Silver Rapids is generally recognized as the most scenic spot on the White Iron chain of lakes. It seems to also be agreed that the Silver Rapids Lodge is a suitable addition to the community, especially when it was in better condition. The proposed improvement of the lodge and cabins could be a welcome addition to the allure of this beautiful area. There must be some concern, however, about the size of the development. Silver Rapids is not large and it serves as the only water conduit between White Iron Lake and the Kawishiwi River and Farm and Garden lakes. It appears that the development would be completely out of proportion and would destroy what Silver Rapids provides to the community.
The developers are motivated by profit and probably believe that a larger development means more profit. Or they may have enlarged their plan in the expectation that compromise may be necessary.
The local community seems to overwhelmingly oppose this project because of its size, but agree that the lodge needs renewal in its original proportions.
The value of a planning commission is to provide perspective to development in the county.
The proposed development seems to be completely out of proportion to what Silver Rapids provides to the community and to what such a limited area can handle and still act as a functional waterway.
Raymond Theobald
Ely