WHITE LAKE — The start of school and high-school football brings to an end another summer lake season at White Lake. But looking back on the four-month season, local folks say it was another good season.
Mayor Goldston Womble said from both a business standpoint as well as the town’s standpoint, the lake season was successful.
“I think it was a better season than the last two or three years. We had a lot better weather this summer than the previous two years,” said Womble.
He noted that the lake area didn’t seem to have as much rain, which allowed vacationers more time to spend in the soothing waters.
“We definitely had more folks at the lake,” said Womble. “The entire spectrum is better when you have better weather.”
Overall, though, Womble said that there was no one particular thing he could attribute to the successful lake season.
“Most all business’s report having a very good season, the weather was great for the most part and the hotels and cottages appeared to thrive with activity. Most weekends were clear and sunny and fuel prices were a little less than prior years, which is always good for business,” said Councilman Tracey Trivette.
He added that new businesses such as Sunset Slush and The Venue have been welcome additions to the White Lake community and have provided more things for folks to do and enjoy.
“Long-time business such as Goldston’s Beach and White Lake Marina continue to provide great entertainment, quality products and excellent services as they have for decades, continuing to establish themselves as renowned landmarks in our residential resort community; not to mention that White Lake has some of the best campgrounds in the country. We have so many great business at White Lake, all deserving commendation and all playing an important role in the incredible atmosphere our town has to offer,” said Trivette.
He added that new homes are also under construction and the town’s police department is undergoing a face-lift as well.
“Although the summer season is almost over, some of the best weather is yet to come. Looking back, as things start winding down for the year, 2015 has been a great season,” said Trivette.
Womble said from the town staff standpoint, the town has had “a good year,” too.
“Fortunately, we haven’t had any major problems occur,” said Womble.
He did say that the town is in the process of moving to individual metering.
“Our campgrounds in the past were served by a bulk meter,” said Womble.
He added that, now, the town is in the process of moving to the individual meters so each campsite will have its own meter and the individual will pay the same charge as any other resident.
“We are looking forward to getting this project done,” said Womble.
He said other projects the town has recently completed include the paving of White Lake Drive and the addition of more sidewalks along the road. Womble said it is a goal of the town board to eventually have sidewalks around the entire lake.
The town is also in the process of applying for grants to construct a bike, running and walking trail that will extend from the Waterford community on N.C. 53 to the vicinity of White Lake Marina on U.S. 701.
—Erin Smith can be reached by calling 910-862-4163.