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Residents raise concerns as DES reviews proposed Cassie Cove docks in Ossipee Town
Summary
A board member told the Ossipee Town board that residents near Cassie Cove are worried a DES-reviewed permit for about 10 docks could bring rental slips, golf-cart traffic and noise; the board noted the permit is under DES review and said any commercial operation would require zoning approvals and likely a variance.
Multiple residents contacted the board to express concern about a proposed Department of Environmental Services permit for a dock installation in Cassie Cove that would provide space for approximately 10 boats, a board member said.
Residents worry that the docks could be used for commercial rentals, increase boat traffic in a congested cove and lead to guests driving golf carts across private property to access slips, accompanied by noise and alcohol-related behavior. "They're all very upset about what goes on at that sandbar without any marine patrol intervention," the board member said, describing the neighborhood's complaints about noise and facilities.
Board members said the DES permit had not been approved and was under review. They advised residents that if anyone intended to operate a business from the site they would need to pursue local zoning and planning approvals and likely a variance if the property is zoned rural. One board member suggested residents reach out to Executive Councilor Joe Kennedy to request a public hearing or similar opportunity for local input in the state review process.
The town did not report any formal application to the zoning or planning board at the meeting; board members said they would monitor the DES review and recommended that residents contact appropriate state and town officials if they have concerns.
Next steps: residents are encouraged to follow the DES review, contact Executive Council channels if a hearing is warranted and monitor any formal zoning or planning-board filings if a commercial use is proposed.
