Here is the full proclamation:
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, America is the land of freedom, preserved and protected willingly and freely by citizen soldiers; and
WHEREAS, millions have answered the call to arms and thousands have died on the field of battle; and
WHEREAS, a nation that cherishes peace must honor those who have sacrificed to provide and preserve it; and
WHEREAS, it is important to be reminded of both the price of war as well as the debt owed to those who have served and
died to preserve our peace and freedom; and
WHEREAS, the red poppy has been designated as the symbol of war times supreme sacrifice; and
WHEREAS, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #189 has pledged to remind America annually of this debt through the distribution of this beautiful memorial flower.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Stocks, Mayor of the City of Watertown, Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim Friday, May 22, 2026, as “Poppy Day” in the City of Watertown and ask all citizens to join me in wearing this Memorial Flower in remembrance of the sacrifices of so many in the defense of freedom.
Given under my hand and the seal of the City of Watertown, State of Wisconsin, this 22nd day of May 2026.
Robert Stocks, Mayor
Mayor Robert Stocks has officially proclaimed May 3–9, 2026 as “Public Service Week” in the City of Watertown, Wisconsin.
This special week honors the dedicated public servants — federal, state, and local government employees and members of the uniformed services — who protect our safety, support our economy, and deliver the services our community depends on every single day.
Read the full proclamation and story in our latest newsletter article 👇
https://www.watertownwi.gov/article/2868995
Take a moment this week to thank a public servant who makes Watertown better — a simple “thank you” goes a long way!
Originally a Finance major, Ryan earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL). After realizing his passion lay elsewhere, he returned to UWL to complete a Master’s degree in Recreation Management.
Following graduation, Ryan began his career with the City of Prairie du Chien as Recreation and Aquatics Manager. For nearly three years, he oversaw the city’s Recreation Center, outdoor pool, and all recreational programming.
For the past four years, Ryan has served as Recreation Supervisor for the City of West Bend. In that role, he led several key initiatives, including the development of the Westbury Bank Aquapark at Regner Beach, the creation of the Friends of West Bend Skatepark non-profit, and the continued growth of the annual Dirty Ninja Mud Run for Kids. He also played a significant role in expanding the city’s overall recreation and aquatics programming. His efforts have resulted in increased community participation and enhanced recreational opportunities for residents.
Ryan lives in Oconomowoc with his girlfriend and their two dogs, Aspen and Finn. In his free time, he enjoys skiing, golfing, walking his dogs, tackling home projects, and spending time outdoors.
Ryan is excited to settle into Watertown, connect with the community, and build upon the strong foundation of the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department. Let’s give him a warm Watertown welcome!
Due to current flooding conditions, sandbags are available at two locations:
📍 Street Department
811 S. First Street (during business hours: 6:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)
Please check in at the front desk before pickup.
Outside business hours: S. Second Street near Clyman Street
📍 Jefferson County Mountain Bike Parking Lot
Right outside the main Jefferson County Highway Shop
1425 Wisconsin Drive, Jefferson
Please only take what you need to help protect your property and allow supplies to last for everyone. Stay safe!
📣 Mayor Robert Stocks has officially proclaimed April 2026 as Family Strengthening Month in our city! We’re proud to celebrate Watertown Family Connections and all the incredible work they do to support local families.
Here is the full proclamation:
WHEREAS, strong families are the foundation of a healthy, thriving community, and supporting parents and caregivers strengthens the well-being of children throughout Watertown; and
WHEREAS, Family Strengthening Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of positive childhood experiences, supportive relationships, and community resources that help families grow and thrive; and
WHEREAS, Watertown Family Connections serves as a Family Resource Center dedicated to supporting local families through free programs, parent education, community events, and connections to essential resources; and
WHEREAS, the work of Watertown Family Connections promotes the Protective Factors that reduce child maltreatment and build resilience, including parental resilience, social connections, knowledge of parenting and child development, concrete support in times of need, and social-emotional competence of children; and
WHEREAS, the City of Watertown recognizes the vital role that Family Resource Centers play in strengthening families, preventing child abuse and neglect, and fostering a supportive, connected community; and
WHEREAS, all programs offered by Watertown Family Connections are free to participate in, ensuring that every family—regardless of income, background, or circumstance—has access to support, education, and community connection; and
WHEREAS, the City of Watertown is committed to uplifting organizations that help families thrive and contribute to the long-term health and success of our community.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Stocks, Mayor of the City of Watertown, Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim April 2026 as Family Strengthening Month in the City of Watertown, and encourage all residents to support and recognize the efforts of Watertown Family Connections and other community partners who work tirelessly to strengthen families and build a brighter future for our children.
Given under my hand and the seal of the City of Watertown, State of Wisconsin, this 6th day of April 2026.
Robert Stocks, Mayor
Don't forget to check in at the office before dropping off items!
The polls have closed! Unofficial election results for the City of Watertown are available on the Jefferson and Dodge county websites:
https://apps.jeffersoncountywi.gov/jc/election
https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1775620709/cododgewigov/fsaojfbqfjkkw8fhuidx/ZeroSummarybyMunicipality.pdf
SNOW REMOVAL UPDATE for our downtown business district tonight (3/18/26)!
NO snow emergency protocol is in effect (tickets will not be issued!), but our City crews are out working to keep things clear and safe after this snowfall. We'd really appreciate it if residents and business patrons could avoid parking on or near any snowy areas this evening to help us do our best work. We will begin our snow removal operation tonight at 11:00 PM.
Thank you so much for your cooperation—it makes a big difference in keeping our beautiful downtown free of snow and safe for drivers and pedestrians alike! ❄️🚗
During the Snow Emergency, parking on city streets and alleys in the Central City Snow Removal Area will be banned between 11:00 p.m. Wednesday night until 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning.
Residents who live in the Central City Snow Removal Area that have no off-street parking available are encouraged to utilize municipal parking lots or make arrangements with neighbors, relatives or friends to avoid a potential $50.00 citation. In addition, any vehicle that has been ticketed and remains parked at the same location for 24 or more hours afterward may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Citizens are encouraged to monitor the City of Watertown Website at: www.watertownwi.gov or search for us on Facebook at Watertown WI Police Department for current snow emergencies and notifications.
Se ha emitido una Alerta Por Frío Extremo desde el jueves en la noche hasta el sábado en la mañana. Se habilitará un centro de acogida temporal en el Centro Comunitario de Ancianos de Watertown, el cual estará abierto de 8:00am a 4:30pm los días jueves y viernes
* * * For Immediate Release * * *
The National Weather Service has forecast 2 to 5 inches of snow for the Watertown area for Tuesday overnight, and another round of snow coming Wednesday evening.
To assist the Street Department in their plowing and cleanup efforts, the Watertown Police Department has declared a City-Wide SNOW EMERGENCY that will go into effect at 11:00 p.m. Tuesday night, January 20th, 2026. The Snow Emergency will run for 48 hours, but may be cancelled earlier, or scaled back to the Business District.
During the 48-hour period of the snow emergency, parking on all city streets and alleys will be banned between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following morning. Residents who have no off-street parking available are encouraged to utilize municipal parking lots or make arrangements with neighbors, relatives or friends to avoid a potential $50.00 citation. In addition, any vehicle that has been ticketed and remains parked at the same location for 24 or more hours afterward may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Citizens are encouraged to monitor the City of Watertown Website at: www.watertownwi.gov or search for us on Facebook at Watertown WI Police Department for current snow emergencies and notifications. See less
🌧️ Heavy Rainfall this afternoon! 🌧️
Help reduce flooding and keep drains clear:
• Keep streets and waterways leaf-free!
• Clean off storm sewer inlets if possible (⚠️please watch for cars!)
• Put leaves in compostable bags and leave on the grass behind the curb
• 📱Call the Street Division at (920) 262-4080 when bagged leaves are ready for pickup!
Thank you for helping keep Watertown safe! 💙
A payment will be recorded as a 2025 deposit if either postmarked by December 31 or placed in the drop box (on wall outside of City Hall main entrance) no later than midnight on December 31, 2025. If mailing your payment, include the appropriate installment coupon (do not send your entire bill).
A receipt for payments mailed by you or a third party can be secured in person, emailed (send your name and parcel number to taxes@watertownwi.gov), or mailed (provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope).
Installment payments are due January 31, April 30, and July 31, 2026.
To qualify for the Lottery & Gaming credit, you must be a WI resident, own the dwelling, and have used it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2025. If the Lottery & Gaming Credit did not appear on your bill and you meet the eligibility requirements described, apply at https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Form/lottery-home.aspx.
December 10, 2025
* * * For Immediate Release * * *
To assist the Street Department with their plowing, cleanup, and snow removal efforts, the Watertown Police Department is issuing a Snow Emergency to the Central City Snow Removal Area only, beginning at 11:00pm Thursday, December 11, 2025 and continuing for 48 hours. Snow removal and cleanup operations will continue in the business district of the City for two overnights, but may be reduced to only the first night. Parking will be permitted on city streets outside of the Central City Snow Removal Area. See the map for street boundaries.
During the Snow Emergency, parking on city streets and alleys in the Central City Snow Removal Area will be banned between 11:00 p.m. Thursday night until 7:00 a.m. Friday morning, and again between 11:00 p.m. Friday night until 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning. To repeat, the 2nd night may be canceled.
Residents who live in the Central City Snow Removal Area that have no off-street parking available are encouraged to utilize municipal parking lots or make arrangements with neighbors, relatives or friends to avoid a potential $50.00 citation. In addition, any vehicle that has been ticketed and remains parked at the same location for 24 or more hours afterward may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Citizens are encouraged to monitor the City of Watertown Website at: www.watertownwi.gov or search for us on Facebook at Watertown WI Police Department for current snow emergencies and notifications.
Contact person: Chief Dave Brower
920-261-6660
WINTER PARKING-SNOW EMERGENCY DECLARED – BUSINESS DISTRICT ONLY
December 1, 2025
* * * For Immediate Release * * *
To assist the Street Department with their plowing, cleanup, and snow removal efforts, the Watertown Police Department is issuing a Snow Emergency to the Central City Snow Removal Area only, beginning at 11:00pm Tuesday, December 2, 2025 and continuing for 48 hours. Snow removal and cleanup operations will continue in the business district of the City for two overnights, but may be reduced to only the first night. Parking will be permitted on city streets outside of the Central City Snow Removal Area. See the map for street boundaries.
During the Snow Emergency, parking on city streets and alleys in the Central City Snow Removal Area will be banned between 11:00 p.m. Tuesday tonight until 7:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, and again between 11:00 p.m. Wednesday night until 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning. To repeat, the 2nd night may be canceled.
Residents who live in the Central City Snow Removal Area that have no off-street parking available are encouraged to utilize municipal parking lots or make arrangements with neighbors, relatives or friends to avoid a potential $50.00 citation. In addition, any vehicle that has been ticketed and remains parked at the same location for 24 or more hours afterward may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Citizens are encouraged to monitor the City of Watertown Website at: www.watertownwi.gov or search for us on Facebook at Watertown WI Police Department for current snow emergencies and notifications.
Contact person: Chief Dave Brower
920-261-6660
But here’s a festive tip: parking is only restricted for a very specific time to make space for spectators of the Parade of Lights!
📅 Saturday, Nov. 29
⏰ 3–8 p.m.
Until then, don’t hesitate to park on Main Street and show some love to your favorite downtown spots. 💛
