By Louie Stout
The Michigan DNRs proposed community park and boat access to Eagle and Juno lakes is moving through the system and gaining support - despite continued resistance from lakefront property owners.
The proposed development was approved by the Michigan Waterways Commission recently and now awaits final approval from the DNR Natural Resources Commission at its meeting Aug. 8.
But first, the DNR must present a preliminary review of its plans to the Ontwa Township Planning Commission Aug. 7.
Along with its blessing, the Waterways Commission recommended the DNR make the site fee-based, meaning users would have to purchase a recreation Passport sticker that also provides access to state parks, campgrounds and other fee-based boat launch sites.
Once the DNR Commission gives its approval, officials can finalize the $600,000 purchase from 1st Source Bank and start developing. The property sits across from the Eagle launch ramp and served as parking area for boaters before 1st Source Bank obtained it in a foreclosure. It consists of 9.62 acres on the east side of Eagle Lake Road.
Our goal is to secure the property and develop health and safety plans immediately, said Paul Yauk, DNR Lands Program Manager, who added he is working closely with local governments to make that happen.
Yauk and his staff met recently with the Cass County Road Commission to discuss the plan and how the DNR could improve traffic flow and safety along Eagle Lake Road where the current boat ramp exists.
The DNR would clean up the property and, once developed, provide a safer environment than what exists presently. A pond on the site would be stocked and a dilapidated building replaced with restrooms and a pavilion. An additional launch site would be added on the channel along the north side of the property for access to the Juno Chain.
Its a beautiful project, yet nearby residents are still trying to slow, if not prevent, the project. They have contracted attorneys and reportedly have a war chest to buy the land if the DNR deal falls through.
At the Waterways meeting, Eagle spokespersons opposing the development encouraged the DNR to do the right thing.
Yet, in the eyes of the public who wants and deserves better access to Eagle, the DNR is doing the right thing.
So, why doesnt the association do the right thing and partner with the DNR and use some of its war chest to add other amenities to a great facility that will benefit everyone?