FOSL Holds monthly meetings
Below are minutes from recent meetings.
Subject: FOSL 7/21 Board Meeting Notes -
As scribed by AI:
Quick recap
The meeting focused on celebrating the passage of the LMD with 74% approval and discussing future directions for both the LMD and FOSL. Members shared updates on the oxygenation system construction timeline, which was delayed to 2027. The group brainstormed new projects for Fossil, including improving lake safety with buoys and signage, addressing weed removal, and considering efforts to clear a rock berm in Spanaway Creek. They also discussed the upcoming picnic, logistics for food and setup, and the need for better communication with lake residents. Members expressed interest in engaging the community for input on FOSL's future activities and improving boating regulations awareness. The conversation ended with plans to use the picnic as the August board meeting and to continue exploring ways to enhance the lake environment.
Next steps
Ed
Forward the email about the oxygenation system update to all board members and interested parties.
Bring tables and a small speaker to the picnic.
Contact Lacey to resolve the two-factor authentication issue for accessing the website.
Jessie
Send a picture of the receipt for the stamps to Ken.
Randie
Purchase food for the picnic the day before the event.
Send out a reminder email about the picnic to the email list.
Ken
Provide the returned postcards from the picnic mailing to Jonathan.
Penny
Warm up the hot dogs at the picnic.
Sandy
Bring a larger speaker to the picnic.
Collaboration
FOSL Group: Investigate the cost and feasibility of purchasing and installing no-wake buoys and improved signage at the boat launch.
FOSL Group: Investigate the possibility and requirements for removing the rock berm in Spanaway Creek.
FOSL Group: At the picnic, solicit public input on potential new projects and directions for Fossil.
Summary
Technical Issues and Event Updates
The group discussed recent technical issues with Zoom links and celebrated achieving a 74% turnout rate in an upcoming event. They also briefly discussed pond maintenance, with participants noting the presence of greenish-brown globs in the water, which Sandy identified as coming from dead lily pads. The meeting appeared to be just beginning with several participants still joining, including Ken and Randie who was mentioned as being in Portland.
LMD Passage and Oxygenation Updates
The meeting began with a discussion of the LMD passage, which passed with 74% in favor, representing a significant increase from the previous 54% vote. Penny thanked everyone for their hard work and dedication in achieving this result. The group also received an update on the oxygenation system construction, which has been delayed due to electrical and sewer connection issues. The construction is now targeted for completion in 2027, with bids to be issued at the end of 2026.
LMD Construction and Direction Updates
The group discussed updates on construction timing, which will shift to 2027 due to time constraints, with bids going out in 2026. They discussed potential LMD direction, particularly focusing on nuisance weeds and areas in need of help, including Mel's Cove where access might be challenging for large boats due to shallow draft. The discussion concluded with questions about whether to continue current LMD activities like newsletters and website maintenance, or pursue different directions.
FOSL Group Lake Protection Initiatives
Ken expressed concerns about the current lack of purpose for the FOSL group and suggested finding new activities beyond sending LMD information. Jonathan proposed focusing on lake protection initiatives, including purchasing buoys and implementing dock numbering systems. The group discussed enforcement challenges of existing no-wake zone regulations and agreed to explore creating a visible bulletin board at the boathouse to communicate rules to lake users.
Boat Safety Buoy Implementation Discussion
The group discussed implementing buoys and signage to help boaters understand the 200-foot distance requirement from shore, with Sandy proposing a QR code-based map application at boat ramps. They noted that private buoys would be more cost-effective than county-purchased ones, with estimated costs around $1000 per buoy including anchors and chains. The discussion concluded with agreement to add this to a potential implementation list and recognition that improved communication about lake regulations remains important.
Lake Weed Removal Strategies
The group discussed strategies for removing dead weeds from the lake, with Jessie suggesting organizing a weekly cleanup effort using a donated boat once the motor is repaired. Sandy and ED explained that mechanical removal would require permits, while Ken shared their personal experience of drying and bagging weeds in yard waste cans. The group concluded that while manual removal is permitted, mechanical methods would need additional permits and equipment like excavators or backhoes, which would be costly to rent.
Rock Berm Removal Discussion
Ed proposed removing a rock berm built by homeless people on Spanaway Creek that beavers had used as a base for dam construction. Randie agreed we should investigate the opportunity, including determining the feasibility, legal requirements, and whether it could be done sustainably with volunteers or would require permits through the county. The discussion highlighted potential benefits including preventing future flooding and allowing German Browns to spawn further down the creek.
Picnic Planning and Logistics Meeting
The group discussed plans for an upcoming picnic, addressing issues with misaddressed invitations due to a printing error with the Excel file. Ken reported receiving about 20-25 returned postcards per batch from the county mailing, though not the same 20 each time. The team decided to maintain their usual food quantities for the picnic, with Penny agreeing to warm up hot dogs and Ed bringing tables and a speaker, while Sandy will bring a larger backup speaker. The group confirmed they would need about an hour for setup before the picnic, and noted that attendees should bring their own chairs.
Voting Results and Analysis Discussion
The group discussed the results of a vote that passed with 74% support. They explored whether additional demographic analysis was needed, with Ed mentioning they would learn more about turnout at an upcoming LMD meeting on Thursday. The conversation included a discussion about voter privacy laws and whether voting information could be obtained, though Ed clarified they weren't interested in identifying specific voters. Jessie raised concerns about some property owners not realizing they could vote in the election, particularly those who vote in different counties.
August Meeting Cancellation Decision
The group discussed plans for an upcoming picnic and decided to cancel the August Fossil board meeting since the picnic will serve as the meeting. Ed agreed to forward an OST-related email from Pierce County Planning and Public Works to all board members. Randie will send a reminder about the picnic to the group's email list, noting that it will function as the August meeting.
Website Access and Boating Signage
The team discussed website access issues where Ed is locked out and needs to coordinate with Lacey to change the authentication code. They explored signage options at the boat ramp, with Sandy suggesting a QR code solution for boating regulations since the county may not approve physical signage changes. The group agreed to discuss additional solutions at an upcoming picnic to address ongoing boating safety concerns.
6/11 7pm FOSL Board Meeting summary
Quick recap
The meeting focused on planning for the Lake Management District (LMD) reauthorization election and a summer barbecue event. The board discussed strategies for distributing mailbox hangers to remind voters about the July 3rd deadline, with members dividing responsibilities across different neighborhoods. They decided to send email invitations for the August 9th barbecue to both FOSL members and the broader LMD voting list, by mailing postcards . The board also addressed website reimbursement for Lacey, ultimately deciding to reimburse her approximately $200 for the previous year's costs. Updates were provided on current lake activities including algae and bacteria testing, recent lanthanum treatment, and the reappointment of board members Ed, Greg, and Mel for CAB representation. The group will confirm that LMD election results would be available by July 17th and adjusted the next Fossil board meeting to July 21st to allow time to assess the election outcome.
Next steps
Ed
Send the new meeting ZOOM link to Penny, Randie, and Jessie to resolve access issues.
Set up the Fossil Zoom account ($15.89/month) and provide the link for the July 21st meeting.
Jessie
Penny
Sandy
Randie
Include in the barbecue email that the July FOSL meeting is postponed to July 21st at 7 PM.
Edit and distribute these meeting notes after receiving them from Sandy.
Collaboration
Summary
LMD Reauthorization Planning Meeting
The meeting focused on planning LMD reauthorization activities, including mailbox hanger distribution to remind voters about the July 3rd deadline. The group agreed to distribute hangers the weekend of June 27-28, with different members assigned to cover specific areas including Lakeside Drive and various streets. They also discussed involving other LMD members to help distribute materials across more neighborhoods, and noted that website reimbursement would be handled by FOSL starting on the 20th of the month.
Lacey Reimbursement Motion Discussion
The group discussed whether to reimburse Lacey for past payments before taking over her payments. Penny made a motion to reimburse Lacey for one year prior to the current year, which was seconded by Randie. After discussion about the amount (under $200), the motion passed unanimously. The group then moved on to discuss the summer barbecue.
Picnic Postcard Distribution Planning
The team discussed plans for distributing a postcard for an upcoming picnic scheduled for August 9th. They agreed to send an email version to the FOSL distribution list first to save the date, while postponing the mailing of physical postcards until after the election results are known, expected by the week of July 13th. Sandy recommended sending the email as soon as possible due to summer planning timelines, and Ed proposed holding off on printing and mailing until after the election outcome is determined.
Meeting Updates and Invitations
The group discussed sending out meeting invitations, with Ed expressing preference for including the date directly in the email body rather than requiring a link click. Randie agreed to send the invitations through their standard distribution email format the next day. The team also addressed the CCW grant update, noting they were not selected, and discussed LMD updates including algae and bacteria testing results for Spanaway Lake, the lanthanum treatment completion, and upcoming monthly monitoring scheduled for June 11th. Penny reported that the CAB meeting was rescheduled to July 23rd, and Ed confirmed that Mel's reappointment letter had been received.
Election Results and Postcard Mailing
The group discussed the timing of the LMD election results announcement and postcard mailing. Penny clarified that Brianne had indicated the ballot count would be completed by July 17th, which was why the meeting date was moved from July 14th to July 23rd. The team debated whether to proceed with sending postcards before knowing the election results, ultimately deciding to move forward with the mailing to ensure maximum attendance at their upcoming picnic on August 9th, regardless of the election outcome.
July Meeting Schedule Updates
The group decided to send out meeting invitations and postcards the week of July 6th, with Penny confirming she would validate the correct meeting date and send an updated email to everyone. They agreed to postpone the July FOSL meeting until after the election results are available, scheduling it for Tuesday, July 21st at 7 PM. The team also discussed issues with the current Zoom account link, which Ed will address by activating a new FOSL Zoom account.
ZOOM Account and Election Updates
The meeting focused on updating the Zoom account setup, with Ed explaining that he had delayed the process due to being sick and realizing it would be more cost-effective to set it up after the initial meeting was already scheduled. Randie requested the new ZOOM link for an upcoming July 21st meeting, which Ed confirmed would be provided. The group also discussed election details, with Sandy sharing information about previous election timelines, and concluded with arrangements for meeting notes, with Sandy offering to send the AI-generated notes to Randie for editing and for distribution.
FOSL BOARD MEETING May 14, 2026
Meeting called to order at 7pm
In attendance- Sandy Williamson, Ed Larson, Ken and Elizabeth Straub, Randie Armatas, Penny Howard, Amy Cruver, Sue Thompson, Matt Greenbaum, Mel Olsen
1-Thank You Cards and Payments
Randie to do Thank you cards for Greg, Jenny and David (with David’s financial support) for designing yard signs and flyers. 2nd, payment to Lacy for a web hosting account she paid for this past year, Ken to set up auto-pay going forward. The conversation ended with Sandy making a motion to pay for the web software, Ken 2nd, the group voted in favor of the motion.
2-Web Hosting/GoDaddy Reimbursement
The group discussed reimbursing Lacy for her recent GoDaddy renewal payment. Randie made a motion to reimburse Lacy for her most recent contribution, Ken 2nd, motion carried and thank you for her past contributions and work on the website to be sent to Lacy. Ed will handle the reimbursement process and send Lacey the receipt. Additionally, Raurie will write thank you note to Lacy.
3-Website Fee and Updates Discussion The team discussed an amendment confirming a $4 fee with a 5-year renewal term, which was well-received by all present. Ed was appointed as the new webmaster and agreed to document the website update process for others to follow. Raurie proposed making website updates a permanent agenda item for future meetings to ensure regular content updates.
4-Flyer Distribution Timeline Discussion
Amy Cruver confirmed the corrected LMD info- FOSL will distribute flyers about a $4 per foot and 5 yr term, they will wait until after the June 2nd council hearing verifies this. Penny provided the timeline: Rules and Operations Committee hearing on May 26th, council hearing on June 2nd, ballots mailing on June 5th, and ballot count completion by July 17th. The group agreed to create a postcard containing treatment dates and costs to send before the June 2nd hearing, as this information would be similar to what AquaTechnics has already been sharing about treatments.
5-Treatment and Postcard Communication Strategy
Randie to create a postcard with Treatment information and costs and board members to review. The group discussed timing for mailings, deciding to send the postcard before ballots are received, rather than using door hangers or sending multiple mailings. They agreed to avoid sending multiple mailings to avoid overwhelming recipients, with the postcard serving as the primary communication piece. Ballot Voting Materials Timeline. The team discussed a timeline for mailing materials related to ballot voting. They planned to send out postcards with treatment information and dates immediately, followed by the first mailing of pre-stamped materials on June 2nd, A 2nd mailing w/ door hangers and stamp to be sent around June 15th, asking voters to return their ballots. Ken and Eliz to order stamp for door hangers.
6-Budget Review and Project Planning
The group reviewed the budget, with Ken reporting $19,400 in the checking account with approximately $2,300 in dues, (post office box fees, state fees, and mailings to be deducted).
7-Clover Creek Council
Sandy discussed a deadline for a grant request to Clover Creek Council. Randie suggested checking previous submissions for guidance.
8-BBQ Planning and Speaker Selection
Select a date and potential speakers. Randie suggested inviting Brianne and Amy to discuss the success of reauthorization. Sandy will ask board members and regular attendees for date suggestions using a google poll. Possible speakers, including Brianne & Amy Cruver. Brianne's availability depends on the LMD passing.
9-FOSL Zoom Account Setup Approval
The group discussed creating a new Zoom account for Fosl l, with Sandy noting that the current account costs $18 per month, billed annually. After discussion about costs and logistics, including the possibility of including it in a Clover Creek funding request, Randie made motion and Penny 2nd, the group unanimously approved moving forward with setting up a new Zoom account. Ed agreed to research the setup process and costs, and will work with Ken to handle the payment through auto-pay.
Bylaw and Meeting Schedule Updates
The group discussed several topics including bylaw reviews, Ed suggested postponing Bylaw changes until just before the annual meeting. Penny announced that the July LMD meeting would be rescheduled from the 14th to the 21st to allow for discussion of ballot results.
Signs will be removed shortly after the LMD voting.
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FOSL Board Only Meeting and Agenda. 4/9/026
Elect Chair and Co-chair
Ed Larson new chair motion by Penny, second Randie
Randie Armatas Co-chair motion by Ed second Penny
Discuss reauthorization of LMD
April 28th public hearing 3:00 Counsel Meeting for reauthorization.
Next Saturday 18th 11:00 Informational at the boat house. By Clover Creek Restoration Group. We need to be there.
Yard signs, Flyers Jenny from fire department
Double the # of flyers {1 by mail, Buy stamps (Jessie), 1 by hand out}. Modify Greg’s draft with these items:
400,000 collected has been turned into 2 million
No increase in taxes, same as last time
Look for your ballets in late May.
Well-established long-term plan
FOSL Website, LMD Website – also include QR codes
Contact us by FOSL email (goes to board) want yard sign? Sandy to create unique email address.
Link, QR code to lake management district.
Address of owners of property (who votes) not who rents…Obtained from Brianna, Ed has it, will send to Randie to adjust in excel.
Timing ----
Send out a flyer
Set up yard signs
Send out a postcard
Hang (or door knock) the second group of flyers
When to send out flyers?
Soon first flyer and include how to get yard signs on it. Include look for your ballets late May
Yard signs “Vote Yes for Our Lake”
no picture
by Friends of Spanaway Lake
100 signs build sticks?
where to put signs? Intersections,
*2nd postcard just before/as ballets come out
Vote now!
*Hang flyers on mailboxes or go door to door? Sandy will knock and talk hand out flyers Lakeside drive
If each of us talks to 10 people. ….
After ballet comes people have 3 weeks to vote.
*3rd mailing Post card week after they come out?
Updating Facebook with LMD renew information ask Lacy to do it. Pennyis Lacy’s main contact.Penny will find out how to add things. Put link to 27-page LMD annual plan.
Bylaws should be reread and rewritten by annual meeting in March of 2027
Ed will send language update from last year to Sandy and he will give to Lexi for website update.
4. Financial Audit for 2025 -- Sue and Jessie will complete it in May
5. Zoom Should fossil have their own account and be able to initiate meetings. $250 a year? This would be instead of Sandy having to use his personal account.