Clay Township officials and residents met for a meeting at the Clay Township Hall. The three hour long special meeting was organized by State Senator Dan Lauwers, the Director of St. Clair County Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Justin Westmiller, and Clay Township Supervisor, Artie Bryson. Other elected officials were in attendance also. The meeting drew a crowd of concerned residents who are all dealing with rising water levels and increasing prices for the Harsens Island ferry. Among the many topics of discussion included; the possibility of a bridge connecting the island with the mainland, shipping traffic and help from the Coast Guard who is anticipated to break up the ice to avoid damage from the winter and spring ice floes. The Army Corps of Engineers also gave a report on the water levels which are continuing to rise. It was also confirmed that the governor has rejected the request for a state of emergency that is needed to enforce a no-wake zone to protect homes on the water. At the meeting, citizens spoke out and had signs made to express their frustration with the ferry rates and reliability. The dock repair is ongoing from recent extensive damage. The owner spoke at the meeting about his attempts to find an equitable solution. Rates for the ferry are actually under the jurisdiction of the State Police and they have not been open to a change, according to ferry operator, Dave Bryson.
