District hears lake-maintenance update; compressor noise reduced but tone remains, plantings delayed

At the July 23 meeting, Premier Lakes representative Bill Kurth updated the River Ridge board on lake maintenance and recent actions taken to address equipment noise and shoreline plantings.

Kurth said the lakes, preserves and dry retention areas "are in good shape" though seasonal algae has been observed. He reported that installing a cabinet around the Masters Lake compressor reduced the measured sound level "from 64 to 52 decibels," which he described as acceptable at the midpoint between the compressor and the screen line. Operations Manager Shane Willis cautioned that "the issue is not so much about the decibels but it is the tone of the aerator," and the board asked staff to coordinate with Kurth and his team to consider moving the compressor; staff will report findings at the next meeting.

Mr. Schultz summarized flooding concerns in Edgewater and suggested installing piping, littorals and rip-rap; the board reached consensus that Canna lilies should not be planted and agreed to delay plantings in Lake E4-A until an acceptable plan is reached with the Edgewater Condo Association. Premier Lakes removed a palm tree from Lake E7A shoreline and scheduled additional plantings when appropriate.

Separately, Operations Manager Willis presented the Annual Quality Assurance audit for lake maintenance and dry retention, reporting "no compliance issues" and that overall lake conditions have improved under the contractor's care. Willis noted high water levels and said next year’s audit will be done earlier.

Staff will return with any recommendations about moving the compressor and a resubmitted planting proposal once the Edgewater Association has been consulted.