Selectmen clear way for added kayak launch space, ask Harbor Committee to redesign dinghy allocation

Stonington Selectmen heard updates on harbor access and agreed to pursue an additional kayak launch site while referring dinghy allocation policy to the Harbor Committee for a recommendation.

Town Manager Billings told the board that the Ramos family granted permission to use the lower boat launch by the tin building for kayaks, adding space at the south end of Webb's Cove. TM said she is contacting surveyor Linda Campbell to confirm property lines and marker flags; John Robbins volunteered to help with cleanup and site preparation.

Separately, the board reviewed demand for dinghy slots at the public landing. TM recounted past Selectmen decisions from 2003 and noted the number of requests has exceeded the historical 10–12 slots. The board asked the Harbor Committee to propose options — e.g., increasing slots, a lottery system, or ordinance changes — to produce a more transparent allocation process.

The town also plans signage, gates and basic site improvements to manage new kayak and dinghy activity; a porta-potty was discussed as a likely addition to support users.

Next steps: TM will confirm survey details with Linda Campbell and coordinate volunteers to prepare the kayak launch area; Harbor Committee will draft a dinghy-allocation recommendation for board consideration.