New Grand Lake shoreline one step closer

Associated Press - June 12, 2008 1:55 AM ET

VINITA, Okla. -- Grand River Dam Authority directors have unanimously approved a shoreline management plan for Grand Lake that has been mired in controversy for three years.

The directors voted for the plan during their meeting yesterday, doing so after surprisingly little public comment. Only two people asked to speak about the proposal, which places some restrictions on new development.

The plan also contains a provision that leaves open the possibility of building in wetlands and other areas deemed to be environmentally sensitive.

GRDA officials say most proposals concerning development would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Kevin Easley, the GRDA's chief executive officer, says the low turnout for comment on the proposal likely was attributable to people being tired of discussing the issue.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission must give final approval to the plan.