourself, and continue to be kind to one another. 

Mayor Rowie Hansberger