Posted on June 12, 2019
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Big upgrades could be coming to the Bass Lake Beach, if Constellation of Starke gets its Stellar Community designation. During Tuesday’s Starke County Park Board Meeting, Board Member Rik Ritzler said several ideas have been thrown around.
“Some of the initial planned things we’ve been discussing and it looks like we’re going to talk to the architect about is having a hub where the existing building is, kind of a circular thing, where the entrance area, vendors areas, classroom areas, right in that hub area,” he said, “and then the south side of it would be a big great room with ceiling-to-floor windows, maybe, that arches up, that you could use for indoor concerts, a reading room, a history room. People having outdoor picnics, when it rains, they could come inside, and maybe even windows that open up there.”
The other side might feature a water park area, with a boardwalk running the length of the entire beach and a new main pier extending into the lake. “We’re talking about re-branding it, maybe the Winchetonqua Lodge at Bass Lake, which is the old name of Bass Lake was Winchetonqua,” Ritzler added, “and make it kind of in the style of the old national park lodges, the grand lodges, like at Yellowstone, obviously on a smaller scale, but that kind of feeling.”
As planning continues, the park board may revisit the idea of taking control of the beach itself from its current lessee, Callahan Development, LLC, while the company could keep operating the campground and pier slips. County Attorney Marty Lucas noted that Callahan had been open to that in the past, and the potential Stellar funding could allow it to happen. “We do need to have something in writing from him, just for the Stellar application, if nothing else,” Lucas explained. “We have to be able to establish that we have rights to do it.”
It was pointed out that Callahan would have to be involved in the discussions with Constellation of Starke going forward. If the improvements were to happen, the park board would likely have to hire an employee or find a contractor to operate the facility.
Ritzler said the potential Bass Lake improvements are already getting local support. “I do believe the commissioners are behind it,” he said. “The Bass Lake Property Owners are behind it. They already said that they would provide matching funds for the project. So this is a good thing.”
The park board agreed to let County Attorney Lucas and Park Board President Richard Ballard begin conversations with Callahan’s attorney, with the goal of coming up with a memorandum that could be included with the Stellar application.
Showing posts with label Bass Lake Beach. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bass Lake Beach. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Friday, May 17, 2019
Bass Lake Beach Manager Discusses Submerged Lifeguard Tower, Glass Hazards
Posted on May 17, 2019
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A couple of hazards in and around the Bass Lake Beach were discussed during Tuesday’s Starke County Park Board meeting. Facility Manager Larry Clarich asked board members if something could be done about a structure, believed to be an old lifeguard tower, that’s now submerged in the lake.
“I mean, this has been going on for years now and luckily nobody’s gotten hurt yet,” Clarich said, “but at some point, there’s going to be an issue with that.” Board Member Chris Lawrence questioned why that would be the park board’s responsibility, and Clarich agreed it might be worth asking the state to remove it.
Clarich also told the park board that glass continues to be an issue and showed board members some examples that were recently found. “This was coming out from underneath the tree roots,” he said. “They said this is probably 1940s glass. And you can see, this is a Pepsi-cola, so you can imagine how old that is.”
While glass may be a pretty typical problem at beaches, Clarich said he wants to make sure people are aware of the potential hazard. “Nobody can walk that lakefront and find all of that glass,” he said. “It’s just impossible. It just keeps poppin’ up, poppin’ up, poppin’ up.”
Clarich noted that glass bottles are prohibited on the beach.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A couple of hazards in and around the Bass Lake Beach were discussed during Tuesday’s Starke County Park Board meeting. Facility Manager Larry Clarich asked board members if something could be done about a structure, believed to be an old lifeguard tower, that’s now submerged in the lake.
“I mean, this has been going on for years now and luckily nobody’s gotten hurt yet,” Clarich said, “but at some point, there’s going to be an issue with that.” Board Member Chris Lawrence questioned why that would be the park board’s responsibility, and Clarich agreed it might be worth asking the state to remove it.
Clarich also told the park board that glass continues to be an issue and showed board members some examples that were recently found. “This was coming out from underneath the tree roots,” he said. “They said this is probably 1940s glass. And you can see, this is a Pepsi-cola, so you can imagine how old that is.”
While glass may be a pretty typical problem at beaches, Clarich said he wants to make sure people are aware of the potential hazard. “Nobody can walk that lakefront and find all of that glass,” he said. “It’s just impossible. It just keeps poppin’ up, poppin’ up, poppin’ up.”
Clarich noted that glass bottles are prohibited on the beach.
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Change in State Regulations Creates Challenges for Bass Lake Beach Erosion Prevention Efforts
Posted on May 15, 2019
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Efforts to prevent erosion in the Bass Lake Beach area have hit a funding snag. The Starke County Park Board has obtained glacial stone, and the county commissioners agreed to let the Highway Department install it.
But during Tuesday’s park board meeting, board member and highway superintendent Rik Ritzler said a change in state regulations means that installation can’t continue as planned. “The rules have changed on January 1, and now we cannot pay for anything outside of the county right of way with [Motor Vehicle Highway] funds,” he explained. “Anything out of that has to be from a different fund.”
Ritzler said the commissioners have asked the park board to cover the cost of Highway Department employees’ labor, which he estimates would amount to between $2,500 and $3,500. The problem is that the park board only has a little more than $1,300.
In the end, the park board agreed to contribute $1,000, and ask the commissioners to look into other funding sources for the rest.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Efforts to prevent erosion in the Bass Lake Beach area have hit a funding snag. The Starke County Park Board has obtained glacial stone, and the county commissioners agreed to let the Highway Department install it.
But during Tuesday’s park board meeting, board member and highway superintendent Rik Ritzler said a change in state regulations means that installation can’t continue as planned. “The rules have changed on January 1, and now we cannot pay for anything outside of the county right of way with [Motor Vehicle Highway] funds,” he explained. “Anything out of that has to be from a different fund.”
Ritzler said the commissioners have asked the park board to cover the cost of Highway Department employees’ labor, which he estimates would amount to between $2,500 and $3,500. The problem is that the park board only has a little more than $1,300.
In the end, the park board agreed to contribute $1,000, and ask the commissioners to look into other funding sources for the rest.
Monday, July 16, 2018
Starke Park Board Discusses Stellar Communities Application, Bass Lake Beach Restrooms
Posted on July 16, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A Stellar Community designation could be a way to bring improvements to the Bass Lake Beach. That was the suggestion given to the Starke County Park Board last week.
It came up when board member Butch Gerstandt asked if there were any plans to remodel the bathrooms in the beach house. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich and Board President Roger Chaffins felt that any such upgrades would be up to the county rather than the facility’s operator.
That’s when Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler suggested that the park board may want to get involved with the county’s Stellar application. He pointed out that the park board already has a five-year plan, and that the designation would bring grant opportunities with a smaller local match.
County Attorney Marty Lucas said the effort will depend on the results of a county income survey that began last week. “Really, we won’t know whether we’ll be able to go any further. We’re hopeful on that,” he said. “It seems like we should qualify. It’s hard to believe that there’s a grant for which Starke County is too wealthy. But officially, so far, it is. So we have to actually prove that it’s not.”
In the meantime, board member Rosemary Rose said there may be other resources available to upgrade the Bass Lake Beach House restrooms. “Places like Lowe’s and so forth, they will – if you fill out an application, if you need your bathroom set up for handicap accessibility,” she said. “They redid the bathrooms in the North Judson Legion, they redid the bathrooms in the Knox Legion, anything that’s nonprofit. Lowe’s and Menards both have those available, and it doesn’t have to come from the county. They will donate the money.”
County officials are eyeing a regional Stellar Community application for the 2019 designation cycle.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A Stellar Community designation could be a way to bring improvements to the Bass Lake Beach. That was the suggestion given to the Starke County Park Board last week.
It came up when board member Butch Gerstandt asked if there were any plans to remodel the bathrooms in the beach house. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich and Board President Roger Chaffins felt that any such upgrades would be up to the county rather than the facility’s operator.
That’s when Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler suggested that the park board may want to get involved with the county’s Stellar application. He pointed out that the park board already has a five-year plan, and that the designation would bring grant opportunities with a smaller local match.
County Attorney Marty Lucas said the effort will depend on the results of a county income survey that began last week. “Really, we won’t know whether we’ll be able to go any further. We’re hopeful on that,” he said. “It seems like we should qualify. It’s hard to believe that there’s a grant for which Starke County is too wealthy. But officially, so far, it is. So we have to actually prove that it’s not.”
In the meantime, board member Rosemary Rose said there may be other resources available to upgrade the Bass Lake Beach House restrooms. “Places like Lowe’s and so forth, they will – if you fill out an application, if you need your bathroom set up for handicap accessibility,” she said. “They redid the bathrooms in the North Judson Legion, they redid the bathrooms in the Knox Legion, anything that’s nonprofit. Lowe’s and Menards both have those available, and it doesn’t have to come from the county. They will donate the money.”
County officials are eyeing a regional Stellar Community application for the 2019 designation cycle.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Concerns Remain with Bass Lake Beach Patio, Nearly a Year After Repairs Were Suggested
Posted on June 20, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As work gets underway to protect the Bass Lake Beach from future erosion, concerns remain about the beach house patio. Last summer, a group of local residents and Starke County Park Board members studied the site and pointed out that the fill that’s supposed to support the concrete patio had mostly washed away.
One of the members of that group, Rick Anderson, told the park board last week it’s been almost a year since those concerns were raised, and it still doesn’t look like the problem has been fixed. He noted that without anything supporting the concrete, the patio is in danger of collapse, and it will only get worse if nothing is done. Board members agreed that the issue is a safety hazard, and County Attorney Marty Lucas said he would send an email to the facility’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC.
While the repairs themselves don’t seem to have been made, related work to prevent future damage by installing glacial stone is being undertaken by the county.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As work gets underway to protect the Bass Lake Beach from future erosion, concerns remain about the beach house patio. Last summer, a group of local residents and Starke County Park Board members studied the site and pointed out that the fill that’s supposed to support the concrete patio had mostly washed away.
One of the members of that group, Rick Anderson, told the park board last week it’s been almost a year since those concerns were raised, and it still doesn’t look like the problem has been fixed. He noted that without anything supporting the concrete, the patio is in danger of collapse, and it will only get worse if nothing is done. Board members agreed that the issue is a safety hazard, and County Attorney Marty Lucas said he would send an email to the facility’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC.
While the repairs themselves don’t seem to have been made, related work to prevent future damage by installing glacial stone is being undertaken by the county.
Friday, June 15, 2018
Bass Lake Beach Erosion Prevention Project Underway
Posted on June 15, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A project to reduce future erosion at the Bass Lake Beach is finally underway. During Tuesday’s Starke County Park Board meeting, President Roger Chaffins said that the delivery of glacial stone was set to begin yesterday. The goal is to protect the beach and patio from incoming waves.
Chaffins said attorneys Marty and Steve Lucas helped obtain the necessary permit. The Starke County Highway Department will haul the stone, while inmates from the Starke County Justice Center will help take it to the installation site.
Chaffins said the reason it’s taken so long to get to this point is that he wants to make sure the work is done correctly. He also noted the limited availability of the facility’s managers. “A little bit of the reason why I was slow about it is Larry and Mara [Clarich’s] house burnt,” Chaffins said. “They’re still working on fixing that. They both work, so they’ve only got the weekends to work on this with themselves because you know [Richard] Callahan’s not going to give any help, and there’s not enough help out there. And I realize, yeah, well, we want it done, but my thing is bear with the man because he’s busting his ass to get stuff done for us.”
But board member Debbie Mix pointed out that many of the problems at the facility existed long before Larry and Mara Clarich got involved in its upkeep. “My issue is not with Larry,” Mix said. “My issue is with Callahan. And since eight years of not doing anything, because Larry’s working his tail off through the last two years, that doesn’t excuse Mr. Callahan for not getting someone else to get it done.”
“I’m sure he’s in Florida, and he’s not too worried about it,” Chaffins said. “It’s all on Larry’s shoulders.”
“But that’s our responsibility to make sure it gets done,” Mix replied.
She continued to voice concerns that the proper permits were not obtained for the repairs that have taken place. That would mean that they may not have been re-inspected, to make sure the work was done correctly. Chaffins said he’d discuss the matter with Building Inspector Terry Stephenson.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
A project to reduce future erosion at the Bass Lake Beach is finally underway. During Tuesday’s Starke County Park Board meeting, President Roger Chaffins said that the delivery of glacial stone was set to begin yesterday. The goal is to protect the beach and patio from incoming waves.
Chaffins said attorneys Marty and Steve Lucas helped obtain the necessary permit. The Starke County Highway Department will haul the stone, while inmates from the Starke County Justice Center will help take it to the installation site.
Chaffins said the reason it’s taken so long to get to this point is that he wants to make sure the work is done correctly. He also noted the limited availability of the facility’s managers. “A little bit of the reason why I was slow about it is Larry and Mara [Clarich’s] house burnt,” Chaffins said. “They’re still working on fixing that. They both work, so they’ve only got the weekends to work on this with themselves because you know [Richard] Callahan’s not going to give any help, and there’s not enough help out there. And I realize, yeah, well, we want it done, but my thing is bear with the man because he’s busting his ass to get stuff done for us.”
But board member Debbie Mix pointed out that many of the problems at the facility existed long before Larry and Mara Clarich got involved in its upkeep. “My issue is not with Larry,” Mix said. “My issue is with Callahan. And since eight years of not doing anything, because Larry’s working his tail off through the last two years, that doesn’t excuse Mr. Callahan for not getting someone else to get it done.”
“I’m sure he’s in Florida, and he’s not too worried about it,” Chaffins said. “It’s all on Larry’s shoulders.”
“But that’s our responsibility to make sure it gets done,” Mix replied.
She continued to voice concerns that the proper permits were not obtained for the repairs that have taken place. That would mean that they may not have been re-inspected, to make sure the work was done correctly. Chaffins said he’d discuss the matter with Building Inspector Terry Stephenson.
Friday, June 1, 2018
Starke County Commissioners Discuss Bass Lake Beach Operations
Posted on June 1, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners held discussion on the operations at the Bass Lake Beach last week.
While Callahan Development, LLC, leases the Bass Lake Beach and Campground from Starke County, company officials say they may be willing to give up control of the beach, in order to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
County Attorney Marty Lucas, who also serves as counsel for the Starke County Park Board, noted that several proposals from interested residents were received concerning the operations at the Bass Lake Beach, but none of them were favorable.
Starke County resident Kenny Wallace commented that the area doesn’t look as good as it used to and something needs to be done. He also mentioned that the buildings are in bad shape.
Commissioner Kathy Norem said the county is restricted on supplying any funding to provide maintenance to the area due to the contact with Callahan Development, LLC, but the commissioners are open to taking all serious inquiries into the purchase of the beach.
“I think probably if there’s someone out there that was willing to buy the beach under the conditions that it could be sold with the assumption of the Callahan contract we’d certainly consider it,” stated Norem.
The deed specifies that the property needs to be preserved for outdoor public activities. All written inquires may be mailed to the Starke County Auditor’s office to be directed to Manager Larry Clarich.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners held discussion on the operations at the Bass Lake Beach last week.
While Callahan Development, LLC, leases the Bass Lake Beach and Campground from Starke County, company officials say they may be willing to give up control of the beach, in order to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
County Attorney Marty Lucas, who also serves as counsel for the Starke County Park Board, noted that several proposals from interested residents were received concerning the operations at the Bass Lake Beach, but none of them were favorable.
Starke County resident Kenny Wallace commented that the area doesn’t look as good as it used to and something needs to be done. He also mentioned that the buildings are in bad shape.
Commissioner Kathy Norem said the county is restricted on supplying any funding to provide maintenance to the area due to the contact with Callahan Development, LLC, but the commissioners are open to taking all serious inquiries into the purchase of the beach.
“I think probably if there’s someone out there that was willing to buy the beach under the conditions that it could be sold with the assumption of the Callahan contract we’d certainly consider it,” stated Norem.
The deed specifies that the property needs to be preserved for outdoor public activities. All written inquires may be mailed to the Starke County Auditor’s office to be directed to Manager Larry Clarich.
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Starke County Park Board Updated on Bass Lake Beach Seawall Repairs
Posted on May 22, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Repairs to the Bass Lake Beach House seawall are getting underway. The Starke County Park Board has been working with Bass Lake Beach operator Callahan Development, LLC, as well as the County Highway Department, to fix the wall and try to prevent future damage.
During last week’s meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said the stone and sand were about ready to be delivered to the site. “The wall had cracked down, and the water’s rushing in underneath the building and washing the sand out,” he explained. “They’re going to put rock out there and then put sand in there, and fix it back the way it should be.”
Bass Lake Beach Assistant Manager Larry Clarich explained that the stone will shore up the wall and help preserve the work that’s being done now. He agreed to work with Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler to coordinate the delivery of the stone. Meanwhile, Chaffins offered to ask Sheriff Bill Dulin about the possibility of getting jail inmates to help haul it in by hand.
The park board was recently awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant from the Starke County Community Foundation, to help with the cost of materials.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Repairs to the Bass Lake Beach House seawall are getting underway. The Starke County Park Board has been working with Bass Lake Beach operator Callahan Development, LLC, as well as the County Highway Department, to fix the wall and try to prevent future damage.
During last week’s meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said the stone and sand were about ready to be delivered to the site. “The wall had cracked down, and the water’s rushing in underneath the building and washing the sand out,” he explained. “They’re going to put rock out there and then put sand in there, and fix it back the way it should be.”
Bass Lake Beach Assistant Manager Larry Clarich explained that the stone will shore up the wall and help preserve the work that’s being done now. He agreed to work with Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler to coordinate the delivery of the stone. Meanwhile, Chaffins offered to ask Sheriff Bill Dulin about the possibility of getting jail inmates to help haul it in by hand.
The park board was recently awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant from the Starke County Community Foundation, to help with the cost of materials.
Monday, April 16, 2018
Starke County Park Board Denied Operation Round Up Grant for Bass Lake Beach Improvements
Posted on April 16, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As the Starke County Park Board works to raise the necessary funds for improvements to the Bass Lake Beach, another one of its grant applications has come up short.
County Attorney Marty Lucas says a request for $2,500 from Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program has been denied, but the county was invited to reapply. “There was some information that they wanted in the application, some additional information that they wanted, and that’s going to be supplied, and so it will come up in their next cycle,” Lucas says. “They do cycles quarterly, so that won’t be that long off, before that comes up again.”
The grant application was one of a few that the park board submitted for the project. It would involve buying 80 cubic yards of stone and 500 tons of sand, in an effort to prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach.
The total cost was estimated to be just under $15,000. While the park board was awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant from the Starke County Community Foundation, a request for $5,000 from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development was denied, along with the Operation Round Up application.
The park board hopes to lower costs by using the Starke County Highway Department’s crews and equipment. The Starke County Park Board does not currently have a dedicated source of taxpayer funding.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As the Starke County Park Board works to raise the necessary funds for improvements to the Bass Lake Beach, another one of its grant applications has come up short.
County Attorney Marty Lucas says a request for $2,500 from Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program has been denied, but the county was invited to reapply. “There was some information that they wanted in the application, some additional information that they wanted, and that’s going to be supplied, and so it will come up in their next cycle,” Lucas says. “They do cycles quarterly, so that won’t be that long off, before that comes up again.”
The grant application was one of a few that the park board submitted for the project. It would involve buying 80 cubic yards of stone and 500 tons of sand, in an effort to prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach.
The total cost was estimated to be just under $15,000. While the park board was awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant from the Starke County Community Foundation, a request for $5,000 from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development was denied, along with the Operation Round Up application.
The park board hopes to lower costs by using the Starke County Highway Department’s crews and equipment. The Starke County Park Board does not currently have a dedicated source of taxpayer funding.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Funds Created for Starke County Park Board Grant Funds
Posted on March 22, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
With the acquisition of thousands of dollars worth of grants for projects at the Starke County Forest and the Bass Lake Beach, Starke County Auditor Kay Chaffins suggested the creation of two line items within the budget for those funds.
The park board was recently awarded $15,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund and $5,000 in a Community Support Grant.
For transparency and tracking, two separate accounts will be set up to collect those funds.
Another fund, the Starke County Park and Recreation Fund, will be established to accept tax-deductible donations from the public. Commissioner Kathy Norem noted that any donation received will go toward projects specifically within the Starke County Park Board’s plans. That money will not be used for municipal park projects.
For more information, contact the Starke County Auditor’s Office at 574-772-9101.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
With the acquisition of thousands of dollars worth of grants for projects at the Starke County Forest and the Bass Lake Beach, Starke County Auditor Kay Chaffins suggested the creation of two line items within the budget for those funds.
The park board was recently awarded $15,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund and $5,000 in a Community Support Grant.
For transparency and tracking, two separate accounts will be set up to collect those funds.
Another fund, the Starke County Park and Recreation Fund, will be established to accept tax-deductible donations from the public. Commissioner Kathy Norem noted that any donation received will go toward projects specifically within the Starke County Park Board’s plans. That money will not be used for municipal park projects.
For more information, contact the Starke County Auditor’s Office at 574-772-9101.
Friday, March 16, 2018
Starke County Park Board Gets Two More Proposals for Bass Lake Beach Operations
Posted on March 15, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board continues to hear from people interested in operating the Bass Lake Beach. The entire beach and campground is currently run by Callahan Development, LLC, which leases it from Starke County. But the company said it may be willing to give up control of the beach itself, to allow it to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said a couple more responses have come in over the past two weeks. One of those who expressed interest was Tabitha Dillner. She told board members she’d be willing to work with the various parties involved. “I left mine very vague and general on purpose because I don’t know exactly what he would like and us to get together and work out something that works for both ends,” she explained. “I don’t want to say, ‘This is it.'”
At this point, Chaffins said he’s passing along the proposals to Larry Clarich, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the beach and campground. “I’ll also tell you that I had a phone call yesterday from another person,” Chaffins said. “I gave them Larry’s phone number, and I said you might as well figure it out because I said what it is, we’re just trying to decide what to do, and tell us what you can do or what you’d be able to do with it.”
At this point, Clarich appears to be serving as an intermediary. Potential beach operators discuss their proposals with him. He, in turn, will negotiate with lessee Richard Callahan and Callahan’s attorney.
It still remains to be determined how exactly the operations would be split up. Complicating matters is the fact that any arrangement would have to be beneficial for at least three different parties: Callahan, Starke County, and the potential operator.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board continues to hear from people interested in operating the Bass Lake Beach. The entire beach and campground is currently run by Callahan Development, LLC, which leases it from Starke County. But the company said it may be willing to give up control of the beach itself, to allow it to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said a couple more responses have come in over the past two weeks. One of those who expressed interest was Tabitha Dillner. She told board members she’d be willing to work with the various parties involved. “I left mine very vague and general on purpose because I don’t know exactly what he would like and us to get together and work out something that works for both ends,” she explained. “I don’t want to say, ‘This is it.'”
At this point, Chaffins said he’s passing along the proposals to Larry Clarich, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the beach and campground. “I’ll also tell you that I had a phone call yesterday from another person,” Chaffins said. “I gave them Larry’s phone number, and I said you might as well figure it out because I said what it is, we’re just trying to decide what to do, and tell us what you can do or what you’d be able to do with it.”
At this point, Clarich appears to be serving as an intermediary. Potential beach operators discuss their proposals with him. He, in turn, will negotiate with lessee Richard Callahan and Callahan’s attorney.
It still remains to be determined how exactly the operations would be split up. Complicating matters is the fact that any arrangement would have to be beneficial for at least three different parties: Callahan, Starke County, and the potential operator.
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Starke County Park Board to Get Updates on Grant Applications
Posted on March 13, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board will get updates on some grant applications tonight. The park board has already been awarded $5,000 from the Starke County Community Foundation to help prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach. Starke County is also seeking funding from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development and Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program.
The park board is also expected to get an update on its request for nearly $15,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Foundation to upgrade parking and signage at the Starke County Forest.
In other business tonight, the Starke County Park Board plans to continue its discussion of the Bass Lake Beach gate house. The structure was seriously damaged when a pickup truck reportedly crashed into it back in November, but Park Board President Roger Chaffins hasn’t been happy with the compensation offer from the truck owner’s insurance provider.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board will get updates on some grant applications tonight. The park board has already been awarded $5,000 from the Starke County Community Foundation to help prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach. Starke County is also seeking funding from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development and Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program.
The park board is also expected to get an update on its request for nearly $15,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Foundation to upgrade parking and signage at the Starke County Forest.
In other business tonight, the Starke County Park Board plans to continue its discussion of the Bass Lake Beach gate house. The structure was seriously damaged when a pickup truck reportedly crashed into it back in November, but Park Board President Roger Chaffins hasn’t been happy with the compensation offer from the truck owner’s insurance provider.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Starke County Park Board Gets $5,000 Grant for Bass Lake Beach Erosion Prevention Project
Posted on March 1, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Efforts to prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach have gotten a financial boost from the Starke County Community Foundation. The Starke County Park Board announced Tuesday that it was recently awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant for the installation of glacial stone, as well as additional sand.
The project would involve buying 80 cubic yards of stone, which would be placed around the beach house. Meanwhile, 500 tons of sand would be purchased to replenish the beach. The Starke County Park Board has agreed to install the stone and sand, while the operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC would repair the seawall surrounding the beach house patio.
The Community Foundation grant wouldn’t cover the whole cost of the project, though. The park board is also applying for $5,000 from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development and $2,500 from Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program.
Board members also hope to save money by using the Starke County Highway Department’s crews and equipment. The Starke County Park Board does not currently have a dedicated source of taxpayer funding.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Efforts to prevent and repair erosion at the Bass Lake Beach have gotten a financial boost from the Starke County Community Foundation. The Starke County Park Board announced Tuesday that it was recently awarded a $5,000 Community Support Grant for the installation of glacial stone, as well as additional sand.
The project would involve buying 80 cubic yards of stone, which would be placed around the beach house. Meanwhile, 500 tons of sand would be purchased to replenish the beach. The Starke County Park Board has agreed to install the stone and sand, while the operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC would repair the seawall surrounding the beach house patio.
The Community Foundation grant wouldn’t cover the whole cost of the project, though. The park board is also applying for $5,000 from Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development and $2,500 from Kankakee Valley REMC’s Operation Round Up program.
Board members also hope to save money by using the Starke County Highway Department’s crews and equipment. The Starke County Park Board does not currently have a dedicated source of taxpayer funding.
Friday, January 26, 2018
Starke County Park Board Considers Grant Opportunities
Posted on January 26, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Starke County Forest would stand to benefit from some grant opportunities being explored by the Starke County Park Board. A few funding sources were discussed during Tuesday’s meeting.
Up to $5,000 is available through Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development, but board members only have a few days to turn in an application. Board member Roger Chaffins thought improvements to the Bass Lake Beach would have a good chance of getting the grant. “I don’t know what the cost is to fix the concrete in the front plus bring the stone in plus bring the sand in for the beach,” he said. “That, to me, would be more of a jibing thing of what they would look at better, I would think, if we could try that right away.”
Those repairs and upgrades have been discussed for several months, but so far the county government and beach operator Callahan Development, LLC haven’t finalized arrangements for the work. Since the park board doesn’t have its own budget, county employees’ labor could possibly be used as a local match, while the grant itself would pay for materials.
Meanwhile, County Attorney Marty Lucas said he was approached by representatives of a charitable fund who are interested in supporting the Starke County Forest. “This isn’t a formal application,” he explained. “This is just talk. And I don’t know, they may say they’re not interested. But I just want to have ideas that you all think are a good idea that are very practical.”
Board members’ top priority for the forest was doubling the size of the parking area, to fit at least 12 vehicles. Their second choice was to reinforce a dike in the park. Other ideas included the installation of signage, trash bins, or benches.
Also during Tuesday’s meeting, park board member Debbie Mix suggested revisiting a plan to add an ADA-accessible kayak launch to the Yellow River. The county has been unsuccessful at getting a grant for the project in the past, but Mix pointed out that all the necessary information has already been gathered. “That was already put together,” he said, “and there’s already $500 sitting there for us at the Community Foundation because that was a part of the grant application last year.”
Mix also suggested several other projects to consider for future grant applications, such as upgrades to the Bass Lake Beach House, extending the North Judson Erie Trail to the Monterey area, and installing signage for various county attractions along area highways.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Starke County Forest would stand to benefit from some grant opportunities being explored by the Starke County Park Board. A few funding sources were discussed during Tuesday’s meeting.
Up to $5,000 is available through Arrowhead Country Resource Conservation and Development, but board members only have a few days to turn in an application. Board member Roger Chaffins thought improvements to the Bass Lake Beach would have a good chance of getting the grant. “I don’t know what the cost is to fix the concrete in the front plus bring the stone in plus bring the sand in for the beach,” he said. “That, to me, would be more of a jibing thing of what they would look at better, I would think, if we could try that right away.”
Those repairs and upgrades have been discussed for several months, but so far the county government and beach operator Callahan Development, LLC haven’t finalized arrangements for the work. Since the park board doesn’t have its own budget, county employees’ labor could possibly be used as a local match, while the grant itself would pay for materials.
Meanwhile, County Attorney Marty Lucas said he was approached by representatives of a charitable fund who are interested in supporting the Starke County Forest. “This isn’t a formal application,” he explained. “This is just talk. And I don’t know, they may say they’re not interested. But I just want to have ideas that you all think are a good idea that are very practical.”
Board members’ top priority for the forest was doubling the size of the parking area, to fit at least 12 vehicles. Their second choice was to reinforce a dike in the park. Other ideas included the installation of signage, trash bins, or benches.
Also during Tuesday’s meeting, park board member Debbie Mix suggested revisiting a plan to add an ADA-accessible kayak launch to the Yellow River. The county has been unsuccessful at getting a grant for the project in the past, but Mix pointed out that all the necessary information has already been gathered. “That was already put together,” he said, “and there’s already $500 sitting there for us at the Community Foundation because that was a part of the grant application last year.”
Mix also suggested several other projects to consider for future grant applications, such as upgrades to the Bass Lake Beach House, extending the North Judson Erie Trail to the Monterey area, and installing signage for various county attractions along area highways.
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Starke County Park Board Seeks Proposals for Bass Lake Beach Operations
Posted on January 24, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Ideas for operating the Bass Lake Beach are being sought by the Starke County Park Board. Board members decided Tuesday to issue a request for proposals from businesses or individuals interested in managing the beach area, the beach house, or both.
The entire beach and campground is currently operated by Callahan Development, LLC, which leases it from Starke County. But the company said it may be willing to give up control of the beach itself, to allow it to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
If and how that would happen still remain to be seen, but County Attorney Marty Lucas said that seeking outside proposals is a first step. “This is all a matter of trying to get our ducks in a row,” he explained. “It’s a challenge because this is a chicken/egg kind of situation. Before we can make a deal with Callahan, we need to have what that deal consists of. Before we can know what it consists of, we have to have an offer. So the idea is to kind of test the waters and see who might be interested in doing this and on what terms.”
Lucas said the goal is to come up with an arrangement that benefits all the parties involved. “One: minimally meet the community’s desire to have the beach open, to have public access to the beach to be a little improved I think, the quality of the experience improved, and I think people consistently want to see some kind of food service there.” To appeal to Callahan, Lucas said the deal should make the Callahan’s job easier and make the rest of the property more profitable. On top of that, the arrangement has to be financially sustainable.
In order to solicit ideas, board members spent a few minutes choosing from three different options for a request for proposals. In the end, the park board chose the shortest, most open-ended of the three, at the recommendation of board member Roger Chaffins. “If we get a bite on this, there’ll be stuff we have to discuss back and forth to get things,” he said. “I mean, we’re not going to hammer it out in one night. It’s not going to be hammered out in two nights. It’s just the beginning of the fishing expedition.”
Anyone with a proposal for operating the Bass Lake Beach is asked to send it to the park board by March 1, in care of the Starke County Auditor’s Office.
Here’s the Starke County Park Board’s complete request for proposals:
The Board of Commissioners of Starke County and the Starke County Park Board are considering a cooperative arrangement with Callahan LLC for a third person to manage the beach area and the pavilion of the Starke County Beach. A request for a written proposal is invited from any business or other interested person to manage the beach area or the pavilion (or both the beach area and the pavilion). An element for beach management shall include provision for life guards during the summer season. An element for pavilion management proposal shall include food services. Any proposal must be made by March 1, 2018 to the Starke County Parks Board by email at the following address:
Starke Co. Park Board
c/o Starke Co. Auditor,
53 East Mound Street # H
Knox, IN 46534
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Ideas for operating the Bass Lake Beach are being sought by the Starke County Park Board. Board members decided Tuesday to issue a request for proposals from businesses or individuals interested in managing the beach area, the beach house, or both.
The entire beach and campground is currently operated by Callahan Development, LLC, which leases it from Starke County. But the company said it may be willing to give up control of the beach itself, to allow it to focus on the profitable campground and pier slots.
If and how that would happen still remain to be seen, but County Attorney Marty Lucas said that seeking outside proposals is a first step. “This is all a matter of trying to get our ducks in a row,” he explained. “It’s a challenge because this is a chicken/egg kind of situation. Before we can make a deal with Callahan, we need to have what that deal consists of. Before we can know what it consists of, we have to have an offer. So the idea is to kind of test the waters and see who might be interested in doing this and on what terms.”
Lucas said the goal is to come up with an arrangement that benefits all the parties involved. “One: minimally meet the community’s desire to have the beach open, to have public access to the beach to be a little improved I think, the quality of the experience improved, and I think people consistently want to see some kind of food service there.” To appeal to Callahan, Lucas said the deal should make the Callahan’s job easier and make the rest of the property more profitable. On top of that, the arrangement has to be financially sustainable.
In order to solicit ideas, board members spent a few minutes choosing from three different options for a request for proposals. In the end, the park board chose the shortest, most open-ended of the three, at the recommendation of board member Roger Chaffins. “If we get a bite on this, there’ll be stuff we have to discuss back and forth to get things,” he said. “I mean, we’re not going to hammer it out in one night. It’s not going to be hammered out in two nights. It’s just the beginning of the fishing expedition.”
Anyone with a proposal for operating the Bass Lake Beach is asked to send it to the park board by March 1, in care of the Starke County Auditor’s Office.
Here’s the Starke County Park Board’s complete request for proposals:
The Board of Commissioners of Starke County and the Starke County Park Board are considering a cooperative arrangement with Callahan LLC for a third person to manage the beach area and the pavilion of the Starke County Beach. A request for a written proposal is invited from any business or other interested person to manage the beach area or the pavilion (or both the beach area and the pavilion). An element for beach management shall include provision for life guards during the summer season. An element for pavilion management proposal shall include food services. Any proposal must be made by March 1, 2018 to the Starke County Parks Board by email at the following address:
Starke Co. Park Board
c/o Starke Co. Auditor,
53 East Mound Street # H
Knox, IN 46534
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Starke County Park Board Looking to Replace Bass Lake Beach Gatehouse, Following Accident
Posted on December 13, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board may be looking at replacing one of the structures at the Bass Lake Beach, after it was seriously damaged in an accident last month. Park board member Roger Chaffins explains that a pickup truck apparently backed itself into the gatehouse, “The guy was deer hunting over there, had a new vehicle, didn’t realize that he didn’t have it fully in park, and the vehicle ran over him and then ran into the building.”
Chaffins says the man was not seriously injured, but the gatehouse was knocked off its foundation. “The guy that backed into that building, his insurance is supposed to pay for it,” he explained during Tuesday’s park board meeting. “But we want to get this taken care of as quickly as we can because, from the looks of it, it’s going to have to take a building.”
“Yeah, and there’s some stuff in there. I don’t know if he’s been able to get it out,” said Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas. “He’s afraid to go in there because it looks dangerous to go in, even, actually.”
During Tuesday’s meeting, Chaffins agreed to serve as the park board’s liaison to help oversee the process. Meanwhile, he also offered to work with the Bass Lake Beach’s operator to coordinate some work at the beach house.
Operator Callahan Development, LLC agreed earlier this fall to repair the seawall surrounding the beach house patio, and also work with the county to install glacial stone around the facility. But County Attorney Marty Lucas said much of that work still hasn’t taken place. “We discussed that building maintenance issue, and I don’t think it’s a problem with it. We just need to make it happen. I haven’t had any negative reaction to it. We don’t have a specific plan or date yet. That’s the problem. We’re trying to set up this cooperation. Getting them out there together has been the problem. No one said they don’t want to do it, but they haven’t gotten it done yet, either."
Specifically, Lucas wants Bass Lake Beach Assistant Manager Larry Clarich to meet with Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler to figure out how to install the glacial stone. That was first suggested back in October.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board may be looking at replacing one of the structures at the Bass Lake Beach, after it was seriously damaged in an accident last month. Park board member Roger Chaffins explains that a pickup truck apparently backed itself into the gatehouse, “The guy was deer hunting over there, had a new vehicle, didn’t realize that he didn’t have it fully in park, and the vehicle ran over him and then ran into the building.”
Chaffins says the man was not seriously injured, but the gatehouse was knocked off its foundation. “The guy that backed into that building, his insurance is supposed to pay for it,” he explained during Tuesday’s park board meeting. “But we want to get this taken care of as quickly as we can because, from the looks of it, it’s going to have to take a building.”
“Yeah, and there’s some stuff in there. I don’t know if he’s been able to get it out,” said Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas. “He’s afraid to go in there because it looks dangerous to go in, even, actually.”
During Tuesday’s meeting, Chaffins agreed to serve as the park board’s liaison to help oversee the process. Meanwhile, he also offered to work with the Bass Lake Beach’s operator to coordinate some work at the beach house.
Operator Callahan Development, LLC agreed earlier this fall to repair the seawall surrounding the beach house patio, and also work with the county to install glacial stone around the facility. But County Attorney Marty Lucas said much of that work still hasn’t taken place. “We discussed that building maintenance issue, and I don’t think it’s a problem with it. We just need to make it happen. I haven’t had any negative reaction to it. We don’t have a specific plan or date yet. That’s the problem. We’re trying to set up this cooperation. Getting them out there together has been the problem. No one said they don’t want to do it, but they haven’t gotten it done yet, either."
Specifically, Lucas wants Bass Lake Beach Assistant Manager Larry Clarich to meet with Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler to figure out how to install the glacial stone. That was first suggested back in October.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Bass Lake Beach Operator Agrees to Concrete Repairs, Asks County to Install Glacial Stone
Posted on October 11, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operators of the Bass Lake Beach have agreed to make some repairs to the property’s seawall, but they’re asking for the county’s help with some related work. The Starke County Park Board has asked the operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC, to stabilize the seawall surrounding the beach house patio.
It needs to be refilled with sand to protect the facility from a potential collapse, according to a group of local residents and park board members who’ve been researching the site. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has also suggested installing glacial stone around the seawall, to protect it from incoming waves and also help prevent sand erosion.
The park board previously suggested the work should be considered maintenance, making it Callahan’s responsibility to pay for it. Callahan’s attorney Todd Wallsmith responded to that request Tuesday. “The repair of the damage to the concrete surrounding the beach house, we agree would fall under the category of maintenance, and I understand they’re taking steps to address that now,” he told the park board. “The issue concerning the glacial rock, which would need to be put in, we would suggest is probably not part of maintenance but is rather a capital improvement.”
But he acknowledged that it doesn’t make sense to repair the concrete without installing the glacial stone to help control future erosion. For that, they’re asking for some help from the county. “I believe that the county has sources for stone, and certainly being a tax-exempt organization, will be able to get the stone at a much lower rate,” Wallsmith said. “They could probably do the labor at a lower rate.”
What exactly counts as maintenance and what is a capital improvement has been an ongoing debate between Callahan and county officials. But Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas said the arrangement seemed reasonable. “I mean, I think their position makes sense, in the sense that obviously, the stone wasn’t there when they acquired the place,” he said. “So they would be maintaining what they had, and the county would pick up – but obviously I can’t make a commitment on that. We don’t know what it would cost. It might not be that much, actually, for the county to do it. I’m hopeful that it might be under $2,000, actually for the county to do it, that portion of it.”
Wallsmith added that Callahan’s goal is to work together with the county. “It would be an opportunity for Callahan properties to engage in something with the county, where we aren’t at odds with each other and do something together on this,” Wallsmith said.
The park board voted to have Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler determine the costs and feasibility of installing the glacial stone. The proposal will then go to the county commissioners for funding consideration.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operators of the Bass Lake Beach have agreed to make some repairs to the property’s seawall, but they’re asking for the county’s help with some related work. The Starke County Park Board has asked the operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC, to stabilize the seawall surrounding the beach house patio.
It needs to be refilled with sand to protect the facility from a potential collapse, according to a group of local residents and park board members who’ve been researching the site. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has also suggested installing glacial stone around the seawall, to protect it from incoming waves and also help prevent sand erosion.
The park board previously suggested the work should be considered maintenance, making it Callahan’s responsibility to pay for it. Callahan’s attorney Todd Wallsmith responded to that request Tuesday. “The repair of the damage to the concrete surrounding the beach house, we agree would fall under the category of maintenance, and I understand they’re taking steps to address that now,” he told the park board. “The issue concerning the glacial rock, which would need to be put in, we would suggest is probably not part of maintenance but is rather a capital improvement.”
But he acknowledged that it doesn’t make sense to repair the concrete without installing the glacial stone to help control future erosion. For that, they’re asking for some help from the county. “I believe that the county has sources for stone, and certainly being a tax-exempt organization, will be able to get the stone at a much lower rate,” Wallsmith said. “They could probably do the labor at a lower rate.”
What exactly counts as maintenance and what is a capital improvement has been an ongoing debate between Callahan and county officials. But Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas said the arrangement seemed reasonable. “I mean, I think their position makes sense, in the sense that obviously, the stone wasn’t there when they acquired the place,” he said. “So they would be maintaining what they had, and the county would pick up – but obviously I can’t make a commitment on that. We don’t know what it would cost. It might not be that much, actually, for the county to do it. I’m hopeful that it might be under $2,000, actually for the county to do it, that portion of it.”
Wallsmith added that Callahan’s goal is to work together with the county. “It would be an opportunity for Callahan properties to engage in something with the county, where we aren’t at odds with each other and do something together on this,” Wallsmith said.
The park board voted to have Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler determine the costs and feasibility of installing the glacial stone. The proposal will then go to the county commissioners for funding consideration.
Friday, August 11, 2017
Starke County Park Board Requests Repairs to Bass Lake Beach House Patio
Posted on August 11, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operator of the Bass Lake Beach is being asked to make some improvements to the beach house patio. A group of local residents and Starke County Park Board members has been working on a plan to stabilize the seawall surrounding the site. To help find a solution, they’ve obtained the original drawings from the seawall’s installation in 1988.
Resident Rick Anderson presented them during Tuesday’s park board meeting. “So the building foundation is good, but here’s all this fill that was put in here, a lot of it’s gone,” he explained. “And so you got just the concrete, and if it goes, you could have a collapse there. So that’s got to be refilled, and this is how it was originally done.”
He said repairing the wall shouldn’t be too difficult. “If I was doing this repair, what I would do is just get a little of this concrete out, enough to get in there, and sandbag it all the way up,” Anderson said. “I’ve done this before with sandbags, just fill them and get them loose and up against that expansion joint, which is very wide, and then put the sand back and put the concrete back. It’s not a huge job to fix that.”
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has also suggested installing glacial stone around the seawall, to protect it from incoming waves and also help prevent sand erosion. The installation of the stone is estimated to cost about $5,000.
There was some discussion Tuesday about who is responsible for making the upgrades. In the end, board members agreed that the improvements should be considered maintenance. That means it’s up to Callahan Development, LLC to do the work, under the terms of its lease with the county.
What exactly counts as maintenance and what is a capital improvement has been an ongoing debate between Callahan and county officials. Park board member Roger Chaffins and County Attorney Marty Lucas agreed to draft a letter to Callahan, detailing the requested upgrades.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operator of the Bass Lake Beach is being asked to make some improvements to the beach house patio. A group of local residents and Starke County Park Board members has been working on a plan to stabilize the seawall surrounding the site. To help find a solution, they’ve obtained the original drawings from the seawall’s installation in 1988.
Resident Rick Anderson presented them during Tuesday’s park board meeting. “So the building foundation is good, but here’s all this fill that was put in here, a lot of it’s gone,” he explained. “And so you got just the concrete, and if it goes, you could have a collapse there. So that’s got to be refilled, and this is how it was originally done.”
He said repairing the wall shouldn’t be too difficult. “If I was doing this repair, what I would do is just get a little of this concrete out, enough to get in there, and sandbag it all the way up,” Anderson said. “I’ve done this before with sandbags, just fill them and get them loose and up against that expansion joint, which is very wide, and then put the sand back and put the concrete back. It’s not a huge job to fix that.”
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has also suggested installing glacial stone around the seawall, to protect it from incoming waves and also help prevent sand erosion. The installation of the stone is estimated to cost about $5,000.
There was some discussion Tuesday about who is responsible for making the upgrades. In the end, board members agreed that the improvements should be considered maintenance. That means it’s up to Callahan Development, LLC to do the work, under the terms of its lease with the county.
What exactly counts as maintenance and what is a capital improvement has been an ongoing debate between Callahan and county officials. Park board member Roger Chaffins and County Attorney Marty Lucas agreed to draft a letter to Callahan, detailing the requested upgrades.
Thursday, June 15, 2017
Bass Lake Beach Replenishment Considered by Starke Park Board for Future Grant Application
Posted on June 15, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board may have missed this year’s deadline to apply for a grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, but plans are already in the works for next year’s grant cycle.
Edwin Buswell with the Kankakee-Iroquois Regional Planning Commission met with the park board Tuesday. He explained that up to $200,000 in matching grants are available from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. To qualify for that money, the park board recently completed a five-year plan.
One area that board members feel could use grant funds is the Bass Lake Beach, specifically, replenishing its sand. Resident Steve Lucas has been discussing that effort with representatives from the DNR Division of Water. To see what such a project would entail, park board members plan to schedule a site visit with DNR officials.
Should the county decide to pursue grant funding, starting now would give them a chance to coordinate with Callahan Development, LLC, which leases the property from the county. It also gives them time to start raising money for the local match. Grant applications for Land and Water Conservation funding are due June 1, 2018.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board may have missed this year’s deadline to apply for a grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, but plans are already in the works for next year’s grant cycle.
Edwin Buswell with the Kankakee-Iroquois Regional Planning Commission met with the park board Tuesday. He explained that up to $200,000 in matching grants are available from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. To qualify for that money, the park board recently completed a five-year plan.
One area that board members feel could use grant funds is the Bass Lake Beach, specifically, replenishing its sand. Resident Steve Lucas has been discussing that effort with representatives from the DNR Division of Water. To see what such a project would entail, park board members plan to schedule a site visit with DNR officials.
Should the county decide to pursue grant funding, starting now would give them a chance to coordinate with Callahan Development, LLC, which leases the property from the county. It also gives them time to start raising money for the local match. Grant applications for Land and Water Conservation funding are due June 1, 2018.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Bass Lake Beach and Campground Set to Open for Season
By: Mary Perren, WKVI
Published: May 20th, 2014
The manager of Bass Lake Beach and Campground assures the Starke County Commissioners the amenities will be ready for business over the Memorial Day weekend.
Richard Callahan and his attorney Dave Wallsmith provided the first of what will be monthly status reports for the properties during last night’s commissioners meeting. Wallsmith says a car hit the fence on the campground side, and the weight of snow tossed by plow trucks damaged the fence on the beach side. Both will need to be replaced with materials that meet current code standards.
He also advised the commissioners that repairs are being made to the water and sewage systems this week, and the bills will be submitted to the county for credit against the management lease. Meanwhile, mowing will also be done this week to get ready for the anticipated seasonal influx.
The commissioners also clarified that they will notify Wallsmith of any concerns or complaints that they receive about the beach or campground so he can contact Callahan immediately and see that they are resolved. The monthly management reports will be presented at the evening meeting on the third Monday of each month.
The next is Monday, June 16.
Published: May 20th, 2014
The manager of Bass Lake Beach and Campground assures the Starke County Commissioners the amenities will be ready for business over the Memorial Day weekend.
Richard Callahan and his attorney Dave Wallsmith provided the first of what will be monthly status reports for the properties during last night’s commissioners meeting. Wallsmith says a car hit the fence on the campground side, and the weight of snow tossed by plow trucks damaged the fence on the beach side. Both will need to be replaced with materials that meet current code standards.
He also advised the commissioners that repairs are being made to the water and sewage systems this week, and the bills will be submitted to the county for credit against the management lease. Meanwhile, mowing will also be done this week to get ready for the anticipated seasonal influx.
The commissioners also clarified that they will notify Wallsmith of any concerns or complaints that they receive about the beach or campground so he can contact Callahan immediately and see that they are resolved. The monthly management reports will be presented at the evening meeting on the third Monday of each month.
The next is Monday, June 16.
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