Owners of waterfront property at the Lake of the Ozarks are breathing a sigh of relief this morning.
In July, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued an order that many structures built too close to the lake, including homes and apartment and condominium complexes, would have to be removed because they interfered with the operation of Ameren Missouri's Osage hydroelectric operation.
A new FERC order issued today says homes and structures built on lands with valid leases or deeds can remain. For structures without a valid permit, the Commissions wants Ameren to determine if they interfere with the Osage project, and take action if they are.
The order also asks Ameren to redraw the Osage project boundaries by June of 2012 to remove unneeded land.
"I am confident that today's decision will bring clarity to residents along the shoreline of the Lake of the Ozarks," said FERC chairman Jon Wellinghoff. "I expect Ameren to move quickly to comply with the Commission order. This will resolve all outstanding issues associated with its shoreline management plan and bring this matter to a swift and satisfactory resolution."
