HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-10-08 Harbor Committee Minutes
City of Bangor
Harbor Committee Minutes
Meeting: Thursday, October 8, 2009
City Council Chambers
Committee Members in Attendance: Jim Ring, City Engineer; Daniel Cassidy; Daniel Field;
Harbormaster, Jerry Ledwith;
Guests: Geoffrey Gratwick, Councilor; Tracy Willette, Parks and Recreation Director; Councilor;
Bob Veal; Chip Laite
I August, 2009 minutes: Accepted as distributed
II The Waterfront Usage Forum
rd
The Waterfront Usage Forum discussed previously will be planned for the 3 week of
November (? November 19) 7 PM at the Parks and Recreation building, and will be limited
to the topic of small boat access & activities on the waterfront. The goal would be to
inform interested parties of the City’s plans and determine areas public interest.
Information on the Forum will be sent individuals & organizations on the Parks and Rec
database, which will include Kenduskeag Race participants, MACRO. Other interested
parties will be identified and contacted by committee members, by press release via Parks
and Rec,
The Program outline is:
1. Brief overview of the City’s current plan for the waterfront emphasizing small boat
access point in the Waterfront Park, including available site drawings of proposed
launch site and surrounding area.
2. Input from individual attendees asking them to specifically address the following issues
Small boat access site plan (ramp, parking, small boat storage racks, road access)
What future use and activities could occur.
What is the long range view of what people would like to see in another 5 years
Other issues that could be discussed include interest in sailing or other boating programs, possibly
under Parks and Rec, role for a “club” or “friends of the Waterfront” organization.
III Updates
Tar Remediation
City Engineer, Jim Ring, reported 2/3 of the dredging has occurred, dredge material is being
properly prepared and shipped, and that there is general harmony between the city and various
regulatory agencies monitoring the project.
IV Docks
1. Budget constraints have forced the City to not place the Seasonal boat dock (dock 4) for the
2010 season, and it is unlikely that there will be funds for this dock in 2011, thus
eliminating any room for boats to use the waterfront as their home base.
2. Concern and disappointment was raised by guests Chip Laite and Bob Veal about
eliminating this waterfront activity. If completely eliminated, it will be difficult to
reestablish this service in future year.
3. The possibility of seeking an arrangement with a private enterprise may be in the city’s best
interest. This might involve turning part or all of the dock operations to a vender, who
would in turn take on the obligation of providing that which is necessary to maintain the
port operations minimizing cost to the City.
A motion was made, seconded and approved unanimously stating:
The Committee recommends the City examine the possibility of privatizing
operation of the seasonal docks.
Future Agenda items suggested include:
1. Follow up on the docks and larger motor/sail boat access
2. The Army Corps permit appeal
3. A possible joint harbor committee with the City of Brewer