NC H526

Authorizes Gaston, Lincoln, and Mecklenburg Counties to create the Mountain Island Lake Marine Commission through joint resolution to govern the lake area extending from Cowans Ford Dam to Mountain Island Dam.

Establishes a seven-member governing board with appointments determined by joint resolution of participating counties, with commissioners serving three-year terms and limited to two consecutive terms.

Grants the Commission authority to hire staff, contract for services, lease equipment and facilities, construct boat docks and navigation aids, and maintain public safety infrastructure on the lake and shoreline within 1,000 feet of full pond elevation.

Requires participating counties to contribute equal annual financial support to the Commission and allows modification or amendment of joint resolutions only with unanimous consent of all participating counties.

Permits any county to unilaterally withdraw from the Commission at the end of a budget period with 90 days' notice, with property distributed equitably among remaining participating counties and other public agencies serving the lake area.