Lake Mohawk General Manager to step down

After 27 years of service, Fran Smith will relinquish the reins SPARTA — After 27 years of exceptional and devoted service, Frances Smith, long-time general manager of Lake Mohawk Country Club, has informed the Board of Trustees of her decision to step down from that position. During her tenure, the lake community of over 2,600 homes has changed dramatically, evolving from a primarily weekend destination to a community of mostly year-round residents. When Smith assumed her current position in 1984, many of the roads were dirt or a composite of oil and stone. The 760-acre lake was suffering a severe decline in water quality and the clubhouse, which was in need of restoration, was under-utilized. All of this changed under her leadership as Lake Mohawk became the vital community it is today. Along with her numerous club management responsibilities, Smith was also instrumental in the revitalization of White Deer Plaza, a testament to her support of the many small businesses in the area. She has also served as president of the Sparta Rotary, has been an involved member of the Sparta Chamber of Commerce and is the current president of the statewide Coalition of Lakes Association. She is considered a leader in the area of lake management and has received numerous awards in recognition of her innovative leadership. Smith will stay in the position until a suitable replacement is found. She plans to continue to live at and enjoy Lake Mohawk with her friends and family.