The Harbor Management Commission meeting held on September 17, 2025, in Norwalk City, Connecticut, focused on several key issues regarding local boating and mooring regulations. The discussions highlighted ongoing concerns about dinghy storage and access for mooring holders in the East Channel.
During the meeting, a member reported receiving complaints from mooring holders who were instructed to remove their dinghies from the dock by the 15th of the month. The lack of a temporary solution for dinghy storage led to frustration among the affected boaters. In response, the commission noted that the city is allowing dinghy storage at Vets Park for a fee of 50 cents per foot, which translates to $5 per day for a typical 10-foot dinghy.
The conversation also touched on past agreements with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) regarding dinghy access. It was noted that there had been commitments made to provide designated access for transient dinghy users, which have not been fulfilled. Currently, there are reports of charges reaching $55 per day for dinghy usage, with no clear signage indicating the terms of use.
The meeting underscored the need for better communication and planning to address the storage needs of mooring holders and to ensure compliance with previous agreements made with state authorities. The commission aims to resolve these issues promptly to enhance the boating experience in the area. Further discussions and actions are expected in upcoming meetings to address these ongoing concerns.