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Fishermen, neighbors press council to delay support for Castle Hill oyster farm
Summary
Commercial fishermen and residents said they were not notified about a Castle Hill CRMC aquaculture application, warned oyster cages would displace fishing grounds and urged the city to defer any supportive resolution to allow Waterfront Commission review; the council continued the matter.
Commercial fishermen and neighbors packed the dais when the Newport City Council took up a possible Council opinion on a Castle Hill aquaculture/ oyster‑farm application to the Coastal Resources Management Council.
Harry Gould, who identified himself as a commercial fisherman, told the council the project “directly impacts the fishing community” and said local fishermen were not notified that the application was on the docket. He warned oyster cages would take public bottom and could force several commercial fishermen out of productive areas.
Tom Doyle and other commercial harvesters reiterated that the cove in question is actively fished by multiple boats and that the proposed farm area shown in diagrams understates the footprint. Neighbors said they also were not consulted and urged the council to let the Waterfront Commission weigh in.
Councilors asked why no Castle Hill representatives were present and whether the Waterfront Commission had submitted a recommendation; the administration said CRMC solicits the council’s opinion but that CRMC will hold a public hearing and make a final decision. Several councilors said they wanted Castle Hill to appear and recommended continuation so stakeholders and the Waterfront Commission could be heard.
After extended public comment and council debate, the council voted to continue the matter to the next available meeting so the parties can convene, receive more information and prepare a record for CRMC.
