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Marine Resources Committee backs town-led stakeholder engagement on Hadley Point ordinance changes
Summary
The Marine Resources Committee voted 5-0 to express support for the town’s work engaging stakeholders about proposed changes to Chapter 94 that committee members say could unintentionally exclude small kayak guides from Hadley Point. The committee urged public comment to Town Councilors as the town moves toward finalizing the ordinance before the 2026 season.
The Marine Resources Committee unanimously voted to support the town’s effort to solicit stakeholder input on proposed revisions to Chapter 94 (Food, Merchandise, and Other Sales) after members said the draft language may exclude small kayak guides from launching at Hadley Point.
John Avila, the committee secretary, described a recent meeting with Mike G., the town’s code enforcement officer, and said the committee’s concern centers on wording that could prohibit kayak operators who cannot leave trailers unattended while they lead tours. Avila said he and Joanna Fogg met with the code officer and that Town Manager James Smith and code enforcement officials aimed to finalize changes in time for the 2026 season.
Natalie Springuel moved that the committee formally express support for the town’s stakeholder engagement; Joanna Fogg seconded and the motion passed 5-0. Committee members present for the vote were Chris Petersen (chair), John Avila (secretary), Lydia Stiles, Joanna Fogg and Natalie Springuel.
The committee encouraged residents and operators to submit emailed comments to councilors and town staff ahead of the council’s action. The minutes record that the proposed changes were also presented to the Town Council at a March 3 workshop, where councilors welcomed public input.
The motion was procedural and advisory: it does not alter the draft ordinance itself but signals the Marine Resources Committee’s support for a process that solicits input from Hadley Point users, including kayak guides, harbor stakeholders and other affected parties. The committee did not instruct staff to draft specific language; next steps noted in the minutes include continued coordination between MRC members and town departments.
