Kayakers Required to Remove Watercraft from Maple Avenue Rack by Oct. 31
Are you a kayaker in Jamestown? If so, you must be aware of the new policy requiring all kayakers with permits to remove their watercraft from the Maple Avenue rack by October 31st. Failure to comply with this deadline could result in the loss of your permit.
The town council unanimously approved this policy in an effort to address the high number of empty spots on the racks that are not being used. According to the executive director of the harbor division, Steven Bois, there were 42 vacant spots for the entire season, which is a waste of valuable space.
This new policy aims to ensure that the available spots are utilized by active kayakers, providing more access to the waterways. Make sure to mark your calendars and remove your kayaks by the deadline to avoid any penalties and keep your permit intact.
Introduction
If you’re a kayaker in Jamestown who has been utilizing the Maple Avenue rack to store your watercraft, it’s important to note that a new policy has been put in place requiring the removal of all kayaks by October 31st. This policy, which has been unanimously approved by the town council, aims to address the issue of vacant spots and improve access to the waterways.
Background Information
According to an article published in the Jamestown Press, kayakers who have permits to store their watercraft at various locations in Jamestown, including Fort Getty, East Ferry, Head’s Beach, and Maple Avenue, must now ensure that their vessels are on the rack by June. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of their spot. This policy was implemented due to the discovery of a large number of empty spots that were not being utilized.
Policy Approval
The town council, after considering the recommendation of Steven Bois, the executive director of the harbor division, unanimously approved the policy during a meeting held on Monday night. Bois conducted a study during the summer which revealed that the capacity of the racks ranged from 33% in June to 73% in August. Out of the 175 spots available, 42 remained vacant for the entire season.
Reason for Policy
The primary reason for implementing this policy is to improve access to the waterways in Jamestown. With a significant number of vacant spots on the racks, it can be a challenge for kayakers to find a space to store their watercraft. By requiring kayakers to occupy their spot by a certain deadline, it ensures that all spots are filled and available for use. This policy also aims to address the problem of non-utilization, ensuring that the spots are not left vacant for the entire summer season.
Data on Capacity
The data collected during the study conducted by Steven Bois revealed some interesting insights about the capacity of the racks. In June, the capacity was only at 33%, indicating that a large number of spots were left unused. However, in August, the capacity increased to 73%, suggesting that some kayakers were utilizing the racks during the peak summer season. The study also found that out of the 175 spots available, 42 were vacant for the entire season, further emphasizing the need for a policy to address the issue of non-utilization.
Renewal Process
For existing permit holders, renewal notifications will be mailed out on December 1st. The deadline for renewal is January 31st, providing permit holders with ample time to ensure their spot for the upcoming season. If a permit holder fails to renew by the deadline, certified letters will be sent to them, indicating that they are relinquishing their permit or their spot on the waitlist. However, permit holders will have the option to appeal this decision.
Distribution of Stickers
To ensure a smooth process, stickers will be mailed out between March 1st and March 15th. The racks will be open for use from April 1st through October, providing ample time for kayakers to enjoy the waterways during the warmer months. This distribution timeline ensures that all kayakers have the necessary stickers to access the racks before the start of the season.
Forfeiture of Position
It’s crucial for kayakers to occupy their designated spots by June 1st. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of their position with no refunds. This rule ensures that all spots are utilized and available for use throughout the season. By enforcing this deadline, the town council aims to prevent kayakers from reserving spots they do not intend to use, ultimately improving access for those who truly wish to utilize the waterways.
Warning and Fines
As a reminder, any kayaks left on the racks after the October 31st deadline will result in a five-day warning for the owner. It is imperative that all kayakers remove their watercraft by this date to avoid any penalties. Failure to comply with the deadline will result in a $100 fine for the owner. These measures are in place to ensure that all kayaks are promptly removed from the racks, allowing for maintenance and preparation for the next season.
In conclusion, the new policy requiring kayakers to remove their watercraft from the Maple Avenue rack by October 31st aims to address the issue of vacant spots and improve access to the waterways in Jamestown. The policy was unanimously approved by the town council and is based on a study conducted by the executive director of the harbor division. By implementing this policy, the town council hopes to ensure that all spots are filled and available for use, ultimately enhancing the kayaking experience in Jamestown. Remember to renew your permit by the deadline, occupy your spot by June 1st, and remove your watercraft by October 31st to avoid any penalties. Happy kayaking!
