Resident Pleads for Manor Lake Remedial Work

A local Parsippany resident discussed the lingering issues with Manor Lake at a meeting Tuesday, saying the body of water needs to be dredged, repaired and have a basin installed.

The comments emanated from the latter part of a town council meeting that was underway for over three hours. But, a Manor Lake resident, Janet Chambers, stuck through until the end to voice her concern.

The lake, last thoroughly repaired in 1990, according to one speaker, is in calamitous condition and in dire need of improvement.

“I intended to live on a peaceful little lake,” said Chambers. “But it really started looking bad. The dam needs to be fixed and the lake dredged (and a basin added).”

Chambers, along with an elderly neighbor, then walked the development asking for help to gain support to approach the Township. They also conducted regular visits with the town engineer.

The engineer told Chambers that there was no word from the State Department of Environmental Protection; hence nothing could be done at the moment.

So, she took matters into her own hands, calling the engineering firm that was hired by the town. That business had went under, but since then, another firm had taken its place.

“I talked to the engineer in charge of our project,” said Chambers. “And we’re number 19 on the list. ‘When will we be number one?’ I asked, (and they responded by saying) there’s no reason the township can’t dredge the lake now.”

The firm told Chambers that the work would require a simple permit; the town just has to request it.

“I’m asking on behalf of the community,” said Chambers. “Please dredge the lake now…it’s a dried up, disgusting mess. This problem is over 25 years old. We really need help.”

The resident went onto claim that the township is under orders to do remedial work at the dam, and is taking bids on that, but questioned its current status.

“I’ve poured money, my heart and work into (the lake),” said Chambers. “I’ve tried to sell my home, but I can’t. The township has devalued my home (and the community).”

“We need help now,” she concluded. “The buck has been passed from one administration to another. It’s time it stops.”

Members of the council, plus the mayor, then appeared authentically perplexed. Heads turned, whispers flared and the mayor concluded by saying he was not sure who owned the lake. The town plans to look into the matter.