Lake Operations
Running a lake might sound like nothing more than sunshine, swims, and summer fun — but behind the scenes it takes petitions, dues, and the occasional weed treatment to keep everything flowing smoothly. Lake Operations is where the practical meets the playful: the paperwork that funds our fireworks, the fees that fuel our summer events, and the treatments that keep our waters clear for another season of cannonballs. Think of it as the engine room of Runyan Lake Inc. — not glamorous, but absolutely essential. And if you’ve got questions, ideas, or concerns, don’t worry: our Contact Us is always open, because smooth operations start with good communication.
How Dues Are Established
Annual dues are set by vote of the Membership during the Fall General Meeting. The Treasurer reviews expenses and proposes dues levels to maintain a bank balance equal to at least twice the normal annual expenses. Members then vote to adopt one of the proposals or set their own amount.
Fiscal Year
Runyan Lake Inc.’s fiscal year runs from January 1 through December 31. Dues are invoiced each January to every property with a unique tax ID within the RLI territory. Dues are not prorated.
What Dues Pay For
Dues fund the major annual expenses of RLI, including aquatic weed control, fireworks, island and ramp maintenance, social events, state permits, water quality testing, goose removal, fish and water studies, insurance, the RLI website, and general membership meetings.
Hardship Provisions
Members experiencing genuine hardship may request a payment plan from the Board. Paying dues on time is important, as unpaid dues reduce the bank balance and often result in higher dues for everyone the following year.
Member Standing
To remain in good standing, all properties owned by a Member must have dues paid in full. Unpaid dues result in loss of rights to use corporation property (such as the boat ramp) until dues are paid. Liens may be placed on properties with unpaid dues. All Members retain voting rights regardless of payment status.
Annual dues assessments as approved by the Membership. This table shows the amounts by class from 2011 through 2026.
| Year | Class A (Riparian) | Class B (Shared/Access) | Class C (Non-Riparian) | Class D (No Access) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | $95 | $90 | $30 | n/a |
| 2012 | $135 | $130 | $30 | n/a |
| 2013 | $135 | $130 | $30 | n/a |
| 2014 | $185 | $180 | $30 | n/a |
| 2015 | $185 | $180 | $30 | n/a |
| 2016 | $185 | $180 | $30 | $0 |
| 2017 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2018 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2019 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2020 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2021 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2022 | $150 | $145 | $30 | $0 |
| 2023 | $300 | $295 | $35 | $0 |
| 2024 | $270 | $265 | $35 | $0 |
| 2025 | $240 | $235 | $45 | $0 |
| 2026 | $270 | $265 | $45 | $0 |
Charter Extension
In 2010, Runyan Lake Inc. collected signatures to extend its charter for another 30 years. Although the corporation had already been amended to “perpetual” status in 1979, the petition confirmed strong community support for continuing RLI’s role in lake management.
Petition results: 267 YES, 2 NO, with 82% in favor.
Download RLI Charter Permit (PDF)
Goose Control
The state requires a petition showing 70% support from waterfront owners to permit annual goose control. This program reduces geese on the lake, improving water quality and island usability.
Petition results: 237 YES, 5 NO, with 88% in favor.
Download Goose Permit (PDF)
Why Petitions Matter
Petitions ensure members have a direct voice in lake operations. They demonstrate community consensus and allow RLI to secure permits and maintain authority under Michigan’s Summer Resort Corporation Act.
For questions or to participate in future petitions, please use our Contact Form. Member input keeps Runyan Lake operations strong and representative.