Harbor staff reviews mooring renewals, boat fire and a drone purchase; Norwalk moorings win award

Harbor operations and safety were a major part of the commission’s update at the special meeting. Harbormaster Herbert Mastelovallo said mooring renewal notices are scheduled to go out Jan. 1, 2025, and that Edwards Marine will conduct required mooring-tackle inspections (estimated inspection cost about $2,000).

Mastelovallo and Deputy/Marine staff reviewed a recent vessel fire at the South North Bull Club that involved three boats. Sergeant Justin Pasigli said the fire marshal attributed the blaze to an overloaded circuit and that the first vessel’s space heater likely ignited; two other vessels burned as a result of proximity. "It sounds like it was an overloaded circuit, ultimately is what caused it," Pasigli said. Commissioners praised the fire and police marine units for their response.

The commission approved the purchase of a drone for harbor operations; the order ($1,619.29) has been placed and the unit will be billed when shipped. Commissioners said the drone will operate with a transmitter to identify it as commission equipment and affirmed it will not be flown at night.

Commissioners also celebrated that Norwalk Transient Moorings received an Elite Fleet award for outstanding visitor support. The commission agreed to work with city communications to promote the award, share materials with the city director of communications and distribute promotional stickers and hard copies to dockmasters and visitor facilities.

No formal policy action was taken during the operational updates; staff will proceed with mooring renewals and inspections and will report back on inspection results and drone delivery.