CR 669 Grant

We have been informed by the Leelanau County Road Commission that the grant application to repave and improve CR 669 from M22 north to Lake Michigan has been approved.  Cleveland Township is a key player in the grant.  Details are yet to come, but hopefully a new culvert and possibly a bike path will be included.

With Sadness

It is with deepest regrets we report the passing of Dr. Marcia Skjaerlund, wife of our Associations current President David Skjaerlund.  Our thoughts and prayers are with David and the Skjaerlund family. 

Sailboat drifting

Conrad Mason reports that there's a small white sailboat in front of their house.  Ann spotted it around 8 o'clock yesterday morning. She doesn't know which way it's moving. It's not moving much so it must be anchored but still dragging it as the boat bobs.

Check your boats.

Lake Level Readings on the Website

We are now posting our lake level readings on our website.  You can follow along as we document the level of  LTL and Shalda Creek at the culverts.  Go to our Association's website, www.littletraverselake.org, and click on the 'Lake Level" tab.  There is a green selection called "Current and Historical Lake Levels". Click on the green box and a Google docs will open.  Give it a few seconds to load completely.  The data starts in 2015, so scroll down to about line 400 for the most recent information.  Enjoy!

Save The Date - Around the Lake Garage Sale

The Around the Lake garage sale will return in 2018.  It will be held on July 14, 2018. 

Thanks to the planning team of Dave and Sandi Spathelf, Jim and Karen Massaroni, Jan and Jim Sohn, with Barb Bowzer handling the advertising. 

Start organizing your treasurers and mark your calendar.  More information will be available as we get closer.

Latest E Coli Testing

Another E coli test was completed on the lake on September 12, 2017.  5 locations were tested with results ranging from a low of 1 colonies/ml to a high of 58 colonies/ml.  This is an improvement from the results we received this summer and are considered safe.  Testing will continue as well as attempting to identify the source.

Coffee with the Board

This Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 9:30 AM, join the Board and Association members at the Cleveland Township Hall for an informal discussion of issues that are affecting the lake.  We will be discussing water level, water quality, the Heritage Trail and other issues.  This is an opportunity to get updated on the latest and share your thoughts and ideas.

 

This discussion is for members only.  Please try to attend.

Charter Rate Increase

Charter just notified Janice Sohn that their cable rate is almost doubling ... we are interested in knowing if any LTL homeowners:

.   use a TV antennae, either outdoor or inside?

.   How many channels do you receive?  

.   What are the channels?  Pbs?  CBS?  Etc

.   Are there any installers in Leelanau county or TC area?  If yes, name and contact info plz.  (I've been googling but it "appears" no one is local.). 

Any and all input is appreciated.  Many thanks.

 

Janice Sohn, 188  sohnjaji@gmail.com

Good Harbor Creek Water Advisory

From Scott Tucker, NPS yesterday:

The water quality advisory issued at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on August 22 for Good Harbor Creek has been lifted. Samples collected this morning tested below the daily limit and advisory signs are currently being removed.

Light Up the Lake and Coffee with the Board

Our end of season celebration, Light Up the Lake, is scheduled for this Saturday September 2, 2017 at 9:00 PM.  There are a limited number of flares still available.  If you would like to purchase flares for $5 each, reply to this email.

On Saturday September 16, 2017, the Association Board will host an informal discussion for members only at the Cleveland Township Hall.  We will begin at 9:30 AM.  The purpose of the gathering is to discuss issues like water levels, water quality, Heritage Trail, etc.  We will be seeking input and thoughts from our members as well as informing you on the latest developments.  Please mark you calendars and try to attend.

Good Harbor Creek Advisory

From: Tucker, Scott <scott_tucker@nps.gov>
Date: Tue, Aug 22, 2017 at 2:13 PM
Subject:  Water Quality Advisory - Good Harbor Creek

A water quality advisory has been issued at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 

Water samples collected this morning from Good Harbor Creek have exceeded Michigan Water Quality Standards for fecal bacteria. This advisory is applicable to Good Harbor Creek only and does not apply to the adjacent Lake Michigan beach. 

Water quality advisory signs are being posted on-site this afternoon and have been entered into the Michigan Beach Guard website to inform the public. Additional correspondence will be sent once the advisory has been lifted.

Latest updates - Water Level, Heritage Trail

Thank you for the great turnout at the annual meeting and listening to Scott Tucker, Superintendent of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.  The meeting minutes and information regarding the Heritage Trail and Water Levels that were summarized at the annual meeting are on the website.

Water Level Status

On August 12, 2017, in conjunction with the NPS, a beaver dam was removed.  At that time another dam was found by the NPS and they removed it.  Since then the water level at the TLR culvert has dropped slightly.  A third dam was removed on August 16 by a joint effort of Association volunteers and the NPS.

 

We are monitoring the water level on a daily basis to study the effect of these dam removals.  Working with Gosling Czubak Engineering, we plan on meeting with the NPS to discuss the results.  This meeting will be open to all interested parties but can not be held until the data is complete.  We will advise date, time and location as soon as possible.  We are anticipating another report by Gosling Czubak summarizing the water level data we have collected the past couple of years.

We are in need of volunteers to help take the readings at the culverts.  This entails driving by the TLR and CR-669 culverts and measuring the water level at both inlet and outlet sides.  This can be done from your vehicle using binoculars.  If you are willing to help, please respond.

Heritage Trail

The Sixth Circuit Court has granted our legal counsel the opportunity to make public comments (mid-October) regarding our legal request to complete an accurate environmental impact statement regarding the proposed 10' off-road trail, in addition to the consideration of alternative routing options.  We expect a court decision later this year.

Meanwhile, Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails, Inc has asked Cleveland Township for assistance in garnering public input on trail routing of this last segment.  We will provide you more information about that process as it becomes available.  

We are anticipating news later this fall about the grant application to receive funds to repave CR 669 as well as replacing the culvert at CR 669.  If grant funding is received, this may be an opportune time to also include trail access along CR 669 to Good Harbor Beach.

Light up the Lake

Our annual Light up the Lake will be held Saturday September 2, 2017 at dusk.  If you would like to purchase flares, contact Jerry Leanderson.

Thank you for your involvement.

Elvis Performance

 Carol Underwood invites everyone to see Jake Slater, the Elvis tribute singer, put on a show Friday night, August 11, on her lakeside deck at 7 PM.    As before, members should arrive at the southwest corner of LTL on their pontoons, boats, canoes, etc.    Everyone should pray for good weather that night!    His performance in 2015 was rained out entirely, and there was not a show in 2016, so this will be the first show in two years. 

Fourth of July Photos and Annual Meeting

Check out the photo gallery on the website for Fourth of July Fun Run/Koffee Klatch photos.  A great time was had.

Annual Meeting is next Saturday 9:00 AM for coffee, 9:30 meeting start.  Scott Tucker, Superintendent of the SBDNL will be speaking first.  See you there!

Ducks and Your Dock

Janice Sohn is struggling to keep ducks and their mess off  their dock.  She is wondering if other homeowners have successful suggestions.  Plz send ideas to sohnjaji@gmail.com or post to the blog.

Fourth of July Week

The week of the Fourth of July comes to a close and it was a good one on LTL.  Saturday nights fireworks were great.  The combined Fun Run/Bike/Walk and Koffee Klatch on the Fourth was a huge success.  Thanks to all who helped make it so much fun.  The weather was perfect (as usual) and there were many old neighbors and new neighbors to greet. We will plan on a repeat performance next year so mark your calendars.  If anyone took some pictures, please send them so we can include on the website.  Checkout this weeks Leelanau Enterprise - two of our runners grace the front page!

The lake has dropped about five inches in the last week bringing it down to more customary levels.

Make sure to plan on attending the Annual Meeting on August 5, 2017.  9:30 AM, Cleveland Township Hall.  The Superintendent of the NPS will be speaking and we have  a number of issues to discuss.

We are still seeking candidates for the Board of Directors.  One does not need to be a full time resident.  It only entails about 5-6 meetings a year and many are conference calls.  A great opportunity to give back to the Lake.

Continue to have a great summer!

Fireworks over LTL

Thanks to the Wysocki family, fireworks are planned for Saturday July 1, 2017 at dark.  It is such fun to see all the boats on the lake and people on their docks enjoying fireworks.  Our thanks to the Wysocki's who provide such a wonderful display.

Summer News Email Sent June 24

Summer is here and there is a lot of news.  Here are the highlights. 

July 4 Koffee Klatch Fun Run/Bike/Walk

Combined event starts at 9:30 AM at the Cleveland Township Park on July 4th.  All family and friends are welcome.  Treats and drinks will be provided.  Either participate in the 2k or 5k run/walk/bike or sit and enjoy a cup of coffee with your neighbors. Invitation is attached. 

Lake Level 

The lake is up over 5" since May.  The culvert at CR 669 was blocked by beavers in early June.  The Leelanau County Road Commission removed the dam.  We have had about 4" of rain this month.  We continue to monitor Shalda Creek.  Some dry, warm weather would help to get the level down.

Annual Meeting

The Association's 49th Annual Meeting will be held on August 5, 2017 at the Township Hall.  Scott Tucker, Superintendent of the National Lakeshore will be our featured speaker.  Mark your calendars and plan on attending.  We will have a full agenda with lots of information and updates.

Board of Directors Election

At the Annual meeting, we will be electing three Directors. Four Directors (Race, Shutz, Kraemer, and Leanderson) term ends next year.  David Skjaerlund has agreed to serve if elected.  If you are interested in serving on the Board, please email your intent to this email address not later than July 25, 2017.

Garage Sale

It has been a few years since we had a whole lake garage sale.  We are in need of a volunteer(s) to coordinate the sale.  Email us your interest or need for further information.

Lake Rules and Guidelines One-Pager

A laminated one page review of the lake rules and guidelines will be delivered to each lake property owner in the next few weeks.  Intent is to update and remind property owners, visitors and renters some guidelines to follow to keep our lake beautiful.  A copy is attached and watch for your copy in your door.

Association Dues and Donations

Now is the time to pay your dues and made your donations to the Association.  An invoice is attached.  You may also pay at the July 4th event.  Remember your dues/donations are now tax deductible since we are a 501c3 recognized organization. 

Website

Check out the new website.  You can sign up to receive an email anytime the blog is updated.  If you have some old/new pictures of the lake, email them to us.  We would like to increase our photo gallery. 

www.littletraverselake.org

Hope to see everyone on the Fourth of July!  Enjoy the summer!

Lake level update

The lake has risen about 5" in the last month.  The culvert at CR 669 on the east end was plugged by the beavers.  The County Road Commission cleared it.  We then had around 3" of rain.  We are checking Shalda Creek to insure those pesky beavers are not at it again. 

Log in Water

There is a large birch log with one end buried in the bottom on the east end of the lake near Stein's.  The top is about 1 foot above the water.  It is out far enough offshore that a boat, tuber or skier could run into it.  Be cautious!

Missing

Hopefully not lost - Saturday's winds washed a concrete slab with a "prized" wooden fisherman, sitting position into water.  Slab sank.  Fisherman not found.  It was crafted by my Dad, redone painted before he died 1985.  Not a artistic winner but to me priceless.  Crossing my fingers will be found.  If found contact Bob and Audrey Kraemer at bakraemer@yahoo.com

Mark your calendars:

July 4, 2017

The Koffee Klatch and the Bumb Fun Run/Walk/Ride will be combined.  9:30 AM at the Cleveland Township Park.  All are invited.  Details to come.

August 5, 2017

The Annual Meeting is planned.  9:00 AM social time, 9:30 AM meeting.  Please plan on attending.

LITTLE FREE LIBRARY #51634

Come visit our LFL on the north side of Little Traverse Lake

802 E TRAVERSE LAKE RD. 

"Take a book or return a book" throughout the summer months. 

Books are for anyone who enjoys reading on the beach or by the fire. We hope to have more children's books soon. 

For more information about our LFL contact Karen at karen.bumb.lauer@gmail.com

or visit littlefreelibrary.org

Gwenne Allgaier has lost a 6 x 6 wooden raft section.  It has 2 galvanized posts sticking up from 2 corners.

If you find it, please contact Gwenne at gwenne@icloud.com.

Lake Level Update

The snow is gone and the ice in the lake is starting to break up.  We continue to monitor the lake level.  Lou Gurthet has been taking measurements through the winter.  Our thanks to him!  The lake level at the east end of the culvert at TLR is 94.55.  Last year at this time the level was 94.59.  Almost exactly the same.

Jeff Shutz kayaked the stream and found that there are no beaver dams between TLR and CR-669.  He found one small dam well downstream from CR-669 which does not appear to be impacting the water level. Thanks also go out to Jeff!

No beaver dam action is needed at this time.  We will continue to monitor the lake level and communicate our findings to the NPS.

Happy Spring!

New Website

Welcome to the new Little Traverse Lake Property Owners Association website!

Take a look around.  There is a lot of information here.  Be sure to tag it as one of your favorites and visit it often.

We are just today rolling it out to the membership and welcome your impressions, thoughts and ideas.

Be sure to sign up for the blog as it will eventually take the place of the emails we have been using to communicate.  To receive email announcements for new blog posts, click on "Little Traverse Lake Blog" and enter your email in the "follow by email" box at the bottom of the page.

Jan Roddy has spent hours and hours building the site.  She has done a tremendous job!  All of our thanks to Jan!

If you have any pictures - old or new -  you would like share, send them to the Association's email and we will include them in the photo gallery.

Enjoy!

Cleveland Township Master Plan meeting to focus on environmental sustainability on Thursday, February 23rd Thank you for signing up for the Cleveland Township Master Plan mailing list! Save the Date! A special forum focused on environmental sustainability will be held for the Cleveland Township Master Plan project on Thursday, February 23 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Cleveland Township Hall, 955 E. Harbor Highway. Please join us! This centerpiece of the meeting will be a discussion with community leaders about the recommendations for environmental sustainability in the township’s Draft 2017 Master Plan. Through multiple public meetings held last summer and fall, and through a community survey with hundreds of responses, the township planning commission identified several opportunities for the township to encourage more sustainable practices for inland lakes, watershed health, and other topics. The purpose of the forum is to share these preliminary recommendations with the public and township leaders and seek feedback. Local experts in fields related to the recommendations will be in attendance to share local examples and contribute to the discussion. The outcome of the forum will be a prioritized list of what environmental actions might be appropriate for the township planning commission to include in the final master plan. The Cleveland Township Planning Commission strongly encourages everyone to attend, including lake association members, business owners, and the general public. An up to date copy of Draft Master Plan will be posted on the project website (http://clevelandtwp.liaa.org/) prior to the forum. Thank you, Cleveland Township Master Planning Project Team About the Project Cleveland Township is creating a new Master Plan, and we want every resident to be involved! A Master Plan is designed to take a long-range view of a community, guiding growth for 20 years and beyond, while also providing the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions, new ideas, and changes in available resources. Through a robust planning effort, residents and community leaders in Cleveland Township are working together to solidify the community’s vision for the future.   The new Cleveland Township Master Plan process will include a broad look at land use in in the community as well as issues such as broadband accessibility, housing supply, water quality, and natural resource preservation. Preparing the new Master Plan will help the community evaluate existing opportunities and issues, and develop a framework for decisions regarding land use, zoning, public investment, and infrastructure improvements. The Land Information Access Association (LIAA), a nonprofit community development organization based in Traverse City, is facilitating this work. Together with Cleveland Township leaders, the project team seeks to involve the community in a variety of public engagement events and activities to form the basis of the new Master Plan.

The 2017 Survivors Dinner was a great success.  Leland Lodge went out of their way to make us feel welcome.  Private room, cocktail hour with snacks, welcome note and especially the fresh fish fry!  A good time was had by all.  It was great to see so many "new" faces.  We are thinking of moving the Dinner next year until the end of March to more reflect true "survivors".  Any thoughts?

Survivors Dinner

The 2017 edition of the LTLPOA Survivors Dinner will be held on Friday February 3, 2017.  Here are the details:

Who:     All LTLPOA members, family and guests are welcome

Where:  The Leland Lodge

              565 Pearl St.

              Leland, MI 49654

When:   Friday February 3, 2017 at 6:00PM

What:   We will meet at the Leland Lodge at 6:00 PM for social time.  Dinner will follow shortly.

             Dinner will be ordered individually off the extensive menu of soups, salads, sandwiches and entree's.

RSVP:  Please reply by Sunday January 29, 2017 to this message or email the LTLPOA address (ltlpoa88@gmail.com) with your name and the number of attendees.

Hope to see a big turn out as we join together for an enjoyable evening with friends and neighbors.  If you have questions, please reply to this email.

Lake Level

The weather is warm and the snow is melting.  Lake level is going up. The level is 94.51 at the east culvert which is up from 94.06 in November.  We will need to find someone to take out beaver dams since we have lost Jack Daniels.