The BLCA, a not-for-profit volunteer organization, has worked to improve lake quality for years.  Many projects have been supported by grant assistance, but such funding is not a stable source.  Also, the ever-increasing cost of programs to improve water quality suggests alternative funding mechanisms.

 

Other Minnesota lake associations have asked county commissioners to establish a Lake Improvement District, a legal entity with its own Board of Directors which recommends programs and budgets for approval by its members (the property owners).  Recommendations go to the county commissioners for review.  If approved, project costs are assessed to the property owners.  With a LID, projects are developed and recommended at the local level, not by some governmental agency.  Also, a LID can apply for grant funding which could reduce the cost to its members.

 

The BLCA voted to facilitate the establishment of a LID because it believes that this would be a stable financing mechanism and one where all property owners would share in project costs -a fair and proper way to pay for programs that benefit all.  The LID would be separate from the BLCA and the Association would not control programs or have the use of LID funds.

 

As a former Board Member and Past President of the BLCA I urge support of the petition.