Misuse and abuse

Growth on Swan Lake is inevitable. Private property owners have the freedom to build structures that meet the requirements of Lake County laws. Intelligent property owners will make decisions that minimize effects on the environment and to the quality of our everyday lives.

Looking at 65 condominiums will be ugly. Misuse of this land will increase traffic, before long more roads will be required. It's a vicious cycle.

The large sewer system required is a misuse. If this development proceeds the residents of Swan Lake will experience unmanaged growth; changing the landscape and waterscape of the area forever.

It's a tough battle to stand up to deep-pocketed developers who quietly plan the misuse of historic property before making the public aware of what they are doing.

The Kootenai project has enough deep pocket support to become reality and the Lake County government is probably counting the tax dollars it will bring in. If the project is allowed to continue, modify it as follows:

No boat docks. This part of the river/lake interface is shallow. If dredging was used to increase boat activity the character of the river/lake will change forever.

A buffer of trees and bushes should be planted between the high water shoreline and 50 feet back on the property with two or three paths leading to the water. The size of the buffer must be such that people living across the river cannot see the condos. The buffer will be used to filter pollutants from ground water run off.

Only 20 condos-65 is greedy. Misuse of land is usually a short-term gain for the developer but a long-term loss for the environment and in this case for the people who enjoy living on pristine Swan Lake.

Yours truly,

Sterling Haaland

Swan Lake