Politics & Government
Permanent Indian Lake Jet Ski Ban May Be Coming
Worcester city councilors approved a temporary jet ski ban a year ago, and it's set to expire in September.
WORCESTER, MA — With a temporary moratorium set to expire in September, Worcester may soon make moves on a permanent jet ski ban for Indian Lake.
At Tuesday's City Council meeting, councilors voted to move a discussion on a permanent ban to the council's Veterans' Memorials, Parks and Recreation subcommittee.
District 2 Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, who chairs the parks subcommittee, read an order requesting the ban cover only non-Worcester residents, plus city residents who do not have a "property right" along Indian Lake.
District 1 Councilor Sean Rose said he's been in talks with City Solicitor Michael Traynor about how the city can request a permanent ban in concert with state officials. MassWildlife oversees the lake, but Worcester operates several beaches and boating access areas on the lake, along with dozens of private properties that dot the shoreline.
Worcester councilors first approved a temporary jet ski ban in August 2021 following complaints that the speedy water vehicles were becoming a hazard to swimmers and people fishing on the lake. The ban, which carries a $300 fine, is set to expire on Sept. 30.
