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Selectmen split 3-2 on selling two new lobster-buying permits; harbor stakeholders object
Summary
The Selectmen voted 3–2 to issue two additional buyer permits for the town pier, a decision that drew sharp criticism from harbor users and prompted a failed motion to delay the decision pending Harbor Committee review.
At a Selectmen meeting that reviewed harbor recommendations and operational capacity, John Robbins moved to sell two buying permits for the town pier. After public comment from multiple buyers and fishermen, the board approved the motion by a 3‑2 vote.
Opposition from harbor users was immediate and vocal. Lobsterman Dick Larrabee Jr. asked, "what is the point of having the Harbor Committee anymore if you aren't going to listen to them," arguing the committee's recommendations were being ignored. Other buyers said the pier is already congested and that adding permits would strain hoists, parking and skiff access. Bill Damon, a buyer who works daytime hours, said adding buyers would affect his year‑round operation and employees.
Selectmen considered sending the item back to the Harbor Committee. John Steed moved to stay the decision for one month to let the committee propose solutions; that motion failed 2–3. The board then approved the sale of two buyer permits by a simple majority, prompting audience members to voice disapproval at the meeting's end.
Why it matters: The number of buyer permits controls access for commercial lobster buyers and affects pier congestion, safety and local business operations. Stakeholders asked for more study and an ordinance update to address skiff permits, parking and hoist use.
What happens next: Several audience members urged the Selectmen to allow the Harbor Committee to revisit the ordinance language and consider operational changes. The board did not rescind the sale at the meeting.
