Chatham and Yarmouth Harbor Masters oppose Coast Guard buoy removal proposal

The June 4, 2025, Assembly of Delegates Regular Meeting in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, focused on significant concerns regarding the United States Coast Guard's initiative to remove navigational buoys in Cape Cod's coastal waters. The meeting featured presentations from local harbor masters, including Jason Holm from Chatham and Dave Condon from Yarmouth, who expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes.

Holm opened the discussion by referencing a similar proposal from 2019 that faced backlash from the Chatham community, resulting in the retention of the buoys. He highlighted the importance of these navigational aids, emphasizing that their removal could jeopardize safety for local mariners. Holm noted that the Coast Guard is currently seeking public feedback on the initiative, with a deadline for comments set for June 13. He mentioned that local committees, including the Waterways Advisory Committee and the select board, have drafted letters opposing the removal of the buoys.

Condon, who also serves as the president of the Cape and Islands Harbor Master Association, echoed Holm's sentiments. He shared his professional background as a mariner and stressed the necessity of buoys for safe navigation, particularly for smaller vessels that may not have advanced navigation technology. Condon pointed out that while the Coast Guard's modernization efforts may aim to streamline operations, the safety implications of removing buoys cannot be overlooked.

Delegates raised questions about the Coast Guard's motivations, with some speculating whether the initiative was primarily a cost-saving measure. Concerns were voiced about the potential impact on safety and the reliance of local boaters on these navigational aids. The harbor masters confirmed that while the Coast Guard has a budget to manage, the need for these aids remains critical.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued public engagement and feedback on the issue, as local harbor masters and delegates prepared to submit their opposition letters to the Coast Guard. The discussions underscored the community's commitment to preserving navigational safety in Cape Cod's waters as the deadline for public comment approaches.