Wellington councillor seeks changes to boat launch bylaw; waterfront alternatives

Gulls were grounded during a windy day at Wellington harbour. – John Ferguson photo

UPDATE: Municipal staff to bring a report on all four locations to council’s July 21 meeting.

Councillor Mike Harper wants council to rescind a bylaw limiting the Wellington beach boat launch to non-motorized watercraft.

Following council’s decision June 9 to restrict boats with motors, Harper states the timing and volume of boaters has caused ongoing problems on the adjacent private property at the intersections of Belleville and Main streets, resulting in complaints and concerns from boaters and residents.

Wellington councillor  Mike Harper.

His resolution to council Tuesday night states the operators of Good Place and North Docks restaurant businesses have reported negative impacts on their business in addition to rising tensions with boaters trying to gain access to the launch through their parking lot.

Physical distancing, he notes, is also difficult to maintain giving high volumes of peole using Wellington Beach, particularly on weekends.

He states the problems are expected to escalate as boater activity increases over the summer.

He suggests a $20 per vehicle parking fee on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays until Sept. 30.

He will ask council to support a request to staff to seek alternatives for the long-term management of the Wellington waterfront, which includes “the highest and best use for the marina, beach, parkland and boat launch properties.”

“With this in mind, the analysis will consider among its options, an alternative location for a West Lake boat launch outside of Wellington in light of the changing dynamics of the village and projected population growth,” states Harper.