Commission reviews mooring finances, discusses floating dock and approves shoreline restoration letter

Commissioner McDonald presented the commission’s finance report, showing total receipts of roughly $58,009.80 in the year (including about $50,000 from online moorings and $7,764 from transient moorings through Dockwa) and a year‑end balance of approximately $78,871.69. He noted one missing payment to a contractor that requires follow up and that expected grants (including a health‑department grant for water‑quality interns) had not been received. "We have plenty in the bank," McDonald said, while recommending follow up on a missing invoice.

On harbor‑safety and mooring topics, the commission discussed a proposal from Edwards Marine for a 5x20‑foot floating dock priced at $8,500 (labor and materials included but not hookup) for placement near the city ramps; staff noted purchases over $5,000 typically require multiple bids unless the purchasing agent approves an exception. Harbormaster updates included a sailboat iced‑in on a mooring that must be removed and a potential Eagle Scout cleanup of Grassy Island.

The commission also voted to send a formal letter of support for a shoreline restoration pilot project previously presented by Grace Paselli, finding the project consistent with the harbor plan and beneficial for shellfish restoration and student engagement; staff said they would draft and send the letter the next morning.

Separately, the commission elected a new slate of officers — Jeff Mangels (chair), Chris McDonald (vice chair) and John Wilkins (secretary) — and adjourned the meeting.