The battle over Balm Beach spilled into the council chambers in Tiny Township for a public meeting Monday.
Dozens of people packed the chambers and voiced their opinions over the issue of who should have access to the beach.
Several lakefront property lines reach down to the water’s edge, but many residents who don’t live on the water feel they have nowhere to go.
The public path leading to the water is at the heart of the issue. The path is only 10 feet wide and there isn’t enough room for people to stay and plat at the beach.
The issue has divided the community for years and council is working to try to find some common ground.
“We are prepare to listen and try to better understand what our role could be,” said Mayor George Cornell.
Council will review all of the suggestions including one that would see non waterfront property owners issued a permit in the form of a bracelet allowing them access to the beach, but only Tiny Township residents would be eligible for the bracelet.
