Lake Neepaulin open for use

WANTAGE — The Wantage Township Committee unanimously introduced the Lake Neepaulin Use Rules at their June 11 meeting. The second reading and final passage will be at their next meeting, June 25.

Five people from the public spoke before and six spoke after the introduction.

Ann Smulewicz brought up concerns regarding the alleged septic that runs into the lake.

Robert Blair said that Wantage should move forward, and “Put the past behind us.”

Lake for allMayor Bill Gaechter said that the Committee agreed with almost all of the the Recreation Recommendations except the Committee thought swimming should be allowed.

Gaechter also said one of the main concerns regarding swimming was liability. After speaking with their attorney, the Committee found that liability at Lake Neepaulin would be no more than someone playing football at Woodburne Park.

“Swim at your own risk,” and “No life guard signs,” will be posted.

He also said that boating will be free due to the NJSA 2A:42, where the township would lose protections if they charge a fee.

Deputy Mayor Ron Bassani concluded that previous Committees co-signed a loan with FOLN (Friends of Lake Neepaulin) in an effort to salvage Lake Neepaulin.

He said the current Committee's goal is to utilize the lake for all of Wantage Township. He also explained that the increased taxes are to pay off a bond which was decided years ago by a previous Committee.

Tom Jable of FOLN commended the governing body. He also agreed with Blair that they needed to go beyond this and make the lake best for all of Wantage Township.

ResponseSussex-Wantage School Board member Robert Heiden said that the Committee's decision would revitalize a heavily populated area of the community. He pointed to his son saying, “This little guy can't wait for his opportunity to throw a line into the lake and get wet on a hot day.

Kathy Gorman asked who will enforce the rules.

Administrator James Doherty said the constable or state police.

Peter Johr spoke of the Wurtsboro Hills Lake in New York which could not afford to build their $1 million dam. Most of the homes were reverted back to the Township.

“This is what could have happened [to Lake Neepaulin]," he said.

Smulewicz countered that Wurtsboro is not Sussex County; it was always a depressed area.

She continued, “We have our own extremely serious issues: 9,600 properties are in foreclosure in Sussex County.”