Tag: community

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 Board Meeting Minutes the Barnes Lake Club October 1, 2025 

Meeting called to order at 7:00 PM 

Board Members Present: Pam Reid, Teresa Marciniec, Tom Petts, Cece Stamsak, Pat Betcher, Nancy Siedmiorka and Brian Menard. Absent: Derek Morey and Alex Nikora. 

Guests: Laurie Petts, Linda Zukonik, Lori Campbell, Karen Uetz, Paul Uetz, Mark Darbe, Kim McClain, Mark Middlewood, Jodi DeVuyst, Jerry and Dawn Gottschalk, Burns Rolland and Karen Codrea 

Brian Menard led the gathering in the Pledge of Allegiance 

There was one addition to the Agenda: Karen Uetz requested via email that the Board discuss revealing the count of the votes for the seats on the board and the acceptance of the by-laws. Discussion among the Board and audience occurred. Nancy Siedmiorka made a motion to reveal the results of the vote during the Annual Meeting each year, and if requested, a second count conducted by two different individuals. Motion was seconded by Brian Menard. Motion carried. 

Pam Reid then read the results of the voting conducted during the 2025 Annual Meeting. 

To wit: 

For the three open positions on the Barnes Lake Club Board, the following votes were received: Derek Morey received 34 votes, Alex Nikora received 38 votes, Karen Uetz received 20 votes, and Nancy Siedmiorka received 25 votes. 

For the acceptance of the updated By-Laws for the Barnes Lake Club: Accepting the draft as presented at the meeting received 22 “Aye” votes, 17 “Nay” votes, and 3 abstentions. 

Minutes of last meeting: Cece Stramsak made a motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting, presented by Pam Reid, and was seconded by Nancy Siedmiorka. Motion Carried. 

Treasurer’s Report: Cece Stramsak reported that the amount shown on the report for the Golf Scramble donations was only the 50/50 raffle and an additional amount was received from the outing, bringing the total to $4,242.66. Brian Menard made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report, presented by Cece Stramsak, and it was seconded by Teresa Marciniec. Motion Carried. 

Membership update: We currently have 236 members (up from 2024’s total of 230) 

Special Events: 

World’s Best Coffee Hour: Tom Petts reported that the last coffee hour of the year 

on September 20th was a success. Tom reported that they have sufficient donations 

to pay for the event. 

Annual Members Picnic-Raffle Prize Coordinator needed: Tom Petts reported 

that Theresa Herrick would be stepping down as the coordinator after 3 years. The 

event is still in need of a Donation Coordinator / Picnic Organizer. 

Halloween Party: Pam Reid reminded all present of the upcoming party on 

October 11, 2025, and the event will be run as in prior years. Kim McClain asked 

about the Trunk or Treat event which was discussed in the prior year and it was 

admittedly forgotten for 2025 but will be discussed and arranged for 2026. 

Welcome Packets: Teresa Marciniec handed out four new packets in September. There was discussion about Teresa informing the treasurer, Cece Stramsak, of the new owners’ mailing addresses, but Cece confirmed she gets the new addresses from the Township for the March mailing. 

Beach/Pavillion Maintenance Update: The Board received an update from Alex Nikora, via Pam Reid. There are 61 registered boats on the park lot docks, with 17 vacancies remaining. Alex is reassigned the park lot slips as best he can, per the requests he’s received. In mid-October, he will begin storing the playground and pavilion equipment and secure the fish stock permit. 

Park Lot Maintenance Update: The Board received no update this month, as Alex Nikora was not in attendance. 

Barnes Lake Improvement Board Updates: 

Lake Weed Treatments: Burns Rolland reported that there were five monthly weed 

treatments this in 2025, with a total cost of just under $50,000. This is one less weed 

treatment than the prior year, but it was generally successful in keeping the lake in 

good condition. Burns reported that the cost of the weed treatment permit will likely 

increase from $825 to $1,250 in 2026. 

Lady Liberty Update: Jerry Gottschalk reported there are three major components 

of the ongoing Lady Liberty project: 

1) Approval of the project by EGLE: They indicated there will be a permit charge of $500 (there was not a permit acquired when the statue was first put into place). Jerry indicated that Burns Rolland has been instrumental in dealing with EGLE. Burns added that EGLE noted the unique nature of the permit request, but they were not 

opposed to it. He also indicated that they would be polling the residents of the community, as well as other interested parties (for example, the DNR, the Township and perhaps Lapeer County). 

2) Design work: Jerry described several options and features of the supporting structure. 

3) Fundraising: Dawn Gottschalk indicated that one currently anonymous donor has pledged to match the first $1,000 of all funds raised. She described several fundraising initiatives underway or planned for the near future. 

a) Football Squares for the MSU/UofM game, the Lions Thanksgiving Day game and perhaps the Superbowl. 

b) Cornhole competition to be held on October 18, 2025, at/near the Gottschalk residence at 1043 Lakeshore Drive, with three prizes donated by Sue Mizgalski & Daren Collins (a Barnes Lake Cherrywood bench), Dawn Gottschalk (a painting) and Kim McClain (a decorative planter). (Jerry added that there will be a port-a-john on site for contestants and guests). 

c) Returnable Bottle Drive to be collected on November 1, 2025. Donations are requested to be placed in bags at the end of your driveways by 11:00 am. d) Additional fundraising ideas include a Pancake Breakfast, SOS T-Shirts, and a 50/50 raffle. 

Jerry went on to suggest that one way to involve the kids around the lake would be to 

provide them with a do-well-in-school incentive, which would give them the opportunity to be a part of the unveiling of the statue on its new base on the Fourth of July 2026 [which is the country’s semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary. Burns Rolland indicated that despite the length of time the EGLE approval process takes, that is still an achievable date for project completion.] 

2026 Calendar Review: The Board was provided with a copy of the previously approved calendar to see if any changes were needed prior to presenting it to the community. Jodi DeVuyst suggested that the Barnes Lake Community-Wide Garage/Yard Sale be scheduled to coincide with the Michigan M-24 Oxford to Caro Sale (which will be held on July 18, 2026. The Board and attendees discussed the benefits of the change and will take the suggestion under advisement for a vote at the November 5, 2025 meeting. 

New Business: 

Pam Reid indicated that she asked three companies for a bid to replace the Directors’ signs, and to provide Rules signs and Park Lot signs for Park Lot J. One printer did not respond to her request, despite having met with her in person. Blue Water Printing and Village Printing 

both presented bids. Pam indicated that of the two, Village Printing was the more professionally presented bid and was also at a lower cost. A discussion was held regarding the necessity of the Directors’ signs, and it was decided that they were unnecessary. Brian Menard motioned that the Board request Village Printing be selected to produce the Rules signs and Park Lot signs for Park Lot J, and it was seconded by Nancy Siedmiorka. Motion carried. 

A discussion took place regarding the procedure for the Golf Cart Decoration Contest. The chair would be the Vice President of the Barnes Lake Club. A few recommendations were made regarding conducting the voting and Brian Menard agreed to edit the procedure sheet for presentation at the November 5, 2025 meeting. 

New and Outstanding Issues (these remain on the agenda until completed): 

Survey of Park Lot P (sewer) & Park Lot E (wall) needed to record encroachments 

on each. [No Change from prior month’s meeting minutes]. 

Beach lawn at retaining wall: The yard has sunk at the retaining wall, creating a 

hazard. This area (the entire length of the retaining wall) needs to be built up so the area is level. [No Change from prior month’s meeting minutes]. 

Club House Repairs: Repairs are needed, including the siding, door, roof, etc. A 

contract for repairs has been approved, not to exceed $12,000 (approved at July 2, 

2025, meeting). New information: Pam Reid indicated that she’s been informed that the repairs to the Clubhouse will begin in early November. 

Next meeting will be held on November 5th, at 07:00 pm 

Tom Petts made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:22 PM and the motion was seconded by Teresa Marciniec. Motion carried. 

Respectfully submitted, Brian Menard 

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Board Meeting Minutes the Barnes Lake Club                                                       September 3, 2025

Meeting called to order at 7:00 PM

Board Members Present: Pam Reid, Teresa Marciniec, Tom Petts, Cece Stamsak, Pat Betcher, Nancy Siedmiorka and Derek Morey. Absent: Brian Menard and Alex Nikora

Guests: Linda Zukonik, Lori Campbell, Kim McClain, Marsha and Jim Bates, Paul Tabone, Jerry Gottschalk, Karen Codrea, and Laurie Petts

Pat Betcher led the gathering in the Pledge of Allegiance

Minutes of last meeting: Nancy Siedmiorka made a motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting and was seconded by Tom Petts. Motion Carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Teresa Marciniec made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report and was seconded by Tom Petts. Motion Carried.

Membership update: We currently have 236 members (up from 2024’s total of 230) 

Special Events: 

• World’s Best Coffee Hour: Tom Petts reported that August 16^th was a success. It was not as well attended as previous coffee hours, but all who attended had fun. Tom reported that they have sufficient donations to pay for the event.
• Concert on the Beach: The concert on the beach was held on August 30th, with the band Motor City Wranglers. Derek Morey asked how everyone liked the band and received loud applause from all who attended the meeting. He was incredibly happy with the turnout and will plan for them to play again next year.
• Annual Flotilla: Ron and Shanna Mills reported that the flotilla enjoyed an outstanding day. It was the largest turn-out to date with an estimated 30 boats. The weather was perfect, and they had a drone take an incredible picture of all the boats tied together. They raised $ 1,476.00 dollars for Barnes Lake Club…. Thank you!
• Fall Observer: Brian Menard took The Observer to a whole new level and for his hard work he received loud applause from all who attended the meeting. The Board received many good comments on the new format. Brian’s work was well-appreciated.
• Annual Members Picnic-Raffle Prize Coordinator needed: Tom Petts reported that Theresa Herrick would be stepping down as the coordinator after 3 years. Theresa did an outstanding job over the years and has offered to help the new person who takes the coordinator’s position. 
• Dock Shot Invitational: Attendees were remined about the upcoming Barnes Lake Golf Outing, which will be held on September 13, 2025. There is an 8:00 am check-in, and the fee to participate is $75.00 per person. Contact Sam Bonner if you are interested.
• Welcome Packets: Teresa Marciniec handed out two new packets in August. She also stated that new homeowners appreciated the information provided.

Beach/Pavillion Maintenance Update: The Board received no update this month, as Alex Nikora was not in attendance. 

Park Lot Maintenance Update: The Board received no update this month, as Alex Nikora was not in attendance.

Barnes Lake Improvement Board Update:

• Lake Weed Treatments: Karen Codrea reported that there will be no additional weed treatment this year. The total cost for weed treatment in 2025 was $50,000.
• Lady Liberty Update: Jerry Gottschalk reported on the progress made with Lady Liberty. They are scheduling their first meeting for Tuesday, September 9^th at 7:00 pm. Jerry asked the Board for permission to use the Club House which was granted. It was reported that Burns Rolland is working to get the permits needed and once the permit(s) is (are) completed, it will cost $900.00 to submit. He asked the Board if the funds collected for Lady Liberty could be used for the permit. It was agreed by the Board that when the permit was ready for submittal, the funds would be available. They are working on design and will provide information to the Board as they move forward. Jerry also reported that his wife Dawn is skilled at fundraising and that she plans to get together within the next week to brainstorm ideas.

Procedure Sheet for Zoom Meetings: Derek Morey provided an overview of the procedure. He continues to work out the details. 

2026 Calendar Review: The Board was provided a copy of the previously approved calendar to see if any changes were needed prior to presenting it to the community. A discussion took place in replacing the July 4^thDécor contest with a Golf Cart and Bike decoration Contest. The chair would be the Vice President of the Barnes Lake Club. It was agreed to replace the 4^th of July Home Décor Contest with a Golf Cart and Bike Decoration Contest. A few additional recommendations were made, all items mentioned and agreed on which will be changed or revised in the calendar prior to our October meeting by Pam Reid. Pam Reid will also create a procedure sheet for the Golf Cart and Bike Decorations Contest, which will be provided to the board in October.

New and Outstanding Issues (these remain on the agenda until completed):

• Survey of Park Lot P (sewer) & Park Lot E (wall) needed to record encroachments on each.
• Beach lawn at retaining wall: The yard has sunk at the retaining wall, creating a hazard. This area (the entire length of the retaining wall) needs to be built up so the area is level.
• Club House Repairs: repairs are needed, including the siding, door, roof, etc.. A contract for repairs has been approved, not to exceed $12,000 (approved at July 2, 2025, meeting). Bid was 33% less than two other bids received. The Board asked when this project would begin. Pam Reid said she would work to get a start date.

Next meeting will be held on October 1^st, at 07:00 pm

Cece Stamsak made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:52 PM and the motion was seconded by Teresa Marciniec. Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted, Pam Reid

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 Barnes Lake Club Board Meeting July 2, 2025 

Meeting called to order at 7:01 PM 

Board Members Present: Pam Reid, Pat Betcher, Brian Menard, Teresa Marciniec, Alex Nikora, Tom Petts, Cece Stramsak, and Derek Morey. Absent: Lacy Minard 

Guests: Sue Mizgalski, Darren Collins, Linda Zukonik, Wally Dotson, John and Karen Codrea, Sandy Herweyer, Theresa Herrick, Autumn Gillispi and Kelli Lovasz 

After the meeting was called to order, Brian Menard lead the Board and guests in the Pledge of Allegiance. The guests and the Board introduced themselves. There were no additions to the agenda presented at the beginning of proceedings. 

Minutes of the last meeting : Derek Morey made a motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting and was seconded by Alex Nikora. Motion carried. 

Treasurers Report: Brian Menard made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and was seconded by Derek Morey. Motion carried. 

Board President Pam Reid called for a motion to approve the payment of fees invoiced by the attorney for his review of the updated by-laws in an amount of $337.50. Motion made by Derek Morey. Seconded by Cece Stramsak. Motion carried 

Membership Update: We currently have 212 members (and Cece was given three more applications ahead of this meeting to be included in the tally next month). 

Coffee Hour: Tom Petts reported that the June 21st coffee hour was a success, as usual, with a good turnout and sufficient donations to pay for the event. Next coffee hour will be on July 19th. 

Fireworks: Pat Betcher lead the discussion regarding the after-display clean-up (9 am on Sunday, July 6th), the time of the beach area, boat launch and pavilion parking lot closure (Friday, July 4th at 7 pm), and the planned rain date, if needed (Sunday, July 6th). 

Garage Sale: Brian Menard reported that this year’s turnout (both for Garage Sale participants and for shoppers) was disappointing. There were 16 active garage sales in the community on Thursday, 26 on Friday and 22 on Saturday. The peak participation in 2024 was 32 active sales. Brian cited the possibility that the Observer being sent out after the sale, announcing the sale dates, may have been a factor. Although the Board agreed, there was no discussion regarding sending it out earlier. Pam Reid stated that the Garage Sale is mentioned in the March mailing, however. 

Annual Meeting: This Pam Reid led the discussion regarding the donuts and coffee (Tom Petts agreed to bring), the agenda she’d sent out, there will be no guest speakers (the attendees at this board meeting agreed it was unnecessary), Pat Betcher will be communicating the need for raffle prizes, the new Meeting Procedure will be followed, there will be private ballots for the Director positions and the 

approval of the updated By-Laws, along with a paddle, to each member-household. Three seats are up for a vote, Alex Nikora and Derek Morey both intend to run for the vacant seats again this year. Lacy Minard declared her intent is not to run for her Board position. 

Concerts At The Beach: Derek Morey stated the karaoke night on June 14th was a success. It was kid-centric, but the kids had a lot of fun with it. The next scheduled event will feature the band “The Split Shifters” in July. There will be a nacho bar provided. 

Annual Flotilla: Ron and Shanna Mills organize this event each year. Derek Morey suggested to all present that each boat should have a supply of water on hand. 

Annual Members’ Picnic: Will be held on August 2nd, 12:00-3:00 pm at the Beach. Tom Petts led the discussion regarding the boat launch and parking lot closure (Friday at 7 pm) and a discussion about the setting up and taking down the tents. Since the Boy Scout Troop is disbanded, Karen Codrea suggested contacting North Branch High School to see if a small group of the football players would be amenable to helping. 

Beach pavilion maintenance update: A continued discussion from last month’s meeting was led by Alex Nikora regarding moving the U.S. Flag to shore as well, for ease of maintenance and repair of the pole. He indicated the amount researched for this endeavor would be approximately $199. A motion was made to approve this expenditure by Derek Morey. Seconded by Brian Menard. Motion carried. 

Alex also led the discussion regarding the cost of the clubhouse renovations. He indicated that he received a third quote at $11,400 (which is 33% less than earlier quotes received). Alex motioned to accept that quote and approve the payment for clubhouse renovations not to exceed $12,000. Seconded by Tom Petts. Motion carried. 

Alex indicated he’d like to purchase a set of two new swings for the beach area swingset. He stated they would be $44 each. Brian Menard motioned to approve this expenditure. Seconded by Derek Morey. Motion carried. 

Park Lot Dock Registration: Alex Nikora reported that 56 dock registrations were properly completed, 3 residents who previously had a spot have moved and another 6 registrations were not returned, so he intends to contact people on the waiting list. 

Park Lot Maintenance: Alex Nikora reported that Park Lot P now has been filled in with gravel and looks much better, ahead of the holiday weekend. 

Barnes lake Improvement Board: Karen Codrea represented the BLIB and indicated another spray of the lake was performed since the last Board meeting. Attendees agreed the lake is looking very good. 

Old Business: 

By-Laws Subcommittee: Board President Pam Reid called for a motion to dissolve the By-Laws Subcommittee. Motion was made by Alex Nikora. Seconded by Derek Morey. Motion carried. 

Zoom Meetings: Board President Pam Reid requested an update regarding a procedure sheet for Zoom meetings for the Board meeting. Derke Morey motioned to table this item until August. Seconded by Brian Menard. Motion carried. 

New business: 

● Board President Pam Reid indicated the revised Barnes Lake Club Mailing and Observer Schedule will include information regarding the Annual Meeting Mailing. 

● Board President Pam Reid also led a discussion kicked off a discussion about the new Meeting Procedures. 

New and Outstanding Issues (which will remain on the agenda until completed): 

There is a survey of Park Lot P required, and repairs are needed to the beach area retaining wall. 

● Observer: Brian Menard led a discussion about the poor results of the printing of the last issue of the Observer. He requested black and white pictures be provided, but Derek Morey indicated the printer ought to be able to use editing software to correct for the washout we received last time. 

The date and times of the Annual Barnes Lake Improvement Board meeting (8:30 am on Saturday, July 12th at the Deerfield Township Hall, Second Floor) and the Annual Barnes Lake Club Meeting (10:00 am on Saturday, July 12th at the Deerfield Township Hall, Second Floor) were announced. 

Next monthly Board meeting will be on August 6th, at 7PM 

Brian Menard made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:01 PM. Seconded by Alex Nikora. Motion carried. 

Respectfully submitted, Brian Menard 

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 Date: June 4, 

Day: Wednesday 

Time: 7:00 PM 

Location: Barnes Lake Club Building 

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER AND WELCOME-QUOREM 
   • Absent: Lacy Minard 
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 
3. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS 
4. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA 
5. MOMENT OF SILENCE: 
   • Shelly Langlois, May 19, 2025 
6. GUEST SPEAKERS: N/A 
7. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING, submitted for May 7, 2025, by Lacy Minard 
8. TREASURER’S REPORT, Cece Stramsak 
9. MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 2025-2026 Membership renewal, Cece Stramsak 
10. SPECIAL EVENTS: 
    • Best Coffee Hour, June 21 between 9:00 and 10:30. Hosted by Tom and Laurie Petts 
    • 4th of July Fire Works, Pat Betcher 
    • Watercraft Dock and Park Lot Registration, 2025-2029 update, Pam Reid 
    • Barnes Lake Community Garage Sale, Brian Menard 
    • June Observer 
    • Annual Meeting Notification Letter 
    • Concert on the Beach, June 14 at 7:00 pm, Derek Morey 
11. BEACH/PAVILION MAINTENANCE UPDATE, Alex Nikora 
    • Lady Liberty 
12. PARK LOT MAINTENANCE UPDATE, Alex Nikora 
    • Gravel – Park Lot P – approved to purchase gravel not to exceed $200.00, May 7, 2025 
    • Hazardous Tree Park Lot A – Removed 
    • G-Park Lot, barricade installed May 24, 2025. 
13. BARNES LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD UPDATE 
14. OLD BUSINESS 
    • By-Law, as revised by committee, vote for approval, Brian Menard 
    • Procedure sheet – Zoom meetings, Derek Morey 
    • 856 Lakeshore Drive update, Pam Reid 
15. NEW BUSINESS: 
    • Barnes Lake Board-Annual Meeting Board Members Election, 3-year term ends: 
      • Derek Morey 
      • Alex Nikora 
      • Lacy Minard, Lacy will not be seeking reelection. 
    • Revised Barnes Lake Club Mailing and Observer Schedule to include information on the Annual Meeting Mailing. 
    • Barnes Lake Club (BLC) Annual Meeting, Special Meeting and Monthly Meeting Procedure, if approved will require funding for paddles, Brian Manard 
16. CORRESPONDENCE: N/A 
17. NEW AND OUTSTANDINT ISSUES (REMAIN ON THE AGENDA UNNTIL COMPLETED) 
    • Survey Park Lot P (sewer) and E (wall) as needed to record encroachments on each Park Lot. 
    • Park Lot C, Erosion issue due to wet weather events. Storm water flows from Lakeshore Drive through Park Lot C into Barnes Lake. 
      • The area is being monitored 
18. Date: July 2, 2025 
    • Location: Barnes Lake Club Building, at the beach 
    • Time: 7:00 p.m. 
19. BLC Annual Meeting 
    • Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 
    • Location: Deerfield Twp. Hall 
    • Time: 10:00 a.m. 
20. BLIB Annual Meeting
    • Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 
    • Location: Deerfield Twp. Hall 
    • Time: 8:30 a.m. 
21. Adjournment