Bayfield Needs To Attract More People, Mayoral Candidates Say

In northern Wisconsin, Bayfield’s mayoral candidates say something needs to be done to grow the city’s declining population.

Since 2000, the number of city residents has dropped from 611 to 487, according to U.S. Census data. Half a century ago, Bayfield’s population was twice what it is now. Recently released U.S. Census estimates show populations have dwindled among Wisconsin’s northern counties in the last five years.

Mayoral candidate Gordon Ringberg said high property values and limited job opportunities are straining the city’s year-round residents. If elected, he said he’d look to options outlined in the city’s comprehensive plan to double Bayfield’s population.

“Perhaps opening up some areas for affordable housing — making programs available that will help young people get homes and possibly even older people stay in their homes,” said Ringberg.

Candidate Larry Gansluckner said he would form a citizen committee to study ways to grow jobs in the city if elected.

“If we could generate more jobs, I’m confident that we could have more year-round residents,” said Gansluckner.

The two are vying for the office being vacated by longtime Mayor Larry MacDonald. MacDonald announced his retirement last summer after serving as the city’s mayor for nearly two decades.

Other northern Wisconsin cities, including Ashland, Washburn and Hurley, have seen anywhere from a 5 to 15 percent population decline. Rusk, Langlade and Price counties had the highest rate of population loss in the last five years, according to the recent Census estimates.

U.S. Census Data Population 1990-2010:

2010 2000 1990

Ashland 8,216 8,620 8,695

Bayfield 487 611 686

Washburn 2,117 2,280 2,285

Hurley 1,547 1,818 1,782