FAQs

How do I ask additional questions for the FAQs

Please email President@ramapomountainlakes.com with your RML address in the subject line to ask questions or share comments. We look forward to hearing from you

What is Ramapo Mountain Lakes, Inc.?

Ramapo Mountain Lakes, Inc. is a Planned Real Estate Development located in Oakland, New Jersey. RML is responsible for the preservation and maintenance of Crystal Lake, Mirror Lake, and related common properties.

What is Crystal Lake?

Crystal Lake is a 26.6-acre swimmable lake. It offers restricted access for quiet paddle craft, fishing, and small electric-only motor boats.

What is Mirror Lake?

Mirror Lake is a 3.6-acre non-swimmable lake known for its natural beauty, wildlife, peaceful setting, and tranquil fishing opportunities. While smaller than Crystal Lake, it is an important part of the RML community and contributes to the scenic character of the surrounding area.

Where are Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake Located?

Crystal Lake is on the west side of Oakland, New Jersey, just off Lakeshore Drive near the Ramapo River.  Mirror Lake is bordered by Seminole Avenue and Calumet Avenue in the Ramapo Mountain Lakes section of Oakland

Why do Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake matter to the community??

Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake add beauty, character, recreation, wildlife habitat, and long-term value to the community. Healthy, well-maintained lakes benefit more than lakefront homeowners. They also enhance the appeal of nearby neighborhoods, support local property values, and help preserve the natural charm of Oakland.

Are the lakes open to the public?

Access to the lakes is restricted and subject to RML rules and applicable guidelines. Crystal Lake allows certain limited recreational uses, including quiet paddle craft, fishing, and small electric-only motor boats. Mirror Lake is non-swimmable and is valued primarily for natural beauty, wildlife, and quiet fishing.

What activities are allowed on Crystal Lake?

Crystal Lake, is swimmable and offers restricted access for quiet paddle craft, fishing, and small electric-only motor boats.

Is Mirror Lake swimmable?

No. Mirror Lake is a 3.6-acre non-swimmable lake. It is valued for its natural setting, wildlife, scenic views, and quiet fishing opportunities.

How is RML governed?

RML is governed by a Board of Directors elected by shareholders. Directors serve three-year terms. The Board elects the association officers, including President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

How long do Board members serve?

Each RML director serves a three-year term. Directors are elected by shareholders, and the Board elects the association officers, including President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

What does the Board do?

The Board is responsible for helping guide the preservation, maintenance, and responsible management of RML properties. This includes overseeing lake and dam maintenance, managing association finances, communicating with shareholders, maintaining records, and ensuring RML operates in accordance with legal and environmental requirements.

How does the Board communicate with shareholders?

The Board uses the RML website to provide access to meeting information, governance documents, financial updates, important notices, and other community information. The goal is to keep shareholders informed, involved, and aware of matters affecting Crystal Lake, Mirror Lake, and RML common properties.

Who are the current RML directors?

President: Cindy Holdefehr

Vice President:  TBD

Secretary:  Jayne DePaulis

Treasurer: Leigh Dodd

Directors: Joe Marscovetra, Mark Fischer, Frank Golz, Nora Aivars, Ed Clark, Craig Sheppard, Greg Sidor.

Why is responsible stewardship important?

Responsible stewardship ensures that Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake are cared for consistently, legally, and sustainably. Lakes, dams, and natural areas do not maintain themselves. They require planning, funding, attention, and accountability. By supporting RML, shareholders help prevent small issues from becoming larger problems and help preserve the lakes for future generations.

Are annual dues required?

Yes. Properties within the RML community are required to pay annual dues. These dues support the preservation and maintenance of RML common properties in compliance with applicable legal requirements.

Why does RML need funding for dam and lake maintenance?

RML is responsible for maintaining the lakes and dams in accordance with New Jersey law and NJDEP dam safety requirements. This includes lake care, dam maintenance, vegetation management, safety-related work, and environmentally responsible property management.

What do annual dues help pay for?

Annual dues help support lake preservation, dam maintenance, vegetation management, environmental care, safety-related work, administrative responsibilities, and the ongoing maintenance of RML common properties. In simple terms, dues help protect the lakes today so they do not become larger and more expensive problems tomorrow.

Why is lake maintenance so important?

Lake maintenance protects water quality, safety, natural beauty, recreation, wildlife habitat, and surrounding property values. Without consistent care, lakes can face vegetation overgrowth, environmental decline, dam-related concerns, and costly deferred maintenance. Responsible lake care is far easier — and far less expensive — than trying to repair years of neglect.

How does maintaining the lakes help property values?

Well-maintained lakes add beauty, recreation, and desirability to the surrounding area. Even homes that are not directly on the water benefit from living near attractive, healthy, well-managed lakes. Preserving Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake helps protect the broader character and appeal of the community.

Can shareholders contribute beyond annual dues?

Yes. Additional contributions help support the long-term care and preservation of Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake. Every contribution strengthens RML’s ability to maintain the lakes, protect the dams, manage vegetation, and preserve these shared resources for the future.

How do I know if my property is part of the RML?

Check the RML Listing of Properties on this website.

If I sell my house, is the new owner automatically a member of the RML?

Yes. RML membership runs with the property. 

Is the Crystal Lake beach part of RML?

No. The beach is owned by Crystal Lake Community Beach (CLCB), a separate legal entity.

What information can I find on this website?

This website provides access to meeting information, governance documents, financial updates, important notices, and resources related to Crystal Lake and Mirror Lake.

Find meeting updates, documents, financial information, and important notices.

Who do I contact about collections?

Any shareholder behind in dues who wants to get current should contact treasurer@ramapomountainlakes.com