South Kingstown adopts ordinance to manage small-boat storage at two Metunock rights-of-way

The South Kingstown Town Council voted to adopt an amendment to the Town Code governing boats and waterways that formalizes a managed storage system for small craft — kayaks, canoes and similar vessels — at two public rights-of-way in the Metunock area (Washington Street and Lake Avenue).

The ordinance, proposed by the Waterfront Advisory Commission and presented by Harbor Master Mike Stack, replaces a long-standing, informal practice in which dozens of small boats had been left at the water’s edge for years even though the town ordinance technically prohibited that activity. Stack told the council the commission’s intent was to replace an “unkept and uncontrolled” situation with a managed, registered system that would allow owners to be contacted and boats removed when necessary.

The council amended the draft to add an eligibility structure before approving it. The final version gives initial preference to existing mooring holders adjacent to the two rights-of-way and then gives preference to South Kingstown residents and property owners; remaining spaces may be offered to others if capacity remains. Councilmembers and Waterfront Commission members discussed an annual registration and sticker system, a modest fee to cover materials and administration, and the possibility that racks could be built in-house or as a community carpentry project.

Council members also directed staff to place any fee levels in the town fee schedule rather than the ordinance, and to return with a proposed fee schedule and implementation timetable. The ordinance allows the council to add additional rights-of-way later by amending the list of locations.

Council President McEntee said the change was intended to preserve public access while restoring order to the rights-of-way. The vote passed with all members present voting in favor.