Commission allows kayak racks on West Bay community pier despite resident objections, 5–2

The Marine Resources Commission granted the West Bay Homeowners Association’s request to install four kayak brackets on Community Pier 1 (Bells Creek). The brackets would hold up to eight kayaks suspended over the water. Staff noted the brackets would be bolted to the pier and would not require extending pilings.

The application generated contested testimony. Tim Murphy, West Bay HOA president, described the community process (an internal architecture committee approval and an 11–7 vote by association members) and said the brackets would keep kayaks off slips; several HOA members supported the request. Opponents — including former HOA leaders and three elderly residents — told the commission they had not been adequately notified and said the brackets would obstruct water views and could create a safety hazard on a narrow pier. Alan Carnam, a former HOA president, said three homes immediately adjacent to Pier 1 opposed the installation and that the association’s internal vote had not specifically addressed this project.

Commission discussion centered on the HOA’s authority to act for its membership versus adjacent property owners’ statutory rights to comment on pier changes. Staff explained that internal HOA rules do not bind the commission and that the commission must evaluate the project’s impact on adjacent parcels. The commission voted 5–2 to approve the four brackets (associate members White and Branson voted no). The commission also noted that any future additions to the pier (additional brackets or other fixtures) would require a new application and staff review.

The decision resolves the immediate permit question but underscored the importance of HOA communications with adjacent owners in community pier projects.