Selectmen approve two additional buying permits for Fish Pier amid Harbor Committee objections

The Stonington Selectmen voted to sell two buyer permits for the town Fish Pier despite objections from harbor users and Harbor Committee members, a move that drew an immediate reaction from residents who said the pier is already congested.

At the Dec. 7 meeting, Selectman John Robbins moved to issue two buying permits; the motion carried 3–2. Several harbor users, including Dick Larrabee Jr., said the Harbor Committee recommendations had not been followed. Larrabee asked, “What is the point of having the Harbor Committee anymore if you aren't going to listen to them?” and audience members urged the board to return the decision to the committee for further study.

Opponents argued adding buyers would worsen congestion on the pier, reduce hoist availability and complicate parking. Pier users described daytime crowding, blocked hoists and business impacts for existing buyers; Bill Damon, who said he operates mainly at night to avoid conflict, warned the change would affect employees and day‑to‑day operations.

The board later considered a motion to stay the decision for a month to allow the Harbor Committee time to seek a solution; that motion failed 2–3. Selectmen said they had considered Harbor Committee recommendations but concluded, based on the record and the vote, to allow the additional buyer permits.

Why this matters: The permits affect pier capacity, safety and livelihoods for local fishermen and buyers. Harbor Committee members and pier users framed the issue as one of congestion management and public-safety access to hoists.

What’s next: Harbor Committee members and residents indicated they will press for ordinance revisions and clearer management rules for the Fish Pier. The Selectmen and TM said they will continue to work with the Harbor Committee on ordinance language and enforcement.