Council defers Virginia Street terminus stabilization, requests site sketch before approving up to $15,000

Councilors discussed a proposal from Docks of the Bay to stabilize the Virginia Street terminus using a living shoreline treatment with optional plantings and a gravel path for public access. The contractor estimated $13,400 for a reduced‑planting option and up to $15,000 if additional pea gravel is added to create a public path.

Staff recommended the reduced planting option to avoid overplanting and blocking access, estimating that cutting plant numbers in half would save roughly $1,600. "My recommendation is to go with the lesser amount of plantings," the staff member said, noting the area’s access needs and maintenance considerations.

Councilmembers debated approving the work now — to coordinate with an upcoming marina project scheduled after the Oyster Festival — versus waiting for a site sketch. Several members said they wanted a drawing to understand where plantings and the path would be placed and how the public easement would be preserved. One councilmember suggested authorizing the town administrator to approve up to $15,000 so work could proceed without further council action; others wanted a sketch before committing town funds.

A motion to approve with authority up to $15,000 was put on the table, but councilmembers ultimately withdrew that motion and agreed to table the item until a site drawing/sketch could be provided. Staff noted the project is not budgeted but could be funded from reserve funds if approved later; members also discussed weather‑dependent planting and that plantings might be delayed until spring to improve survival.

No contract award or final authorization was made at the meeting; the council directed staff to obtain and present a site sketch and bring the item back for consideration at a future meeting.