Edenville Residents Celebrate Permit Win for Dam Restoration

News Summary

Edenville residents rejoice as the Four Lakes Task Force secures the final permit necessary for restoring the Edenville Dam. This approval marks a crucial step towards repairing the damages caused by the catastrophic floods of 2020. With potential challenges still on the horizon, the community remains hopeful for the timeline ahead, which projects the completion of dam restorations as early as 2025. The ongoing legal battles aim to ensure the project’s financing and support for residents affected by costs.

Edenville Residents Celebrate Permit Win for Dam Restoration!

Great news is flowing through the streets of Edenville! The Four Lakes Task Force has officially secured the final permit needed for the much-anticipated restoration of the Edenville Dam. This significant approval means that work can finally begin on repairing and reconstructing the four lakes that were gravely affected by the catastrophic floods of 2020. Residents can breathe a sigh of relief as they look forward to the restoration journey ahead.

The Aftermath of 2020 Floods

Rewind to May 2020, when the Edenville Dam failed, forcing water to burst forth into the Tittabawassee River and its neighboring areas. This natural disaster didn’t just cause chaos; it prompted urgent evacuation orders as fears of an additional dam collapse loomed, particularly the Sanford Dam. The aftermath left a lasting mark on the community and the environment, leading to desperate calls for restoration ever since.

Permitting Progress

On March 17, the Four Lakes Task Force proudly announced that they have obtained the much-needed permit for their restoration efforts. While many might think that this is the end of hurdles, legal challenges might still lie ahead, potentially pushing back construction timelines. The ongoing legal battle includes special assessments approved by the Michigan Court of Appeals, which are vital for financing the dam repairs across Wixom, Sanford, Smallwood, and Secord Lakes.

Challenges Ahead

As the Heron Cove Association eyes the February 18 deadline to appeal to the Michigan Supreme Court, the clock is ticking. If they fail to file by this date, the Four Lakes Task Force can find financing solutions to jumpstart construction. However, if appeals continue to surface, they could add an additional 6-12 months to what is already a tight timeline, potentially delaying the anticipated work set to resume in spring 2025.

Projected Timelines and Finances

Understanding the timeline for the restoration can also feel daunting. Current projections suggest completion dates are as follows:

• Smallwood Dam: November 2025 (plus or minus three months)
• Sanford and Secord Dams: May 2026 (plus or minus three months)
• Edenville Dam: August 2027 (plus or minus six months)

But what about the finances? The Four Lakes Task Force estimates that getting the construction back up and running could cost anywhere from $10-20 million. While they’ve secured around $247 million in funding, they aren’t expecting much help from state or federal sources anytime soon. In light of this, they are actively seeking additional grants to alleviate assessment costs for residents, particularly for seniors with limited income.

Community Support and Ongoing Lawsuits

Most property owners in the area have shown strong support for restoring the lakes, viewing it as essential for public safety, environmental protection, and preserving property values. However, the ongoing legal skirmishes have brought uncertainty and might inflate costs for the project. The Four Lakes Task Force finds themselves embroiled in two federal lawsuits concerning violations of due process, though it is anticipated that these lawsuits will not impact the financing or the resumption of construction.

Wrapping Up

Despite the challenges, the community of Edenville stands united in the belief that restoring the lakes is a path towards a brighter, safer future. As the Four Lakes Task Force navigates through permits, legal battles, and funding efforts, residents remain hopeful and eager to see their beautiful lakes restored to their former glory—where nature lies in harmony with the community once again!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• ABC12: Tittabawasee River Returns to Path Through Sanford Dam
• Our Midland: Four Lakes Task Force Path Forward Determined
• MLive: Latest on Michigan Dam Repairs Following Historic 2020 Flood
• Wikipedia
• Encyclopedia Britannica