Highlands mayor outlines five million dollar Mirror Lake dredging project plan

The Town of Highlands is moving forward with plans to address sedimentation issues in Mirror Lake, a vital water source for the community. During the recent Board of Commissioners meeting on April 17, 2025, discussions centered around the Mirror Lake Dredging Project, which has garnered significant attention due to its implications for local water quality and recreational opportunities.

Mayor Pat Trot shared a detailed history of the lake and the ongoing efforts to secure funding for dredging. He highlighted that the town has received a $5 million grant to facilitate the project, which will be overseen by McGill Associates, the engineering firm selected for the task. This funding is crucial as it aims to improve water quality, a pressing concern for residents and local officials alike.

The mayor reminisced about past attempts to address the lake's sedimentation, noting that previous leaders, including his father-in-law, had sought federal assistance for dredging efforts. Trot emphasized the importance of maintaining the lake post-dredging to prevent future sediment buildup, suggesting that a stormwater utility fee might be necessary to fund ongoing maintenance and protection of the watershed.

Commissioner Patterson echoed the mayor's sentiments, stressing that the dredging initiative is not merely an aesthetic improvement but a critical step in ensuring the safety and quality of the town's drinking water. He pointed out that the town has implemented various measures over the years to mitigate sedimentation, including paving roads and enforcing stricter erosion control ordinances.

The meeting also opened the floor for public questions, although no immediate inquiries were raised. The board plans to continue discussions on the dredging options and the next steps in the project, which is expected to have lasting benefits for the community's water supply and recreational spaces.

As the town prepares to embark on this significant environmental project, residents can look forward to improved water quality and enhanced recreational opportunities at Mirror Lake, reinforcing the town's commitment to preserving its natural resources for future generations.