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Lake George commission authorizes up to $8,000 for drone to aid shoreline surveys and inspections
Summary
The commission approved Purchase Resolution 2025-16 to buy a small quadcopter (recommended DJI Matrice 4e) not to exceed $8,000 to support shoreline inventories, dock and stormwater inspections and the recreation study; vendor pricing and FAA licensing were discussed.
The Lake George Park Commission voted to authorize staff to procure a small quadcopter drone for shoreline mapping, inspections and recreation-study support, with a procurement cap of $8,000.
A staff presenter (S9) reviewed options (fixed wing, quadcopter, hybrid), recommended the DJI Matrice 4e for geospatial applications and noted vendor pricing. The presenter said a vendor quote was "just over $6,000" (plus accessories) and described specs including a three-camera payload, RTK-capable accuracy, a quoted battery life near 49 minutes (no-wind conditions), and a top speed noted at about 46 miles per hour. The presenter recommended training additional staff and marine-patrol personnel on FAA remote-pilot certification requirements.
Commissioners discussed prioritization and operational uses — shoreline inventory, dock documentation, stormwater permit inspections and support for the summer recreation study. Vice Chairman Stanek (S4) moved Purchase Resolution 2025-16 to authorize procurement not to exceed $8,000; the motion was seconded and carried with an affirmative voice vote.
The commission directed staff to maintain a regular agenda item recording drone uses and to ensure FAA compliance and internal policies for operations.
