Minutes of a Meeting of
The Old Lyme Harbor Management Commission
July 12, 2011
Attendance:
Members present – Bob Doyen, Ned Farman, Bill Harris, Mike Mackey, Mike Magee, Mike Moran, Harry Plaut and Steve Ross.
Alternates present : None
Absent – Charlie Delinks, Robert Falaguerra (alt) ,Dave Frederiks and Dave Zita.
Guests: Mr. and Mrs. Keogh, Keith Nielson of Docko, Inc.
A quorum being present, Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
REPORTS
Clerk’s Report
The minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed and accepted as submitted.
Correspondence
Steve Ross received a response from Brian Thompson of the DEEP regarding the Keogh dock application. The letter’s content was discussed later in the meeting.
Treasurer’s Report
Bill Harris presented the Treasurer’s report, which was accepted for audit. A copy of the report is on file with the minutes.
Guest Presentation regarding the Keogh Application
Steve Ross reviewed the communication that he had received from DEEP in response to his letter representing the HMC’s recommendations regarding the COP for the Keogh’s dock. The DEEP is treating COP applications as new applications and thus are using the adopted HMC dock standards for requirements. The DEEP continues to require that the walkway remain but in an elevated position due to environmental concerns.
Keith Nielson presented information from his meeting with state biologist Richard Snarsky who evaluated the dock area as well as took photos and believes that the marsh does thrive and survive in its current state. Keith reported that the next step could be to submit a letter to DEEP noting the land transfer between the Keoghs and Sedgewicks; state the case for biological acceptability of the pier in its current state; and note any HMC support for this position. Discussion followed with individual HMC members stating their opinion on the process. Mr. and Mrs. Keogh also expressed their opinions. Motion made by Bob Doyen seconded by Ned Farman that the HMC approve the design of the dock as revised and presented by Keith Nielson to include elevating the walkway, adding handrails, revising piling height and including a
100 sq. ft. float; the dock walkway will remain the same length and location as at present. Discussion followed. Motion passed 3-2 in favor.
Keith Nielson discussed his concerns regarding the HMC’s addendum to dock standards as it pertains to the COP process. The HMC noted and responded to his concerns.
Steve will respond to the letter from Brian Thompson at DEEP (Director of LIS Programs) in regard to the issue of applying dock standards to existing docks. There was clear discussion when meeting with DEP representatives to develop the standards and Addendum that existing docks would not be impacted. Holding them to the same criteria when processing a COP application for docks without permits is contrary to the approach that was repeatedly stressed and also presented to the public when the Ordinance was enacted.
OLD BUSINESS
Member Appointments
Steve Ross reported that he has spoken to Ed Pinn who might be interested in becoming a Commission member. There remain two Alternate Member vacancies.
Pilgrim Landing
Mike Magee reported that the racks are up and the area is basically clean of weeds and debris.
Dinghy Dock
Mike Moran reported that he placed 950 screws into the dinghy dock and that the boards are now secure. He will give a receipt to Bill Harris for the ~$100 box of screws he purchased for repairs. Members thanked him for his work.
Potential Public Access Site—West bank of Lt. River
Steve Ross spoke to Suzanne Barkyoumb who said that someone from Land Acquisition has still not been assigned to the project. After discussion, motion made by Steve Ross seconded by Bill Harris to split the potential public access site on the west bank of the Lt. River on Halls Rd. into two phases: the first phase being all improvements that involve only Town property, the Second phase would be a dock placed in front of the DEEP’s portion of that site. Motion passed unanimously. Steve Ross will contact the Town Hall to arrange a presentation to the Board of Selectmen. Harry Plaut, Mike Magee and Steve Ross will attend.
Great Island Boat Launch Proposal
Steve Ross met with Michael Payton of DEEP at the site. Mr. Payton indicated that he will have two poles placed just above the high tide mark on each side of the ramp as an initial attempt to provide for a way to secure a launched boat while parking a vehicle. Bob Doyen has inspected the site recently but did not see any poles that have been installed. He will let Steve Ross know when they have been put in place.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Harbor Master
Mike Moran reported that it has been a quiet month so far. Old Lyme Marina and Old Lyme Fuel Dock have paid for their mooring permits.
Harbor Management Plan
No report this month.
Shoaling
Ned Farman reported the Ports Division did receive five million dollars towards shoaling efforts in the state of CT. The town of Old Lyme is on the list with the Bonding Commission which will meet July 28. After further processing, if Old Lyme receives any money, it would come in the form of grant in aid.
NEW BUSINESS
Dock Applications
Steve Ross noted that he received a copy of the approved permit for the Graybill Properties.
DEEP Violations
Steve Ross received one notice of violation at the Romeo property on Buttonball Road. Steve Ross has asked DEEP to keep HMC advised.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM. Steve Ross reminded members that the next meeting will be September 13, 2011.
Submitted by:
Janet S. Cody, Clerk
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