Smithfield approves Boats and Waterways changes, bans personal watercraft on Georgeville Pond

The Smithfield Town Council on June 2 adopted amendments to Chapter 145 of the town code (Boats and Waterways) that remove obsolete provisions, clarify permitted vessel types and activities, and prohibit personal watercraft (jet skis) on Georgeville Pond.

Ray Sakansky, president of the George Pond Association, told the council the revision removes outdated "pond wardens," corrects residency language required by federal funding and narrows phrasing so the ordinance matches current use (for example, replacing a narrow reference to water skiing with language reflecting typical cruising activity). He also asked for improved communication between the association and council on safety issues.

Richard Rutus, vice president of the Georgia Pond Association, urged the council to include a ban on personal watercraft, citing the pond's small size, frequent swimmer use, state buffer rules and the practical cost of enforcement. Rutus said enforcement and monitoring resources are limited and that the state's 200-foot shore buffer further reduces practical operating area for personal watercraft; he summarized his position by saying it "makes absolutely no sense" to permit personal watercraft on Georgeville Pond.

Council members discussed signage and enforcement options during the hearing. After closing the public comment period, the council voted to approve the amendments as presented; President called the voice vote in favor.

Next steps: the amended ordinance will be finalized in the town code and follow local procedures for codification and notification. Councilors suggested quarterly check-ins with pond stakeholders during the summer months to address safety and implementation issues.