Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Parks Ordinance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Seasonal campers push back on Long Lake Park ordinance changes; county forms ad hoc committee to review rules
Summary
After several emotional public comments, Alpena County commissioners agreed to appoint an ad hoc committee to review proposed changes to the Long Lake Park camping ordinance that limit rug size, ban certain outdoor appliances and prohibit decks and boats at campsites.
Scores of seasonal campers and residents urged Alpena County commissioners on Thursday to reconsider recently adopted changes to the Long Lake Park camping ordinance, saying the rules were implemented without clear notice and that they threaten safety, accessibility and campground revenue.
Melanie Kasabowski, who said her family has been seasonal campers at Long Lake Park for eight years, told commissioners “the day after I placed my deposit for next season, we were informed that several new rules would take effect” and that campsites would no longer allow items long-term campers use for safety and comfort. “These rugs don’t just keep our campers clean. They also make the site safer and help cover electrical cords, hoses, and have to cross our lot,” Kasabowski said.
Other commenters echoed concerns. Dana Barbault cited theft risk if boats cannot be kept at campsites and estimated seasonal campers contribute significant revenue; Karen Wargo and Tammy Kish described mobility and safety needs behind decks and steps and practical uses for small outdoor appliances. Several speakers said the changes had been driven by complaints and that enforcement threatened to criminalize ordinary camping activity.
Parks staff said the ordinance changes were a response to complaints and concerns about ground protection and visual blight. Parks chair Brenda asked the commissioners to weigh in; commissioners debated options including assigning the matter to the facilities committee or forming an ad hoc committee to review the ordinance in detail.
The board agreed to appoint an ad hoc committee to work with parks staff, review comparable campground rules (including state campground regulations as a reference), solicit written input from campers and bring back recommendations. Commissioners emphasized the review will take time and asked that interested residents send written material and evidence (for example, photos or videos of storm/runoff conditions) to the committee.
No immediate change to the ordinance was recorded at the meeting; the ad hoc committee will return with proposed adjustments and report back to the full board.
