Harbor Master Association advocates for direct control of Waterways Improvement Fund

The Harbor Plan Update Committee meeting on June 3, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for a clear strategy regarding embarkation fees, with members advocating for a decisive approach to funding harbor improvements. The discussion underscored the disconnect between current financial resources and the pressing needs of the harbor, emphasizing that embarkation fees should be utilized effectively to support various projects, including public safety and coastal resiliency.

One committee member drew parallels to the Waterways Improvement Fund, highlighting how funds were historically misallocated and advocating for a more direct distribution model. "We need to be hard leaning here," they stated, calling for a straightforward and assertive stance on how embarkation fees should be managed. The member stressed that the Harbor Shellfish Advisory Board had unanimously supported the amendment, reinforcing the community's backing for a focused approach.

Additionally, the committee discussed the importance of monitoring ferry company receipts and identifying harbor-related expenditures annually. While there was some debate about which committee should oversee this task, the recommendation was clear: a dedicated effort is necessary to ensure that funds are directed toward enhancing the harbor's infrastructure and resilience.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members recognized the critical role that increased embarkation fees could play in securing financial resources for the harbor's future, setting the stage for further discussions on implementation and oversight in upcoming sessions.