Call to Order

The Annual Meeting of the Emerald Sylvan Lake Association (ESLA) was called to order by the President. Members were welcomed, those lost during the past year were recognized, and new property owners were welcomed to the Association.

 

Approval of Agenda

The meeting agenda was presented and approved by the membership.

 

Approval of 2025 Annual Meeting Minutes

A summary of the 2025 Annual Meeting minutes was presented. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes as presented. Motion carried.

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Committee Reports

 

Treasurer's Report

Sue Korzinek presented the Association's financial report.

• Beginning balance entering 2026: approximately $57,889

• Membership dues collections are currently approximately 74%

• The proposed 2026 operating budget totaled approximately $31,000, reflecting increased lake treatment and miscellaneous expenses.

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Following discussion, a motion was made and seconded to approve the 2026 budget. Motion carried.

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Lakes - Weeds & Water Quality

Bill Weatherhead presented the annual lake weed & water quality report.

Topics included:

• Water quality testing indicated both Emerald and Sylvan Lakes continue to have excellent overall water quality with healthy dissolved oxygen levels.

• Eurasian Water Milfoil and Curly Leaf Pondweed were identified during lake surveys and treated by PLM.

• Additional invasive species surveys are scheduled throughout the summer.

• Members were encouraged to practice good shoreline stewardship and reduce runoff into the lakes.

• Wake boats and sediment disturbance were discussed, along with current Michigan DNR recommendations for safe operation.

 

Lakes - Fish & Wildlife 

Laura Pacifici provided the fish & wildlife report.

Highlights included:

• Twenty-five goose eggs were harvested during the spring management program.

• Carp management efforts continued, including deployment of seine nets during spawning season.

• A more aggressive carp removal program is planned next spring.

• Plans are underway for a community fishing contest and bow fishing event.

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Roads & Bridges 

Jeff Parks reviewed road maintenance activities and provided a final report on the bridge replacement project.

Discussion included:

• The bridge project was completed successfully.

• Final project costs exceeded the original estimate by approximately $5,600 but remained fully funded through donations.

• Approximately $4,000 remains available following project completion.

• A proposal was approved to establish a dedicated Bridge Fund using the remaining balance, with annual contributions of $1,000 for future bridge maintenance and emergency repairs.

• Additional discussion occurred regarding possible improvements to the Outing Drive entrance island.

 

Safety Committee

Jay Graham discussed several community safety initiatives, including:

• Wake boat education and distribution of Michigan DNR recommendations.

• Posting wake boat maps at community kiosks and including them in future newsletters.

• Potential installation of no-wake buoys near the creek opening.

• Research into placement of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the community.

• Continued concerns regarding speeding, golf cart safety, and educating renters and guests on lake rules.

• Discussion regarding speed bumps versus speed humps and other traffic-calming alternatives. No formal action was taken.

• Action Items Suggested for board:

  • Ensure community is educated on wake boarding with maps in kiosks and distributed to wake boat owners​

 

Bylaws Committee

Kevin Self announced the relaunch of the Bylaws Review Committee.  He invited interested members to participate in reviewing and updating the Association's governing documents.

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Special Presentation from Michigan Lakes & Streams Association

Melissa DeSimone from the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association presented information regarding shoreline stewardship and lake protection.

Topics included:

• Benefits of native shoreline vegetation.

• Reducing fertilizer and pesticide use.

• Managing stormwater runoff.

• Protecting long-term water quality through responsible shoreline practices.

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Wake Boat Legislation Update

An update was provided regarding proposed Michigan wake boat legislation and current Michigan DNR recommendations.

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The Board encouraged residents to follow existing DNR guidance while monitoring future legislative developments.

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DTE Natural Gas Project

Kevin Vaughn from DTE presented information regarding the proposed natural gas expansion project.

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Topics included:

• Planned installation process.

• Easement requirements.

• Customer connection options and associated costs.

• Estimated construction timeline.

• Opportunities for residents to ask questions throughout the project.

• Kevin will be visiting the lakes soon to get more signatures as he is a notary.

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Oak Leaf Club

Louisa Self shared information regarding upcoming community events, including Fourth of July activities and the Bridge Celebration. Appreciation was expressed to volunteers and event organizers.

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Board Elections

The terms of three Board members—Tim Piccard, Kevin Self, and Jay Graham—are expiring this year. Kevin Self is seeking re-election, while Tim Piccard and Jay Graham have chosen not to run for another term.

Luke Sheridan of Sylvan Lake has been nominated to serve on the Board.

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To encourage additional participation, the nomination period will remain open until July 15. We welcome nominations for the remaining available Board positions.

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New Business

Additional discussion included:

• Continuing invasive species monitoring.

• Fish population concerns.

• Community education regarding wake boats and boating safety.

• Distribution of updated safety information.

• Ongoing communication with residents regarding DTE construction activities.

• Research and provide recommendations to control speed around the lakes.  Look at speed signs, speed bumps, and encourage individuals to speak up when they see issues.

• Ensure community is educated on wake boarding with maps in kiosks and in future newsletters and/or emails.

 

Adjournment

There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded to adjourn the Annual Meeting. Motion carried.