The Starke County Commissioners held a public hearing Monday night to gather comments on the proposed projects that will benefit from the Constellation of Starke finalist money awarded in last year’s Regional Stellar Communities Designation process.
The county received about $333,000 to be spent on projects based on public input.
The proposed projects include a restroom addition at Norwayne Field in North Judson, a new pavilion in Wythogan Park in Knox, a trailhead at Bass Lake, and a pavilion at the Koontz Lake Beach.
Several residents from Koontz Lake voiced opposition to the construction of the pavilion at the Koontz Lake Beach. It was explained that the pavilion was a late substitution for the proposed restroom project at Lions Park as the members of the Koontz Lake Lions Club were not in favor of the project.
The change was made about two weeks ago and some residents complained that they did not know about the project and wanted to see the design. There is a timeline to get the projects going and that was explained during the hearing.
Residents also pointed out concerns about potential crime with the pavilion project. They are also concerned about the size of the pavilion as to not interfere with boat launching. One resident was concerned about lighting, but it was noted that lighting is a part of the project.
Several residents thought the pavilion would be a great addition to the beach. Long-time residents spoke about making lifelong childhood memories at the beach and a pavilion would help enhance the lake experience for visitors. It was also stated that it will be a great thing for people to enjoy and make it a better place for Koontz Lake residents and visitors.
Only one person had a question about parking with the trailhead project at Bass Lake, and no comments were made concerning the North Judson or Knox projects.
Constellation of Starke committee members stressed that they worked to find projects in their Regional Development Plan that would benefit different areas of the county when deciding what to do with the finalist money. Public input sessions were also held.
The commissioners commented that they do not vote on the projects. They are simply the agency through which the public hearing was facilitated. They did voice their support toward the projects. The Constellation of Starke committee members will be making the final decisions concerning the projects.
Any comments can be directed to constellationofstarke@gmail.com.
