Regular Meeting (Steve Lewis Letter to Council 01282025)
Event Date: 2025-01-28
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**Executive Summary:**
**Background and Context**
Steve Lewis, a long-time resident of Empire, expresses his concerns regarding a proposed boardwalk in the village’s Recreation Plan. As a board member of the SBLA and the Executive Board of Leelanau Clean Water, he emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the importance of maintaining ecological integrity in light of recreational development. The boardwalk proposal is seen as contentious due to its planned location over sensitive wetlands, which are crucial for natural filtration and ecological balance.
**Concerns Over Environmental Impact**
Lewis points out that the village’s natural resources, including lakes, beaches, and wetlands, are invaluable assets that require protection and stewardship. He argues against the inclusion of the boardwalk in the recreation plan, cautioning that it may undermine the environmental health of the wetlands. He emphasizes that proper education and awareness about preserving these natural resources are lacking in the current recreation planning discussion and highlights the need for community dialogue focused on sustainable stewardship.
**Community Engagement and Alternatives**
Lewis critiques the apparent disconnect between the village council and citizens regarding the boardwalk idea, which many residents were unaware of prior to recent discussions. He advocates for utilizing local expertise instead of incurring costs by hiring outside consultants for feasibility studies related to the boardwalk. He suggests that the village can promote education and awareness around existing recreational spaces, such as nearby parks, while maintaining the integrity of the wetlands.
**Conclusion and Call to Action**
In closing, Lewis urges the village council to reconsider the inclusion of the boardwalk in the current Recreation Plan. He represents a collective sentiment among community members who oppose the boardwalk and wish for more environmentally respectful alternatives that foster educational opportunities about the local ecosystem. By prioritizing dialogue and stewards of the environment, Lewis believes the village can better protect its invaluable natural heritage.