Shown are the freeholders who attended the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy board meeting Saturday, May 7. The freeholders sought information on the tax rate they were charged for the district. Photo by Deb Patterson.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — There was no surprise to some of the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Board members when a handful of freeholders attended its meeting Saturday morning, May 7.

Nine freeholders were in attendance to question the tax assessment for the conservancy seen on recent property tax statements. The main questions were: Why were the rates so high? Who is being taxed? Will the amount increase? What will it be used for?

“I feel better now,” said Marlene Vander Reyden, after having her questions answered. Vander Reyden along Todd Yoder, James Boone, Duane Rauch and several others were those asking questions of the board.

Their questions were prefaced by Ross Hagen with Baker Tilly and Dave Hollenbeck, attorney, explaining the formation and purpose of the conservancy and how the tax rate was determined. It was noted in the presentations that public meetings and public hearings were held throughout the processes of establishing the board and establishing the general fund and capital improvement fund tax rates.

During the explanations it was stated the capital improvement fund was set at its highest level to raise necessary funds to repair the dike this year, which if it failed, would lower the lake level by 3 feet. It was also stated when the budget is reviewed for 2023, it is anticipated the capital improvement rate will be lowered as the funds generated through that levy will be put in reserve for future maintenance and repairs. No funds have been raised in over 10 years for maintenance or repair to either structure.

Funds to repair the water control device were from private donations.

It was stated only those who own water frontage will be taxed. This did not include those who have easements, as they did not own the property.

“So they get to use the lake and enjoy it,” stated Boone.

This also raised the question about the 25-foot frontage owned by Marineland Gardens Property Owners Association, allowing its members easement to the lake. Who was paying for that? It was noted by Hollenbeck that, unless the property was owned by the government or church, someone is paying taxes on the property. “There are very few exceptions,” stated Hollenbeck.

Those present were advised the district’s financial information was available through the Department of Local Government Finance’s gateway system and any expenditures of public funds are approved at public meetings. The information will also be made available on the district’s website.

“At this point in time we see no other major events,” stated Pipp, reiterating the expectancy to have the capital improvement fund rate decrease.

Additionally, Boone brought up the issue of high water levels in November and December that caused water to freeze on his pier, causing damage. While it was noted the town has the responsibility to maintain the court-ordered lake level, plans are being discussed to provide more accurate water level information to help anticipate when to open or close the water control device gates.

Regarding this matter it was learned the monitors already installed by Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation for its WINS study could also provide water levels, with some modifications. The cost would be around $2,900 and the district would own the data. Installing a new device would cost $13,000 yearly. The board voted to use funds remaining from the private donations to pay for the modifications. The data collected will be shared with the Chad Jonsson, who regulates the gates, to get a more scientific approach to regulating the lake levels.

During other business, an update on the dike project was given by Chris Jeeter of Lawson-Fisher. He noted the project is on schedule and he will be working on preliminary documents for permit applications with the Department of Natural Resources, IDEM and Army Corp of Engineers. It was discovered, based on soil borings, longer metal sheets will be needed in one area due to soil type and the sheeting will need to be placed 3-4 feet closer to the water.

David Johnston, who represents District 4 of the conservancy, announced he and his wife will be moving at the end of summer. A temporary replacement for his position will be sought from that district, which includes the northeast side of the lake and Enchanted Hills.

The next meeting of the board was set for noon, Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation. The 2023 budget and update on the dike project will be among topics discussed.