Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan Update Team July 15, · PDF fileThe Lake Louise Comprehensive...

Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan Update Team

July 15, 2014, 6:00 - 8:00 pm

MSB Animal Care Building

Agenda

1. Welcome

2. Notes from June 18, 2014

3. Public Input

4. Draft Survey Result Discussion

5. Format for July 19, 2014 Meeting

6. Schedule Review

7. Member Comments

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ABOUT THE SURVEY

In May 2013 the Lake Louise Community Non-Profit Corporation requested assistance from the Borough to develop a Community Comprehensive Plan. In the fall of 2013, notices were sent to property owners throughout the Lake Louise planning area soliciting members for a Planning Team. The Planning Commission appointed 15 area residents to the Lake Louise Team. The Planning Team is starting to hear from a variety of subject member experts, however they know the most important voice in the planning process belongs to the residents and property owners.

The Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan Update Team requested a survey be distributed to property owners within the Lake Louise planning area to help ensure community involvement in this process. A total of 497 surveys were mailed, and 202 responses were received, for a whopping 41% return rate. The Team also requested a follow-up survey be sent to property owners once goals and recommendations were established. That survey will be mailed at some time in the future.

This summary is designed to graphically convey the responses of the survey. A full copy of the results is available online at: to be entered once survey is finalized.

Respondents had the opportunity to comment on some of the questions. Small spelling corrections have been made to the comments. Additionally, references to specific addresses and people have been deleted, as have comments which did not state any type of opinion, such as "none."

For further information, please contact Sara Jansen, Planner II, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, 907-861-7865, or [email protected].

July 3, 2014 Lake Louise, Alaska Photo by M. Butcher

mailto:[email protected]�

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GENERAL INFORMATION

QUESTION 1. ONE WHICH LAKE(S) DO YOU OWN PROPERTY?

Respondents also lived on Rendezvous, Ever Green Acres and the Tyone River.

QUESTION 2. HOW DO YOU SUPPLY POTABLE WATER TO YOUR PROPERTY?

Comments: • Use lake water for cooking &

dishes • Melt snow • Well • Sand Point and lake water

• Filter river water • Transport drinking water only.

Use lakes for dish water, shower water.

• Transport to drink. Use the lakes to wash.

• Most of the time - have used lake water

• Transport drinking water; Use the lakes for dishwashing

59.0%

36.5%

2.5% 3.0% 2.0% 0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

Lake Louise Lake Susitna Tyone Lake Dinty Lake Little Lake Louise

Property Ownership by Location

73.1%

51.3%

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

Transport it Use the lakes

How Residents Get Potable Water

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QUESTION 3. WHICH BOAT LAUNCH DO YOU USE?

QUESTION 4. WHAT DO YOU TREASURE MOST ABOUT THE LAKE LOUISE AREA?

9.0%

37.7%

21.6%

31.2%

16.1%

9.5%

3.0%

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

The Point Lodge

Dinty Lake Causeway

Lake Louise Lodge

Evergreen Lodge

State Campground

Wolverine Lodge

None

Boat Launch Use

69.0%

52.1%

38.0%

38.7%

Valued Most at the Lakes

Serenity

Natural Beauty

Hunting and Fishing

Recreational Uses

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COMMENTS REGARDING WHAT IS VALUED MOST AT THE LAKES

Snow machining An opportunity to get off the road system, without having to fly. The people you meet. Privacy Wilderness feel; unobstructed views Combination of all All of the above Relatively remote It's remoteness All of the above!!! All of the above All of the above Being undeveloped It is our home we live here and like all of the above all of the above All of the above, it's our permanent home

QUESTION 5. DO YOU FAVOR LARGE LOTS OF 3.5 ACRES OR MORE FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT?

85.4%

14.6%

Support for Limited Lot Size - 3.5 Acres

YES

NO

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QUESTION 6. WOULD YOU BE IN FAVOR OF LAKE LOUISE, LAKE SUSITNA AND LAKE TYONE BEING MANAGED BY THE ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME AS SUSTAINABLE FISH LAKES WITH A STUDY OF THE RESOURCE?

QUESTION 7. WHAT MOST ACCURATELY DESCRIBES YOUR WISHES FOR THE AREA IN THE NEXT 20 YEARS?

76.6%

23.4%

Support for Sustainable Fish Management

Yes No

83.5%

16.5%

Government Services

Borough, State, Federal support to remain at a low level

More services provided

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QUESTION 8. WHAT 3 REASONS DO YOU LIKE LEAST ABOUT LIVING IN THE LAKE LOUISE AREA?

QUESTION 9. OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS, WOULD YOU SAY THE OVERALL LIVING QUALITY OF LOUISE/SUSITNA/TYONE LAKES IS: GETTING BETTER, ABOUT THE SAME, OR GETTING WORSE

108

75

49

101

79

24

1

42

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

What don't you like about Lake Louise?

5.6%

66.0%

28.4%

Overall Living Quality in the Planning Area

Getting better About the same Getting worse

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QUESTION 10. IS WATER QUALITY A HIGH PRIORITY FOR YOU?

QUESTION 11. TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU FEEL EACH OF THE FOLLOWING TO BE A PROBLEM ON LOUISE/SUSITNA/TYONE LAKES?

87.2%

12.8%

Water Quality is a High Priority

Yes No

7% 4%

47%

30%

12%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%

Strongly Disagree Mildly Disagree Not an Issue Mildly Agree Strongly Agree

Overall water quality

6% 6%

40% 36%

12%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%


Lake water pollution

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THE CHANNEL

QUESTION 12. DO YOU USE THE CHANNEL?

7% 4%

45%

33%

11%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%


Algae growth

13% 4%

59%

19% 5%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%


Lakeshore erosion

84.4%

15.6%

Channel Use

Yes No

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QUESTION 13. IS CHANNEL BOAT TRAVEL A SAFETY CONCERN?

QUESTION 14. TO CIRCUMVENT THE CHANNEL, ARE YOU INTERESTED IN THE POSSIBILITY OF A ROAD BEING CONSTRUCTED FROM THE NORTH END OF LAKE LOUISE ROAD TO THE SOUTH END OF SUSITNA LAKE, PROVIDED THERE WOULD BE AN ADEQUATE PARKING AREA AND BOAT LAUNCH?

64.2%

35.8%

Concern for Channel Safety

Yes No

29.7%

70.3%

Support For a Road to Susitna Lake with Parking Area and Boat Launch

Yes No

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STATE LAND SALES

QUESTION 15. THERE IS A PENDING LAND SALE ON LAKE LOUISE (12 LOTS), LAKE SUSITNA (34-54 LOTS) AND DINTY LAKE (17 LOTS) BY ALASKA/DNR. THIS SALE COULD HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE. WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE:

QUESTION 16. WHAT LEVEL OF FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WOULD YOU SUPPORT?

27.7%

10.6%

41.5% 36.7%

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90

Additional public parking A new deep water public boat launch

Additional public parking AND a new deep water

public boat launch

No additional infrastructure

Community Opinions on DNR Land Sales

2.1%

22.1%

75.8%

Support for Future Development

More land sales, no additional infrastructure improvements

More land sales, with additional infrastructure improvements

No additional land sales

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COMMENTS REGARDING STATE OF ALASKA, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES LAND SALE

Land sales on Susitna make the channel more dangerous Channel traffic control Dredge the channel The increase of 50 or more boats using the channel would certainly increase traffic in an already existing dangerous situation. The channel must be a high priority for safety and navigability. Dredge channel or raise lake level. Fix the channel Solution to channel Fix the channel issue with road to Susitna Lake or deepen the channel Channel safety is a huge issue Withdraw all sale of Lake Susitna Lots until navigating the channel is easy and can be safely done all summer and fall. Resolution to channel safety issue (safe passage) Marked launch into Dinty Lake You would HAVE to improve access to Lake Susitna Require BEFORE land sale(s) Land sale postponed This is a remote area. Nothing else needed. If people want this stuff, let them stay in town. Construct the "dam" on Tyone River to regulate depth of Lakes Susitna/Louise Stop the sale No Sale Leave it alone Do not want to be like Big Lake. No Sale No land sales No more development If there is no infrastructure, maybe people will stay away No Land sale - don't make this another Big Lake No more land sales Rather see no land sale but if it has to occur... No sale A road to Lake Susitna More trash bins See question four (values serenity). If services and more infrastructure are wanted, individuals can purchase lots in a city.

POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENTS

QUESTION 17. IN YOUR OPINION, PLEASE RANK THE FOLLOWING BASED ON WHAT YOU CONSIDER THE MOST CRITICAL NEEDS OF THE LOUISE/SUSITNA/TYONE LAKES COMMUNITY?

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11% 18% 23%

48%

0%

20%

40%

60%

Not critical at all Mildly critical Moderately critical Most critical

Protect and promote the natural environment

30%

19% 15%

35%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%


Stabilize lake depth

31%

23%

14%

32%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%


Improve channel

54%

15% 12% 19%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%


Limit access to motorized vehicles

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29% 29% 25%

16%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%


Improve road

47%

24% 16%

13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%


Cleared Area for Helicopter

29% 35%

26%

11%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%


Improve water quality

67%

23%

8% 2%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%


Economic development

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QUESTION 18. DO YOU BELIEVE YOU RECEIVE SUFFICIENT SERVICES FOR THE TAXES PAID?

QUESTION 19. ARE YOU WILLING TO PAY MORE IN TAXES FOR MORE SERVICES?

30.9%

69.1%

Do you get enough service for your taxes?

Yes

No

12.8%

87.2%

More Services for More Taxes?

Yes No

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QUESTION 20. WOULD YOU BE IN FAVOR OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF A POTABLE WATER SOURCE?

QUESTION 21. WOULD YOU LIKE THE DUMPSTERS TO HAVE EASIER ACCESS?

37.8%

62.2%

Support for Potable Water Source

Yes No

36.1%

63.9%

Easier Access at the Dumpsters

Yes No

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QUESTION 22. DO YOU SUPPORT A PUBLIC GRAVEL SOURCE DESIGNATED FOR PROPERTY OWNER USE?

QUESTION 23. DO YOU SUPPORT ELECTRICITY BEING EXTENDED TO THE LAKES?

52.3%

47.7%

Support for Public Gravel Source

Yes No

40.4%

59.6%

Support for electricity to the Lakes

Yes No

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QUESTION 24. SHOULD A CAUSEWAY BETWEEN DINTY LAKE AND LAKE LOUISE HAVE A PERMANENTLY INSTALLED BRIDGE?

QUESTION 25. WHAT SHOULD THE NAME OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BE?

38.3%

61.7%

Support for Dinty Lake - Lake Louise Causeway

Yes No

25.0%

9.4%

32.8% 32.8%

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Plan Name Preference

Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan

Tri Lakes Community Comprehensive Plan

Louise/Susitna/Tyone Lakes Comprehensive Plan No Opinion

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QUESTION 26. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR IDEAS WYOU WOULD LIKE SHARE WITH THE PLANNING TEAM?

Airstrip Airstrip needs to be maintained and open. Birds, fish Remove cormanents (bird) from bird island they are depleting the lakes fish population. Causeway I support the idea of a bridge across the causeway but not if it closes off Dinty Lake from Lake

Louise. Dinty should be part of Lake Louise with water access not separated from it. Thank you for sending out this survey for comments. Other Comments: There used to be an open water channel between Dinty Lake and Lake Louise. Now it seems filled in with gravel. I get if for 3-4 wheelers but is a pain pulling boats out on Dinty Lake side to access Lake Louise and visa versa.

Channel I think the channel and water level in the lakes should be top priorities. The channel is the only access to 2 of the 3 lakes and is EXTREMELY dangerous at the speeds required for boat use. This has been our main concern for over 20 years. I own property on Lake Louise and Lake Susitna as well as on Little Lake Louise and feel that most resources go to Lake Louise due to politics. The channel should be immediately addressed.

Channel Fix the Channel NOW Channel Yes. The channel between Lake Louise and Lake Susitna is shallow and dangerous. A friend and I

witnessed a collision between two boats last summer (2013). It is only a matter of time before there is a serious accident. The present channel is an artificial channel. It should be plugged up, and a new one dug and rip-wrapped west of it with a straight view from lake to lake.

Channel Question 8. Dangerous channel conditions between Lakes Louise & Susitna. FIX THE CHANNEL either with a road around it or dredge and straighten it. Provide additional public parking at the end of existing road. More MSB boat launch into Dinty Lake - build a bridge across causeway and have boat passage under causeway to Lake Louise. Plan to the future - don't advance to the rear!

Channel The channel traffic is very unsafe and requires immediate attention. When more lots are sold and traffic increases it will be critical. Four boats were stuck in the channel on June 8, 2014 at the same time with approx 25 people around the site! Someone will get critically injured if this is not resolved soon.

Channel Despite using the radio and extreme caution, we have had 2 near misses at the channel. Sooner or later there will be a serious accident with injuries or death.

Channel On Sect 3, Question #14 you asked about a road as if that is the only option. We need a reasonable traffic control system and adequate water depth.

Channel Maintenance of the channel for safer travel needs to be addressed. Channel; 4 wheelers

The system for the channel is better but you can't assume all small water craft have a radio and not everyone is respecting the time period for traveling it. I don't have any solutions. I just know it is not where I want to go when there is heavy boat traffic. Additional comments: Don't like - non sanctioned 4 wheel trails/4 wheelers trespassing on private property. Some sort of education for the lack of respect for hunters and subsistence hunters. It is not a time for fireworks disposal and target practice.

Channel; lake stability

Put in a bridge at the channel between Lake Louise and Dinty Lake. Put in a weir/dam at the first low spot on Tyone River - with ramp and hand winch to lift boats. Seebees will do it for free. Make channel between Lake Louise and Susitna Lake smaller. These things will keep the static water level in all the lakes constant.

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Channel; roads

Section 3, Question 4 - I would prefer a plan to stabilize water levels over the road & launch on Susitna. Also would prefer a channel improvement/enhancement over a road & launch. If neither can be accomplished then road & launch could be an alternative.

Development Maintain status quo - no additional so called improvements. The lake area was a lot better, more inviting 20+ years ago. Does not need to become a Big Lake type community. Have spent many years at Lake Susitna and have not seen any bad accidents in the channel - although there have been accidents. I feel the excess concerns expressed by some is not justified.

Development I own three lots on Lake Louise and two I bought in order to keep people from building on them. I go to the lake for peace and quiet. If I wanted more development I would stay home or buy a lot on Big Lake. Most of the people on Lake Louise feel the same. A few loud voices want power and more roads but most don't. There will be 3 lots for sale if those things occur.

Development Please, no more development! Also, how about future survey questions on the impact of personal watercraft (jet skis) on the user experience? This form of recreation needs to be addressed sooner rather later. If we wanted to live in Big Lake, that's where we would live. This is NOT Big Lake and we (all) like it that way. Preserve the peace, preserve the experience. Thank you.

Development Q#8: I least like: 1)trespassers, 2)litter, 3)noise. My concern for more public access, services, development, infrastructure comes from my desire for quiet, remote privacy...I can still get myself to the existing infrastructure. To repeat a trite phrase, "please not another Big Lake!"

Development I choose to own property on Lake Louise because it is more remote and therefore more quiet than other lake properties closer to Anchorage, like Big Lake or Nancy Lake. I don't mind being in the Borough and I don't mind paying taxes for limited services, however, I am NOT in favor of any additional services. Being self-sufficient is part of the draw and the charm of living in the area. I am specifically NOT in favor of extending the road to Lake Susitna. Again, being off the road system was one of the things that drew me to the Lake in the first place. If I wanted road access, electricity, crowds etc., I would have purchased land on Big Lake. Thank you for your consideration.

Development Try to maintain the wilderness aspect of the region by avoiding too many improvements.

Development In 1986 I decided to buy a lake lot. Not wanting to be in a place as developed or congested as one would find at Big Lake or a similar location, I chose Lake Susitna for its qualities of semi-remoteness, serenity and natural setting. The nice thing about the channel is it provides a bit of a barrier that enhances the qualities I look for in a site. Even though Lake Louise is busier the channel keeps Lake Susitna quieter. With the considerable land sales in recent years, I’m sure at least some of the new purchasers do not embrace or prioritize living qualities the same way I do. However, did they purchase land with the impression that things could be changed to accommodate the things they value? The questions in this survey seem to suggest there is a move or at least consideration is being given to providing infrastructure that would drastically change the living experience on the lakes. Things like a road to Susitna, expanded public parking, potable water source, public gravel source, a helicopter-landing site and electrical service suggest a lake experience similar to Big Lake. There has to be room in our great state for lake use by people that embrace a more Spartan life style. A life style that can endure a few inconveniences to embrace the beauty and peace that Alaska can afford. Yes, the State is putting pressure on the resource by selling additional lots. I feel the response is not to overreact by establishing a comprehensive plan that embraces development but instead embraces a set of values reflective of conservation and a serene life style. A living standard, that for the most part continues to exist, and one that many of us purchased sites to enjoy. There is no going back from development, so I hope the line is held now. There are lots of Big Lake lots for sale for those who prioritize the modern conveniences highly.

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Development If I wanted to have all of the amenities of a city I would have bought a lot in town.

Development No more rules Development Most people come to their cabin for a temporary escape from the noise and complications of

urban living and enjoy activities that can only be found on the fringes of the wilderness. If we drag the trappings of an organized and heavily governed society with us to the lakes we will end up with a larger version of Big Lake and will lose the uniqueness of the area. One more part of "old" Alaska lost forever.

Development Please don't over develop this lake system for the sake of tax revenue for the Borough! You already have one Big Lake - we don't need another one. Make sure the lake system can handle more sales which now it can't. Also whoever manages these grants for this area maybe needs to take a real close look at how some of these have been used! We all pay taxes here - not just a small number of people who have controlled this place for years.

Development I would hate to see the "Tri Lakes Community" become another Big Lake. Growing up the area seemed isolated from the rest of the world and I would like my children to experience the same. Thank you.

Development Question 16. Pretty soon it is going to become like Big Lake. Question 26. Our family has owned land and used Lake Susitna since the 1950s. You need to protect and preserve what we have - it is fast becoming a "Big Lake" mess.

Development Less development, let mother nature do her thing. If land does come up for sale I think existing land owners should get first opportunity to purchase lots next to them.

Dinty Lake Because of the public launch into Lake Louise at the causeway, landowners on Dinty Lake may not be able to because parked vehicles block the launch into Dinty lake.

Electric Support from the Mat-Su Borough for electricity is imperative. With the continued expense of diesel and associated costs for the lodges to keep their doors open for our community, serious efforts for electricity is a necessity for our local community.

Electric Electricity to the lodges is important and to lots ideal. Fishing I would like the fishing to be improved with stocking of rainbow trout and grayling. Fishing I realize we need regulations but they should make a little sense. The regulations for fishing

burbot is a joke. If Fish & Game thinks the burbot are becoming extinct, they need another study.

General Good Luck! General Keep it simple. General When does plan start General I support the transfer of state lands into private ownership and think everyone should have the

opportunity to own remote property. But, I think that it should be done responsibly, and that isn't the case with offering ADL 231196. The existing infrastructure within the community is already challenged. We need additional public parking, a deep water boat launch, mooring and a safe way to access those lakes north of Lake Louise. Selling additional properties without addressing and correcting these deficiencies is unconscionable. These problem safety issues have been identified to the LLCNPC, MSB, DNR and DOT with little action or even proposed resolutions. This plan affords us an opportunity to correct these deficiencies with the systematic development of needed infrastructure for the community over the next 20 years. The comprehensive plan should recommend a planning group composed of local residents, MSB, DNR, DOT and State Parks to resolve infrastructure issues. As of now, no coordination exists among these entities. This is a multifaceted community of a few full time residents and many part-time residents facing numerous diverse issues affecting its future growth.

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General Planning is great, but comprehensive plans are only good if they carry some weight. Since the last comprehensive plan recommended no additional land sales and was completely ignored by the State, we are a bit skeptical of this effort. Other comments: Do not like - increasing use of personal watercraft

Government The Borough is not capable of fixing problems. Government force is not the answer. The Borough can't even do a good job of the limited services they provide now. Do not give them more excuses to raise taxes. Let's get out of the Borough! Wondered "what is the driver behind this loaded question" in regards to is water quality a high priority for you?

Government Get Lake Louise Non Profit Corporation out of Lake Louise and get Lake Louise out of the Mat Su Borough !!!!

Government Abandon the LLC, let the Mat-Su Borough be in charge of all government. Government GET OUT OF THE BOROUGH! PAYING $800 IN TAXES FOR DUMPSTERS AND A SECOND HAND

AMBULANCE. Government There are impacts from user groups like visitors and out of the borough cabin residents that

directly affect the borough residents. They use the parking lots, launches, and dumpsters as well as camping on the ice and water. Can the borough raise the awareness of these users and seek solutions to their impacts without using resident property taxes?

Government Like to remove the area from under the Mat-Su Borough. Human Waste Human waste disposal needs to be addressed as there is no place to dump it. Infrastructure More disabled access and facilities.

Lake Depth Lake depth needs to be stabilized. Over the past 50+ years silt has made many properties virtually unreachable in the Fall due to silt and seasonal water depth reduction. I would like to see a dredging program developed to remove silt from marginal areas.

Land Sales No more land sales by the state until the lake levels are stabilized. Land Sales Yes. We obtained our 5 acres on Blueberry Bay in the 1983 State land disposal. We built our

cabin in 1985 and have used it ever since - primarily in summer. We have observed many folks buying their lake lot, scrambling to build a cabin, and then not using it after a few years. The lakeshore is crowded now with unused and dilapidated cabins. We don't need any more state (or borough) land sales. There are plenty of lots and cabins already on the market. If anything, the MSB should use its remaining state land entitlement to purchase some lots (undeveloped) on the lakes for public access.

Land Sales; infrastructure

I'm afraid the land sales and more infrastructure will over populate Lake Louise and change what is so great about the Lake - serenity and peaceful get away from large crowds. Having more public parking however, would be nice to help keep weekenders from going through or parking on private property.

Launch Areas Dinty Lake causeway determination should be made by property owners; with foreclosure of Evergreen Lodge being challenged at AK Supreme Court, adequate launch is questionable - deeper launch at existing public launch would be very helpful.

Launch Areas Boat launch needs extended Launch Areas Other Comments: Extend concrete on boat launch.

More Parking. Lodge Need Wolverine Lodge reopened. Mixed 1. Increase in channel traffic with 34-54 lots being sold!!! If these lots have to go out for sale, do

them in very small numbers. All lots on Susitna and Tyone should include information on a very shallow channel that can be difficult to navigate in BOLD print. 2. Dumpsters at Dinty Bush are fine - they just need to be emptied more often! That is our only issue with taxes - better garbage management. 3. Can any of these meetings be attended by teleconference? This really should be set up with

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an 800 number and advertised to all of us who do not live in the Mat-Su Borough. 4. Perhaps no land bidding/sales should be put on the market until there is more parking. The parking situation is becoming more critical with the shutdown of the two lodges. Thank you for putting together this survey. We appreciate being able to give input.

Mixed Other Comments: No more taxes! Too much now for what the Borough offers. Trash containers should be emptied more often. Four Wheelers ruining the walking trails that once provided a wonderful hiking experience to access our cabin, now ruts knee deep.

Mixed Other comments: Re Question 8 - what do you like least about living at Lake Louise: officials selling too many lots - hinders lot owners from selling theirs. Don't like - 4 wheelers using once wonderful hiking trail into cabin which left trail with knee deep ruts full of water which ruined the walking trails. Four wheelers should have their own trails prepared by users. Dumpsters - empty more often.

Mixed Do not want the area to be another Big Lake. Limit jet skis to certain hours of use and limit their use to Lake Louise only. Due to vehicle damage and cabin break-ins, as well as theft, create a community patrol to observe the end of Lake Louise Road parking area, as well as the Evergreen Lodge and cabins in the surrounding area.


Mixed Other Comments: Water quality - fine as is. For land sales - add rock to boat launch and more parking. Re lake depth - let nature take its course. Electricity - only to area served by road.

Mixed Question 6. Yes, with some concern as to how ADF&G defines "sustainable" and the actions that requires. Question 7. With improvements to existing services as technology provides the opportunity. Would not like the area to end up like Big Lake or Nancy Lake! Question 8. Boat launch (public) facilities. Local politics to include the Borough and the State. Especially on issues like future land sales. More local property owners and residents need to be involved, but for that to happen it is important they know they can make a difference. Question 9. Am concerned it has the potential for getting worse, more so than improving. Question 16. With some hesitation as to the number of lots offered, lot sizes, and the quality/functionality of lake shore access (water depth & vegetation) immediately adjacent to the properties. Question 17. Limited access to motorized vehicles - depends on restrictions that are enforced. Question 18. No. Don't really know exactly what services borough is SUPPOSED to provide. When looking at borough boundary map, I find it curious as to how the boundary was drawn to include the 3 major lakes. First impression is to use it as a tax base but without providing commensurate services. Especially when considering what the State provides, i.e. the road and campground. Question 19. Yes. Maybe, depending on what's offered in additional services compared to what we should be receiving now. Question 20. No. If the water quality of the lakes is protected. Question 21. Yes. I like the word "better" and that they be emptied more regularly during peak season use and the area be cleaned up. Question 22. No. How would the gravel be delivered to lots around Susitna for example. Seems like "pie in the sky" without think thru. Question 23. Yes. On a limited basis. To the lodges (if they would want it), campgrounds, airport and boat launch sites. Not practical at the point to serve lots around the lakes.

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Mixed Do not want the area to be another Big Lake. Limit jet skis to certain hours of use and limit their use to Lake Louise only. Due to vehicle damage and cabin break-ins, as well as theft, create a community patrol to observe the end of Lake Louise Road parking area, as well as the Evergreen Lodge and cabins in the surrounding area.

Mixed Other comments: Not sure about road to Lake Susitna - need more details. Willing to pay more taxes - depends on services.

Mixed Other Comments: Water quality - fine as is. For land sales - add rock to boat launch and more parking. Re lake depth - let nature take its course. Electricity - only to area served by road.

Mixed We have had a cabin on Lake Louise in Camron Cove since 1975 and have seen a lot changes in the last 39 years. We realize nothing stays the same and believe me it hasn't. The pending land sale is not good for the lake system. It only benefits the Borough and the lodges. It's nice to go through the channel into Susitna. It's a whole different world compared to L. Louise. Let's not screw that up with scores of new cabins and new infrastructure. Public land can be used by all and no new infrastructure is needed. Also the constant bickering and personal attacks on each other in the LLCNPC are on the edge of pathetic. It only serves to divide the community and it is. Each year it seems to get worse. On the fire/rescue boat we would prefer the boat was owned and operated by the new VPD. The LLCNPC is not capable of executing a fire/rescue mission. They need to help the new VPD operate efficiently, not obstruct it. We feel the boat could be an important asset to public safety on the lake system but does no one any good sitting on the trailer at the public safety building. Additional comments: We favor no future development. Catch and release for fish between 24" and 34". Current (system at channel) on the half hour works well. No land sale. Less taxes.

Mixed Other comments: Really nothing to dislike about Lake Louise. Dredge the channel. Not really sure about a potable water source.

Mixed Keep lot size big. Don't subdivide less than 3-4 acres. Other comments: access to dumpsters is fine - they are just always full. Support causeway between Dinty Lake and Lake Louise if boats can pass under safely.

Mixed Other Comments: Need more info on what managed means - i.e. stocked fish? There are too many rumors and not enough hard facts. Dumpster area is not being maintained.

Mixed I thought there would be questions on importance of safety issues such as medical emergency services available and their continuation (training, etc). Same with fire fighting. Other comments: No mechanic or facilitate repair boats, snowmachines, etc. Don't know enough about what it would mean if ADF&G managed the lakes as sustainable fishing resource regarding other uses. Think things are getting better if the volunteer medical search & rescue and fire fighting can be maintained. Re road to Lake Susitna: depends on original cost, ownership, feds, state, borough and maintenance costs. I am not interested if it increases taxes. Without trying to be defensive, are the owners on Susitna, Tyone willing to establish a service district in their area? No additional land sales until additional infrastructure is provided - the existing owners do not have adequate parking, storage, etc. let alone the visitors. Due to efforts of past volunteers and cooperation of Borough under previous manager - don't know how new players will work out - not very good so far - re receiving sufficient services for taxes paid; support either Tri Lakes, or Louise/Susitna/Tyone Lakes Comprehensive Plan name.

Mixed Other Comments: I would offer a dedicated spot for a helicopter rescue landing.

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Mixed Be changed to the "Lakes" Community Comprehensive Plan. If Power comes to the Lake, PLEASE implement a policy of buried lines. Keep the beauty of the area and less maintenance in the long run. We will all benefit. Thank you. As far as the revenue sharing grant funds go - the potable water community well would be wonderful!! The "Lakes Borough" encompassing the 3 lakes and more and Crosswind, would best represent the present population. It's not about the taxes! It's about representing the resident's chosen life style (re not liking being in the Mat-Su Borough). Only if no viable solution to the safety issue is proposed. Personally, too many recreational boaters have no VHF radios. I know the "boat in channel" calls are not heard by all travelers. For safety's sakes, the road may be an option to reduce residents need to "boat the channel." Remove Lake Louise Road pavement and go back to compacted gravel - not as icy in the winter. And just grade once in the spring.

Mixed I don't believe we have the power to change it (sustainable fish lake). My option would be to have new management for ADFG in this area. Don't dislike anything. Someone will be hurt or killed the way it is (re channel safety). It would take 10 years (to build a road). We have seen substantial increase in taxes on Lake Susitna property. We have not seen comparable increase in services. The first house was 580 sq. ft. on a 2.5 acre lot. the second house has 880 sq.ft. on a 4.1 A lot. The second house has 1A of swamp land.

Mixed I would like to see the Comp Plan be as generic as possible. I mean no implication that the Lake Louise Non-Profit is controlling our destiny. It is possible a community council will be formed or other services and organizations developed out here that do not currently exist. Personal agendas must be put under control. The good of the over-all community must come first. When you purchase property out here, you must live with the good and the bad of that property. Expecting the community or government agencies to fix things or conditions that you put yourself into is selfish. I know the Comp Plan was opened for revision because of a single personal agenda. It is a shame that this is allowed to happen. I also don't appreciate your group change in the name of the Matthews Building to the multi-purpose building without notifying anyone.

Mixed No land sales! Public Use State owned rental cabins. The channel is not a safety concern if everyone uses the same system, (?) passage, radio call - going through channel and which direction.

Mixed What is all this crap about the Lake Louise Non Profit, and a boat in the Comprehensive Plan? How did that get in there. There is absolutely no reason for the Lake Louise Non-Profit to exist. They do not represent the interests of the people that live at the Lake area. Only the interests of the town people that come to the area on occasional weekends. This area should be represented by a proper Community Council of residents.

Mixed Other Comments: I would offer a dedicated spot for a helicopter rescue landing.

Mixed Biggest issue is channel safety and function. Road & parking facilities are currently inadequate. Enjoy services provided by lodges, support further economic development. Support of snow machine club is recommended. Suggest Western Ahtna Lakes Comprehensive plan as new name.

Mixed 1. Dredge Susitna at South end. 2. Create a causeway on Lake Louise side made of sand ground cloth, sand cover. 3. Fishing - drop some lake trout in as more are taken now within house growth. 4. Same with grayling.

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Mixed Question 5: I don't favor future development. Question 6: The last time the F&G studied the burbot stocks in the Lake Louise area in the early 1990s they killed hundreds of burbot by long lining the species. They stayed at the Wolverine. I looked in their boat and saw dead burbot, then they changed the regs and closed it to burbot fishing. Question 14. A strong NO. Loss of business to Lake Louise lodges. Only non-residents will benefit by accessing wild game populations, posing a greater threat of forest fires, dust pollution, cabin break-ins, and trash disposal, all threats of non-residents using the road extension. Question 26. If development continues to progress in our area we will lose the reason we all cherish about living and using our area for our recreation needs. 1. A road extension to the channel will only benefit a very few that have cabins there, until DNR sells off more and more lots over time. In twenty years from now every lot on all three lakes will be in private ownership. The end result will be so much development will occur, that our area will look like Big Lake or Wasilla Lake looks like today. The Borough will not shoulder the cost of a road extension themselves, every property owner on all three lake's will see huge tax increases on there properties to pay for road. With more recreationalists that are not property owners they will rape the land and its resources. Our lands will be threatened by forest fires, our wild game will disappear, and crime that doesn't exist now, will because as development increases so will the harm that will one with it. The lodges on Lake Louise will lose business, because those land owners on Susitna and Tyone will have their own lodges in place, and with a road extension they will no longer need the lodge services that are now provided on Lake Louise. I strongly feel that as more development occurs our way of life on the three lakes is greatly threatened and this is not what I look forward to.

Mixed Question 8. At Dinty Lake boat launch needs better parking area. Question 13. The channel should be dug out so its deeper water so everyone can get through on step with a marked area. Question 15. The boat launch at Dinty Lake is great. Just need more parking area. Question 18. If the parking area at Dinty Lake was better & free parking then, yes. Question 21. They have great access at Dintys.

Mixed With the country's failing economics, and down turn in the Copper River Basin in the last several years, trying to squeeze another tax dollar out of this community is truly unrealistic, the numbers continue to fall that live there. Soon there will be no infrastructure for 6 to 7 months a year. Soon no lodges will be operating that can make enough money to warrant being open. The money that went into building a new runway was a waste of tax dollars, it should have been used to adequately rebuild the road to a good standard, that might have helped bring in more infrastructure...more parking could have been added at Dinty/Louise intersection. The fishing is being over fished and not managed because of lack of ADFG, and FWS officers, hire a community officer, in charge of search rescue, fire, fire alert, radio communications, road conditions, water safety, state park, and other duties, pay him/her annual salary, that benefits everyone in case of emergency, or reporting incidences, build a room in the new fire hall for the LLC officer to live in...

Mixed I would like to maintain powerboat and snowmachine access to the lakes, but regulate non-travel power usages such as water skiing; zipping around & around on boats or small water craft and snow machines which disturb the peace & quiet of the area and causes unnecessary danger. I also propose no-wake zones in swan nesting areas, such as the coves on Tyone Lake. I am also concerned about camping that allows campfires in places without adequate fire pits. Question 14 - Put it just on the other side (Susitna end) of the channel, or not.

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Mixed 1) Land sales should be permitted on the road system only. 2) This survey should be for property owners only. 3) There should be a question regarding what we can do to protect our water quality. 4) Question number 18 should tell us what services the MSB currently provide (i.e., dumpsters, boat launch, etc) for the existing tax base now. 5) Some of the above questions are too generic and do not give enough information as to what the question implies. More detail should be provided on the questions. 6) There needs to be a question regarding the area becoming a Special Use Area. It's clear that is the NSB's goal and it will raise taxes so that should be identified.

Mixed Dumpsters not emptied enough. Don't like State land sales continuing Too crowded (compare to 40-50 years ago!) Re: road to Lake Susitna - You know property owners along the road or benefiting from it - would love it and most other tax payers would resent it. A road will further reduce the quality of area.

Mixed Lake Louise area should be maintained/preserved "as is" with as little human intervention as possible. How about human waste disposal for people who have homes around the Lakes?

Mixed Do not increase population or infrastructure, sell more land or provide more services. Remove us from the Mat-Su Borough and leave us alone.

Mixed; Like As Is

I like living at Lake Louise. I enjoy the beauty and the relative remoteness but still easily accessible by boat or snow machine. The Lake Louise Road is worse since paving - bring back the gravel road. Water quality is good - be us water quality is maintained. Channel crossing is safe with present schedule but could become less safe if more lots sold on Susitna with increased boat traffic. We prefer to try to be self sufficient and do not want any increased services or infrastructure. We DO NOT WANT another BIG LAKE atmosphere or anything close. Also we do not want "subsistence" fishermen from out of the area using nets and (?) a large by catch of lake trout.

Motorized vehicles

Lake Louise/Susitna/Tyone is unique in that it is a road accessible lake system that has still retained its wilderness flavor. I fear that the emphasis on more activity will change the wild aspects of this ecosystem into just another Big Lake or Lake Wasilla. There are many lakes in Alaska that are road accessible and offer ample opportunity for jet skies and motor boats and high impact/noise recreating. I am not trying to put a halt to change. The 25 years we have owned our cabin we have witnessed large increase in activity, especially with the snow machines in winter. I can accept this change but I fear that in the process of accelerating along this path of high use, we will lose a far more rare and valuable character which is the feel of the wilds.

Name If the community name is changed then the emergency services station should have same name like, Tri-lakes Emergency Services Station".

Name The Comp Plan title should be based on what the LLCNPC uses for a name. I support continued and possibly additional fire protection for the cabins.

No change Leave the lakes alone. No change STOP NOW!

More development leads to more people. More people leads to more development. Before you know it another piece of the real Alaska we all love will be gone forever. Try to imagine: More ATVs and trails going everywhere. More cabins being broken into. More theft.

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More water pollution. More trash in the woods & along the road. More taking of illegal fish & game. More wild fires. More of all the things we do not want or need. STOP NOW before its just another memory.

No change No change needed. Leave the area the way it is! No change Please don't change the area. It's one of the last remaining places in the state that is still wild &

beautiful. I feel any plans to try to improve the area will only take that away. I DO NOT support any of this and will sell and move away never to return!

Roads In #8, I listed a third choice as other. The other should be the poor road to the lake. It needs to be a much better road that will with stand winter heaves & traffic.

Roads A road around the East End of the lake would be nice. Roads; gravel No road to Susitna.

Other comment: Re public gravel source - who could ever make use of it? Roads; land sales

I would support a road to Susitna only if there was going to be a "SECURE" area for us to leave our vehicles. Unlike the causeway which always has theft problems. Please, No More land sales. DO NOT want it to become "Big Lake." Land sales on Susitna will only bring more channel traffic.

Survey Many of these questions are difficult to answer in a meaningful way. "Would you support X" can't be answered unless one knows at what cost and the consequences to other linked issues.

Thanks Thank you for taking the time and effort to put together this survey. Theft Better state patrolling for vandals. Trails Fixing trail Lake Louise Lodge to Cameron Cove should be considered. Trails I own a North Shore of Lake Louise cabin. Since my husband died, I am unable to use my cabin

unless a family member can boat me to the site. I would love a road extension to the channel. Once that is completed, a trail along the back of the North shore properties would be great. Just a cleared trail or something to get a 4 wheeler down. State land abuts these properties, so a trail or path shouldn't be a problem.

Trails Develop a winter trail to the Denali Highway. Get the DNR to work with area clubs to create permanent access to trails in the area.

Trash The dumpster is a BIG problem. It's filthy and hard to access. Steps are never shoveled in the winter. The area snow not grow so much - the quality of life we have is compromised.

Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan Update Team July 15, · PDF fileThe Lake Louise Comprehensive...

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Transcript of Lake Louise Comprehensive Plan Update Team July 15, · PDF fileThe Lake Louise Comprehensive...