WHITEHALL — Whitehall city councilwoman Tanya Cabala expressed her frustration towards the City of Whitehall’s hand in the clearing of the wetland around or near Tannery Bay during Tuesday’s work session. She had initiated this discussion at recent meetings, bringing up the point that it is illegal to fill a conservation or wetland unless permitted by the state. Cabala shared that she had a long conversation with Audrie Kirk, senior environmental analyst for the state of Michigan’s Department of Environmental Quality about this topic and the permit issued.
A four-year permit has been issued for the filling of this wetland. City manager Scott Huebler said the permit will include a walkway and observation deck for people to view the lake. No parking lot or buildings will be included or approved in this area. Cabala’s frustration lies not only in the filling of the wetland, but she feels had she not said anything, the topic would have been ignored.
“In Michigan, we’ve lost over half of our wetlands,” Cabala said. “We should not be filling them unless it’s unavoidable. There is not enough reason to fill this wetland in my opinion, while keeping it could benefit possibly thousands of creatures. Wetlands are natural flood control. We’ve removed so many of our wetlands. That’s why we have so much flooding.”
Cabala has continuously shared her passion for bettering and maintaining the environment, taking part in various committees and groups dedicated to the environment in White Lake. She said she still has intentions of sending a letter regarding her disapproval of filling the wetland, with councilman Scott Brown also agreeing to sign in support.
