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Selectmen approve two extra Pier buying permits amid debate over congestion and safety
Summary
Stonington selectmen voted 3-2 to grant two additional lobster-buying permits for the town Pier, rejecting a motion to delay the decision and prompting public criticism that the Harbor Committee’s recommendations were disregarded. The board also approved $2,500 for a reduction tank to slow Hoist #6 and a temporary fuel-price increase.
Stonington — The Board of Selectmen voted 3-2 to issue two additional buying permits for vendors at the town Pier after a heated discussion about congestion and safety.
Supporters of the permits said the new buyers would help local fishermen. "I need another place to buy lobsters," said Drew Eaton, a vendor, arguing that the permits would support his business. Opponents—including Harbor Committee members and several long-running buyers—said the Pier is operating at capacity and adding permits would worsen congestion.
The board split sharply. John Robbins moved to grant the permits and said the vote would help local commerce; Donna Brewer seconded and the motion passed 3-2, with selectmen Duncan and Steed opposed. A later motion to delay the decision for a month and send the question back to the Harbor Committee failed in a 2-3 vote.
Why it matters: The Pier is a focal point for the island’s lobster trade, and dock congestion affects hoist access, parking and day-to-day business. Harbor Committee members pressed the Selectmen to allow the committee time to finalize proposed ordinance revisions governing buyers, skiffs and parking.
The hearing included pointed public comment. "What is the point of having the Harbor Committee anymore if you aren't going to listen to them?" said Dick Larrabee Jr., a frequent Pier user, after the vote.
The board also approved two related items recommended by harbor staff. Selectmen unanimously approved an immediate five-cent per-gallon increase in Pier fuel prices to offset operation costs, and they authorized $2,500 to purchase and install a reduction tank on Hoist #6 after mechanical concerns. "Stanley Leighton recommended the tank to make the hoist safer; it should reduce the jerking," Selectman Evelyn Duncan said before the vote.
What’s next: Several audience members said they planned to press the Harbor Committee for further review and recommended ordinance updates to manage capacity. The board signaled it will continue to work with the committee on code changes and hoist maintenance plans.
Ending: The decision to add buyers and the hoist repair funding were approved at the meeting; board members who opposed the permits said they will keep pressing for clearer harbor rules and capacity limits.
