Before the official start of the September regular meeting, a public hearing was held to discuss a resolution designating South Bar Lake as a “slow-no wake” body of water, citing safety, wildlife, and the lake’s small size as key reasons. South Bar Lake Association board member Steve Lewis called South Bar a “special lake” while longtime residents Carol and Johnny Peterson wrote a letter to council saying, “we love the tranquility of the lake, the scenic beauty, and the variety of wildlife which inhabit both the shore and the water. “It is a small 81-acre peaceful body of water, conducive to wake activity due to its size.”
Council members clarified that while the village and township can approve a resolution, the final decision lies with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Once the resolution is submitted, the DNR will inspect the lake and determine whether the no-wake designation is warranted. The resolution passed unanimously.
Shalda Park was also brought up. Village President Dan Davis said that during the next work session in October a representative from Gosling Czubak will present the proposed uses at the park.
