A public hearing has been scheduled for March 12th, 6:00 PM in the Helena Township Community Center at 8754 Helena Road to collect input on the application for a new 4 slip boathouse at 6833 Crystal Springs Road on Clam Lake.

Here are some of the arguments that have been expressed for opposing this application:

Environmental:

• Disruption of shoreline and aquatic habitat by excavation of 170+ cubic yards of material and construction of seawall. Destroys fish spawning areas.
• Phosphorus loading of Clam Lake from excavation sediment. Promotes weed and algae growth.

Zoning:

• Violation of Helena Township Zoning ordinance section 5.02.02C, Prohibits destruction of natural vegetation within 25’ of ordinary high water mark.
• Violation of Helena Township Zoning ordinance section 5.01.01.B2b, Prohibits accessory structures in front yard. In this case front yard is between the house and water.
• Violation of Helena Township Zoning ordinance section 5.02.02A, Prohibits construction of sea walls.
• Violation of Helena Township Zoning ordinance section 4.02.01 Prohibits building structures within 50’ of ordinary high water mark.
• Violation of Helena Township Zoning ordinance section 5.02.02B, Building fails to maintain free movement of water.

Past practice:

• DEQ has a history of denying application request for new permanent dock and enlargements to existing docks.
• DEQ has a history of denying application request to dredge Lake Bottom to facilitate larger boats to access existing docks and boathouses.
• DEQ has a history of denying application request to construct new boathouses on Clam Lake.

Other:

• Bad precedent to set, could ignite a construction boom. Currently only 5% of residential properties have Boathouses on Clam Lake.
• 53’ dock could pose a safety hazard for boaters.
• Unprecedented structure at 2400 square feet is more than 3 times the size of the largest grandfathered boathouse on Clam Lake.
• 4 boat slip capacity could be a hidden commercial enterprise.
• Severe loss of lake and shoreline view for adjacent neighbors.
• Proliferation and destruction of natural shoreline beauty.

Three Lakes Association has taken a position opposing this application. If you wish to review  the permit application and/or our letter of opposition, please see the information we have posted on our website.