Charlevoix County commissioners adopt temporary slow-no-wake restriction on Thumb Lake

The Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously May 20 to temporarily lower the speed limit on Thumb Lake to slow-no-wake in a defined narrows, citing hazardous conditions from recent unprecedented rainfall and high water levels.

Commissioner Chris Christensen moved and Commissioner Tim Kenney seconded adoption of Resolution 26-044, which invokes Michigan statute MCL 324.80146 to allow temporary speed reductions on inland lakes during emergency conditions. The board’s roll-call tally was recorded as 5-0 in favor.

Under the resolution, the slow-no-wake restriction applies in the narrows between Horner Island and Frog Island and continues one-half mile east of Frog Island to a point from Pioneer Trail at Delta Lane. The measure takes effect May 21, 2026, and will remain in force through June 4, 2026, unless the board rescinds or extends it.

The resolution states the action is intended "for the purpose of protecting life and property during the current emergency conditions caused by unprecedented rainfall and high water levels." It also authorizes the Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Office and other appropriate law enforcement agencies to enforce the temporary restriction.

There was no public comment at the meeting. County Administrator Kevin Shepard was not present, and Sheriff Vondra had no comment during the session. The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 a.m.

The resolution provides a time-limited, local enforcement tool under state statute; any extension, modification or rescission would require further board action.