Brown’s Lake Association Annual Meeting
June 9, 2017
CALL TO ORDER
President Bill Steusloff called the annual meeting to order on June9, 2017, at 7:04 p.m. in the Summit Township Hall. He announced that the meeting had a quorum, or 1/3 of 50 dues paying, single-vote, property owners (a minimum of 17). The meeting generated 25 members.
Bill reminded members the minutes have been online for review for the past year and asked if there were any objections. Hearing none, Linda moved the 2016 minutes be approved, Rich seconded. Minutes approved.
Nick presented the Treasurer’s Report for 2017, showing initial funds of $4,672.30; revenue of $584 and expenditures (including water testing, state filing fees, etc.) of $296.77 for a total balance of $4,979.53. Linda moved the report be approved, Kevin seconded. Report approved.
OLD BUSINESS
Social Events: Bill thanked the Swansons for hosting last year’s annual picnic, which was well attended and very successful. He also informed members of plans for this year’s annual gathering--the Brown’s Lake Pontoon-A-Palooza Boat Parade and Party on Sat., July 1. Starting at noon, pontoon boats decorated according to a TV theme (past or present) will line up at Brian and Sarah Richmond’s house, 5150 Merriman. Participants are asked to email their theme choice and party RSVP to Tina Cook (to avoid duplication) at . Boat entries will be judged by the board, with the winner receiving a 12” x 18” boat flag bearing the Brown’s Lake logo. The Richmonds will host a party after the parade and voting. Members are asked to bring a passing dish, their own meat to grill, drinks, and chairs.
Lake Sampling Data: Linda explained that transparency readings were taken using a Secchi disk weekly from May through September for 16 readings. Our lake’s transparency rating was on the high side of average compared to other participating lakes throughout Michigan. Results vary from year to year, but have remained in the good or high average range. She also took a phosphorus reading. Phosphorus is a by-product from fertilizer, soil and rock and can contribute to weed growth. Our reading came from a single sample taken in the summer and was scored as “excellent.” Lynn Frederick agreed to collect Lake Sampling Data for the 2017 year.
Brown’s Lake History: Bill thanked outgoing member Ron Shankland for his many contributions to our lake’s history and told members that the scrapbook complied by Ron is available on the “Lake Resources” tab of our Brown’s Lake website.
NEW BUSINESS
Thank you: Linda thanked Pat Stover for agreeing to conduct the e-coli test this year. E-coli is a type of bacteria that normally live in the intestines of people and animals and can cause infection. Members recommended readings in two areas: Sunset Park and the Cove by Merriman Road.
Bill thanked Brian for providing updated, laminated maps of our lake.
Boat Launch Initiative: Rich Cook announced his intention to spearhead a Boat Launch Initiative (independent of the board). He suggested members with lake access might be induced to provide space on their property for a launch if participants would be willing to pay for the privilege, including generating enough money to pay for a paved launch. He welcomed the feedback of those interested in this initiative.
New Members: Bill informed members of new residents: Doug Beiswanger, Forest Park Dr.; Doug Henry, Forest Park Dr.; Dave and Amy Hawkins, Forest Park Dr.; and the Stanton residence on Merriman Road.
Nominations for 2016-17 Board Members: Bill opened the floor for nominations of seven board positions, which expire yearly. Ron statedhe was stepping off the board, since he is moving soon. Doug Beiswanger agreed to fill his spot. A motion was made and seconded to retain the existing remaining board members plus Doug. Motion carried. After the meeting, the board determined the positions mentioned below.
The Brown’s Lake Association Board for 2016-17 is as follows: Bill Steusloff, president; Brian Glick, vice president; Nick Sheldon, treasurer; Linda Hass, secretary; and Rich Cook, Doug Beiswanger, and Kevin Lavery, members.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Hass