HOLLISTER, Mo. – Today, U.S. Representative Billy Long brought together the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Table Rock Lake area business leaders and residents concerned with proposed Shoreline Management Plan revisions.

     Long facilitated the discussion to hear from both sides of the issue and gather more information.  The event provided a forum for residents and business leaders to voice their concerns about the Shoreline Management Plan with USACE Little Rock District Office representatives while giving USACE an opportunity to hear, address and clarify issues.

     “I have been involved with this situation for some time, working with both the affected constituents and the Army Corps of Engineers. After much back and forth from the Ozarks to Little Rock to Washington, I felt it best to bring constituents and the Corps together to discuss the plan.  This was a great working session, and I feel like we made good headway toward resolving the problems at hand.  I am glad we were able to discuss this important issue in the lives of many Table Rock residents who have come to me with concerns since the plan revisions were announced.  I appreciate the Corps’ willingness to participate and their promise to listen to the concerns of those affected by the proposed changes,” Long said.

     USACE began crafting its revisions in fall 2014 with area residents stating opinions soon after.  The public comment period ended on May 1.  The agency temporarily ceased issuing new Table Rock shoreline permits on February 1, which could last up to two years.  Lakeside residents unable to renew permits before the moratorium are not able to apply for dock construction or mowing permits.  Modifications to existing structures and any new electrical services in a permit area are among the prohibitions during this time.  The final plan is planned for release in early 2017.

Congressman Long meets with Corps officials, Table Rock Lake area businesses and residents.