The Three Rivers City Commission will meet Tuesday, March 19, at 6 p.m. to discuss the future of the Hoffman Pond Dam. The public is invited to participate by sharing their concerns and opinions on the topic during the public hearing portion of Tuesday’s meeting.

Hoffman Pond Dam public hearing

City officials say the state has concerns about the condition of the dam and have been working with the owners to find a solution. The city will hold a public hearing tonight to discuss current grant opportunities, and the pros and cons of keeping or removing the dam.

Becky Shank of Constantine expressed concern about the downstream impacts of the dam removal during the public comment period during a meeting on Tuesday, March 5. She said she is concerned about the potential environmental impacts of losing the dam, including the impact on Portage Lake and Fisher Lake, as well as the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy properties.

“I just hope and pray that whatever decision is made, we keep a close eye on our environment and not only our future, but the past that brought this to question,” Shank said.

For a full accounting of Tuesday’s agenda (as of publication time on Tuesday, March 19), see it below or visit the city’s website for further details.

Alek Haak-Frost is executive editor and publisher of Watershed Voice.