OTISFIELD – A homeowners group is asking selectmen to appoint a harbor master to regulate mooring privileges for Silvaqua residents on the west shore of Thompson Lake.
Ros Ebacher, a member of the Silvaqua Owners Association, made the request at the board meeting Wednesday.
The association includes 90 different owners, some of whom own multiple properties. The association owns common property along the shore.
Many of the lakefront properties already have moorings, but residents who have back lots on the lake would like to install additional moorings.
“What we are trying to avoid is a free-for-all,” Ebacher said.
Jane Fahey, president of the association, said a harbor master will help avoid potential problems.
“There isn’t a problem right now. But we want the moorings regulated so they are safe and also handled in an equitable manner,” she said. “We also want to preserve the scenic beauty.”
Ebacher said the state Department of Environmental Protection used to issue mooring permits but stopped the practice several years ago, telling municipalities they had to develop their own mooring ordinances.
The homeowners association asked the Board of Selectmen last May to develop an ordinance, but the board declined and directed the association members to develop their own set of regulations.
“I think the philosophy is that if there’s not a problem, we don’t need it,” Fahey said.
Fahey said the regulations were completed after a considerable amount of work that included researching state laws and discussions with other towns that are considering similar ordinances, including Casco. State law allows municipalities to appoint harbor masters as well as deputies.
“Now we’re asking (the board) to support our efforts,” she said.
Board Chairman Mark Cyr said the board would review the issue with the Maine Municipal Association.
He said he should have a response for the homeowners association at the next board meeting Oct. 5.
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