Lake residents talk about roads, appearance
Marion County lake residents addressed Marion County Commission Monday regarding the condition of the lake — particularly roads and signs. Plans were discussed of how an organization could be formed to address the needs of lake residents.
"Heavy trucks are using the roads," Dan Crumrine said. Some are over-the-road trucks that are using the lake as a shortcut while U.S.-77 is under construction. Others are local trucks that are hauling materials and items used for housing construction and remodeling.
Directional and street signs, tree limb removal, and general maintenance concerns were expressed by the group of seven residents.
Ed Davies said Marion County Improvement District #2 was concerned with maintaining the lake since it's on the register of historic places. He also would like to see improvements to the lake to attract more visitors.
The county spent funds about three years ago to lay millings on several inlet roads. Those roads are in good shape, except for pot holes that need to be repaired.
The inlet roads are various widths — some are 15-18 feet, others 40, 50, and 60 feet wide.
Davies said there were 2.8 miles of roadways that needed attention which excluded Wildin's Addition which was built to county zoning regulations.
Crumrine said residents are planting gardens and utilizing the road rights-of-way for other purposes. The organization or group of residents could control that issue.
He also reported property owners have more than $22 million in property appraisals with the county receiving $144,500 annually in tax revenue from lake properties.
Crumrine also reported the improvement district could not have control of road maintenance and construction.
The improvement district was established in 1986 when sewer service was installed for lake residents. Water service was installed in 1993.
Commission chairman Dan Holub said he would be willing to check with county attorney Susan Robson about the type of organization and how to form it.
He also reported that an interlocal agreement could not be made between the county and individuals but could be made between the county and an organization.
Other concerns expressed were dilapidated boat docks, condition of roads near the water's edge, downed trees from the January 2005 ice storm, limb debris along the water's edge, outhouses near the swimming beach that have been closed but not removed, a broken pillar on the dam road, and the general appearance of the lake.
Another concern was the replacement of trees that had died or been removed and not replaced with other trees.
Commissioner Randy Dallke said he was concerned about additional enclosed boat docks limiting public accessibility to the lake.
Discussions then turned to the lake board membership. Two members from each of the three commission districts were appointed to the board but none reside at the lake.
"Maybe we need to look at the lake board," said Holub.
The commission agreed to meet with lake superintendent Dale Snelling and the lake board. Consideration also will be given to a similar road committee like the one formed in 2002 for the last road project.
Cost estimates also will be obtained for additional signs.
