The state will now seek proposals for the new dam project which could cost between $125 - $150 million.
While Gov. John Kasich said draining the lake would be inconceivable-he did say water will be kept at low levels throughout construction which could have an impact on tourism and local businesses.
But Kasich says the community will enjoy long-term benefits by fixing the dam.
"When you're spending that kind of money to fix this lake it's a giant commitment from-not just-it's not my money it's the money from the people of the state of Ohio and that's the biggest commitment that we can make at this point," said Kasich.
Kasich says the project will be paid through the state's capital budget and could take up to 5 years.
