Selectmen approve limited pier fixes and spar over adding two buyer permits at Fish Pier

A series of harbor and pier items drew sustained attention from the Stonington selectmen and local fishermen.

At separate meetings the board approved limited repairs and purchases for the Fish Pier — including a $2,500 expenditure to add a hydraulic reduction tank recommended to slow and stabilize hoist #6, and smaller purchases to maintain floats and decking — on the recommendation of Pier and harbor personnel and contractors. Selectmen also authorized a 5‑cent increase in fuel price at the Pier to help revenue.

Debate centered on seller/buyer permits and capacity on the Pier. At one meeting Selectman John Robbins moved to issue two buying permits for the Pier to local buyers; the motion passed 3–2. That vote angered listeners and some harbor committee members, who argued the Harbor Committee had previously recommended no new buyers because of limited space, skiff congestion and parking. The board later voted not to stay the decision and asked the Harbor Committee to continue ordinance work and make recommendations on capacity and permit rules.

Pier operators, day‑boat buyers and residents repeatedly urged the selectmen to coordinate closely with the Harbor Committee before issuing additional permits. Several attendees urged the board to return the question to the Harbor Committee; the board said it would seek more formal harbor recommendations and follow up.