2025 Dam Inspection Report
Note: at July 11, 2026 Annual meeting, township Supervisor K. Merser advised that the Indian Trail Roadway portion of this report falls under the authority of the township board. As a result, Barnes Lake Improvement has the responsibility of maintaining the water control structure only.
November 1, 2025 approved meeting minutes (Barnes Lake Improvement Board)
We will be collecting one last final swag order for the Barnes Lake Lady Liberty Save our Symbol (SOS) between now and 8/1/26.
– Text desired order to Karen Uetz: 419.967.5383.
Karen Uetz is collecting orders to see if there are enough orders to do a run for the swag. Need 11 orders per item. 4 items available for potential. Karen Uetz will not collect any money until delivery of swag to each person, to ensure there is enough volume to place orders. Orders will be confirmed no later than 8/16/26 to each individual.
– Adult T-shirts in White or Tan (Sand) sizes S, M, L, XL ($20); XXL ($22); XXXL ($23).
– Adult hoodie sweatshirts: in Tan (Sand), Light Grey (Ash), or Dark Grey (Sports Grey). Sizes: S,M,L,XL,($30); XXL ($32); XXXL ($33)
– Baseball Caps: one size, Adjustable $25
– Canvas Tote: One Size. $20
Karen Uetz
To all,
There has been interest in the community about buying Barnes Lakes Flags (identical to the flag in the lake), and if we buy in bulk we can save money. I will do 1 master order for anybody wanting a flag(s), if you are interested please contact me (order form) is enclosed.
Size 3’ x 5’
Printed on both sides
Grommets on the left
Prices will be approximately $35.00-50.00 each depending how many are ordered.
I have a sample if you want to one up close-just call.
Regards,
Jerry Gottschalk
248-568-7174
Dear Lake Residents,
We have waited a long time to see Lady Liberty out on the island again. It took alot of time, planning, and effort to design and procure the pieces. This is in addition to the all fund raising events that the SOS committee executed to be able to pay for her. Finally, after months of work by a volunteer team, we see her installed.
Out of respect for this monumental effort, out of respect for what she means to the majority of Barnes Lake Community and as a symbol of our country, please LOOK BUT DON’T TOUCH:
It you want to keep her nice for years to come, listen to this admonition and also advise your guests to do the same. As we head into the big 250th celebration weekend, most of all be safe and enjoy.
Sincerely,
Burns Rolland
Barnes Lake Improvement Board
Although work has been done on ramp, please be cautious along the dock side of ramp. Be careful not to get too close to dock.
The ramp needs to be monitored to access if temporary fix is holding up.
There was a huge underwater crater/dislocation at the end of ramp (dock side).
************************STAY AWAY FROM IT*******************************
The Lake Improvement Board is working on a temporary way to resolve it as well as establishing a long term, robust fix. Meanwhile, angle your trailers away from the dock to avoid having your wheels fall into a “pot hole” at lower edge of ramp.
Sincerely,
Burns
Lake Improvement Board.
Click link below to see current entries!!
Lady Liberty is back! Her total construction will be completed by July 4, 2026!
Please join the Barnes Lake Community on July 4th for her formal rededication and flag raising. You can tune your FM radio to channel 88.5 for a simulcast broadcast of the dedication, and patriotic music during the fireworks!
5 – 5:15 PM On the Lake
Formal Rededication of Lady Liberty
Toast to our Nation’s 250th Birthday
Singing of the Star-Spangled Banner
Flag Raising by the original donors and builders: Larry Cool, Dan Rose, and family of Keith Kokotovitch
Lady Liberty was originally donated, built, and placed on the island to commemorate the tragedy of 9/11 in 2001.
We know ALL will respect our Lake symbol, and will enjoy her from a safe distance for decades to come. We kindly ask that you share this concern with your guests who visit Barnes Lake.
Design details have been put in place to deter bird and animal infestations. Moneys have been saved and allocated for any further maintenance needs for years to come, both for Lady Liberty and the Flag Pole. Complete financial records will be available at the 2026 annual meeting, after the final purchases are completed and recorded.
The restoration could not have been completed without the generous donations, and help from the Barnes Lake Community.
Thank you for entrusting us with the project,
The S.O.S Committee
BARNES LAKE CLUB 