Pearson Peninsula Project Construction to Begin This Summer

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Published on March 26 2020 9:41 am
Last Updated on March 26 2020 9:41 am
Written by Greg Sapp

Work is likely to begin this summer on the Pearson Peninsula project at Lake Sara.

Tom Ryan, on behalf of the Parks and Recreation Committee, reported at this month's Effingham Water Authority board meeting that the playground equipment for Phase One has been finalized. Also, the first of the Department of Natural Resources contracts is being signed. 

Project supporters were on hand on behalf of the project at the Lake Sara Marina Boat Show. Lake Sara Marina agreed to donate $200 for each new boat sold at the show as part of their multi-year pledge toward the project.

Ryan said the goal is to start construction on Phase One this summer, with a Grand Opening in Spring 2021. He said a disc golf course planned as part of Phase One may open this fall.

There was also more discussion at this month's meeting about a policy on short-term rental properties at the lake, but no final decision. Chairman Rob Brown suggested that the maximum number of adults permitted should be discussed further, possibly based on the number of bedrooms at a property.

Brown also reported on a St. Louis newspaper article that the Girl Scouts were planning to sell all of their campgrounds. Effingham Water Authority has not received official notification of such a move, at least at Lake Sara. The lease for property that the Girl Scouts use at the lake has restrictions in place regarding how the property can be used. Brown also mentioned that the Girl Scouts have deeded property that adjoins their lease property at the lake.

Water Authority Attorney Tony Siemer discussed options presented by Summit Township on a road maintenance agreement. A Water Authority trustee will attend a township board meeting to further discuss an agreement.

Katie Thielson, who lives on Lakeview Place, presented a deck project for the Board's consideration. The Board will set a date for a special meeting to look at the property before making a decision. 

Jane Montello, on behalf of the Good Neighbors of Lake Sara, reported that their first meeting of the year will be May 2. Montello also said the first newsletter from Good Neighbors would go out to all lake residents. If the Water Authority wants to include any information, the deadline is April 1.