Eagle Lake Improvement Association Newsletter Sept. 2013

Eagle Lak? September 2013 IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION We need e YOU at th Sept. 3 ! meeting A Update on Proposed DNR Boat Access Site lot has happened since the May 30, 2013 “Open House” on the DNR’s proposed Boat Access Site. Now, all indicators point to the importance of the September 3 meeting of the Ontwa Township Zoning Board of Appeals. If there was any doubt, know that this is the big one. Not only will you need to attend with your family, you will need to bring your neighbors. Expect to hear a lot about the meeting and receive frequent reminders to attend. If you are willing to speak briefly or have comments or questions, please contact us at [email protected] Here’s a recap of the meetings and communication since May 30, including an excerpt from our attorney’s letter to the Natural Resource Commission, which highlights our legal approach. June 21, Waterways Commission (WWC) Meeting, Traverse City: ELIA attorney’s letter to WWC cites irregularities in governmental approvals and zoning non-compliance. Nine ELIA members attend. MLSA Letter requesting a moratorium on boating access sites is delivered. Outcome: Decision on approval of DNR property acquisition postponed. July 12, Special Waterways Commission Meeting, Lansing: Twenty ELIA members attend. Eleven speak on themes of safety, legality, feasibility, invasive weeds and overcrowding. Outcome: DNR property acquisition approved. July 18, Cass County Road Commission (CCRC) Meeting, Cassopolis: ELIA attorney and members speak on themes of safety and feasibility and raise issue of public right of way on proposed DNR boat access site. Outcome: No decision is rendered and CCRC establishes requirement for a future public hearing concerning any possible action involving road right-of-way along The Dock property. August 7, Ontwa Township Planning Commission Meeting: ELIA attorney’s letter attached to appeal stating our position that DNR proposal is not a park but a marina or alternately a boat ramp and parking facility. Outcome: Based on Appeal to ZBA from neighbors and ELIA, DNR preliminary site plan is not reviewed. August 8, Natural Resource Commission Meeting, Muskegon: ELIA attorney and two members attend, reiterating lack of due diligence with particular focus on required local government approvals, zoning, safety and feasibility. Outcome: Director of DNR declines to authorize purchase until after the outcome of the Ontwa Township ZBA meeting on September 3. ELIA ATTORNEY’S LETTER To the Michigan Natural Resource Commission, August 8, 2013 [excerpt]: It is undisputed that the DNR will have to obtain two local governmental approvals for the proposed boat ramp and parking facilities uses, which it has not yet done. First, the Property (and any use by the DNR or the State of Michigan) is fully subject to the Ontwa Township Zoning (continued on page 5) [email protected] | www.eaglelakemichigan.org | 269.699.5110