Progress Seen on Lake Projects

Effingham Water Authority trustees were updated on progress to correct drainage problems along Blue Point Trail at Lake Sara.

Lake Superintendent Mike Dirks reported that they are waiting for the area to dry up enough to allow the contractor to finish dressing the area. There has not been excessive rainfall in that area, but the report was that the area seems to be handling the recent rains.

Noah Brandenburger of Lakeside Marina told trustees about improvements to the boat docks for the coming year. Brandenburger also told trustees that a commercial building is on hold for now. He said they've had some interest, but no signed leases. He also shared that fuel sales were down from the previous year.

Brandenburger also approached the Board regarding no charge or reduced rates for boat stickers on two rental pontoon boats and six rental kayaks. Water Authority Trustee Jim Boos said they will research whether they have reduced rates in the past. Regarding the sale of boat stickers, Brandenburger said they currently receive $3.00 commission on each boat sticker sold, but their expense to sell stickers is more than that. He suggested increading the commission to $7.50 or allowing them to add a handling fee. The Board will discuss the proposal further before reaching a decision.

Kevin Wenthe of Reel Marina addressed the Board regarding a three-day musical event at the Rusty Reel this October. Wenthe requested the use of Water Authority property for parking. They will rent the Pearson Building for those three days and provide insurance and security. Meanwhile, they will meet with Dirks regarding the dates. Tentative approval was granted, provided the Water Authority agrees with all future plans.

Water Authority Attorney Tony Siemer reported that the property at Court 6 is undergoing repair, that the owner is making progress on repairing the house, and that the owner seems to be making a good faith effort.

Tom Ryan of the Parks and Rec Committee reported the passing of Bob Kennedy, who had been a part of the committee for 15 years. Plans are to create a prairie grass strip near Post Oak with donations in Bob Kennedy's name. Lake Sara Forever will pay for the seed and the Water Authority crew will plant the area. They have also applied for a Lumpkin grant for a prairie grass strip. 

Ryan reported that Phase 1 of the beach renovation is complete and plans for Phase 2 are being finalized. The group is finalizing the master plan, and hope to start construction of Phase 2 in late summer.

Doug Thies of Friends of Lake Sara said they will be having their first official meeting of the year and will have the spring newsletter out in March or April. They have also begun their annual fund drive for the fireworks display, and are working on welcome packets.