Posted on August 14, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The conditions of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be discussed by the Starke County Park Board tonight. During last month’s meeting, it was reported that glacial stone had been installed around the beach, and Assistant Manager Larry Clarich was getting ready to replenish the beach with new sand. He was also working on repairs to the beach house patio.
Also during tonight’s meeting, board members will get an update on the Starke County Forest. The County Highway Department has been upgrading the existing access trail into a gravel road with a 10-to-12-car parking lot.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Showing posts with label Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Starke County Park Board Approves Rent Increase on Bass Lake Beach and Campground
Posted on May 17, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County is raising the rent on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. The Starke County Park Board voted Tuesday to increase Callahan Development, LLC’s rent payment by eight percent, the maximum allowed by the lease agreement.
Callahan recently exercised an option to renew its lease through April of 2028, but board member Debbie Mix continued to voice concerns with the renewal Tuesday. She felt that Callahan has not been complying with the terms of the lease, when it comes to maintenance.
Mix complained to lessee Richard Callahan that many of the repairs suggested by an independent inspection of the property still haven’t been made. “You have had a year to complete things, and it was not completed,” Mix said. It’s not an argument with you. It’s just a matter of ‘This is what I’ve seen. This is what I can show hasn’t been done.’ Period.”
“This conversation, that’s two ways,” Callahan replied. “I think that the purpose of this board is to improve the situation at the beach, so the whole county can make money, and we’re not doing that. We’re just tearing down. Every meeting is tearing down. It’s just unbelievable what you’re coming up with.”
“The beach has not been done,” Mix responded. “That campground has been wonderful.”
“The beach is 50 times better than it ever was, ever!” Callahan added.
Assistant Manager Larry Clarich noted that some of the repairs were made, but day-to-day safety concerns have been keeping him busy. Mix acknowledged Clarich’s efforts in improving the beach and campground over the past two years. “He’s doing that in spite of Mr. Callahan,” Mix said. “He is not doing that because of him. And my point of my objection and what I say about the maintenance is because Mr. Callahan did not do it all those years. It is nothing against Larry or Mara. It has to do with Mr. Callahan and his name being on that contract, and that is my concern because I don’t think he gives a darn.”
However, County Attorney Marty Lucas pointed out that those issues are not directly related to the lease renewal. “I don’t think it would matter if it was three years into the lease or it was two weeks into the lease or whatever,” he said. “Those issues are still something that you can raise. But the one thing that comes up now, that only comes up now, is whether you’re going to raise the rent up to eight percent. That only comes up once. That only comes up at renewal. I guess that’s my legal opinion for you. That’s the issue that you really have a decision on.”
But Lucas said it isn’t clear whether the park board may continue to raise the rent every year for the remainder of the lease, or if the board is limited to a one-time increase. Mix abstained from voting on the rent increase.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County is raising the rent on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. The Starke County Park Board voted Tuesday to increase Callahan Development, LLC’s rent payment by eight percent, the maximum allowed by the lease agreement.
Callahan recently exercised an option to renew its lease through April of 2028, but board member Debbie Mix continued to voice concerns with the renewal Tuesday. She felt that Callahan has not been complying with the terms of the lease, when it comes to maintenance.
Mix complained to lessee Richard Callahan that many of the repairs suggested by an independent inspection of the property still haven’t been made. “You have had a year to complete things, and it was not completed,” Mix said. It’s not an argument with you. It’s just a matter of ‘This is what I’ve seen. This is what I can show hasn’t been done.’ Period.”
“This conversation, that’s two ways,” Callahan replied. “I think that the purpose of this board is to improve the situation at the beach, so the whole county can make money, and we’re not doing that. We’re just tearing down. Every meeting is tearing down. It’s just unbelievable what you’re coming up with.”
“The beach has not been done,” Mix responded. “That campground has been wonderful.”
“The beach is 50 times better than it ever was, ever!” Callahan added.
Assistant Manager Larry Clarich noted that some of the repairs were made, but day-to-day safety concerns have been keeping him busy. Mix acknowledged Clarich’s efforts in improving the beach and campground over the past two years. “He’s doing that in spite of Mr. Callahan,” Mix said. “He is not doing that because of him. And my point of my objection and what I say about the maintenance is because Mr. Callahan did not do it all those years. It is nothing against Larry or Mara. It has to do with Mr. Callahan and his name being on that contract, and that is my concern because I don’t think he gives a darn.”
However, County Attorney Marty Lucas pointed out that those issues are not directly related to the lease renewal. “I don’t think it would matter if it was three years into the lease or it was two weeks into the lease or whatever,” he said. “Those issues are still something that you can raise. But the one thing that comes up now, that only comes up now, is whether you’re going to raise the rent up to eight percent. That only comes up once. That only comes up at renewal. I guess that’s my legal opinion for you. That’s the issue that you really have a decision on.”
But Lucas said it isn’t clear whether the park board may continue to raise the rent every year for the remainder of the lease, or if the board is limited to a one-time increase. Mix abstained from voting on the rent increase.
Thursday, April 12, 2018
Starke County Park Board to Decide on Rent Increase for Bass Lake Beach and Campground Operator
Posted on April 12, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board is looking to raise the rent on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground, but how exactly that will take place still has to be determined. Callahan Development, LLC’s lease on the property was discussed during Tuesday’s park board meeting. While the original 10-year lease period is up at the end of the month, the company has exercised an option to renew it for another 10 years.
The park board doesn’t necessarily have a say in whether the renewal goes ahead, but County Attorney Marty Lucas says there is one area that may be reviewed. “The discussion is really about the clause in the lease that deals with increases in rents,” he explains, “and the issue is that the clause is somewhat ambiguous and difficult to interpret.”
The lease allows the county to raise the rent by up to eight percent per year. “That’s never been invoked up until now,” Lucas says. “I think they probably will invoke it in some form, but the exact form of how they want to invoke that is what’s being discussed.”
Lucas says that with only three of the five board members in attendance Tuesday, the park board decided to wait until its next meeting before taking official action on the rent increase. “I expect they will vote for some kind of increase, more than zero, and eight-percent or less per year, and they’re also going to discuss some other aspects of it,” he explains. “I think they partly want to see if they can achieve some kind of consensus with Callahan, too, so that we continue to have a positive relationship.”
The park board has been looking for ways to work with Callahan to make improvements to the property and clarify the lease.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board is looking to raise the rent on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground, but how exactly that will take place still has to be determined. Callahan Development, LLC’s lease on the property was discussed during Tuesday’s park board meeting. While the original 10-year lease period is up at the end of the month, the company has exercised an option to renew it for another 10 years.
The park board doesn’t necessarily have a say in whether the renewal goes ahead, but County Attorney Marty Lucas says there is one area that may be reviewed. “The discussion is really about the clause in the lease that deals with increases in rents,” he explains, “and the issue is that the clause is somewhat ambiguous and difficult to interpret.”
The lease allows the county to raise the rent by up to eight percent per year. “That’s never been invoked up until now,” Lucas says. “I think they probably will invoke it in some form, but the exact form of how they want to invoke that is what’s being discussed.”
Lucas says that with only three of the five board members in attendance Tuesday, the park board decided to wait until its next meeting before taking official action on the rent increase. “I expect they will vote for some kind of increase, more than zero, and eight-percent or less per year, and they’re also going to discuss some other aspects of it,” he explains. “I think they partly want to see if they can achieve some kind of consensus with Callahan, too, so that we continue to have a positive relationship.”
The park board has been looking for ways to work with Callahan to make improvements to the property and clarify the lease.
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Starke County Park Board Discusses Rent Increase, Clarifications to Bass Lake Beach Lease
Posted on March 17, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Members of the Starke County Park Board continue to call for clarifications to the Bass Lake Beach and Campground lease, and that could mean a rent increase for Callahan Development, LLC.
The company has already notified the county that it will exercise its option to renew its lease through April of 2028. But park board member Debbie Mix says there are still some things that need to be resolved. “I don’t think it should just happen without the board giving some kind of final something because some wording has to change, just because they’re not going to be receiving another 10 years,” Mix said during Tuesday’s meeting. “So that portion has to be taken out.”
“No, that doesn’t have to be taken out,” replied County Attorney Marty Lucas. “There was one option to renew. It doesn’t become two options to renew.”
Lucas said that while the park board could propose changes at any time, that doesn’t impact Callahan’s right to renew the lease as it is. Lucas agreed that some clarification would help, though. “There is actually one thing, now that you raise it,” he said. “I think the issue about exactly what the increase in the rent will be is something that we need to sort out with them.”
Up until now, Callahan’s actual rent payment has been significantly reduced, to compensate the company for capital improvements to the property. But what exactly qualifies as a capital improvement as opposed to normal maintenance has been a topic of debate.
Mix thought that should be specified in the lease, but Board President Roger Chaffins wasn’t so sure. “As far as repairs, that unfortunately has to be decided by us, when you do stuff,” Chaffins said. “That’s our decision, and we’d have to work out. I mean, it’s a sad situation, I’m sorry, but we just have to work it out.”
Chaffins did agree that the rent needs to go up, though. Further complicating matters is the ongoing discussion about splitting the Bass Lake Beach and Campground into separate operations, but that conversation is still in early stages.
In the end, board member Rosemary Rose agreed to meet with Callahan’s representatives to discuss a possible rent increase and other issues that may come up. Lucas pointed out that anything they agree upon would then have to go before the full park board for approval.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Members of the Starke County Park Board continue to call for clarifications to the Bass Lake Beach and Campground lease, and that could mean a rent increase for Callahan Development, LLC.
The company has already notified the county that it will exercise its option to renew its lease through April of 2028. But park board member Debbie Mix says there are still some things that need to be resolved. “I don’t think it should just happen without the board giving some kind of final something because some wording has to change, just because they’re not going to be receiving another 10 years,” Mix said during Tuesday’s meeting. “So that portion has to be taken out.”
“No, that doesn’t have to be taken out,” replied County Attorney Marty Lucas. “There was one option to renew. It doesn’t become two options to renew.”
Lucas said that while the park board could propose changes at any time, that doesn’t impact Callahan’s right to renew the lease as it is. Lucas agreed that some clarification would help, though. “There is actually one thing, now that you raise it,” he said. “I think the issue about exactly what the increase in the rent will be is something that we need to sort out with them.”
Up until now, Callahan’s actual rent payment has been significantly reduced, to compensate the company for capital improvements to the property. But what exactly qualifies as a capital improvement as opposed to normal maintenance has been a topic of debate.
Mix thought that should be specified in the lease, but Board President Roger Chaffins wasn’t so sure. “As far as repairs, that unfortunately has to be decided by us, when you do stuff,” Chaffins said. “That’s our decision, and we’d have to work out. I mean, it’s a sad situation, I’m sorry, but we just have to work it out.”
Chaffins did agree that the rent needs to go up, though. Further complicating matters is the ongoing discussion about splitting the Bass Lake Beach and Campground into separate operations, but that conversation is still in early stages.
In the end, board member Rosemary Rose agreed to meet with Callahan’s representatives to discuss a possible rent increase and other issues that may come up. Lucas pointed out that anything they agree upon would then have to go before the full park board for approval.
Monday, March 5, 2018
Request for Proposals for Bass Lake Beach Operations Generates One Response
Posted on March 5, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board’s proposal to split operations of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground has gotten a response. 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.
As of last week’s park board meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said the county had heard from one person interested in running the beach. “He’s done this before, managed beaches to the west, by Valparaiso area, Lakes of the Four Seasons,” Chaffins explained. “After we talked a little while about what was going to be expected by him to be out there, he said that maybe it would be best if he would talk to Callahan, and see if they could work out a deal between them two.”
Discussions are still in early stages, and it still remains to be determined how much the county would get involved in such an arrangement. Chaffins said the county may consider offering some type of incentive. “I think at one time there, we’d even thought about whoever comes up with a proposal for us, is granting them, the first year, as far as electricity and water and, so to speak, rent, is waiving that,” he said. “So you come in there, at your expense, of the stuff you’re going to sell, the equipment you’re going to bring in, that’s going to be your expense. We thought about that, which I can’t see anything wrong with that.”
It was also suggested that the potential operator could be given some of the pier slips or some new ones could be built, to serve as an extra income source. Who’d be responsible for any building upgrades and for insuring the property is up for negotiation, as well. Any arrangement would have to win the approval of Callahan, Starke County, and the potential operator.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board’s proposal to split operations of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground has gotten a response. 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.
As of last week’s park board meeting, Park Board President Roger Chaffins said the county had heard from one person interested in running the beach. “He’s done this before, managed beaches to the west, by Valparaiso area, Lakes of the Four Seasons,” Chaffins explained. “After we talked a little while about what was going to be expected by him to be out there, he said that maybe it would be best if he would talk to Callahan, and see if they could work out a deal between them two.”
Discussions are still in early stages, and it still remains to be determined how much the county would get involved in such an arrangement. Chaffins said the county may consider offering some type of incentive. “I think at one time there, we’d even thought about whoever comes up with a proposal for us, is granting them, the first year, as far as electricity and water and, so to speak, rent, is waiving that,” he said. “So you come in there, at your expense, of the stuff you’re going to sell, the equipment you’re going to bring in, that’s going to be your expense. We thought about that, which I can’t see anything wrong with that.”
It was also suggested that the potential operator could be given some of the pier slips or some new ones could be built, to serve as an extra income source. Who’d be responsible for any building upgrades and for insuring the property is up for negotiation, as well. Any arrangement would have to win the approval of Callahan, Starke County, and the potential operator.
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Starke County Park Board to Continue Discussing Plans for Bass Lake Beach and Campground
Posted on January 23, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The future of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will continue to be discussed during tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting. The operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC, plans to keep leasing it from the county through April of 2028. But the company said it may be willing to give the beach itself back to the county, while it would continue to run the more profitable campground and pier slots.
For the past few months, the Starke County Park Board has been trying to come up with ideas for how such an arrangement might work. In December, board members considered asking for public input on the idea of separate entities operating the beach house, food service, or the beach itself. That discussion is expected to continue when the park board meets tonight at 6:00.
In other business tonight, the Starke County Park Board will choose its 2018 officers. Board members are also scheduled to get an update on the Starke County Forest.
The Starke County Park Board will meet in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The future of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will continue to be discussed during tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting. The operator of the facility, Callahan Development, LLC, plans to keep leasing it from the county through April of 2028. But the company said it may be willing to give the beach itself back to the county, while it would continue to run the more profitable campground and pier slots.
For the past few months, the Starke County Park Board has been trying to come up with ideas for how such an arrangement might work. In December, board members considered asking for public input on the idea of separate entities operating the beach house, food service, or the beach itself. That discussion is expected to continue when the park board meets tonight at 6:00.
In other business tonight, the Starke County Park Board will choose its 2018 officers. Board members are also scheduled to get an update on the Starke County Forest.
The Starke County Park Board will meet in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Thursday, December 14, 2017
Starke County Park Board Considers Splitting Up Bass Lake Beach and Campground Operations
Posted on December 14, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Potential changes to the Bass Lake Beach and campground’s operations were discussed by the Starke County Park Board Tuesday. Operator Callahan Development, LLC plans to extend its lease with the county through April of 2028. But the company said it’s willing to consider turning over the less profitable areas of the facility back to the county, while it would continue to run the campground and pier slots.
The challenge, according to Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas, is coming up with an arrangement that benefits everyone. “I mean, the benefit to Callahan is that they get rid of managing parts of the operation that they’re not really that interested because they’re not profitable,” Lucas explained. “The benefit for the public is that the public wants to have a beach and a park there that’s a little more freely accessible ,and Callahan gets the benefit that maybe that makes the rentals there more valuable, right? Because it’s a more appealing property.”
Lucas felt that by running the beach itself, Starke County could open up the facility to potential grant funding, and also attract some volunteers. “If you had a situation where the park board was operating the beach portion, I think that volunteerism would be easier to get than it is if Callahan’s running it,” he said. “I mean most people don’t want to volunteer to help out – they might love McDonald’s, right? McDonald’s may be a great place to get a sandwich, but they don’t go volunteer for McDonald’s because it’s a private operation. So the idea is to kind of balance those things.”
Meanwhile, local resident Rick Anderson suggested seeing if someone may be interested in leasing the beach house separately and operating food service there, then using the responses to work out some sort of arrangement with Callahan. Park board members liked the general idea.
As a next step, the park board wants to seek input from the public on the idea of separate entities operating the beach house, food service, or the beach itself. But board members decided to run the idea by Callahan, before issuing any request for proposals.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Potential changes to the Bass Lake Beach and campground’s operations were discussed by the Starke County Park Board Tuesday. Operator Callahan Development, LLC plans to extend its lease with the county through April of 2028. But the company said it’s willing to consider turning over the less profitable areas of the facility back to the county, while it would continue to run the campground and pier slots.
The challenge, according to Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas, is coming up with an arrangement that benefits everyone. “I mean, the benefit to Callahan is that they get rid of managing parts of the operation that they’re not really that interested because they’re not profitable,” Lucas explained. “The benefit for the public is that the public wants to have a beach and a park there that’s a little more freely accessible ,and Callahan gets the benefit that maybe that makes the rentals there more valuable, right? Because it’s a more appealing property.”
Lucas felt that by running the beach itself, Starke County could open up the facility to potential grant funding, and also attract some volunteers. “If you had a situation where the park board was operating the beach portion, I think that volunteerism would be easier to get than it is if Callahan’s running it,” he said. “I mean most people don’t want to volunteer to help out – they might love McDonald’s, right? McDonald’s may be a great place to get a sandwich, but they don’t go volunteer for McDonald’s because it’s a private operation. So the idea is to kind of balance those things.”
Meanwhile, local resident Rick Anderson suggested seeing if someone may be interested in leasing the beach house separately and operating food service there, then using the responses to work out some sort of arrangement with Callahan. Park board members liked the general idea.
As a next step, the park board wants to seek input from the public on the idea of separate entities operating the beach house, food service, or the beach itself. But board members decided to run the idea by Callahan, before issuing any request for proposals.
Friday, October 13, 2017
Bass Lake Beach Operator Considers Giving Part of Beach Back to County, As Lease Renewal Proceeds
Posted on October 13, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground will continue to be operated by Callahan Development, LLC for another 10 years, but the company may be willing to turn some of the property back over to Starke County. The county owns the facility, but has leased it to Callahan since 2008. Now, Callahan has given the county written notice that it will exercise its option to renew the lease through April of 2028.
Callahan’s attorney Todd Wallsmith discussed the process with the Starke County Park Board Tuesday. “The lease is effectively renewed at this point,” he explained. “We’ve given notice of our intent to renew the lease. There is not an option in the lease for another renewal after the 10 years. There is not a rewriting of the lease or anything else. The only issue that remains in the lease to be resolved is how much the county intends to raise the rental.”
But Wallsmith said Callahan is open to the idea of giving the beach itself back to the county, while the company would continue to run the more profitable campground and pier slots. “The reality is the expenses of maintaining a beach, perhaps the way some people want to see it and certainly in light of some of the things that the DNR had recommended with the stone being put down, et cetera, it’s cost prohibitive. It’s not something that any business would be able to do. It’s more akin to something that a government would do. A government would have to seek grants for it, in order to really effectuate that.”
Wallsmith and County Attorney Marty Lucas said there are a lot of issues that would need to be worked out. But Lucas said if that could be done, there would be many potential benefits, like grant funding and increased public involvement. “I just think you’re going to find the public is going to be more interested in volunteer activities if the beach was being operated publicly,” Lucas said.
Still, a group of local residents wants both parties to work together to clarify some of the terms of the lease. Park Board President Debbie Mix has suggested forming a work group to help set some future goals.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground will continue to be operated by Callahan Development, LLC for another 10 years, but the company may be willing to turn some of the property back over to Starke County. The county owns the facility, but has leased it to Callahan since 2008. Now, Callahan has given the county written notice that it will exercise its option to renew the lease through April of 2028.
Callahan’s attorney Todd Wallsmith discussed the process with the Starke County Park Board Tuesday. “The lease is effectively renewed at this point,” he explained. “We’ve given notice of our intent to renew the lease. There is not an option in the lease for another renewal after the 10 years. There is not a rewriting of the lease or anything else. The only issue that remains in the lease to be resolved is how much the county intends to raise the rental.”
But Wallsmith said Callahan is open to the idea of giving the beach itself back to the county, while the company would continue to run the more profitable campground and pier slots. “The reality is the expenses of maintaining a beach, perhaps the way some people want to see it and certainly in light of some of the things that the DNR had recommended with the stone being put down, et cetera, it’s cost prohibitive. It’s not something that any business would be able to do. It’s more akin to something that a government would do. A government would have to seek grants for it, in order to really effectuate that.”
Wallsmith and County Attorney Marty Lucas said there are a lot of issues that would need to be worked out. But Lucas said if that could be done, there would be many potential benefits, like grant funding and increased public involvement. “I just think you’re going to find the public is going to be more interested in volunteer activities if the beach was being operated publicly,” Lucas said.
Still, a group of local residents wants both parties to work together to clarify some of the terms of the lease. Park Board President Debbie Mix has suggested forming a work group to help set some future goals.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Starke County Park Board to Discuss Bass Lake Beach Maintenance, Open Timber Bids
Posted on October 10, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Upgrades to the Bass Lake Beach seawall will continue to be discussed during tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting. Board members are calling on facility operator Callahan Development, LLC to stabilize the seawall surrounding the beach house patio. Representatives from the county discussed the issue with Callahan’s attorney last month, and the entire board is expected to get an update tonight.
Board members may also consider forming a work group with several local stakeholders, to set goals for the future of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. The idea was proposed last month by Park Board President Debbie Mix. But the park board decided to hold off on seeking volunteers, after board member Rosemary Rose expressed concerns about how productive such a group would be.
In other business tonight, the park board will formally open bids from timber companies interested in harvesting wood from the Starke County Forest. Forester Bruce Wakeland expects the timber sale will generate at least $5,000 for the forest.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Upgrades to the Bass Lake Beach seawall will continue to be discussed during tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting. Board members are calling on facility operator Callahan Development, LLC to stabilize the seawall surrounding the beach house patio. Representatives from the county discussed the issue with Callahan’s attorney last month, and the entire board is expected to get an update tonight.
Board members may also consider forming a work group with several local stakeholders, to set goals for the future of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. The idea was proposed last month by Park Board President Debbie Mix. But the park board decided to hold off on seeking volunteers, after board member Rosemary Rose expressed concerns about how productive such a group would be.
In other business tonight, the park board will formally open bids from timber companies interested in harvesting wood from the Starke County Forest. Forester Bruce Wakeland expects the timber sale will generate at least $5,000 for the forest.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in Starke County Annex Building No. 1.
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Bass Lake Beach and Campground Operator Plans Repairs, Amid Questions from Park Board
Posted on May 24, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operators of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground say they’re making some updates to the facility, after several repairs were suggested during a recent inspection. Lessee Richard Callahan, his attorney Dave Wallsmith, and assistant manager Larry Clarich met with the Starke County Park Board Tuesday to address those concerns.
Repairs to the guardrail surrounding the beach house patio are underway, according to Wallsmith. The inspection report noted concrete damage, causing the railing to become loose.
However, County Attorney Marty Lucas took issue with some parts of Callahan’s written response to the report. “You think repairing the railing is a capital improvement?” Lucas asked. “That’s what it says, ‘Any permanent repair would constitute a capital improvement.’ So when a railing goes out, that’s a capital improvement. Seriously? I mean, I’ve got to tell you, I would really appreciate some good faith cooperation on this.”
While the inspection report said that a section of railing was missing, Wallsmith and Clarich explained that there had never been a railing there. In the end, they agreed that repairing the existing railing was not in and of itself a capital improvement.
Park Board President Debbie Mix noted that Callahan made several improvements to the property when he first began operating it nearly 10 years ago. But she was concerned that a lack of use has caused the beach house to deteriorate since then. “How is there a hole in the ceiling?” she asked. “It’s this big. It’s a whole panel big, and then you can see the sky straight up.”
Clarich responded that they were aware of the problem and were already planning repairs at the time of the inspection. As for how that hole got there in the first place, no one’s entirely sure. Clarich pointed out that the inspector found no water damage to the roof, but animals may have damaged the ceiling tiles. In any case, Clarich said the ceiling tiles have been replaced.
Meanwhile, Callahan said the beach and campground still look as good as they did when he first opened them in 2008, after making his initial improvements. “Other than new paint that it needs, pretty much,: he said. “Maybe better.” Mix disagreed.
Several electrical issues were also noted in the inspection report. Many junction boxes in the beach house attic are missing their covers. While it’s not in a public area, Clarich said it could be a fire hazard and plans to fix the issue. Other electrical repairs are also planned.
But when it comes to many of the upgrades, Wallsmith pointed out that the buildings are old and never had many of the features common in new construction. “The duty, as I see it, in order to receive the benefits of an antiquity and the maintenance of it, is maintaining it at the style and character as it was when it was created,” he said.
Lucas was not so sure. “Well that’s creative. I’ll give you that,” he responded. “But you’re not going to find that in the lease anywhere.”
For now, various members of the park board are planning at least a couple of site visits in the coming weeks, to monitor the progress.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The operators of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground say they’re making some updates to the facility, after several repairs were suggested during a recent inspection. Lessee Richard Callahan, his attorney Dave Wallsmith, and assistant manager Larry Clarich met with the Starke County Park Board Tuesday to address those concerns.
Repairs to the guardrail surrounding the beach house patio are underway, according to Wallsmith. The inspection report noted concrete damage, causing the railing to become loose.
However, County Attorney Marty Lucas took issue with some parts of Callahan’s written response to the report. “You think repairing the railing is a capital improvement?” Lucas asked. “That’s what it says, ‘Any permanent repair would constitute a capital improvement.’ So when a railing goes out, that’s a capital improvement. Seriously? I mean, I’ve got to tell you, I would really appreciate some good faith cooperation on this.”
While the inspection report said that a section of railing was missing, Wallsmith and Clarich explained that there had never been a railing there. In the end, they agreed that repairing the existing railing was not in and of itself a capital improvement.
Park Board President Debbie Mix noted that Callahan made several improvements to the property when he first began operating it nearly 10 years ago. But she was concerned that a lack of use has caused the beach house to deteriorate since then. “How is there a hole in the ceiling?” she asked. “It’s this big. It’s a whole panel big, and then you can see the sky straight up.”
Clarich responded that they were aware of the problem and were already planning repairs at the time of the inspection. As for how that hole got there in the first place, no one’s entirely sure. Clarich pointed out that the inspector found no water damage to the roof, but animals may have damaged the ceiling tiles. In any case, Clarich said the ceiling tiles have been replaced.
Meanwhile, Callahan said the beach and campground still look as good as they did when he first opened them in 2008, after making his initial improvements. “Other than new paint that it needs, pretty much,: he said. “Maybe better.” Mix disagreed.
Several electrical issues were also noted in the inspection report. Many junction boxes in the beach house attic are missing their covers. While it’s not in a public area, Clarich said it could be a fire hazard and plans to fix the issue. Other electrical repairs are also planned.
But when it comes to many of the upgrades, Wallsmith pointed out that the buildings are old and never had many of the features common in new construction. “The duty, as I see it, in order to receive the benefits of an antiquity and the maintenance of it, is maintaining it at the style and character as it was when it was created,” he said.
Lucas was not so sure. “Well that’s creative. I’ll give you that,” he responded. “But you’re not going to find that in the lease anywhere.”
For now, various members of the park board are planning at least a couple of site visits in the coming weeks, to monitor the progress.
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Starke County Park Board to Discuss Bass Lake Beach and Campground Repairs
Posted on May 23, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Repairs to the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be discussed during a special meeting of the Starke County Park Board tonight.
Last month, the park board had an independent inspection completed at the property, which found several items to be in poor condition. After giving the property’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC, a couple weeks to look over the inspection report, board members plan to meet with representatives tonight to figure out how to address some of the concerns.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in the Starke County Annex Building. You can read the entire 34-page inspection report on Starke County’s website.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Repairs to the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be discussed during a special meeting of the Starke County Park Board tonight.
Last month, the park board had an independent inspection completed at the property, which found several items to be in poor condition. After giving the property’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC, a couple weeks to look over the inspection report, board members plan to meet with representatives tonight to figure out how to address some of the concerns.
Tonight’s Starke County Park Board meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. in the Starke County Annex Building. You can read the entire 34-page inspection report on Starke County’s website.
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Bass Lake Beach and Campground Lessee Credited 2017’s Rent Payment, Following Well Upgrades
Posted on May 11, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground’s operator won’t have to pay rent to Starke County in 2017, and it’s 2018 payment will be nearly cut in half. The Starke County Park Board decided Tuesday that upgrades to the facility’s well system made by Callahan Development, LLC were capital improvements, meaning the cost could be subtracted from the company’s rent payment.
Last summer, the well equipment was found to be out of compliance with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s regulations, requiring emergency upgrades. As part of that work, a new pitless adapter and well cap were installed for a cost of over $4,900.
While park board members generally agreed that equipment counted as a capital improvement, the replacement of two bladder tanks costing more than $2,300 raised some questions. “Myself, I feel that that’s part of doing business, right there,” said board member Roger Chaffins. “We’ll take care of this one, the $4,000 one. That one there is his. That’s my feelings on it. Because you used it. We didn’t wear it out. You wore it out.”
However, Richard Callahan told the park board that before the improvements were made, only one of the old tanks was in working order. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich said that’s how it had been for the six years that he’s been there. That led Chaffins to believe that the second tank was not operational when the county first leased the property to Callahan eight years ago. “The question here is who’s responsible for it,” he said. “Is it part of the county’s expense or is it part of his expense? And the way it’s reading to me is it was there before, and it wasn’t hooked up when he took over. So therefore, it’s our expense. I’m just going by my thinking, the way it sounds, and I’m trusting Larry back there to tell me that it wasn’t hooked up when they took over.”
County Attorney Marty Lucas offered some advice, based the county’s lease with Callahan, but he declined to make a judgment one way or the other. “Some things, you have to make an executive decision on,” Lucas told park board members. “Ordinary day-to-day maintenance is their expense. Capital improvements – in particular, the contract recognizes the plumbing was going to need some capital improvements and there have been some made in the past. And the question is, do you define these improvements as capital improvements or maintenance?”
In the end, the park board decided all of last summer’s emergency well repairs were capital improvements, giving Callahan a credit of more than $7,200 off its rent payments. With rent being $5,000 a year, that credit amount covers all of 2017’s rent, and a significant portion of 2018’s.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground’s operator won’t have to pay rent to Starke County in 2017, and it’s 2018 payment will be nearly cut in half. The Starke County Park Board decided Tuesday that upgrades to the facility’s well system made by Callahan Development, LLC were capital improvements, meaning the cost could be subtracted from the company’s rent payment.
Last summer, the well equipment was found to be out of compliance with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s regulations, requiring emergency upgrades. As part of that work, a new pitless adapter and well cap were installed for a cost of over $4,900.
While park board members generally agreed that equipment counted as a capital improvement, the replacement of two bladder tanks costing more than $2,300 raised some questions. “Myself, I feel that that’s part of doing business, right there,” said board member Roger Chaffins. “We’ll take care of this one, the $4,000 one. That one there is his. That’s my feelings on it. Because you used it. We didn’t wear it out. You wore it out.”
However, Richard Callahan told the park board that before the improvements were made, only one of the old tanks was in working order. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich said that’s how it had been for the six years that he’s been there. That led Chaffins to believe that the second tank was not operational when the county first leased the property to Callahan eight years ago. “The question here is who’s responsible for it,” he said. “Is it part of the county’s expense or is it part of his expense? And the way it’s reading to me is it was there before, and it wasn’t hooked up when he took over. So therefore, it’s our expense. I’m just going by my thinking, the way it sounds, and I’m trusting Larry back there to tell me that it wasn’t hooked up when they took over.”
County Attorney Marty Lucas offered some advice, based the county’s lease with Callahan, but he declined to make a judgment one way or the other. “Some things, you have to make an executive decision on,” Lucas told park board members. “Ordinary day-to-day maintenance is their expense. Capital improvements – in particular, the contract recognizes the plumbing was going to need some capital improvements and there have been some made in the past. And the question is, do you define these improvements as capital improvements or maintenance?”
In the end, the park board decided all of last summer’s emergency well repairs were capital improvements, giving Callahan a credit of more than $7,200 off its rent payments. With rent being $5,000 a year, that credit amount covers all of 2017’s rent, and a significant portion of 2018’s.
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Starke Park Board to Request Repairs to Bass Lake Beach and Campground, Following Inspection
Posted on May 10, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground has several issues that need to be addressed, according to an independent inspection completed at the request of the Starke County Park Board.
Inspector Rick Brooks visited the property on April 22 and put together a 34-page inspection report. “He is not a code enforcement [officer], so that was made very clear in the very beginning,” Park Board President Debbie Mix explained during Tuesday’s meeting. “What he did was take a look at the building, saw the things that he saw that needed to be corrected, whether it be capital improvement or maintenance.”
Mix says the property’s structures are solid, with no major foundation problems suspected and nothing bad enough that the facility would need to close down. But several items were found to be in poor condition. Masonry issues were noted on the beach house’s two chimneys. Part of the metal guardrail around the beach house patio is reportedly missing, while other sections have become loose, which the report says poses a fall hazard.
The report also noted damaged ceiling tiles in the beach house bathrooms and kitchen, with mold seen in some areas. The water heaters in the beach house and campground bath house were found to be past their design life, and numerous electrical issues were reported around the property.
Park Board President Debbie Mix believes most of these problems are maintenance issues, which means it would be up to the property’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC to cover the cost of repairs. “Anything that does get repaired must go have a permit pulled. It has to be done by someone who is licensed within Starke County, so we know that they’re insured and bonded and that kind of thing. And then that’s the tickler for our [county building] inspector to come in and inspect it after the work’s completed.”
As for how and when Callahan will be required to address the concerns, the park board Tuesday authorized County Attorney Marty Lucas to start negotiating an agreement. Then, the park board will meet in special session on Tuesday, May 23 to further discuss the repair process. Meanwhile, the park board plans to make the complete 34-page inspection report publicly available on the county’s website.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground has several issues that need to be addressed, according to an independent inspection completed at the request of the Starke County Park Board.
Inspector Rick Brooks visited the property on April 22 and put together a 34-page inspection report. “He is not a code enforcement [officer], so that was made very clear in the very beginning,” Park Board President Debbie Mix explained during Tuesday’s meeting. “What he did was take a look at the building, saw the things that he saw that needed to be corrected, whether it be capital improvement or maintenance.”
Mix says the property’s structures are solid, with no major foundation problems suspected and nothing bad enough that the facility would need to close down. But several items were found to be in poor condition. Masonry issues were noted on the beach house’s two chimneys. Part of the metal guardrail around the beach house patio is reportedly missing, while other sections have become loose, which the report says poses a fall hazard.
The report also noted damaged ceiling tiles in the beach house bathrooms and kitchen, with mold seen in some areas. The water heaters in the beach house and campground bath house were found to be past their design life, and numerous electrical issues were reported around the property.
Park Board President Debbie Mix believes most of these problems are maintenance issues, which means it would be up to the property’s operator, Callahan Development, LLC to cover the cost of repairs. “Anything that does get repaired must go have a permit pulled. It has to be done by someone who is licensed within Starke County, so we know that they’re insured and bonded and that kind of thing. And then that’s the tickler for our [county building] inspector to come in and inspect it after the work’s completed.”
As for how and when Callahan will be required to address the concerns, the park board Tuesday authorized County Attorney Marty Lucas to start negotiating an agreement. Then, the park board will meet in special session on Tuesday, May 23 to further discuss the repair process. Meanwhile, the park board plans to make the complete 34-page inspection report publicly available on the county’s website.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Starke Commissioners Approve Independent Inspection of Bass Lake Beach and Campground
Posted on March 23, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be inspected by an independent contractor.
Starke County Park Board President Debbie Mix has been working for months to obtain a formal inspection report on the property. “We’ve tried to get the county inspector; that hasn’t worked out,” she told the county commissioners Monday. “And then also the city, and that hasn’t worked out.”
She said the park board would like to hire a certified inspector from Valparaiso. The commissioners approved that request, choosing to pay for the $300 inspection with money from the cumulative capital development fund.
Having formal documentation of the beach and campground’s condition is seen as a way to possibly get the county out of its lease with operator Callahan Development, LLC. Otherwise, it would automatically be extended.
County Attorney Marty Lucas said it made sense to the park board to get someone with no involvement in the deal to inspect the property. He added they’d like to have the inspection completed within 30 days, to give the park board time to make some decisions before the summer season begins.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be inspected by an independent contractor.
Starke County Park Board President Debbie Mix has been working for months to obtain a formal inspection report on the property. “We’ve tried to get the county inspector; that hasn’t worked out,” she told the county commissioners Monday. “And then also the city, and that hasn’t worked out.”
She said the park board would like to hire a certified inspector from Valparaiso. The commissioners approved that request, choosing to pay for the $300 inspection with money from the cumulative capital development fund.
Having formal documentation of the beach and campground’s condition is seen as a way to possibly get the county out of its lease with operator Callahan Development, LLC. Otherwise, it would automatically be extended.
County Attorney Marty Lucas said it made sense to the park board to get someone with no involvement in the deal to inspect the property. He added they’d like to have the inspection completed within 30 days, to give the park board time to make some decisions before the summer season begins.
Thursday, February 16, 2017
Starke County Park Board Still Waiting for Bass Lake Beach and Campground Inspection Report
Posted on February 16, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board continues to demand documentation of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground’s condition. County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson visited the property in December, but hasn’t provided a formal inspection report, as requested by Park Board President Debbie Mix.
As it stands, Bass Lake Beach and Campground operator Callahan Development, LLC is set to proceed with an automatic extension of its lease with the county. Mix believes the county may have a chance to get out of the lease, if Callahan is officially found to be in violation.
During Tuesday’s park board meeting, County Attorney Marty Lucas said the issue may boil down to how to create an inspection report if there isn’t an associated building permit. “We got a response,” he explained. “I took the response as being that there wasn’t really a permit and so there wasn’t a formal report.”
Some of those in attendance Tuesday questioned how many of the issues at the Beach and Campground were Callahan’s fault and how many of them existed beforehand. During the meeting, Mix presented photographic evidence of how the site appeared shortly after Callahan took over, which appears to show that at least some components were in much better shape. “Some of that is just fascia,” Mix explained. “It’s painting. It’s keeping it nice and neat. It means that that whole pavilion building was being used. It wasn’t not being used. And it had a working kitchen. It had sales of different items.”
Residents also asked what the park board plans to do if it is successful in getting out of its lease with Callahan. Mix assumed the county would simply lease the facility to another operator, but with more attention paid to the lease before it’s signed.
However, Lucas suggested that the county consider other options if and when the time comes. “I think a best practice nowadays is that if you have a property like this, you have several vendors,” he said. “You might have a contract with a restaurateur to run a restaurant in there. You might have somebody else running the campground. Somebody else might be running the facility that rents boats. And I think that maybe is a better approach, but once again, we’re not in that situation right now.”
Several of those in attendance Tuesday pointed out that Callahan has made at least some improvements to the facility in recent months. However, many agree that it’s not being used to its full potential.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board continues to demand documentation of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground’s condition. County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson visited the property in December, but hasn’t provided a formal inspection report, as requested by Park Board President Debbie Mix.
As it stands, Bass Lake Beach and Campground operator Callahan Development, LLC is set to proceed with an automatic extension of its lease with the county. Mix believes the county may have a chance to get out of the lease, if Callahan is officially found to be in violation.
During Tuesday’s park board meeting, County Attorney Marty Lucas said the issue may boil down to how to create an inspection report if there isn’t an associated building permit. “We got a response,” he explained. “I took the response as being that there wasn’t really a permit and so there wasn’t a formal report.”
Some of those in attendance Tuesday questioned how many of the issues at the Beach and Campground were Callahan’s fault and how many of them existed beforehand. During the meeting, Mix presented photographic evidence of how the site appeared shortly after Callahan took over, which appears to show that at least some components were in much better shape. “Some of that is just fascia,” Mix explained. “It’s painting. It’s keeping it nice and neat. It means that that whole pavilion building was being used. It wasn’t not being used. And it had a working kitchen. It had sales of different items.”
Residents also asked what the park board plans to do if it is successful in getting out of its lease with Callahan. Mix assumed the county would simply lease the facility to another operator, but with more attention paid to the lease before it’s signed.
However, Lucas suggested that the county consider other options if and when the time comes. “I think a best practice nowadays is that if you have a property like this, you have several vendors,” he said. “You might have a contract with a restaurateur to run a restaurant in there. You might have somebody else running the campground. Somebody else might be running the facility that rents boats. And I think that maybe is a better approach, but once again, we’re not in that situation right now.”
Several of those in attendance Tuesday pointed out that Callahan has made at least some improvements to the facility in recent months. However, many agree that it’s not being used to its full potential.
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Starke County Park Board Unveils Five-Year Plan
Posted on February 15, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County residents got a look at the future of the county’s park facilities Tuesday. Mike Reese with the Troyer Group presented the county’s five-year park plan during Tuesday’s County Park Board meeting.
He said one general goal is simply to raise awareness of the county’s parks. “Most people know of Bass Lake Beach and Campground,” he noted. “A lot of people, we found, did not know of the Starke County Forest, as well as some of the other properties and Yellow River access sites that are even in existence. So developing an awareness, creating a presence on social media because so many people use that now, having a parks Facebook where you can provide updates to people.”
The plan also calls for unifying signage, both to direct people to the county’s parks and also to help them find their way around once they’re there. A programs and activities calendar may be developed, as well.
Several upgrades are also suggested for the individual parks. For the Starke County Forest, the plan recommends improvements to the trails and parking lot, as well as the installation of a picnic pavilion and restrooms. Meanwhile, the North Judson Erie Trail would be taken over by the county, which would work with the Prairie Trails Club to make various upgrades.
The plan also calls for the county to make better use of its Yellow River access sites at Range Road and English Lake. Reese noted that various types of funding are available from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for kayak and canoe launches. Long-range plans call for the improvement of beaches at Koontz Lake.
However, much of Tuesday’s discussion centered around the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Reese said the first goal is to bring the facility up to code, especially when it comes to ADA compliance. At the same time, the plan also lists several improvements on its longer-range wish list. “Some of the things that came up were improving the curb appeal, adding amenities such as drinking fountains and benches,” he said. “A very important one was improving the beach. The sand is not nearly as nice as it was before, so bringing in more sand and improving the condition of the beach for people to be able to use it. The playgrounds need new equipment.”
One challenge, though, is that the county does not have direct control over the Beach and Campground. Instead, it leases it to Callahan Development, LLC. To what extent Callahan will work with the county to improve the property remains to be seen.
On top of that, Starke County lacks an actual park department or park budget. Reese says that puts a limit on what can be accomplished, “As these properties become improved and there’s more opportunities for the public to use this and the park board’s involvement, actually getting a park department with a staff that would be responsible for maintaining these sites, and they could work to not only operate and manage these sites but work to acquire funding and manage the process of growing the park system.”
Starke County’s five-year park plan must be approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the county to be eligible for DNR grants. The DNR is expected to review a draft of Starke County’s plan this week and provide suggestions. The park board will then consider adopting the final version of the plan in March, before it gets sent back to the DNR in April. If it gets final approval, Starke County will be able to apply for grants later this year.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County residents got a look at the future of the county’s park facilities Tuesday. Mike Reese with the Troyer Group presented the county’s five-year park plan during Tuesday’s County Park Board meeting.
He said one general goal is simply to raise awareness of the county’s parks. “Most people know of Bass Lake Beach and Campground,” he noted. “A lot of people, we found, did not know of the Starke County Forest, as well as some of the other properties and Yellow River access sites that are even in existence. So developing an awareness, creating a presence on social media because so many people use that now, having a parks Facebook where you can provide updates to people.”
The plan also calls for unifying signage, both to direct people to the county’s parks and also to help them find their way around once they’re there. A programs and activities calendar may be developed, as well.
Several upgrades are also suggested for the individual parks. For the Starke County Forest, the plan recommends improvements to the trails and parking lot, as well as the installation of a picnic pavilion and restrooms. Meanwhile, the North Judson Erie Trail would be taken over by the county, which would work with the Prairie Trails Club to make various upgrades.
The plan also calls for the county to make better use of its Yellow River access sites at Range Road and English Lake. Reese noted that various types of funding are available from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for kayak and canoe launches. Long-range plans call for the improvement of beaches at Koontz Lake.
However, much of Tuesday’s discussion centered around the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Reese said the first goal is to bring the facility up to code, especially when it comes to ADA compliance. At the same time, the plan also lists several improvements on its longer-range wish list. “Some of the things that came up were improving the curb appeal, adding amenities such as drinking fountains and benches,” he said. “A very important one was improving the beach. The sand is not nearly as nice as it was before, so bringing in more sand and improving the condition of the beach for people to be able to use it. The playgrounds need new equipment.”
One challenge, though, is that the county does not have direct control over the Beach and Campground. Instead, it leases it to Callahan Development, LLC. To what extent Callahan will work with the county to improve the property remains to be seen.
On top of that, Starke County lacks an actual park department or park budget. Reese says that puts a limit on what can be accomplished, “As these properties become improved and there’s more opportunities for the public to use this and the park board’s involvement, actually getting a park department with a staff that would be responsible for maintaining these sites, and they could work to not only operate and manage these sites but work to acquire funding and manage the process of growing the park system.”
Starke County’s five-year park plan must be approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the county to be eligible for DNR grants. The DNR is expected to review a draft of Starke County’s plan this week and provide suggestions. The park board will then consider adopting the final version of the plan in March, before it gets sent back to the DNR in April. If it gets final approval, Starke County will be able to apply for grants later this year.
Friday, January 13, 2017
Starke Park Board Seeks Documentation on Bass Lake Beach and Campground Code Violations
Posted on January 13, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Bass Lake Beach and Campground improvements continue to be monitored by the Starke County Park Board.
County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson had provided park board members with a written update, according to Board President Debbie Mix. “Everything he requested to be fixed and brought to code in the bathhouse has been completed,” she said Tuesday, “and there’s some exposed wiring in the main house that needs to be brought up to code.”
During Tuesday’s meeting, some board members were disappointed that Stephenson didn’t provide a full inspection report. Mix said the county needs the proper documentation, to have the option not to renew its lease with the operator of the beach and campground. “If we’re going to find them in violation, we need to make sure that we’re right on top of inspection report after inspection report, to make sure that they’re correcting things within the 30 days, we’re putting everything in writing,” she said. “And if we don’t do that, they’re getting that automatic extension.”
However, park board member Rosemary Rose pointed out that many people have expressed support for the current operators and their improvement efforts. She asked if the board’s goal is to end the current lease or to make sure the necessary repairs are made.
Mix felt that the board needs to be in a position to take action. “It really depends on if we want the status quo for the next 10 years or if we want to be able to implement some of these ideas that are going into the five-year plan,” she said. “I mean, that will certainly make a difference. So if we like what we see and we like how everything is running, then let’s keep the status quo. If we see room for improvement, then we need that report.”
Mix said the operator has had plenty of time to make the necessary repairs, and now the park board should hold them to their end of the lease, even if that means making repairs over the winter.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Bass Lake Beach and Campground improvements continue to be monitored by the Starke County Park Board.
County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson had provided park board members with a written update, according to Board President Debbie Mix. “Everything he requested to be fixed and brought to code in the bathhouse has been completed,” she said Tuesday, “and there’s some exposed wiring in the main house that needs to be brought up to code.”
During Tuesday’s meeting, some board members were disappointed that Stephenson didn’t provide a full inspection report. Mix said the county needs the proper documentation, to have the option not to renew its lease with the operator of the beach and campground. “If we’re going to find them in violation, we need to make sure that we’re right on top of inspection report after inspection report, to make sure that they’re correcting things within the 30 days, we’re putting everything in writing,” she said. “And if we don’t do that, they’re getting that automatic extension.”
However, park board member Rosemary Rose pointed out that many people have expressed support for the current operators and their improvement efforts. She asked if the board’s goal is to end the current lease or to make sure the necessary repairs are made.
Mix felt that the board needs to be in a position to take action. “It really depends on if we want the status quo for the next 10 years or if we want to be able to implement some of these ideas that are going into the five-year plan,” she said. “I mean, that will certainly make a difference. So if we like what we see and we like how everything is running, then let’s keep the status quo. If we see room for improvement, then we need that report.”
Mix said the operator has had plenty of time to make the necessary repairs, and now the park board should hold them to their end of the lease, even if that means making repairs over the winter.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Starke County Park Board Updated on Five-Year Plan
Posted on January 11, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board is ready to submit a draft of its five-year plan, but what effect it will have on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground remains to be seen. The Troyer Group has been gathering input about the county’s park facilities and is now putting the finishing touches on a 34-page draft.
Troyer Group representative Mike Reese told board members Tuesday that in spite of a tight schedule, public participation has been amazing. “I thought we had a good turnout for the public meeting, about 20 people,” he said. “I think South Bend had less than that show up for their five-year park master plan meetings. And 364 surveys were turned in in that 10-day window, which I think is very impressive and shows the support that’s out there.”
Now that input has been gathered, Reese says planners are now turning their attention to creating an implementation plan for the suggested improvements. “For each of the facilities, we will have kind of a list of goals and some strategies to accomplish those goals,” he explained. “That will kind of be summarized into a matrix that will say each of the tasks, the people or parties responsible, the time line for completing that, and for the applicable line items, a construction cost or cost to achieve that line item.”
For now, though, the main goal is to submit the draft to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources by this Sunday. That would allow Starke County to possibly be eligible for DNR grant funding this year.
Reese pointed out that Starke County does face a few challenges. “Starke County is a little bit different than some of the ones they see, just because there’s not a parks department established,” he said. “You don’t have an annual budget. You’re kind of starting things.”
While those in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting applauded the planning effort, some questioned whether the changes recommended for the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be implemented. It was pointed out that the facility’s operator can’t be forced to make improvements that aren’t specified in its existing lease with the county.
However, Park Board President Debbie Mix says she’s optimistic. “The five-year plan addresses other areas that we actually can very fairly quickly get accomplished but wouldn’t be able to get accomplished without it,” she said. “So there’s several reasons for the five-year plan. We may be kicked back in time, waiting for the lease, but I’m hoping that won’t happen.”
The plan is expected to be presented to the public later this month or early next month. The park board will then decide whether to officially adopt the plan in March, before a final version is sent to the DNR.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board is ready to submit a draft of its five-year plan, but what effect it will have on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground remains to be seen. The Troyer Group has been gathering input about the county’s park facilities and is now putting the finishing touches on a 34-page draft.
Troyer Group representative Mike Reese told board members Tuesday that in spite of a tight schedule, public participation has been amazing. “I thought we had a good turnout for the public meeting, about 20 people,” he said. “I think South Bend had less than that show up for their five-year park master plan meetings. And 364 surveys were turned in in that 10-day window, which I think is very impressive and shows the support that’s out there.”
Now that input has been gathered, Reese says planners are now turning their attention to creating an implementation plan for the suggested improvements. “For each of the facilities, we will have kind of a list of goals and some strategies to accomplish those goals,” he explained. “That will kind of be summarized into a matrix that will say each of the tasks, the people or parties responsible, the time line for completing that, and for the applicable line items, a construction cost or cost to achieve that line item.”
For now, though, the main goal is to submit the draft to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources by this Sunday. That would allow Starke County to possibly be eligible for DNR grant funding this year.
Reese pointed out that Starke County does face a few challenges. “Starke County is a little bit different than some of the ones they see, just because there’s not a parks department established,” he said. “You don’t have an annual budget. You’re kind of starting things.”
While those in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting applauded the planning effort, some questioned whether the changes recommended for the Bass Lake Beach and Campground will be implemented. It was pointed out that the facility’s operator can’t be forced to make improvements that aren’t specified in its existing lease with the county.
However, Park Board President Debbie Mix says she’s optimistic. “The five-year plan addresses other areas that we actually can very fairly quickly get accomplished but wouldn’t be able to get accomplished without it,” she said. “So there’s several reasons for the five-year plan. We may be kicked back in time, waiting for the lease, but I’m hoping that won’t happen.”
The plan is expected to be presented to the public later this month or early next month. The park board will then decide whether to officially adopt the plan in March, before a final version is sent to the DNR.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Bass Lake Beach Gazebo Repaired, Planning Continues for Other Improvements
Posted on November 17, 2016
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Upgrades are continuing at the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich told the Starke County Park Board Tuesday that repairs to the gazebo are basically complete.
He said that the roof is on and the structure is secure, but painting still needs to be done. Clarich also reported that water at the beach and campground will be shut off for the season on Sunday.
However, just because the facility is closing for the season doesn’t mean that planning for improvements should stop, according to park board member Debbie Mix. “There’s a lot of issues there and if we don’t talk about those issues, they’re not going to be addressed,” she said. “Once we say something needs to get fixed, they have 30 days to address it. If we just wait until it opens up again, we’ve lost all those months and I don’t want to see that happen. We’ve been here almost two years now.”
Clarich says he does have a list of improvements he’d like to make at the beach and campground. “Maybe my suggestions of the things that I want to do don’t coincide with things that you guys want to do,” he said. “But it all comes down to money and time, regardless of how things get done, but there are things that I’d like to do over the winter. One of the biggest downfalls is over the winter we have no water down there because the place wasn’t designed to have water. It was designed as a summer campground and beach.”
To discuss those improvements, Clarich invited the park board to conduct a walk-through of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Board members requested that County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson also be present.
Tuesday’s discussion of the beach and campground came in response to a letter sent to the park board by a group of residents. It calls on the board not to renew the current operator’s lease of the facility and goes on to suggest ways the county could fund improvements, according to Mix. But board member Rosemary Rose pointed out that while some people think the county should get out of the lease, others appear to be happy with the improvements being made at the site.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Upgrades are continuing at the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Assistant Manager Larry Clarich told the Starke County Park Board Tuesday that repairs to the gazebo are basically complete.
He said that the roof is on and the structure is secure, but painting still needs to be done. Clarich also reported that water at the beach and campground will be shut off for the season on Sunday.
However, just because the facility is closing for the season doesn’t mean that planning for improvements should stop, according to park board member Debbie Mix. “There’s a lot of issues there and if we don’t talk about those issues, they’re not going to be addressed,” she said. “Once we say something needs to get fixed, they have 30 days to address it. If we just wait until it opens up again, we’ve lost all those months and I don’t want to see that happen. We’ve been here almost two years now.”
Clarich says he does have a list of improvements he’d like to make at the beach and campground. “Maybe my suggestions of the things that I want to do don’t coincide with things that you guys want to do,” he said. “But it all comes down to money and time, regardless of how things get done, but there are things that I’d like to do over the winter. One of the biggest downfalls is over the winter we have no water down there because the place wasn’t designed to have water. It was designed as a summer campground and beach.”
To discuss those improvements, Clarich invited the park board to conduct a walk-through of the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Board members requested that County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson also be present.
Tuesday’s discussion of the beach and campground came in response to a letter sent to the park board by a group of residents. It calls on the board not to renew the current operator’s lease of the facility and goes on to suggest ways the county could fund improvements, according to Mix. But board member Rosemary Rose pointed out that while some people think the county should get out of the lease, others appear to be happy with the improvements being made at the site.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Park Board Suspends Bass Lake Beach Gazebo Demolition Order
Posted on September 23, 2016
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The gazebo at the Bass Lake Beach may be getting a new lease on life. The Starke County Park Board called for its demolition this past July, due to concerns that the structure was becoming a safety hazard, as well as a lack of funding to make repairs. Since then, however, members of the community have begun fundraising efforts in order to save the gazebo, organizing a raffle earlier this month to help raise money.
It was reported during Tuesday’s park board meeting those residents have gotten estimates for the repair of the structure and have been in contact with County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson. The park board then decided to suspend its demolition order, in order to give residents a chance to develop more formal plans to save the structure.
However, board member Debbie Mix opposed the measure, and wondered why the operator of the beach didn’t remove the structure when asked. “As far as I’m concerned, you’re in breach of contract,” she said. “I mean I hate to tell you that, but that’s my point of view. . . In writing, it was told to come down, and it hasn’t been. It’s been over two months now.”
But Park Board President Roger Chaffins said he’d rather see the gazebo saved, if possible. “I feel that I would like to see that done, after we’d made that motion to take it down,” Chaffins said. And they’re willing to put in the effort on their own expense, not Callahan enterprises but public people are willing to try to save it, other people. I see no problem with that.”
Callahan’s attorney agreed to allow the community members to proceed with the repair effort on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground property. Project organizers were asked to provide written plans for the work by the October park board meeting.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The gazebo at the Bass Lake Beach may be getting a new lease on life. The Starke County Park Board called for its demolition this past July, due to concerns that the structure was becoming a safety hazard, as well as a lack of funding to make repairs. Since then, however, members of the community have begun fundraising efforts in order to save the gazebo, organizing a raffle earlier this month to help raise money.
It was reported during Tuesday’s park board meeting those residents have gotten estimates for the repair of the structure and have been in contact with County Building Inspector Terry Stephenson. The park board then decided to suspend its demolition order, in order to give residents a chance to develop more formal plans to save the structure.
However, board member Debbie Mix opposed the measure, and wondered why the operator of the beach didn’t remove the structure when asked. “As far as I’m concerned, you’re in breach of contract,” she said. “I mean I hate to tell you that, but that’s my point of view. . . In writing, it was told to come down, and it hasn’t been. It’s been over two months now.”
But Park Board President Roger Chaffins said he’d rather see the gazebo saved, if possible. “I feel that I would like to see that done, after we’d made that motion to take it down,” Chaffins said. And they’re willing to put in the effort on their own expense, not Callahan enterprises but public people are willing to try to save it, other people. I see no problem with that.”
Callahan’s attorney agreed to allow the community members to proceed with the repair effort on the Bass Lake Beach and Campground property. Project organizers were asked to provide written plans for the work by the October park board meeting.
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