TOWN OF LAKEVIEW
Message from Mayor O’Brien on behalf of the Town Council
Re: Proposed Water Ordinance and Upcoming Public Meeting – (PDF)
The Town Council wishes to clarify the purpose of tomorrow’s public meeting and address concerns that have been expressed regarding the proposed Water Ordinance.
Tomorrow’s meeting is not a meeting at which the proposed Water Ordinance will be adopted.
The presentation of the draft ordinance was always intended to begin a public process, not to conclude one. The Council has not predetermined the outcome, and no decision to adopt the ordinance will be made tomorrow.
The consideration of any ordinance is subject to established legal procedures, including the applicable requirements for Council readings, public notice and opportunities for public participation. Tomorrow’s meeting is part of that process and is intended to provide an opportunity for residents to, express their views and concerns before any decision is made.
The Council has already had constructive conversations with a number of respected and engaged members of our community. We appreciate those who have taken the time to discuss the proposal directly, ask questions and offer considered and constructive feedback.
We also recognize that the proposed ordinance has generated considerable discussion on social media. We respect the right of every resident to express an opinion, including criticism of the Town and its appointed representatives. However, the Council’s responsibility is to consider the facts, its legal obligations, the operational needs of the Town and the community.
The Council is also considering whether tomorrow’s meeting would be better conducted as a public listening session rather than a formal hearing and may consider cancelling the public hearing in order to collect more public input before we engage in the public hearing process. The final meeting format will be confirmed by the Town Council at the outset of the official meeting.
Given the significant public interest and anticipated attendance, the Town has changed the meeting on Tuesday, November 10th to the Lake County Fairgrounds (Exhibit Building) to accommodate public participation.
We welcome and encourage residents to attend, ask questions and share their views. Public participation is an important part of responsible local government, and the Council remains committed to a transparent, respectful and orderly process.