SW Wisconsin News

In August 2025, the Sauk County Partnership for Prevention coalition, working with the Lake Delton Police Department, conducted alcohol age compliance checks at local businesses in Lake Delton, Wisconsin. These checks are designed to prevent alcohol sales to minors and promote community safety.

Before the compliance checks took place, local establishments were notified that the checks would occur and were provided with information on proper ID verification procedures. During the operation, trained buyers under 21 attempted to purchase alcohol using their own identification. Out of 28 compliance checks conducted, seven businesses sold alcohol to underage buyers. This resulted in a 75% compliance rate among retailers.

Eric Thunberg, Chief of Police for Lake Delton, commented on the results: “Unfortunately, we fell short of 100% compliance and those employees who sold to youth received additional training and education to help them be successful. Our goal is to have 100% compliance, and we’ll continue to partner with Sauk County Partnership for Prevention coalition to provide guidance and educational resources to alcohol retailers in Lake Delton. Compliance checks are about enhancing safety through awareness and education. Thank you to all Lake Delton alcohol retailers for your commitment to public safety.”

Kate Hansen, Health Educator at Public Health Sauk County and facilitator of the coalition, also expressed appreciation: “On behalf of the Sauk County Partnership for Prevention coalition, we thank alcohol retailers for their commitment to the safe sale of alcohol in Lake Delton. The compliance rate shows that most retailers are taking steps to protect youth and strengthen our community.”

Hansen noted that strong adherence to age restrictions benefits both businesses and the broader community by reducing risks such as fines or lawsuits for businesses and preventing negative outcomes associated with underage drinking—including car crashes, vandalism, violence, addiction, and cognitive issues. “Retailers and their employees have the power to protect young people from the impact alcohol has on their brains, which are still developing,” Hansen said.

The coalition’s efforts extend beyond alcohol sales prevention; they also address youth vaping and nicotine use prevention along with other strategies aimed at supporting family health. The group meets every other month and welcomes participation from all community members. More information can be found at www.P4PSauk.org.