08/12/1998MARINE ADVISORY BOARD
CITY OF CLEARWATER
August 12, 1998
Present: David C. Martens Chair
Donald McFarland Vice-Chair
Edward Dohrman Board Member
Ernie Cline Board Member
David Hemerick Board Member
Absent: Bill Wilhelm Board Member
Eric Spaulding (resigned) Board Member
Also Present: William Held Harbormaster
Gwen Legters Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 8:10 a.m. at the City Marina. To provide continuity for research, the items will be in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that
order.
Minutes Approval -- July 8, 1998
Having heard no corrections or additions, the Chair declared the minutes approved as submitted in writing to each board member.
ITEM #1 - Wake Zone Request from Mr. Don Harrill
Mr. Don Harrill, a resident of Island Walk development, related problems caused by boats approaching the 40-slip marina at high speeds. He said his boat was damaged recently when a
wake washed his bow rail onto a piling. He requested the marker be moved to the center of the channel. Harbormaster Bill Held pointed out the map location of the residential area in
question. While acknowledging problems with wakes, concerns were expressed with having too many no wake zones. General discussion ensued regarding alternatives to help allay wake problems
in the area.
Member Hemerick moved to extend the No Wake Zone to the green marker as a safety issue. The motion was duly seconded.
Concerns were expressed the suggested solution would not help the condominium area to the north. General discussion ensued regarding locations of docks in relation to residential property.
Member McFarland moved to table the motion on the floor to the next meeting, to allow time for board members to examine the issue before taking a vote. There was no second.
Member Hemerick withdrew his motion. The seconder concurred. Chair Martens asked the board to examine the issue for action at the next meeting.
ITEM #2 - Personal Watercraft article from Bill Wilhelm
The board reviewed Mr. Wilhelm’s July, 1998 article regarding personal watercraft. General discussion ensued regarding the board’s concerns about the Planning and Zoning Board having
approved a conditional use a request to allow operation of jet skis at Shepard’s Restaurant, despite Marine Advisory Board opposition. Mr. Held said he testified for almost an hour
at the August 5 appeal hearing. Questions were raised regarding whether the City Attorney needs to address whether City code encompasses personal watercraft use, whether or not a “right”
exists to use personal watercraft, and whether the city’s jurisdiction extends into the water. Mr. Held responded to questions regarding City policy on use of waterfront property.
Discussion ensued regarding present and potential conditions, and use of beach, waterfront, and pass areas, under the existing and future Land Development Codes.
ITEM #3 - Mr. Held’s Last Meeting
Mr. Held said he has enjoyed working with the Marine Advisory Board, and as Harbormaster for the past 17 years. After his retirement August 14, 1998, Mr. Held plans to stay in the
area doing volunteer work. Advertising and interview process for the Harbormaster position will take a few months. Mr. Held has recommended to Quality of Life Administrator Dr. Arlita
Hallam that the Marine Advisory Board Chair sit on the interview panel. Mike Hancock has elected not to pursue the position, but will serve as Interim Harbormaster.
Mr. Held responded to questions regarding recent department restructuring, noting the Marina will retain its current status as a department. Board members expressed concern over the
reorganization. Mr. Held stated he expects Dr. Hallam will strongly support marina operations.
Mr. Held’s retirement party was scheduled for Friday, August 14 at the Sailing Center. Board consensus was to send a memento to Mr. Held from the Marine Advisory Board.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:10 a.m.