Monthly Committee Updates
August 2025
From the GLA Office:
As August rolls in, we hope you're soaking up every moment of summer fun at the lake, beach, and throughout our beautiful Goose Lake community. It’s been a wonderful season so far, and we’re grateful to see so many of you making the most of it!
Facilities & Grounds:
Our incredible Main office custodial, facilities and ground maintenance, and or cast of volunteers continue to work tirelessly to keep Goose Lake looking its best. Let’s all lend a hand by tidying up after ourselves and promptly reporting any issues to the office—teamwork keeps our community strong! Thank you for being an active and caring part of Goose Lake.
Audit:
No new update.
Bar:
At “The Goose”, summer fun is always on the schedule. From karaoke nights and live music to trivia and bingo, there’s something happening each week to keep the good times rolling. The bar offers simple eats—mainly pizza, pretzels, popcorn, and light snacks.. With a jukebox, pool tables, dart boards, and a cozy hall rental space, the “The Goose” delivers both entertainment and community charm. Several TVs are placed throughout the bar so guests can catch local and national sporting events, and six gaming machines are available for their playing pleasure. Whether you're here for the action or just to unwind, the relaxing atmosphere makes it easy to stay awhile. Local patrons appreciate the laid-back, welcoming vibe. Reviews often mention the excellent service, cold drinks at fair prices, and the strong sense of community that makes “The Goose” a favorite summer hangout.
🎸 August 6 – White Elephant Bingo (7 p.m.)
🎤 August 9 – DJ Karaoke (8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.)
💭 August 16 – CJAK’D Band (8 p.m. – 11 p.m.)
❓ August 18 – Trivia Night (7 p.m. – 9 p.m.)
🎤 August 28 – DJ Karaoke (8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.)
🎤 August 30 – Don’t Matter To Me Band
(8 p.m. – 11 p.m.)
We have a couple issues going on in the bar the walk-in cooler evaporate has multiple leaks and needs to be replace this was installed in 1972. Currently awaiting pricing. Also needing replacement is the bar air condition unit that has multiple leaks and needs to be replace this was installed in 2001. Replacement cost is ~$14,981. We’ve got a few hall rentals this month, so keep an eye out for private parties and community events. While you're here, stop by the GLA Bar for cold drinks, live music, and good vibes! Don’t forget to grab some *Goose Garb*—shirts, hats, hoodies, and more to show off your Goose Lake pride!
Contact us at barliaison@gooselakeassociation.org
Budget/Financial Improvement: Budget Planning 2026 Fiscal Year
All committee operating budgets and project lists have now been submitted for review. As the next step, the Budget Committee has scheduled a series of working sessions with any committees requesting funding for the upcoming year.These sessions will begin on Monday, July 29 at 5:15 PM, and are intended to ensure that funding requests are clearly understood and aligned with Association priorities. Once the committee meetings are complete, all budget information and project proposals will be compiled and distributed to Board members. Per the Association’s established project ranking procedure, each Board member will then review and rank the submitted items. Following the ranking process, any required motions related to funding or project approvals will be submitted during upcoming Board meetings for formal approval. The collaborative, step-by-step approach ensures transparency, prioritization, and thoughtful allocation of Association resources going into 2026.
Contact us at budget@gooselakeassociation.org
By-Laws/Rules:
No new update. Contact us at bylaws@gooselakeassociation.org
Communication:
Our group continues to make meaningful progress on several initiatives aimed at strengthening how we connect with Goose Lake property owners and members. One of our ongoing efforts has been managing the official Goose Lake Facebook page by verifying and admitting property owners. This helps ensure the page remains a secure and reliable space for community updates, events, and announcements.
Behind the scenes, our committee’s tech specialist has been working diligently to fine-tune the new mass texting app. Most of the bugs have been resolved, and we are now in the final phase of coordinating with the office to input all the data, perform a final test and then launch this tool. Once live, it will provide a convenient way for members to receive important updates directly to their phones.
We were also thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive response to the July newsletter, which was mailed to all members. Since March 2024, we’ve been distributing newsletters by email, but the enthusiasm for the printed July edition has us seriously considering a quarterly mailing schedule starting next year. The feedback from our members has been incredibly helpful and encouraging, and we truly appreciate your continued support. Thank you for staying engaged and helping us keep Goose Lake informed and connected. Contact us at
Fish:
No new update. Contact us at fish@gooselakeassociation.org
IT:
No new update.
Lake Focus Group:
Testing lake nutrient levels annually is recommended to track trends and catch issues early. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Initial Assessment: For new or problematic lakes, test monthly for 1–2 years to establish baseline conditions (e.g., TSI).
Ongoing Monitoring:
• May–October (growing season): Monthly or biweekly.
• November–April (off-season): Monthly if monitoring year-round.
• Specific Concerns: Monitor more frequently if issues like algae blooms or fish kills arise.
• Special Cases: Shallow lakes may need more frequent testing.
Automated sensors can detect rapid changes but require significant investment.
Factors to Consider: Lake size, depth, pollution sources, monitoring goals, and budget all affect testing needs. Local agencies can offer guidance.
Safety Patrol:
No new updates.
Social (Kids):
Kids Movie Night
Shoreline: Shoreline Construction Guidelines
The Goose Lake Association Shoreline Committee has released a revised version of its Construction Guidelines, effective March 1, 2024, as part of an ongoing effort to preserve the natural integrity of the lake and maintain safe boating conditions.
The updated document, titled *“Shoreline Committee Construction Guidelines Revision 3-1-24,”* provides property owners with a clearer framework for any construction or alterations along the shoreline. These guidelines are designed to complement existing GLA rules and emphasize the importance of considering each property’s unique characteristics.
“No two shoreline properties are alike,” the committee stated. “Each application must be reviewed individually, with special attention to how proposed changes may impact neighboring properties and the safe, unobstructed flow of boat traffic on the lake.”
The revision reinforces the Association’s commitment to protecting shoreline areas and preserving water clarity—key goals in maintaining the ecological health and beauty of Goose Lake. As such, final approval and eligibility determinations for shoreline projects will be made by the Goose Lake Association on a case-by-case basis.Property owners considering shoreline work are encouraged to consult the updated guidelines and reach out to the GLA office for further clarification before beginning any construction.
For more information or to request a copy of the revised guidelines, contact the Shoreline committee at shoreline@gooselakeassociation.org.
Other pertinent:
At the request of the Goose Lake Association, representatives from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) visited the lakes. The group included Bryon Johnsrud (IDNR), Andy Moore (D Construction), Dave Allen (Felix Township Road Commissioner), GLA President Dave Bogash, and property owner Dave Rezabek.
Through funding provided by the Mine Reclamation Fund, the State will supply riprap and cover labor costs for stabilization work at multiple locations along Jugtown and Coal City Roads, as well as the backside of the Beaver Lake Dam. Once more information is acquired we inform the community.
Boating & Lake Safety:
Before heading out on the water, please double-check that your boat stickers are current and that you're following all wake and safety regulations. A little caution goes a long way in keeping our lake safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Admin: Office Space Update Improves Efficiency and Accessibility
The Goose Lake Association has made some changes to the office setup to work more efficiently and help members faster. The Office Manager now has her own small office. This quiet space will help her focus better on detailed tasks where mistakes can happen if she gets distracted. The Assistant Office Manager has moved to the front office. This makes it easier for her to assist you and keeps important files close by. The Association President has also moved to a spot along the south wall, right outside the Office Manager’s new office. This move places the officers in closer proximity to staff and ongoing operations, further enhancing communication and coordination.These changes should help the office run more smoothly and provide quicker service to everyone.
Beaver Lake Dam/Spillway:
No new update.
Beach: A Summer Update from Goose Lake Beach
If you’ve been by the beach early in the morning or later in the evening—before 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM—you may have spotted one of our dedicated volunteers, Rich Cambruzzi hard at work. Rich has taken it upon himself to groom the sand regularly, and thanks to his efforts, the beach is looking absolutely phenomenal. Be sure to give him a wave or a thank-you when you see him!
On a lighter note, with the summer sun heating things up (especially on breezy days), the sand can get *hot*! We recommend wearing flip-flops or water shoes on your way to and from the lake to keep those toes comfortable.
Beach attendance has been steadying this season, and we hope you’ve all had a chance to enjoy the water when it warms up. And don’t forget—our concession stand is stocked with plenty of ice cream and popsicles to help you beat the heat on those especially hot days.
As you may have noticed, lake levels are starting to drop a bit. A little rain would go a long way in keeping the water levels where we want them, so here’s hoping for a summer shower or two! See you at the beach!
Contact us at beach@gooselakeassociation.org
Boat: Thinking of buying a new boat? Check GLA Rules first.
As the summer boating season reaches its peak, the Goose Lake Association is reminding all property owners to review boat size regulations before purchasing a new watercraft.
According to GLA guidelines, all boats must meet specific size restrictions to be permitted on Goose Lake waters.
Association officials strongly encourage members to double-check the rules prior to making any boat purchases to avoid costly mistakes.
“If you’re considering a new boat, please make sure it meets our size requirements,” a GLA representative noted. “We’re always available to answer questions and help members navigate the guidelines.”
For those unsure about current standards, the Association recommends reviewing the complete Boat Rules, which are available through official GLA resources. Reaching out before buying could save time, frustration, and ensure compliance.
The goal is to help every member enjoy a safe and hassle-free experience on the lake.
Campground:
Hello all you Campers!! Although the weather has not been conducive to camping with the mid to high 90's for several weeks, and occasional rains on the weekends , we still have several of you out there!! It's been great seeing many of you reaching out to new faces, and always happy to see "goose chasing" Lee T. back for a bit. We are really excited to start getting bids for the possible electrification of 8, possibly 12 campsites, where you may have noticed the white flags. It's a process, so know with a GLA project list entry, it may move at a glacial pace, or maybe not at all depending on where it lands on the list after the Board votes on the list. But just know, we are driving hard for it. I will keep you posted on details as they come available.
Thank you all for keeping your registrations legible, I appreciate it. Also, remember, if for some reason you are unable to move on time, be sure to reach out and let me know. Its hard to be flexible, if I don't know your problem.
Happy Camping, hang in there better days are ahead!!
Pris Copple
Contact us at
Election: From the Election Committee
We are getting really fired up with new faces and many old faces ;) that will appear on this year's ballot for the office of Director and Treasurer. But, even MORE excited about the changes coming to our Annual Meeting on Sat. Sept. 20th!! If you miss this one, seriously, you will miss out. Here are just a few of the the exciting plans for the evening. A catered BBQ dinner by a very reputable company, a live music band, a raffle with many cool items, a door prize raffle, you WILL NOT want to miss concerning your 2026 Annual Dues, and best of all, a time to connect with all your GLA friends and neighbors!!
We've been planning this for months, to make it a night to remember, so don't miss it!! As, we said earlier, it's not your run of the mill Annual Meeting! Come meet and greet the newly elected Directors as well. It'll be a blast, don't miss out!!
Also, be looking for your ballots in the mail the last week of August. If you'd like to meet the folks running , come to the Board Meeting, Mon. Aug.25th, at 6 p.m. We will be introducing them, and allowing you to ask them questions.
Hope to see you there!!
Pris Copple, Election Committee Chairperson
Contact us at elections@gooselakeassociation.org
Maintenance:
No new update. Contact us at maintenance@gooselakeassociation.org
Personnel: Job Descriptions and Employee Evaluations
We’ve recently finalized the job descriptions for the Office Manager, Assistant Office Manager, Facilities Technician, and Bar Custodian positions. In addition, we’ve developed clear job performance criteria and standardized evaluation forms for all employees. Currently, the committee is in discussion regarding potential raises for next year. If raises are deemed appropriate, we are working on determining a fair and consistent formula to guide that process. Once that is determined and the employee evaluations are complete all the information will be presented to the board for approval.
Contact us at personnel@gooselakeassociation.org
Weeds: Treatment of Goose Lake
Due to low water level in Goose lake McCloud Aquatics cannot treat. Also Muck Biotic pellets cannot be applied so they will be doing Beaver Lake bridge channel and channel between beaver and half-moon. All lakes are low at this time and water temps are warmer than last August which means Aquatic growth will intensify.
Thanks Dave Bogash