Effingham Water Authority for January

Effingham Water Authority trustees heard this week that the City of Effingham drew from Lake Sara more than 53,000,000 gallons of water in November.  That number dropped to 34.5 million gallons in December.

Total gallons of water used for 2012?  691,682,000.

Lake Superintendent Gene Arnold reported the ditches to be cleaned out in Schafer Estates will be done in the spring.

Trustee Chairman Chris Kabbes reported Danny Hankins is to make a payment on the beach and campgrounds for 2012 by the end of the month.  Trustees also heard the sand filter for the Pinnacle Center located on Water Authority property still needs to be addressed.

Water Authority Attorney Tony Siemer recommended no closed minutes of the Board's minutes be released at this time.

Siemer also presented a preliminary replat of Lots 5 and 6 in Topp Acres Subdivision.  The surveyor will need to certify each lot has 20,000 square feet and building setback lines can be met, as no future variances will be granted.  All expenses involved in the replat will be the responsibility of the lot owners.  The item was tabled until the new plat is received from the surveyor.

Scott Kinney, who owns Lot 8 at Lakewood Court, presented plans for new construction.  He would use a portion of the existing foundation, which is approximately 60 feet from the water, for the new home.  However, he would not build entirely in the existing footprint.  The Board made suggestions and recommended Kinney bring back a sketch showing setback lines.  The Board also will inspect the site and the matter was tabled.

Arnold stated two variances are needed for two covered porches at Lot 6 Samuel Subdivision, one being a five-foot variance and the other being a seven-foot variance.  The matter was tabled until plans are presented and the Board can inspect the site.

Arnold reported he issued three building permits, one of which was for a new home.  He also said the lake is full.

The Board also heard reports from the erosion and water quality committees.