ABOUT

ABOUT GWLPOA

GWLPOA is a Wisconsin not-for-profit organization that connects property owners around Whitewater and Rice Lakes to their community. Our commitment to you is to provide timely communication, opportunities to meet and socialize with your lake neighbors and keep you “in the loop” with pivotal happenings around the lake.

OUR MISSION

Connecting and strengthening our lake community through communication and social gathering.

The GWLPOA is organized for the purpose of representing the property owners of Whitewater and Rice Lakes to act as a communications medium for the property owners; and to initiate and support those activities which will add to the overall enjoyment and well-being of the members of the Greater Whitewater Lake Property Owners’ Association (GWLPOA).

OUR HISTORY

On September 2, 1948 – Whitewater Lake Property Owners formed an Association consisting of 19 owners representing 1/3 of the owners on Whitewater Lake. In 1952 this GWLPOA Association was officially incorporated in the state. As Whitewater Lake grew in property owners and Rice Lake was formed (1954) there became a need to formally establish a process of lakes management including weed control, water testing etc. Under the GWLPOA leadership, Whitewater-Rice Lake Management District (WW-R LMD) was established in 1987 as a separate entity funded through an annual County levy. Both organizations grew and changed over the years and the two organizations partnered to respond to the needs of the Lake residents. The Greater Whitewater Lake Property Owners Association (GWLPOA) in 2024 represented over 380 homeowners as members. For more lake history, visit our ONLINE STORE and purchase a Whitewater and Rice Lakes history book!

ROLES OF THE LAKE ORGANIZATIONS

GREATER WHITEWATER LAKE PROPERTY OWNER'S ASSOCIATION

Volunteer membership organization with annual dues for January through December
Volunteer board planning and managing all events
Contact new lake residents with welcome info
Communication with lake residents
Publish monthly newsletters and eBlasts when needed
Publish the lake directory in even numbered years
Host CPR and First Aid classes
Attend monthly Town of Whitewater meetings
Work with the Town of Whitewater to determine lake needs and also contribute to them
Partner with the Lake Management Board whenever needed.
Partner with local businesses to promote their business on our lake website in return for sponsorships of gift cards and products.

WHITEWATER - RICE LAKES MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

Formed to maintain, protect and improve the quality of lake conditions for the mutual good of property owners and the lake environment under Wisconsin Law Ch. 33
Taxing body – appears on Walworth County Tax Bill
Has seven voting commissioners: five elected by members, one appointed by the County, and one appointed by the Town of Whitewater
Manages and monitors aquatic invasive species; bogs; and fish & wildlife on the lake
Advises the Town of Whitewater on lake ordinances and the water safety patrol
Sponsors annual WI Boater Safety Courses required for all boaters born 1989 or later
Publishes two newsletters annually, including financial projections and budgets
Advises residents on shore-land protection measures
Maintains their website - blue button below