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Merrimack council approves pilot kayak/canoe storage at Wasserman Park
Summary
Council approved a resident-only seasonal kayak/canoe rack at Wasserman Park with a lottery-based assignment, a proposed fee, and plans to explore a second site funded by Rotary; unanimous vote.
MERRIMACK, N.H. — The Town Council voted 6-0 to let the Parks and Recreation Department establish a pilot canoe and kayak rack storage program at Wasserman Park to give Merrimack residents seasonal storage for small boats.
Parks and Recreation staff proposed an initial program using an existing rack with nine spaces, assigned by lottery. Staff recommended a seasonal window (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and a fee structure designed to recover program costs, signage and maintenance; because this year’s launch is later, staff proposed a prorated resident fee of $75 (regularly $100) for the inaugural season and a higher nonresident fee if the program expands.
The pilot will reserve spots for Merrimack residents, with an option to expand to additional town locations if demand warrants. Parks staff said the incoming Rotary Club president offered a district grant to fund a second, commercial‑grade rack (estimated cost about $2,500) to locate at Veterans Park pending council acceptance of the donation.
Key program rules spelled out by staff and included in the rental form are: users lock and secure their own boats; the town is not responsible for lost, stolen or vandalized property; and, if spaces remain after the initial lottery and season start, remaining spaces will be filled first‑come, first‑serve. Staff said applicants would receive a sticker permit to display on assigned boats to identify authorized users.
Council members asked about veteran’s‑park placement and congestion near the boat ramp; staff said the proposed Veterans Park rack would sit beside a walking path and not in parking spaces, and that the department will further study traffic and parking impacts before installing a second rack. Council suggested giving residents priority in any nonresident expansion and testing Veterans Park on a temporary basis if needed.
Motion and vote: Councilor Tom moved to approve establishment of the program at Wasserman Park; the motion was seconded and passed 6-0.
Next steps: Staff said they could open the lottery and publish application material within two to three weeks and aim for a July 1 operational start for the first season. Parks staff will return with a formal acceptance if Rotary funds a second rack.
