News

Whitewater’s Community Development Authority and the Greater Whitewater Committee is set to host an informational event on the Home Renewal Loan Program with lunch sponsored by Home Lumber, LLC.

The city’s Community Development Authority (CDA) and The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC) are set to host an informational event on the Home Renewal Loan Program with lunch sponsored by Home Lumber, LLC. This meeting is exclusive to home repair specialists and contractors in the region, in which invites have been sent by mail. The invitations should be received by July 2, 2026. If you have not received an invitation by that date and would wish to attend, please contact Emily Duffek at design@knightpublicaffairs.com.

“This program incentivizes new family occupants, increases the overall housing assessment, and supports local contractors by providing renovation projects,” Chris Hale, President of Home Lumber Company.

The Home Renewal Loan Program, launched by the CDA on behalf of the City of Whitewater, is an initiative aimed to help single-family homeowners’ complete renovations that will enhance the safety and value of their properties. This program stems from the $1.2 million remaining from the $1.9 million TID Affordable Housing Extension; it allows an applicant to get up to $60,000+ in accessible, 0% interest deferred financing that only needs to be paid back once the occupant sells or if the home is converted to a rental.

“This Program is aimed to revitalize single-family housing stock within the City of Whitewater,” said Mason Becker, Community Development Director. “By investing in these homes, we are investing into the foundational quality of Whitewater neighborhoods and strengthening our community.”

“It is very valuable for all contractors to understand this opportunity and encourage clients to pursue renovations that would otherwise have financial barriers,” said Russ Walton, Chairman of the GWC.

For further information, contact Jeff Knight at jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com or 920.728.0662.

About the GWC
The GWC is an action-oriented group committed to collaborating with citizens, elected officials, and policy makers to identify, craft, and implement a pro-business agenda. The agenda advances the economic, education, and social policies needed to energize and secure the Whitewater area’s economic future, as well as protect Whitewater’s quality of life.

Editor’s note: This press release was received from the Greater Whitewater Committee. The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by gypsumpartition from Pixabay.

Carol McCormick writes “A beautiful reflection of the moon on Trippe Lake on a beautiful Saturday night in Whitewater. Doesn’t get much better than this on a summer night.”

Our thanks to Carol McCormick for sharing yet another of her beautiful photos.

— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!

Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Downtown Whitewater.

Indie Under the Stars Brings Traveling Drive-In Film Experience to Jefferson County

A Taste of Theatre is bringing Indie Under the Stars to Jefferson County on June 30, 2026, at Highway 18 Outdoor Theatre, located at W6423 US-18, Jefferson, WI 53549.

Indie Under the Stars is a traveling drive-in movie experience where audiences watch five short independent films under the stars, rate each film, leave feedback for the filmmakers, and help decide which film continues on the tour.

The event is like Amateur Night at the Apollo meets Siskel & Ebert, but for independent film at a classic outdoor theatre.

What makes this event different is that the audience is not just watching the films. They become part of the experience. They vote, comment, and help decide which filmmaker gets another opportunity to have their work seen.

This is a family-friendly night out for Wisconsin families, couples, film lovers, creatives, and community members. It also gives independent filmmakers something many struggle to find: a live audience, honest feedback, and another chance to be seen beyond online views and traditional festivals.

Event Details
Event: Indie Under the Stars — Wisconsin Tour Stop
Date: June 30, 2026
Location: Highway 18 Outdoor Theatre
Address: W6423 US-18, Jefferson, WI 53549
Admission: $12 to watch five short films
Website: IndieUnderTheStars.com

Filmmakers with family-friendly short films are also invited to submit their work for future Indie Under the Stars tour stops.

For more information, tickets, or film submissions, visit IndieUnderTheStars.com. [Editor’s note: Unfortunately, this website doesn’t give any further information about the Jefferson event other than it’s scheduled for 8:00 – 10:30 p.m.]

The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office has extended the Extreme Heat Warning to early Wednesday evening. Heat index values on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon will be around 105 degrees. [Per the image below, the heat index for our area is expected to reach 107.] Overnight heat index values in the middle to upper 70s will offer little relief from the heat.

Thunderstorm chances increase on Thursday and Friday. Depending on where thunderstorm complexes set up, NWS will monitor for the need to extend the Extreme Heat Warning.

Expect heat index values between 90-95 degrees and periodic chances for showers and thunderstorms through the upcoming weekend.

Updated 6/29/26 @ 11:50 p.m. to add the map of the detour.

According to a press release, the City of Whitewater would like to inform residents, businesses, and visitors that construction to realign the southeast corner of the Franklin Street and W. Main Street intersection is anticipated to begin on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The primary goal of the project is to provide a wider turning area for eastbound large trucks, consequently reducing the risk of such vehicles running into the traffic light on that corner.

Brad Marquardt, city Director of Public Works, told The Banner that an additional benefit is that “since we are messing with the signals there will be a left turn arrow installed for westbound Main Street turning left onto Franklin. This arrow will only operate if there are enough vehicles stacked up to trigger it such as is the case westbound at Elizabeth or eastbound at Tratt Street.”

During construction:

• Franklin Street will be closed to all traffic from W. Main Street to approximately 150 feet
  south of the intersection.
• The Mercy Health entrance will remain open; however, it will only be accessible from the
  south on Franklin.
• W. Main Street will be reduced to one through lane in each direction.
• The existing traffic signals will be removed from service and replaced with All -Way Stop
  signs throughout the duration of the project.
  
  Construction is expected to be completed by mid -August 2026, weather permitting. A posted detour will direct motorists via Whitewater Street and W. Main Street. The city appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this important infrastructure improvement project. Please use caution when traveling through the work zone, follow all posted
  signs, and allow extra travel time.
  
  Thank you for your understanding as we work to improve the safety and functionality of this intersection.

Did you know that more than half of women over age 50 experience issues with
bladder or bowel control? These problems can be slightly bothersome or totally
debilitating. For some women, the chance of embarrassment keeps them from enjoying
many activities and can take control of their life.

A popular workshop in Rock County can help! Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels,
Healthy Bladder is a workshop designed to give women, age 60 and older, the tools
they need to take control of their bladder and bowel symptoms. The workshop provides
information, group activities, simple exercises and dietary changes to practice at home.
The workshop consists of three, 2-hour sessions over the course of a month. Dedication
to the series of three classes is required. This is a workshop for females, taught by a
female.

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Rock County invite women to
join them for a “Mind Over Matter” series at The Gathering Place (senior center) in
Milton. The series will take place on three Friday mornings from 9:00-11:00 am on
July 10, 24 and August 7, 2026. Suggested donation is $10 to cover the cost of
materials. Space is limited, so register before July 2 nd to reserve a spot!

To learn more, or to register for the series, contact Health Promotion
Coordinator, Lisa Messer, of the ADRC of Rock County by calling: 608-757-5309
or email: Lisa.messer@co.rock.wi.us.

Editor’s note: The ADRC of Rock County has previously indicated to The Whitewater Banner that residents of other nearby counties are welcome to participate in their programs as space allows.

Community members and visitors alike are warmly invited to gather for a Beloved Community Fellowship Hour on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Cravath Lakefront Park in Whitewater.

Hosted by First English Lutheran Church, North Lima Presbyterian Church, First United Methodist Church, and other area faith communities, this ecumenical gathering offers a meaningful opportunity for fellowship, reflection, and connection in a welcoming outdoor setting.

The Beloved Community Fellowship Hour is centered on a shared vision of cultivating a community where neighbors come together in love, mutual respect, and unity. The hour will feature music, thoughtful reflection, and time to connect with one another while enjoying the peaceful lakefront atmosphere.

This event is fully inclusive, and all individuals, families, and visitors are invited to attend, regardless of background, faith tradition, or life experience. Organizers hope the gathering will serve as a reminder of the strength and beauty found in community.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating.

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting Whitewater for the holiday weekend, we invite you to join us as we celebrate the spirit of fellowship and the bonds that unite our community,” organizers shared.

The Community Fellowship Hour is free and open to the public.
Event Details:

• What: Beloved Community Fellowship Hour
• When: Sunday, July 5, 2026 | 11:00 AM
• Where: Cravath Lakefront Park, Whitewater
• Who: Open to everyone
• Bring: Lawn chairs or blankets

Citizens Police Academy Set to Begin Soon

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce that its upcoming Citizens Police Academy will begin soon, offering residents a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about local law enforcement operations.

The Citizens Police Academy is designed to educate community members about the role of the sheriff’s office promote transparency and strengthen relationships between officers and the public. Participants will gain insight into a wide range of topics, including patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, use of force policies, communications, and more. 

The academy is open to residents who live in the Jefferson County area and meet basic eligibility requirements. [Editor’s note: The application form indicates that residents of “neighboring communities” may apply, so it appears, for example, that city of Whitewater residents in Walworth County would be eligible.] Classes will be held on Wednesdays from 6p-9p beginning August 26, 2026 and will run for approximately 12 weeks. Participants must complete an application and background screening prior to acceptance.

There is no cost to attend, and space is limited.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to apply soon. Apply with the link posted on the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page or contact Deputy Bergholz at 920-675-6933.

Updated 6/29/26 @ 10:45 p.m. to add the WUSD committee meeting on Wednesday.

City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission = Thursday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Review and Discuss the Birge Fountain maintenance.
Review and Discuss Effigy Mounds Informational Signage.
Review and Discuss the missing Starin Park Water Tower Information Sign.
Review and Discuss Informational Signage on the base of the Flat Iron Park Electronic
Monument Sign located at 402 W Main Street.

Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/27422540699929?p=XtlTYx8er2zM59ljNm
Dial in by phone|
+1 929-229-5663,,976410770# United States
Phone conference ID: 976 410 770#

Whitewater Unified School District Human Resources Committee – Wednesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Human Resources Committee
Agenda: 2026-2027 Employee Handbook Revisions
Whitewater Unified School District Central Office
419 South Elizabeth Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin