Road Construction Update – As previously mentioned, this will be an exceptionally busy construction season for the West Shore. Projects include the replacement of the low water bridge and resurfacing. Culvert repair or replacement will occur in the R, L, M, and N blocks, followed by road resurfacing. Additionally, a shoulder will be added on the uphill curve at the intersection with East Thompson Road. Time and budget permitting, East Shore roads will undergo significant upgrades, including major culvert and drainage ditch improvements in both V and O blocks. Special acknowledgment is due to Tim Gravlin and his road committee for their diligent preparation for this season. Scott Johnson and the Operations crew deserve recognition for their hard work on ditches, culverts, and pre-resurfacing projects.
Silt Basin Update – Recent rain has delayed dirt removal at Basin #3, and Dirt World faces DNR issues with dust mitigation. As a result, we are behind schedule and may not be able to dredge economically this year. Quantrill and Waterfall were planned for 2025, but dredging may be pushed to spring 2026.
Hydro Unit Update – The cleaning of driveway culverts between Gate 5 and the start of L block has been completed. Plans are in place to extend this effort along the entire west shore, followed by the east shore. Please note that the ditches on the north shore will need to be cleared before proceeding with those culverts. The cleaning was done with a rented Hydro Washing – Vacuum system.
The crew observed that most culverts were either partially or completely obstructed. Additionally, tree roots have been found invading many culverts, like issues seen with sewer service lines. While the operations crew will ensure regular maintenance going forward, it is important to remember that the integrity of driveway culverts remains the homeowner’s responsibility. If root infiltration is present, it may indicate rusting and potential need for replacement. Homeowners should investigate this matter and allocate appropriate funding for any necessary repairs.
As part of our ongoing ditch and road maintenance plan, we will annually maintain our watershed drainage system. The initial maintenance is labor-intensive; however, subsequent annual cleanings will be more manageable. Proper management of property drainage, gravel driveway erosion, and culvert integrity is an important responsibility for all owners.
V66 Purchase – We have bought this property and will rent it for 6 months as we prepare it for resale. The 3+ acres behind the house will be part of Silt Basin #6 to aid in dirt removal and improve basin operations. This project, along with Basin #5, is essential for dredging Sunrise, Sunset, and Mallard Bays. Thanks to Marilee Magerkurth, Mike Miller, Bruce Fate, and Tiffany Kelsey for their efforts during my vacation to ensure the sale and transition went smoothly.
Dam Update – We have submitted our renewal permit application with the State of Missouri, expecting inspection by August. Allstate Engineering is conducting a topographical survey of the spillway and dam to create a long-term maintenance plan. Thanks to partners like Allstate and volunteers who assist in coordination, this planning will inform the W&M committee’s long-term capital budgeting and reserve management needs.
Bright Speed – a third-party fiber optic provider informed the LLA office that they are in the planning phase to install new fiber around the lake. Their website is available at this link – https://internet.brightspeed.com/. The infrastructure will utilize existing electrical poles for distribution. A marketing effort is expected after the fiber installation is complete. This information is very recent, so details are limited. Further communication will follow as the Bright Speed team connects with the LLA office.
New Building Update – the new Water Patrol office space is being finished with the end of the month target to complete. The operations team will complete the driveway and gate portion of the project as work schedule allows. Recognition is given to Scott Johnson and the operations crew for their efforts in completing this project.
Courtesy Reminders – I know a broken record, but there are still a lot of boats on the water without stickers and property in the storage lots that need both stickers and Lot/Blk numbers. Enforcement is right around the corner, so please help us by getting these installed and if you know your neighbors haven’t yet give them a polite reminder.
If you have questions or topics you would like discussed regarding the Association, please feel free to drop me a note at President@lakelotawana.net.
Sincerely,
Jeff Clemow
President