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Beach Use Ordinance Documents and overview for October 9 , 2013


The Beach Use Ordinance Committee (“BUC”) was formed in response to 2013 Warrant Article, which passed 590-487.  That Warrant Article originally would have prohibited certain beach-related activities, most notably surf lessons and surf board rentals, without the express permission of the Board of Selectmen.  However, the Warrant Article was amended at the 2013 Deliberative Session to require only a study.  The BUC started meeting in May 2013, and has now drafted a proposed ordinance which would require permits for  beach activities involving three or more persons whenever a fee is involved, or when certain equipment, including surfboards, paddle boards, kayaks and other equipment to be designated by the Board of Selectmen, is rented.

Beyond the proposed ordinance, beach issues have attracted a lot of attention this year.  The Save Jenness Beach organization has been complaining about a broad range of beach problems including surfers interfering with swimmers, public drinking, parking, traffic, and general lack of courtesy by those using town beaches.  Other residents are complaining about dog issues relating to the beach.  State Senator Stiles has led two public meetings with a large number of residents, Town and State officials present to discuss beach issues.  Beach issues were also in the forefront at two Board of Selectmen meetings this year.  Certain residents attempted to broaden the scope of the BUC to include a broader range of issues than the proposed ordinance, but were unsuccessful.  It appears that the Board of Selectmen plans to limit comment at the October 9 hearing to issues involving the proposed ordinance.

 

Working for Proposed Ordinance: Rye_Beach_Permit_Ordinance_9-25-13

Draft Beach Use Application:  Rye_Beach_Permit_Application_Form_9-25-13

Town Release and  Indemnification requirements:  Rye_Beach_Permit_RELEASE_AND_INDEMNIFICATION_9-25-13

Current Beach Ordinance:  Current_Rye_Beach_Ordinance