The county plans to hire a consulting engineer to begin the permit process for the proposed East Lake Dam project. Mackinac County commissioners spoke to their attorney, Richard McNulty, on what the next move should be for the project during a committee of the whole meeting February 25.

The Spicer Group, which conducted a lake level and dam feasibility study, could be asked to prepare the request, Mr. McNulty said. The county should also acquire a bond council to facilitate the funding.

The commission will hold a committee of the whole meeting Thursday, March 18, at 6 p.m. to continue discussions on the project.