Water Authority Lifts Ban on Sunday Burning Until December 1

Effingham Water Authority trustees voted this week to again lift the ban on outdoor burning on Sundays.

The ban was instituted earlier this year in conjunction with plans to acquire a leaf vac to clean up leaves. Some lake residents objected to the ban at the October meeting, so the ban was lifted temporarily with a review planned at the November meeting. At this week's meeting, Trustee Chairman Rob Brown reported donations for the leaf vac purchase have not been received yet, so it was decided to again lift the ban on Sunday burning until December 1. In the meantime, a special meeting will likely be called to determine if the ban needs to be lifted again.

Brown and Trustee Chris Kabbes were present for the meeting, but Trustee Jim Boos was not.

Also, Brian Larson, owner of The Marina at the Lake, gave an update on improvements to the marina property, and Michael Johnston was re-hired to do the next fiscal year's audit. It was also decided to adopt an ordinance providing for part-time police officers and to repeal a previous ordinance, and to approve a replat of Lots 19 and 20 Blue Point Subdivision.

Brian Sehy and Greg Addis addressed the Board in regards to modifying the lease covering Zona's on The Lake to allow video gaming. The current lease prohibits gambling. J&J Ventures have inspected the premises in regard to placement of the gaming machines and security. It would be early next year before the machines could be installed. The matter was tabled until all three trustees are present. Brian Sehy also gave an update on improvements to Blue Gill Marina, and Greg Addis stated Zona's is now open Thursday through Sunday evenings and for Monday Night Football.

Also, Darrell Hoffman on behalf of the boating committee asked the Board to make a decision on touchless boat covers.