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Council passes first reading of ordinance restricting heavy vessels at Independence Park boat ramp
Summary
The council moved the ordinance to first reading to prohibit heavy landing craft and other large vessels from using the Independence Park boat ramp without the harbor master's permission; the rule aims to protect the ramp from structural damage and enforce existing load limits.
The Town Council constituted the first reading of an ordinance that would prohibit vessels or equipment — including landing craft, bow ramps, gangways, grounded vessels and barges — from using the Independence Park boat ramp unless the harbor master grants permission.
Harbormaster testimony described repeated damage to older ramp structures caused when heavy landing craft lower bow doors onto the ramp or when tri‑axle trucks drive onto ramp elements; staff and engineering notes referenced a 32,000‑pound per‑axle load limit cited in engineering guidance.
Councilors asked who would enforce the rule; the harbormaster said the Harbor Commission and harbor staff would enforce the ordinance and could call the police department for assistance if needed. The council also discussed signage and agreed to have a sign placed at the ramp if the ordinance is adopted.
The council took no additional enforcement changes at first reading and voted to constitute the first reading; subsequent readings will finalize the ordinance language, enforcement authority and any penalties.
