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Collings Lakes board moves to bolster Braddock Dam safety after fishing injury and approves fence extension
Summary
After a man fell from the Braddock Dam and required airlift to a trauma unit, the Collings Lakes Civic Association discussed signage, cameras and trespass enforcement and approved a $1,950 fence extension to limit access.
At its Nov. 4 meeting, the Collings Lakes Civic Association discussed a recent injury at the Braddock Dam and approved a $1,950 fence extension intended to reduce risky public access.
President Steve Slimm told the board that a man using the dam for fishing fell, lay on the structure for about four hours, and was later rescued by the fire department and EMS and flown to an Atlantic City trauma unit. Slimm said he spoke with Frank Raso about the incident; Raso recommended immediate posting of “no trespassing” signs and said the association could pursue trespassing charges against people found on the dam. Raso cautioned that the incident could create an insurance exposure and recommended preserving incident reports for counsel and insurers.
The board approved a fencing quote from Superior Fence to add 30 feet of fence on the north side of the Braddock Dam, including the previously approved gate, for a total estimate of $1,950. The motion to proceed was made by Beth Anderson and seconded by Donna Sutts; Donavon Saunders, Donald Watson, Lynn Veneziale and David Blair recorded affirmative votes and the motion was marked approved on the minutes.
Members also discussed surveillance and outreach measures. Slimm said some residents recommended cameras while others feared cameras would be vandalized; the board agreed to try test dummy cameras to evaluate vandalism risk. Slimm said he will draft the signage language, Beth Anderson will post the notice on the association Facebook page, and Slimm will send an email blast to residents.
Board members reported the repair work at the dam is progressing: large stones placed along the wall, gabion baskets being set, and crews scheduled to continue work on the Fenimore side with additional wall construction and remaining gabion baskets to be installed.
Slimm noted that he has removed people from the dam in recent weeks and urged the board to act promptly to reduce future incidents. The minutes show the association will preserve relevant incident paperwork and follow counsel and insurer guidance if any legal claims arise.
