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Atlantic Beach council backs adding shellfish moratorium extension to May 26 agenda
Summary
Council discussed extending the town’s shellfish moratorium, citing concerns that commercial aquaculture leases could create long-term rights that foreclose other uses; the council agreed to add a resolution supporting a one- to two-year extension to the May 26 agenda.
The Town of Atlantic Beach discussed May 18 whether to extend a shellfish moratorium set to expire July 1, 2026, and agreed to place a Resolution of Support on the May 26 agenda to pursue an extension.
The town’s legislative contact recommended extending the moratorium for one to two years to enable a comprehensive study of implications for water access and related town interests. Council members cited concern that granting commercial aquaculture leases could create long‑term lease rights that effectively foreclose other uses of near‑shore waters unless the town acts proactively. Several councilmembers framed an extension as a preventative measure to protect coastal boating and the town’s commercial fishing heritage.
Council reached consensus to add a resolution supporting an extension to the May 26 meeting agenda. The resolution is intended to give the town time to study options and coordinate with the town’s legislative representatives; no ordinance or long‑term policy change was adopted at the worksession.
