By Louie Stout

The former dock property is back in play as a potential Michigan DNR access development near Eagle and Juno lakes.

Three weeks ago, Ontwa Township’s Board of Zoning Appeals rejected state plans to convert the 9 acres into a public access area. The plans called for boat launches onto Eagle Lake and the Juno Chain, a kids’ fishing pond, restrooms and a pavilion.

The DNR nixed the project, saying it couldn’t continue without township support.

Apparently that support has been revived, thanks to interested citizens who appealed to the township and the DNR to revamp its original layout to include playground equipment. One of the zoning board’s reasons for voting against the initial plan was because it didn’t include playground equipment.

The DNR’s revision will be presented to the Ontwa Township Planning Commission meeting Wednesday night. The public meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the township hall on U.S. 12 across from Lunker’s.

The new concept not only includes playground equipment that meets ADA (American Disabilities Act) requirements but a picnic area with grills.

DNR and township officials said they received numerous calls, letters and emails from citizens urging them to not let the project slip away despite strong resistance from lakefront property owners.

“We have been requested to modify our concept and address the zoning board’s concerns,” said DNR Project Manager Paul Yauk. “Like we said all along, we are willing to work with the township providing there is interest.”

If the DNR gets sufficient backing from the public and township officials, it will move forward with the purchase of the property from 1st Source Bank.

In other words, saving this public access project depends upon the support it receives at this meeting. If you would like to see this project developed, be there and let it be known.

Strong support from sportsmen could offset efforts from the well-organized lakefront residents who have hired attorneys to fight the first-class access and community park.

If the land is acquired, Yauk said the DNR’s first priority would be to secure the property - tear down the dilapidated building, remove slabs of concrete from the pond and improve the existing ramp. Additional developments would follow.