EWA Hears Marina is for Sale

Brian Larson informed Effingham Water Authority board members this week that the Marina at Lake Sara is for sale.

Larson had been seeking a relocation of the Marina stage, but said he will not pursue that this year since the Marina is for sale.  He said plans to operate the same hours as last year and said he would follow the same guidelines for renting the stage as the EWA does for renting the buildings.  Larson said there are no concerts scheduled for the stage at this time, but the stage is available for rent.

The Board heard from Wes Pitcher of Town Hall Subdivision that the property across the cove located in Twin Oaks Subdivision attracts much attention due to the structure's size and it does not appear construction is complete.  Lake Superintendent Gene Arnold said construction must be completed in one year after issuance of the building permit and the construction is complete except for the siding.  A letter will be sent to the owner of the property.

Arnold reported he received a request for permission to hold a high school fishing tournament on Lake Sara on March 17 with about 30 boats participating.  The need for EWA stickers will be waived for the tournament.

Trustees heard that a Polar Plunge is to take place at the beach in March, but the Effingham County Health Department has pulled the license for the beach due to geese droppings.  EWA Attorney Tony Siemer recommended a sign be posted informing the public that the beach is temporarily closed and participants enter at their own risk.  Arnold will post the sign.

Siemer reported that a trust is interested in selling 130 acres east of Siemer Road at auction.  The trust has a 75-year lease that will expire in 2031 on an eight-acre tract.  The sellers would like to know what their options are for the leased portion prior to the sale.  The Board will inspect the property before making a recommendation.

Trustee Chairman Chris Kabbes stated two proposals have been received from CK Development for purchase of the beach and the campgrounds.  The proposals include subdividing the beach into residential lots and operating the campgrounds.  The Board agreed more research is needed, and the matter was tabled.

Arnold reported he issued two building permits since the previous meeting, and that Merz Air Conditioning and Heating would start installing air conditioning at the Community Building this week.