11/08/2025
Joint Statement: Raising the Bar and Clear Lake Police Department Partner to Ensure Bingo Events Are Conducted Legally and Responsibly
Clear Lake, WI
November 7, 2025
— Raising the Bar and the Clear Lake Police Department are pleased to announce a joint effort to ensure that all bingo events held in the Clear Lake community are conducted in full compliance with Wisconsin state law. This partnership reflects both organizations’ ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency, and community trust.
Working collaboratively, Raising the Bar and the Clear Lake Police Department have reviewed the applicable charitable gaming regulations to ensure that any future bingo events are lawful, properly licensed, and respectful of the community’s expectations. Both parties share the same goal — to create a safe, enjoyable, and legally compliant environment for all participants.
In light of recent community discussion and interest surrounding bingo activities, Raising the Bar and the Clear Lake Police Department would like to provide clear and accurate information about Wisconsin’s charitable gaming laws.
Under Wisconsin state law, only nonprofit organizations that have been in existence for at least three years are eligible to apply for a charitable gaming (bingo) license. As of July 3, 2025, the fee for each bingo occasion listed on the application is $20, and the fee for the designated responsible member is $10. Each bingo event must be identified in advance (recurring events are permitted) and must fall within the organization’s 12-month license period.
Local nonprofit organizations that meet these criteria may legally conduct bingo events in approved venues such as Raising the Bar, provided that all requirements of the Wisconsin Division of Gaming and applicable local regulations are followed.
Both Raising the Bar and the Clear Lake Police Department view this collaboration as a positive example of community partnership and open communication. By working together, the two parties have demonstrated their shared dedication to doing things the right way and ensuring that community events are held responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
“Raising the Bar is committed to following the law and moving forward together with the Clear Lake Police Department and our community,” said Jim Bade, Owner of Raising the Bar. “We’re proud to have worked through this process constructively and transparently.”
“The Clear Lake Police Department appreciates the cooperative spirit shown by Raising the Bar throughout this process,” said Police Chief Paul Houx. “This collaboration highlights how local businesses and law enforcement can work hand-in-hand to support community events while maintaining fairness, compliance, and the shared values that make Clear Lake such a great place to live.”
The willingness of both Raising the Bar and the Clear Lake Police Department to communicate openly and address questions directly is a testament to their shared commitment to the Clear Lake community and its residents.
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