Hello from Roy
It is so nice to enjoy this warm summer at Buckshot Lake. The activities on the lake are great to see and hear. Kids screaming with joy as they are tubing, or their excitement as they learn to ski or wakeboard for the first time. For some of us, it's an early morning or evening paddle in a canoe or kayak, and of course the pursuit of a bass or pickerel can all be a special time. No matter how you find enjoyment on the lake, always remember to be respectful to others, as we all have different interests.
July 2nd was our in-person AGM — the first since 2019. We had 22 members participate with lots of questions for board members, Mayor Higgins, and Reeve Hogg. This newsletter summarizes the AGM.
As mentioned in the spring newsletter, this year is a municipal election. For anyone with a seasonal residence, you have a right to vote both here and at your permanent residence. Please check to ensure you are on the voters' list for your municipality — VoterLookup.ca.
As many are aware, I am running for Ward 2 Council in North Frontenac. Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Newsletter at a glance
- AGM
- Membership
- Photo Contest
- Your board members
AGM — July 2, 2022
Agenda
- Welcome / introductions
- Election of directors
- Municipal updates
- Treasurer's report
- Environmental report
- Photo contest
- NFLAA update
- Questions — general discussion
- Closing remarks — adjournment
Welcome
Roy introduced himself and gave some background on his move to permanent status in 2020. He briefly discussed the May 21st storm damage and cleanup. He mentioned that all residents can vote in the municipal election on October 24th.
Election of directors
Paul Asselin and Jim Bacon indicated YES to a continued 2-year term. Dave Farquharson and Bob Haynes are retiring, and Vikram Joshi and Leslie Hoyt were nominated and accepted a 2-year term as directors. Bob Haynes recommended acceptance and Ed Rohr seconded.
Municipal updates
Ron Higgins (North Frontenac) — Short-term rentals (by-law with possible licensing); septic re-inspection on lakes (ongoing discussion, some municipalities using transfer of ownership as enforcement); storm cleanup (continuing until September); Covid-19 brought 600 new full-time residents; fireworks discussion (possibility of banning on lakes); Ardoch Post Office closure (working with MP Scott Reid; North of 7 offered their facility); cell phone and broadband (9 or 10 new Bell towers coming to our area).
Henry Hogg (Addington Highlands) — Short-term rentals (survey on website to gauge resident feelings); property values and taxes (MPAC and mill rate changes, no clear answer available); doctors/nurse practitioners (funding in place but no new additions yet).
Treasurer's report (Paul Asselin)
Membership increased to 78 last year. General admin costs were up $1,700 due to a website redesign. Lake Steward spent $347 to replace marker buoy chains. Limited revenue stream requires more members. Arthur has taken on membership; Paul handles money.
Environmental report
- Bob discussed the 2019 Fish Survey results — white suckers were the largest percentage (50).
- M.L.F.I. maps for the 2021–2031 10-year plan show significant salvage logging due to the May 21st storm. Some clear-cutting off East Bay Rd; unclear whether visible from the lake.
- Most recent water sampling test for invasive species (zebra mussels, spiny water flea, quagga mussels) was negative.
- Discussion on gypsy moth spraying and its impact on non-invasive species.
- Russ: 2021 water quality test shows depth, temperature, phosphorus, pH much the same as previous years. Water Ranger Test Kit averages 9 measurements from June to October. Major risks: inconsistent cleaning of boats going in and out of the lake.
Photo Contest
Viewable on our website. Deadline for submissions in all categories is September 11, 2022.
NFLAA Update
Most pressing current issues are mandatory septic inspections and AirBnB / short-term rental problems. Lake capacity studies show we have a high percentage of crown land and lake trout sensitivity, which limits new building lots. Short-term rentals have become problematic on some lakes. The upcoming municipal election offers online voting. 86% of our tax base is lakefront owners.
Other questions
- An assessment of individual lakefronts is available (erosion, native species).
- Septic inspection — mandatory inspections could happen via property sale.
- Boat launch parking impedes turnaround. The association should explore "No Parking" signs.
Membership
Our membership numbers from last year were very strong. This year we have seen a drop — many of us have been busy with storm repair and cleanup, but we are hopeful you'll continue to support the BLA with your $30 membership fee. The BLA advocates for the lake and surrounding forests and provides services such as buoy markers, water quality tests, and boat launch repairs. Please encourage non-member friends and neighbours to join.
Photo Contest
Our photo contest has been a success and everyone looks forward to the amazing photos every year. Thanks so much to Donna Crome for her involvement this year and in the past. Detailed information is on the Photo Contest page.
Your BLA executive members
- Roy Huetl — President
- Russ Brown — Past President
- Paul Asselin — Treasurer
- Jim Bacon — Secretary
- Arthur McGregor — Membership
- Vikram Joshi — Web/Technical Support
- Peter Lorenz — Director
- Leslie Hoyt — Director