Sex Offender Residency Ordinance Information

 The Black River Falls City Council unanimously approved a motion on June 18th to begin drafting a new ordinance that would prohibit registered sex offenders from living within 750 feet of schools, school bus stops, and other child-centered areas. The proposal, introduced by Alderperson Wussow and seconded by Alderperson Peloquin, marks a significant push for enhanced community safety. While the ordinance won’t apply retroactively, city officials acknowledged enforcement challenges and legal considerations, including mapping updates and exemption requests. A formal draft is expected soon, followed by public meetings for community input. 

This is our memorandum, which we presented to the city, outlining the rationale and legal foundation for implementing a sex offender residency and loitering ordinance in Black River Falls, Jackson County, Wisconsin. It highlights public safety concerns, compares existing ordinances in similar jurisdictions, and proposes proactive measures to restrict sex offender proximity to schools, parks, and other child-focused areas. The goal is to protect vulnerable populations while ensuring the ordinance is legally sound and enforceable under Wisconsin law. 

 Black River Falls, Wisconsin has 48 registered sex offenders—roughly 1% of its population. Despite state laws and high-profile cases, the city lacks a local sex offender residency ordinance, unlike nearby towns like Merrillan, Blair, and Alma Center. Learn what protections exist, what gaps remain, and why local action matters. This article explores how small Wisconsin towns are handling the difficult reality of sex offender placement, community safety, and the limits of state law. Empower yourself with information and explore how local ordinances are making a difference. 

This section focuses on sex crime cases within the Jackson County, Wisconsin court system. Our goal is to provide accurate, respectful, and timely updates on arrests, criminal charges, hearings, and sentencing involving sexual offenses. By increasing transparency and public awareness, we aim to support accountability in our justice system. This resource is currently under construction as we build a trusted hub for legal reporting in Jackson County. Check back soon for updates.