BUCKEYE LAKE, Ohio -- The economy is struggling and the state of Ohio is running a huge deficit.
But state leaders reportedly have come up with a partial solution -- they've sold Buckeye Lake to a developer.
"I can't believe they would do this," said Kendra Edinger, an area resident.
Buckeye Lake residents are outraged by the lead story in the Buckeye Lake Beacon.
The paper reported that the state of Ohio sold the lake and the State Park for $990 million in an effort to prop up the state's budget.
It was reportedly bought by an Australian developer who plans to convert the area into what it calls a "commercialized Spring Break destination."
"Hey, mates. We want it to be even better than Put-In-Bay. This could become the party capital of the Midwest. People will flock here," said Charles Prince.
Village leaders are concerned about the potential for tourist-related crime, but they are also enthused about the promised economic development and a boost for local liquor outlets.
"People need jobs. Making Buckeye Lake a total tourist trap, especially with bikini-clad co-eds, would create plenty of retail and restaurant and tanning jobs. The beach will packed. And we will be able to employ a ton of lifeguards and marina staff," said Scott Rawdon.
The developers say they are not concerned that the lake is only 45-degrees during Spring Break.
They have a solution.
"We've hired a firm out of Anchorage. They gave a gadget that can warm the lake up 40 degrees in just two days. We can have the lake like bathwater in no time. The kids will love it," Prince said.
"We just don't need that kind of trouble around here. Kids will be up 'til all hours of the night, making all kinds of noise. Nothing good happens after midnight," said Kendra Edinger, an area resident.
The governor's office had no comment on the situation because NBC 4 didn't actually ask. It's all just an April Fools joke from the Beacon -- and a little bit by NBC 4.
For additional information, stay with nbc4i.com and NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com -- Where Accuracy Matters.
To submit a story idea or news tip, e-mail us at stories@nbc4i.com.
NBC 4 POLITICS: Headlines, Interactives & Video
MORE: NBC 4 Local News | Local Crime News
NBC 4 SPORTS: Sports News, Video
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement