Board grants Orleans Yacht Club waiver to allow 17‑year‑old counselor for junior sailing program

Denise Wither, representing the Orleans Yacht Club, asked the board June 18 to grant a variance from state camp‑safety rules (105 CMR 430) to permit a 17‑year‑old assistant (Nolan) and to confirm a senior instructor who lacks two seasons of administrative camp experience. Staff clarified that the club’s camp director (Francisco) meets camp‑director requirements and that Nolan will turn 18 in November.

Meredith confirmed that prior variances had been granted to the club and that the requested relief would cover the counselor age provision and, if needed, a director‑experience exemption. The board moved to grant the requested variance and to approve the recreation camp license pending final health, building and fire inspections, with one recorded opposing vote.

The board emphasized standard conditions for licensing — passing final inspections and compliance with food and safety requirements — and noted that prior waivers had been granted in similar circumstances.