Danvers manager proposes small waterways fee increase to support dredging permitting; rail-trail group to dissolve

The Town Manager presented a memo and told the Select Board that a proposed dredging project is in the permitting phase and recommended modest increases to waterways slip fees to support the work.

According to the manager, waterfront slip fees have not been changed since 1995 and all fee revenue flows into a revolving account earmarked for dredging. She said the river committee reviewed options, unanimously supported a recommended change, and proposed increasing resident fees from $1 to $2 per foot and nonresident fees from $2 to $4 per foot. The manager said Harbor Master Chris Sanborn will send letters to current waterways users following the meeting and that fee changes and informational details will be posted on the town website and social channels.

When asked how much money is currently in the revolving account, the Town Manager said the account "brings in approximately 29,000" and agreed to provide a full accounting by email. A board member recalled the last dredging project cost roughly $5,000,000 and said the Seaport Council matched that funding; the manager said permitting and initial analysis have been paid from available funds and that larger dredging costs would require bonding and state matches.

Separately, the Town Manager said the Rail Trail Advisory Committee voted to dissolve because its original mission is largely complete. The Recreation Committee will continue to receive updates and provide advisory support; members of the former rail-trail committee may be appointed to the Recreation Committee to continue volunteer coordination and advocacy.

The board asked for follow-up details on the revolving fund balance and on any next steps or timelines for permitting and bonding.