Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Marina Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Selectmen open community push to preserve Winter Harbor Marina for public access
Summary
At a Sept. 18 special meeting, the Town Manager and residents urged steps to preserve the Winter Harbor Marina property—now listed for sale—to protect moorings, fishing access, and recreational waterfront uses while leaders explore ownership and funding options.
The Town of Winter Harbor convened a special public meeting on Sept. 18 to discuss options for the Winter Harbor Marina property, which facilitators said "is presently for sale and could be purchased privately at any time." The Town Manager said the session was intended to begin a community conversation about whether the town or partners should act to preserve the site.
Residents repeatedly urged maintaining public access and a working waterfront to protect fishing, moorings and seasonal businesses. The Town Manager reported demand pressures, noting a "current waiting list for moorings" and frequent calls from visiting boaters seeking safe harbor. Attendees said losing community access through private development would harm local heritage and economic opportunity.
Facilitators outlined potential paths — municipal ownership, public-private-nonprofit partnerships, or nonprofit stewardship — and identified local and regional groups that could help with technical support and funding. Select Board members said they may ask the Town Manager to begin informal discussions with the property owners to determine whether a fixed sale price or short grace period for fundraising is possible.
The meeting concluded with a list of action items including outreach to state and federal partners, land trusts, and local philanthropists, and a public survey to gather broader resident input. Meeting materials and a survey link will be posted on the town website for public review.
