Heated words were again exchanged at September’s Clearwater Twp. meeting concerning the ongoing discussion on whether or not to apply for Nixon Lake to become a no-wake lake.

In June, the Nixon Lake Committee asked the board to consider applying to the DNR for Nixon Lake to be designated a no-wake lake and provided reasonings for why they felt this would be beneficial. The topic has since been debated at township meetings throughout the summer.

Chairperson Rose Thelen read a letter submitted by Penny Leuthard, who wrote that through research and discussions with environmental professionals, she can refute each reason the committee brought forth as evidence the lake needs such a designation. She followed by sharing her findings, ending by stating the designation is unnecessary and selfish.

Mary Bergeron then reviewed the committee’s reasonings for the designation, rereading the original document first submitted. She concluded by recommending going forth with their recommendation.

Treasurer Cassie Kenning asked the board to approve moving forward with the public hearing so the wishes of the public could be heard. She said conflict between board members Thelen and Scott Miller has caused problems, mentioning the recent letter to the editor submitted to the Patriot by Miller. Miller responded that his words may have been a bit harsh, but he wanted to provoke a large crowd to attend the meeting and said they needed to past emotional responses to issues and look at the facts.

Resident Rita Betzler said everyone has been very disrespectful to each other and it’s very hurtful.

Supervisor John Notch informed the board he’s spoken with numerous people about the issue, and no one is in favor of it, including a Wright Co. Soil and Water employee who felt it was “absolutely ridiculous.”

Thelen asked for a motion to start the no-wake designation process by submitting a request to the DNR. Miller instead made a motion to not begin the process, which was seconded by Notch.

Motion carried 2-1.

Angry outbursts from the crowd followed, with Chuck Derry stating he wanted to be able to use his kayak safely on the lake, and Larry Schut saying if anyone tears around at the access, he’s shutting down the section he owns.

Two residents demanded Miller and Notch state their reasonings for the motion. Both reiterated what had already been said, with Miller adding there is no evidence that all users of the lake can’t coexist, there is only a limited number of people who would benefit from it, and after talking to the DNR he didn’t feel it would go anywhere anyway.

Other Business

• The township and the City of Clearwater came to an agreement on the amended orderly annexation agreement.

• A good luck/going away celebration was held after the meeting for Jim and Sharon Lee, long-time residents of the community. Sharon Lee was township clerk for 13 years. 

The next Clearwater Twp. meeting will be Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m.