Harrison's Bay association seeks Lake Improvement District with annual assessments to fund invasive‑species control and water‑quality work

Harrison's Bay Association representatives asked the Mound City Council on June 10 to schedule a public hearing on a proposal to form a Lake Improvement District that would assess about 233 properties in the bay to fund invasive‑species treatment, carp management, shoreline restoration, education and monitoring.

The association’s presenter said the initial budget request is about $31,007.50 and proposed annual assessments of $150 for lakeshore properties, $100 for deeded‑access properties, $50 for non‑lake‑abutting associations and $500 for the marina. The presenter said the proposal includes a cap that would limit increases in the lakeshore assessment to no more than 100% of the initial level unless more than half of affected property owners later approve an increase.

Why it matters: Harrison’s Bay is listed as impaired by state regulators and association leaders said existing volunteer efforts and limited grant funding have not reduced invasive plants, carp or algal problems. Association speakers argued a locally controlled, predictable funding source would allow multi‑year strategies — including grant…