WATERBURY ASSOCIATION
of Indian Lake, Ohio
Advocacy
Waterbury Association Neighborhood Watch Program
March 2014
We are now a registered as part of the National Neighborhood Watch Program through USAonWatch. Please take the time to read the manual and sign up.
USAonWatch® empowers citizens to become active in community efforts through participation in Neighborhood Watch groups. The goal of the site is to provide information, technical support and resources to local law enforcement agencies and citizens. Since 1972, the USAonWatch-Neighborhood Watch Program (housed within the National Sheriffs’ Association) has worked to unite law enforcement agencies, private organizations, and individual citizens in a nation-wide effort to reduce crime and improve local communities.
USAonWatch Manual
Home Security Inspection Checklist
Personal Property Identification Record
NSA Business Watch Implemetation Guide
Youth: Watch Out, Speak Out, Stand Out
Ohio Certified Backyards for Wildlife Site
Since 1997, Waterbury has been the home of an Ohio Certified Backyards for Wildlife Site. This program was developed to educate and encourage the development of backyard habitats that provide food, water and shelter for native species. See publication 396 Backyard Urban Management for Wildlife
The certified lakefront site in Waterbury provides access to water in addition to several traditional birdbaths. Native perennial plants such as purple cone flower and black-eyed Susan's provide summer nectar and winter seed heads for food along with traditional seed, corn and suet feeders. Finally, ornamental grasses and shrubs along with bird and butterfly boxes provide housing and cover. See publication 37 Attracting Birds in Ohio
However, the Waterbury area is also host to nuisance species such as raccoons. While cute, these destructive creatures also carry the deadly roundworm in alarming numbers. According to OSU Fact Sheet, "Infection rates from populations in the Midwest and northeast can be as high as 68–82%, and infection rates of young raccoons by B. procyonis can be over 90%." We encourage every member to protect their family and pets by discouraging the over population of wildlife. Univited House Guests publication 83 is a ODNR Division of Wildlife brochure covers things you can do to protect your family, property and pets.
Waterbury Dock Anglers
Waterbury anglers enjoy some of the best off the dock fishing opportunities for Channel Cats and other game fish.
Our main activity is "Rock the Dock" online fishing tournament with a place for photos and bragging rights. We also share tips and tricks for bigger and better catches. Pro, novice and youth, all anglers are welcome.
We also are seeking information on those that create artificial fish habitats under their docks and overall effectiveness in Indian Lake. See OSU Fact Sheet: Placing Artificial Fish Attractors in Ponds and Reservoirs.
The Waterbury Association is working with the Indian Lake park office to draft an application and guidelines
Note: Contact the Ohio Division of Wildlife for permission and direction before placing structure in reservoirs.
Accessibility
The Waterbury Association opposes the current ODNR Standardized Dock Plan reduction in dock size as it does not meet the current ADA standards for accessibility of 60 inch standard pier width to allow for both scooter and wheelchair access as well as room for guide dogs or transfer assistance. See United States Access Board Accessible Boating Facilities and United States Access Board Accessible Fishing Piers and Platforms.
While ADA does not require private docking facilities to meet accessibility standards, we feel all private dock owners in Ohio should have the right to construct accessible docks. We feel the ODNR should revise the Standardized Dock Plan to minimum ADA standards so the handicapped are not arbitrarily precluded from using private docks. We are currently working with the ODNR to revise these restrictions. See ADA Checklist for Readily Achievable Barrier Removal
UPDATE: On April 10, 2014 we received the following letter from the Indian Lake Ohio State Park Manager. They have now added language to the Indian Lake Management Plan to ensure all with ADA needs will be accommodated when requesting a permit to build a dock. However it still does not address those private dock owners that want to voluntarily comply with ADA. Click Here to see letter.
In a seperate email, Mr. Sholti futher states:
From: George.Sholtis@dnr.state.oh.us
CC: Jon.Dobney@dnr.state.oh.us
Sent: 4/10/2014 2:39:48 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: RE: Indian Lake Private Docks
“Those with ADA needs” means anyone with a mental or physical impairment as stated in the ADA. Should anyone complete a dock construction permit request with an ADA modification I will honor that request. I will not require proof of a disability. If someone requests a 60 inch dock for purposes of ADA it will be approved according to the width stated in ADA guidelines, essentially 60 inches."
Public Access
The Waterbury Association is a proponent of maintaining the streets and waterfront public access paths dedicated in the original 1925 Waterbury Summer Resort Plat. We recognize access is important for transportation, exercise and recreation. We feel this is vital to maintaining quality of life and off water property values and thus improves the value to all property owners.
We are currently seeking clarification on the public right to access Ohio waters by perpetual or prescribed easement or the public dedication of 1925. We hope to mark these access paths once we receive clarification from the governing body.
If you are using these public access paths, please be courteous to adjacent property owners. Many voluntarily maintain these paths and appreciate your cooperation in helping to maintain them for all to enjoy.