Reporter Staff

The uproar last week around Kent’s Lake Meridian appears to be more of an alligator tale than tail.

A resident reported seeing a possible alligator-like reptile on Aug. 9 in the lake, according to a written report to the City Council by Derek Matheson, city chief administrative officer.

City crews posted signs at the lake to alert people about the sighting. The city called it “an unconfirmed sighting of an alligator/crocodile-like reptile.”

“Our primary role at this moment is public notification, ensuring that people know there may be something in the water that they should be aware of,” Matheson said.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife told the city the creature does not likely pose a human threat. Buy Matheson said the city wants residents to use caution while at the park. Signs were placed at the park and boat launch and emails were sent to the Lake Meridian neighborhood. Residents should report any other sightings to state Fish and Wildlife at 1-877-933-9847.