During a recent government meeting, discussions centered around road repairs and safety concerns in the community, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by residents of Mako Chimney, a private community.

The meeting began with a review of repair bids for a local road, with costs outlined for asphalt removal, dirt importation, and gravel restoration totaling approximately $41,900. However, some officials expressed reluctance to take responsibility for the road, citing a lack of county permission for previous work done on it.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to Kevin Smoker, president of the Mako Chimney Association, who raised urgent safety concerns regarding unauthorized access to their private community. He reported an influx of campers and vehicles entering the area, often leading to dangerous situations, particularly for children. Smoker requested permission to install a prominent sign at the entrance of their community to deter trespassers, emphasizing the need for better visibility to prevent accidents.

County officials explained that while they sympathized with the residents' plight, state regulations restrict the placement of certain signs on county roads. They discussed potential solutions, including the possibility of erecting additional signage indicating no lake access and directing traffic to alternative routes. The idea of a solar flashing sign was also proposed to enhance visibility.

The conversation highlighted the ongoing tension between maintaining public access to county roads and the residents' desire for privacy and safety in their community. Officials suggested that the residents might consider petitioning the county to vacate the road, which would transfer ownership and allow for more control over signage and access.

As the meeting concluded, officials committed to exploring options to address the residents' concerns while adhering to legal constraints. The discussions underscored the complexities of managing public and private interests in rural communities, particularly as they relate to safety and accessibility.