Sister Lakes water abundant
Published 8:54 am Tuesday, June 17, 2008
By Staff
To the editor:
The search for the answer continues. Why are a few persons relentlessly pursuing the unnecessary Sister Lakes pumping project? Would the person with the true valid answer "please stand up?"
Many area residents are aware that during recent years a few of the officers of Big and Little Crooked Lakes Association, along with a few of their friends, have diligently been seeking to push a lake augmentation well project to raise the water level.
However, many of us do not share their enthusiasm for trying to pump more water into the lakes.
There are many reasons for not pumping water into the lakes, which the DEQ very effectively pointed out last fall in its rejection of this project.
In spite of the fact the Sister Lakes water level has greatly increased during this winter and spring, a few individuals steadfastly refuse to acknowledge THERE IS NO NEED for a pumping project.
Those of us, who have grown up here and watched the lake for the last 60 years or so go through cycles of high and low water levels have tried with little success to explain this natural process to some "rich" individuals, who seem to want to treat the lakes as their private bath tub.
We can now point to the obvious fact that the increased water level of the lakes has naturally eliminated any need to pour money down the well.
In fact, it has exceeded by more than a foot the 766 level suggested by some persons as the desired level.
Our question is, WHY do they continually insist on pursuing such an unnecessary foolish and costly project?
It is definitely NOT because there is a need for more water in the lakes.
I would not be surprised if before the summer is over water will be flowing out the overflow drain into Pipestone Creek.
We have all heard the statement, "FOLLOW THE MONEY," to find the TRUE answer.
I am wondering if the funds going into the hands of the engineers and lawyers is the main motivator.
I understand that Joe Parman, Van Buren County drain commissioner, has already advanced more than $20,000 of taxpayer funds for some engineering and legal expenses.
It seems to us that those costs should have been paid by the few individuals trying to promote this unnecessary project.
It should not come from taxpayer funds.
Obviously, any elected or appointed government official of the county or state involving any taxpayer funds in such a foolish project which would be embarrassingly difficult to justify should proceed with great caution.
It seems very strange why a few of the Crooked Lake Association members are so relentlessly pursuing this unnecessary project, unless there is more than what meets the eye.
There is absolutely no need or benefit of trying to fix nature.
All good things come to those who are patient.
It is unfortunate that a few felt compelled to spend their hard-earned money prematurely for an unnecessary project.
Unless they are able to spend someone else's money. I hope the drain commissioners are wise enough not to be led down such a slippery slope.
Ultimately, the money will come from your pocket if this project is pushed through.
We would encourage anyone interested in avoiding another increase in your taxes to contact Joe Parman, Van Buren County drain commissioner, at (269) 657-8241.
Strongly request that he stop this project and recoup any and ALL funds advanced to those pushing this unnecessary project.
Sister Lakes