06/14/2022 WATERWAYS COMMISSION Minutes

Home Browse Search

Dinghy Selection Process:Steve Mone requested that we review the Dinghy Rack selection process.Ashley explained that it was originally designed as a lottery to get a tie up spot on an available post.As it turned out there were fewer requests than spots available so all requests were filled without a lottery.An issue did arise where a single household with 2 moorings was issued 2 dinghy permits.This may not be an issue now but could be in the future. Plus,we need to be consistent across our mooring areas.Ken Bates made a motion that DNR review their rules and regs and prepare a plan for the next meeting that we could vote upon.The motion was seconded by Gregg Fraser and unanimously approved by all present.Ken Bates: yes,Dick Noonan:yes,Steve Mone:yes,Gregg Fraser,yes,Al Wicket:yes, Don MacDonald: yes. MWC Bylaw Review:There was discussion as to what this topic was actually meant to be. After clarification that it is to specifically discuss the role of the Harbormaster's Office in dredge projects a motion was made by Gregg to delay this topic to the next meeting. It was seconded by Steve Mone and unanimously approved by all present.Ken Bates:yes,Steve Mone:yes, Dick Noonan:yes,Al Wtckel:yes, Don MacDonald:yes,Gregg Fraser:yes Harbormaster Renort:Ashley reported that the interviews for a new Harbormaster have been conducted and a candidate has been selected and a recommendation will be forwarded to the Select Board. Ashley reports that the summer is off to a busy start.One area needing attention is Mashpee/Wakeby.Jet skis are already becoming an issue.She also reports that we need a launch attendant to better manage the ramp.The gate attendants collect fees for parking but do not provide ramp management and control.The Gate Attendant is under the Recreation Dept and not DNR so Ashley cannot change roles or responsibilities. It was recommended that Ashley come up with a recommendation for moving forward so that the Commission could review and lend support as appropriate. The discussion continued with Ashley noting that we are getting a lot of jet skis coming in from outside our town because we offer one of the better ski venues.We cannot prohibit jet skis on a"Great Pond"but we could consider reducing speeds for all boat traffic.That decision would however impact those water skiing on the pond.More review is needed on this topic. Lastiv,Ashley stated that she is seeing evidence that would support the prohibition of power boats on Santuit Pond.To that end she is considering the effects of a 5 MPH speed limit or a complete ban of power boats. Ashley will bring forward a DNR Article for October Town meeting that would be reviewed by MWC during our July meeting for support. Ashley reported that the swim buoys have been placed around the Mashpee/Wakeby Islands and the Harbormaster's Office has been enforcing the swim zone. There has been little action on John's Pond and there is no need for a ramp attendant there. It was also noted that the Milfotl bloom on the pond has been treated and is gone. Also reported is that the Town will be more aggressively enforcing the payment of mooring permits and the removal of winter sticks.We have over 100 mooring holders who are delinquent in paying fees.The Harbormaster will reinstate the banding of moorings to physically show it has been approved by the HM Office. The Harbormaster's office is staffed and functioning,but they could use one more seasonal worker. It was also discussed that the Zodiac currently used for patrolling is not well suited for their patrolling needs.They are currently looking at alternatives for a more appropriate boat. DNR Director/Shellfish Constable Report:(most of the DNR Director report is embedded above under harbormaster above).Beyond those items Ashley reported that: -Our bays and estuaries are seeing a decline in water quality.