KENNEBUNK RIVER COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 19, 2006 MEETING
Members and Alternates Were Present:
Peter Hatch Anne Gamble
Gordon Ayer Rob Benson
Linda Littell Richard Woodman
Dave Parr
Grant Nelson
Robert Williamson
Robert Butler
Also Present:
Jim Nadeau, Harbormaster
Joel Beck
Meeting called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Littell.
Minutes of the August 15, 2006 meeting were read and approved by unanimous vote.
Bob Butler reported that his research has disclosed that 4 overboard discharge systems: They are located on Emmons Drive, Shiplock Drive, 2 Friendly Pines Way, and Bufflehead Cove. This meant that there were more systems than was originally believed.
Mr. Beck advised that he replaced his original system and the State paid for the replacement. His home is located at Riverwynde in Arundel.
Bob Williamson questioned whether there is a real problem, or only one that is perceived. He questioned what methodology is used for the testing and whether a “baseline” existed for what is considered “normal”. It was agreed that this information should be forthcoming.
The Harbormaster reported the following:
1. There is work remaining to be completed on the mooring barge;
2. There has been little to report in terms of activity on the harbor section of the River; and
3. In most respects, the boating season has close to a close with little to report, and it has been a very quiet season in terms of issues of concern to the Committee.
There was a brief discussion about a transient sailboat from Florida on one of the transient moorings, as well as a discussion about the fact that it might be possible to accommodate 3 or 4 additional mooring during the 2007 season.
Peter Hutchins has removed his tuna pulpit and has returned to the mooring basin.
Bob Williamson raised the possibility of using the mooring barge as a holding tank pumpout station. He advised that the center tank of the barge holds 70 gallons, more or less, and that additional tankage may also be available. He discussed the fact that the State might be willing to pay for some/all of the costs of the barge and an operator. It was generally noted that the major problem with having a pumpout station is “mind-set”, since the actual operation of a station is actually very simple. Jim Nadeau expressed that he thought this might be a solution to the problem, but he would like more time to consider what this might entail. Dave Parr agreed that “mind set” has a lot to do with this problem, just as it was with cleaning up after pets on the beach.
As soon as the solution is put in place, the public will probably come around and strive to comply.
A discussion ensued in which it was acknowledged that the Harbor Master has the ultimate authority over the beam of vessels being docked at Doane’s Wharf or elsewhere. While there has been a controversy about how wide boats should be, nothing was put in place when the Planning Board approved the project. Thus, the Harbor Master will be the ultimate authority on this topic, and despite some highly exaggerated newspaper and advertising claims by the White Barn in terms of docking mega-yachts, the problem has not become serious to date.
Bob Williamson raised the topic of using a mooring “chain” to accommodate smaller vessels. This would allow the pennants to be relocated as the sizes of the vessels change and different locations are needed. It was generally agreed that the Harbor Master might want to consider this as an option going forward.
Bob Butler raised the topic of another dock appearing tin the Landing area. There was a brief conversation about the fact that Kennebunk’s CEO doesn’t notify the Committee when an application for a dock is received. Bob said he would research the situation and would report his findings.
No other business coming before the meeting, it was Voted: To Adjourn, at approximately 8:15pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Gordon C. Ayer, Secretary
| 
