The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is open to entering into a lakebed lease with the city of Sturgeon Bay while the appeal of the ordinary high water mark for two west side parcels is under review. The city could then lease the land to the Sturgeon Bay Historical Society to place the granary back on the west side for the first time in over a year on a temporary basis. City administrator Josh VanLieshout says whether the OHWM moves more waterward or not, the DNR sees no harm if it keeps the lakebed leasing process moving. As of right now, the DNR is also not requiring any additional permits or approvals for the temporary placement. VanLieshout emphasizes that even though the DNR is allowing it does not mean the granary is ready to move just yet based on the development agreement the city has with the Sturgeon Bay Historical Society.
The OHWM for the parcels located at 92 S. Maple Street and 100 S. Maple Street was determined by the DNR in January but has since been challenged in court by a group of local citizens.
