03/29/2024
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By Joy Warren
During the Tuesday evening regular session of the Town of White Lake Board of Commissioners meeting, Mayor Goldston Womble updated the Board on his correspondence with Senator Bill Rabon and Representative William Brisson requesting their assistance with the Town’s concerns with the water quality of the lake.  Mayor Womble requested meeting with both politicians in order to garner “their assistance and support in finding a solution that will help restore and preserve the lake’s natural beauty.” 

According to Womble, in the middle of 2013 the Town began noticing a dramatic visible discoloration in the lake’s water.  “We are deeply concerned about the negative impact the discoloration and quality of the water is having on our seasonal businesses, our permanent residents and the overall visitor experience.”  The Town staff has worked with the NC Division of Water Quality and numerous other state environmental agencies in an effort to determine what is causing the discoloration.  As of today, no answers have been provided.  White Lake is a state-owned lake; however the Town has contracted with several private companies in an effort to determine the cause and to assist in getting the problem resolved.  Womble stated “we are willing to commit our own resources but feel that help from the State is necessary for a resolution on this matter.” Womble said he has heard from Senator Rabon’s office and will schedule a time to meet with him in Raleigh.

In administrative matters, the Board approved Utility Releases ($1,226.31) and Tax Releases ($480.15); appointed Marsha deAndrade to serve on the Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustment; approved Capital Project Ordinance Budget Amendment and a 2016/17 Budget Ordinance Amendment as presented.  The Board also approved a new Longevity Schedule pay plan ($4050 increase) and addressed a one-time salary increase for a position within the Fire Department.  These changes will be effective July 1st.

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