Essex Harbor Commission Reviews Cross Trees Project, Mooring Renewals And No-Wake Concerns

ESSEX, CT — The Essex Harbor Management Commission raised concerns about a proposed project at 50 Cross Trees and discussed boating speeds in North Cove during its Oct. 22 meeting, while also reviewing the status of mooring renewals and the town's harbor management plan.

Commission members identified several issues with the 50 Cross Trees application before the Zoning Board of Appeals, including erosion control, excavation timing, wildlife protection and drainage.

The commission did not vote on the application. Harbormaster Paul Riggio will conduct a site visit and report his observations to the commission.

Among the concerns discussed were whether a silt fence would provide adequate protection, whether the project includes a planting plan and whether excavation should be restricted during months when ground-cover seeds cannot germinate.

Commission members also raised questions about stockpiling materials within 100 feet of the water, wildlife barriers, escape ramps for small animals, drywell capacity and the presence of a backwash filter.

Members suggested that the town engineer review the erosion-control measures.

North Cove Boating Speeds

North Cove resident Dr. Andy Bronin told commissioners that an existing no-wake buoy appears to be slowing boats once they reach it, but that some boaters continue traveling at speeds that create wakes before reaching the buoy near the Cut.

The commission discussed whether a second buoy might help address the problem.

Members agreed that the first step should be to speak individually with known boat owners in North Cove and remind them that the entire cove is a no-wake zone.

The commission did not authorize installation of another buoy.

Mooring Renewals And Harbor Operations

Riggio, who was absent from the meeting, submitted a written report describing problems with the current mooring renewal process.

He reported an issue with inspection notifications generated by the online mooring system that needs to be addressed.

As of the meeting, 35 of 80 mooring permit renewals had been submitted and approved. Seven renewals were awaiting required documentation, two permits had been surrendered, two renewals had received extensions and 34 applications had not yet been submitted.

Riggio said some applicants had provided expired vessel registrations or Department of Motor Vehicles payment receipts rather than the required registration documents.

The renewal period began Oct. 1 and ends Oct. 30.

Riggio also reported concerns from mooring holders near Thatchbed, where low water has sometimes made it difficult for launch operators to pick up passengers. He said he would likely move the western line of moorings farther east to address the issue.

There was no activity on the mooring waiting lists during the month.

Commission Chairman Terry Stewart also reported speaking with Old Lyme's first selectwoman about a rock near Nott Island. She recommended consulting Old Lyme's harbormaster, and Riggio will follow up.

Harbor Management Plan Under State Review

Stewart reported that the town's updated Harbor Management Plan entered the formal review process with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection on Oct. 22.

He said comments are required by Nov. 22.

The commission had no new dredging information to report.

Commissioners also reviewed Safe Harbor's Certificate of Permission application for dock replacement at Dauntless Shipyard and Essex Island Marina.

The commission determined that it was not required to issue a consistency finding for the application.

Public Access And Waterfront Maintenance

In a written update, John Hincks reported that the boating season at Bushnell Access had been relatively quiet.

He said 31 boats remained on the racks, compared with more than 60 at the beginning of September. He also reported no noticeable damage from a recent nor'easter.

Hincks outlined preparations for the end of the boating season, including notifying permit holders about vessel removal deadlines and completing seasonal cleanup.

Commission member Susan Malan reported that yard clippings were being deposited at the Scholes Lane public access point. She said she had discussed the matter with the town's zoning officer and Department of Public Works.

Financial Business And Votes

The commission approved its September financial report, which showed a combined closing balance of $47,860.44 as of Sept. 30 across its Liberty Checking, Public Access and General accounts.

Malan moved to approve the report, and Ken Thomsen seconded the motion. It passed 4-0, with no abstentions.

Commissioners also approved a $428.10 invoice for administrative support services provided in September and October. Jeff Going made the motion, Kit Schellens seconded it, and the vote was 4-0.

The commission approved its Sept. 24 meeting minutes by a 4-0 vote, with Going making the motion and Schellens seconding it.

The commission also received notice that Valley Regional High School had rescheduled its Veterans Day luncheon from Nov. 11 to Nov. 6.

The meeting adjourned at 6:57 p.m. following a 4-0 vote.