Concerns over a proposed commercial dock on Stephenson Creek dominated the recent Marine Advisory Board meeting in Clearwater, as local resident Daryl Lakey raised alarms about its potential impact on the waterway. Lakey highlighted that the dock, measuring over 1,600 square feet, is significantly larger than most homes in the area and was approved by the Clearwater Development Board without adequate community input.

"This project was rushed through," Lakey stated, referencing a previous denial by the former harbormaster, who deemed the dock too intrusive and a threat to navigability. He urged the board to reconsider the approval process, emphasizing the need for community involvement in decisions that affect local waterways.

The discussion also touched on the existing speed zone regulations in Stephenson Creek. Lakey expressed a desire to extend the no-wake zone further up the creek to mitigate the impact of increased boat traffic, particularly with the addition of nine new slips associated with the dock project. "We have enough issues with jet skis flying up and down the creek now," he noted.

Board members acknowledged the concerns, recalling past discussions about the legality of docks in the area. They expressed frustration over the lack of oversight in the approval process and the need for a more thorough review of such developments to protect Clearwater's waterways.

As the meeting concluded, the board indicated a commitment to further investigate the dock's implications and work collaboratively with residents to address their concerns. The outcome of this situation remains to be seen, but it underscores the ongoing tension between development and environmental stewardship in Clearwater.