Ameren recommends keeping existing homes at Lake of the Ozarks

Ameren Missouri is recommending that non-conforming decks, patios, gazebos and similar structures be allowed to stay near central Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks.

Controversy in recent years has focused on land around the lake formed by a hydroelectric project now operated by St. Louis-based Ameren. Land included within the project falls under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s authority.

Regulators last year approved Ameren’s plan to adjust its boundary at the lake, which excluded homes and businesses from the project boundary. The utility was given a year to report plans for outbuildings that remained within the hydroelectric project.

On Wednesday, Ameren recommended regulators allow all 215 structures to remain. The utility says it determined they have no impact on the project or Ameren’s ability to manage the lake.