The City of Alpena wants to clean up what some believe is its greatest asset – the beachfront.

A new provision to state law allows property owners such as the city, to remove vegetation along the Lake Huron shoreline.  Previously that vegetation could only be mowed down.

Engineer Rich Sullenger approached the municipal council this week, with a proposal to clean out vegetation along Mich-e-ke-wis Park and dump in new sand to make the beach more appealing.

That idea led to further discussion to clean up and possibly bring in new sand to Starlite Beach and make another attempt to clean the water in front of the popular beach.  Previous efforts have been unsuccessful.

“I make a motion to direct staff to find a global solution to our beachfront,” said councilman Mike Nunneley.  The rest of the municipal council agreed.

The cleanup effort at Mich-e-ke-wis Park alone could cost upwards of $20,000.  A combined effort at both beaches will cost more.  Sullenger hopes to have some options and scenarios for council to consider as early as September.