Everyone present was reminded that this Board Meeting is called a “Special Meeting” because this was not on our published yearly meeting schedule and has been called for a specific purpose.
DAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
It was noted that the project has progressed well since our last update.
Permits
The project has been submitted to CT DEEP for review and they said that the project “looks good.” The plans have been submitted to Senior Management for their final okay. The DEEP website shows a preliminary approval. We expect a final approval by June 26.
The Army Corps of Engineers are currently reviewing the project. They often wait until DEEP’s preliminary approval to study the project and give their final approval, so after 6/26 we should get the Army Corps’ okay.
Dam on Wilmot Property
A small portion of the dam is on Jessical Wilmot’s property. DEEP recommended we obtain an official easement from Jessica. An attorney has been contact and the easement document has been created. Jessica’s attorney is now reviewing it. She will need to allow the owner of the easement on her property to care for the dam such as mowing the grass.
Construction
The Request for Proposals (RFPs), including bid documents, were sent to seven construction firms. We will go with the lowest bidder, F.C. Contracting and Excavation.
Coffer Dam
If all goes as planned, staging will begin right after Labor Day. The coffer dam (also called a Port-a-dam) would be installed right after Labor Day, to be completed by 9/10 and expected to be in place for 10 weeks. The project must be completed by 11/21.
Drawdown
A 12-inch drawdown is needed to build the coffer dam and do the dam work. We will inform all property owners ahead of the timing as they have never seen the lake this drawn down low. We will also suggest that lakeside owners clean the lake bottom near their properties while the ground is exposed. This is a rare chance to reduce biomass and other detritus on the lake bottom. Lakeside property owners will be notified in August of this one-time opportunity to clean their area of the lake.
Dam Finances
MLIF has averaged $26,000 in donations per year over the last four years. Our strong financial position allows us to draw on our accumulated assets. MLIF has a long history of maintaining a balance of at least one-year expenses. If needed, MLIF could draw on these accumulated funds and continue to maintain a healthy balance.
Motion
A motion was made to approve the F.C. Contracting and Excavation as the contractor for the Dam Improvement Project. The motion was seconded. Another motion was made to amend that motion to include the project start date of the Tuesday after Labor Day and the completion date of 11/21/25. The amendment was seconded and the full motion passed 7-0-1.
LAKE ALGAE
The topic of excessive algae on the lake was brought up. It was pointed out that the treatment schedule is continuing as planned, and that we will have a chance to talk to Zach Davis at the Annual Meeting on June 19. The problem will be communicated to Pond and Lake.
