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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL Tuesday, May 27, 2014 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 12 of 23 (7. LONG LAKE SLOW NO WAKE REGULATIONS (PUBLIC HEARING) – ORDINANCE – TABLED, Continued) Bigham stated there are bigger problems with Long Lake than the no-wake zone. Bigham indicated last summer he contacted the DNR about the water flowing over Long Lake Road even though the lake was down. In addition, something killed the milfoil on the lake last year, which seems to be a bigger concern than this. Bigham stated he is not sure where the water is coming from that flows over the road and that he does not see how the residents will be able to know what the elevation of the lake is on a particular day. Bigham noted jet skis are no longer allowed after 6:00 p.m., which was done through a Joint Powers Agreement, but basically helps keep people off the lake. Bigham stated Long Lake is a public lake and should be viewed that way. Bigham stated he is also not sure what minimum wake means and asked whether the ordinance covers motorized only or motorized and non-motorized. Gaffron stated to his understanding it would be motorized. The definition that is in the ordinance for slow no-wake is the operation of a water craft at the slowest possible speed necessary to maintain steerage but in no case greater than five miles an hour. Bigham noted the language uses the word water craft rather than motorized. Gaffron stated the definition of water craft is “any and all kinds or types of flotation vessels designed for use on the water whether or not motorized”. Bigham noted that would cover paddle boats, any type of water craft being rowed, such as kayaks and paddle boards. Bigham stated people should be able to use the lake. Mayor McMillan closed the public hearing at 8:33 p.m. McMillan noted she spent time serving as the LMCD representative for Orono back in the 1990s, and the high water was always a big issue. McMillan stated in her view it is best not to add regulations if they can be avoided and that she appreciate the public comments received this evening. McMillan stated she is in agreement after looking at the chart that 945’ is probably too low and that if there is regulation, it should be reasonable. McMillan stated in her view the notification piece also needs to be figured out and that she has a concern about people who live on the lake receiving tickets since they have to be more diligent about knowing the water level. MacMillan stated in her opinion the daily water level should be on both cities’ websites. Printup asked if that chart was given to the Long Lake City Council. Diavik indicated he just sent it today electronically. Printup asked if Long Lake is done with the ordinance. Gaffron noted they have amended it once and that they may need to amend it again. Item #03 - CC Agenda - 06/09/2014 Approval of Council Minutes 05/27/2014 [Page 12 of 23]