Spring 2015 Newsletter: President’s Message

It is that wonderful time of year when we can look forward to another spring and summer on Ballston Lake.

While we have all been dealing with this endless winter, I would like you to know that there are some very special people who have been working very diligently to protect and improve the quality of Ballston Lake. I would like to recognize Drew Hamilink who has taken over the monumental job of Chairman of the Lake Sewer Committee. This commitment has required endless hours of special meetings and his learning a vast amount of new information. After listening to the report that Drew presented to the BLIA Board on 3/25, I knew we had the right man for the job. Thank you, Drew, for stepping up and taking over the great start that Joe Pollard initiated, and
carrying this project forward.

Frank Shipp decided it was time to leave the BLIA Board last summer. At his departure, Frank made one last commitment to pursue the possibility of the BLIA becoming a 501 (c)( 3) non-profit organization. This designation has two major benefits: our BLIA dues are tax deductible and with this designation, many new opportunities for grants are available for BLIA lake projects. Through the extensive efforts of Frank, aided by our treasurer Judy Brodeur, this process is nearly complete. We should all personally thank Frank and Judy for their hard work. One important step is to hold a special membership meeting where necessary changes to the BLIA bylaws can be presented and a membership vote can be held. This special meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 15th, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the Ballston Lake Firehouse. Please make every effort to attend this important meeting.

The team of Wes and Joanne DeVoe did an amazing job organizing and setting up the paperwork for the informal survey that was done last fall to determine the degree of support for the sewer project in Buell Heights area and around Ballston Lake. This couple developed the necessary forms, recruited survey volunteers, kept accurate records of the results and accurately compiled the findings. Their efforts provided the favorable survey results and became the driving force to move this project forward.
There are many people who refer to Ballston Lake as a “gem.” We are very fortunate to have these residents who are willing to step up to the plate and make the required efforts to see that this lake will be a “gem” for many more years.

Pete Herman- President