Hope Mills discusses rules, amenities for new lake
HOPE MILLS, North Carolina (WTVD) -- The Hope Mills Lake could once again welcome swimmers and boaters.
The lake has been empty since the dam failed in 2010. With the dam expected to be completed in May, the lake should be filled no later than July.
A public hearing Monday night at Town Hall was held to discuss ordinances for the new lake.
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Some of the topics included setting operating times for the lake, reviewing dress codes for bathing suit and sunbathing attire, regulations covering pets and service animals and boating speed limits.
"It's getting a little weary without the water," Winton McHenry said.
McHenry has lived on Hope Mills Lake for two decades. The first breach damaged part of his dream home.
"We had a guest house and the guest house had to be redone and everything," McHenry said.
But even with a remodeled home, the lakefront homeowner says the charm just wasn't there without the lake.
"It's been part of my whole life ... the grandchildren and I played in the water in the sun," McHenry said.
RELATED: HOPE MILLS NEW DAM PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY
But even folks who don't live on the lake can't wait for its return. Heather Augustine is a stay-at-home mom of two. She says she's running out of places to take her kids and is excited that the lake will be completed soon.
"I'm excited that the lake is finally starting to take shape. It looks like they're taking their time and going to do it right this time," Augustine said. "And hopefully we'll have a lake and can enjoy it like we used to."
