Stonington Selectmen approve two buyer permits amid heated debate over Pier capacity

The Selectmen approved issuing two buyer permits for the Fish Pier after an extended, sometimes tense discussion with commercial buyers, pier users and Harbor Committee members.

Supporters of adding permits — including individual buyers and some commercial operators — said additional buyers were needed to support local lobster sales. Opponents, including Harbor Committee members and other pier users, argued the Pier has reached capacity: parking and skiff spaces are crowded, hoists and circulation are limited, and adding buyers would worsen congestion and safety risks. Public comments included complaints that decisions had overridden Harbor Committee recommendations and calls to return the matter to that committee for more study.

The board voted 3–2 to sell two buyer permits. A later motion to delay the decision for a month and send it back to the Harbor Committee failed on a 2–3 procedural vote. Several people in the audience expressed visible frustration after the vote and urged the board to re‑consider the Harbor Committee's role.

Why it matters: Pier operations affect livelihoods, harbor safety and town regulatory policy. The decision to add buyers shifts allocation of limited pier space and prompted calls for clearer ordinance revisions and better coordination with the Harbor Committee.

Selectmen and the Harbor Committee also discussed maintenance and safety upgrades including repairs to the hoist system (authorized in a separate action). The board approved funds for hoist repairs and small capital purchases to address immediate safety needs while harbor ordinances are updated.

Next steps: Harbor Committee ordinance work will continue; Selectmen signaled interest in clarifying pier rules, skiff permits and parking assignments before further permit sales.