Elk-Skegemog Lake Association
September 15, 2011
Board Meeting Minutes
Board Members Present: Tom Klingler, Chuck Schuler, Lisa Culver, Gina Dewildt, Bob Stibbs, Ruth Bay, Brenda Miller, Joan Richardson, Al Wagoner,Dean Ginther, Dale ClaudePierre, Bob Kingon, Lou Ann McKimmy
Motion passed to approve July Meeting minutes
Bob Stibbs presented the Treasurer’s Report: We are down approximately $2000 due to disbursements in excess of receipts. Pristine Waters book sales look very positive and we should be receiving a check for the $1000 invested soon.
Brenda Miller reports that we currently have 586 members
Rapid River Project: ESLA did not receive our original grant request for this project, but the Watershed Center continues to investigate other possible grants.
Dale ClaudePierre reported on the “health of Rapid River” as assessed by those who walked with fly rods and bug collectors. Below Rugg Pond the river seems to be in good condition. However, above the pond is very unhealthy with rugged and swampy conditions. Temperature data will continue to be monitored by devices installed for that purpose. Eighteen road crossings were monitored with assessment being that 90% of sand and sediment accumulation comes from these crossings. Only 2% of sediment comes from Seven Bridges area and RR crossings in Rapid City. Riparians seem to be really caring for the River. Several roadways and the AarwoodBridge are major culprits in the sand and sediment accumulation. ESLA will continue with flow readings and data recordings while encouraging township and county remediation at the road crossings.
Kent Reynolds reported on the new courtesy docks in Elk Rapids. These docks were full during Harbor Days and it is evident that during those days supervision will need to be involved. Signs will be placed designating the area. The suggestion was made to make the signs double faced to enable reading from water and road.
The Dexter Street Property was discussed and community involvement seems to suggest that the white building should be removed and perhaps the brick building also. Many had suggestions for use, among which a popular suggestion was to create restroom facilities for marina users. The waterfront area will have 20 or more boat slips under the auspices of the marina. Ongoing discussions will be held.
Gina Dewildt reported that 51 pictures have been submitted for the photo contest which closed today. Judging will take place in late October. The committee is looking into the publishing a calendar.
Annual Meeting: Discussion of how to get more people in attendance. Suggestions included: postcard invitations, email invitations, provide food, change the date to either early June or late August. Possibility of surveying membership.
GAPS Analysis: Dave Hauser led discussion on GAPS. Dave distributed a comprehensive paper with questions ESLA needs to address along with a condensation of the GAPS report.
Bob Kingon addressed the difference between zoning and police ordinances at the township level. The GAPS report has not yet been presented to townships.
Expansion of sewage disposal is under study in Elk Rapids. Most controversial is the recommendation of buffer zones. Does ESLA need to support GAPS, stay neutral, not support. What is our role in these issues and our relationship with various units of government? A Committee of Hauser, Ginther and Kingon will develop an approach for the Board to assess all of the recommendations in the Report.
Stump Markers: Quotes will be requested from Luhers and/or others for placing of markers. Letter of appreciation will be sent to sent to Stan Zenas thanking him for his years of service.
No Wake in Torch River: Dale has been studying this issue and will continue to work with Ron Gurdak investigating the process to follow with DNR.
Permanent Nominating Committee with zone captains as members established.
Ad hoc committee on membership established: Brenda Miller, Ruth Bay, Joan Richardson, Gina DeWildt.
HERTHA has requested a letter of support for their work in the community. Board agreed to provide when requested.
The Watershed Plan Implementation Team (ESLA is a member) is inviting township officials to meet on Nov. 9 at which time the Rapid and Grass Rivers activities and the fish shelter project will be presented and the GAPS Analysis document will be presenteded.
Meeting Adjourned at 12:05
Respectfully submitted; Lou Ann McKimmy, substitute secretary
