Dear Editor:

On August 21, there was a meeting to discuss the possible addition of second float off the pier at the property owned by Southport, formerly known as Gus’s. Approximately 20 to 30 residents attended. The main question was why do need another dock and who is asking for it?

When asked who wanted to put in the dock, the answer was initially, “One person.” When pressed further for who wanted it, Gerry Gamage finally admitted, “Our benefactor.”

While there was not a general consensus that the dock was a bad idea, the opinion was, why do we need it? The Harbor Ordinances state there is to be no tie-ups at any town owned dock; they are for unloading and loading only. The proposed dock is for seasonal use only. Fishermen/public will not have any extra dock space, so it seems clear this is really for the restaurant, which is over its seating limit as it is.

Other concerns from the fishermen were the promises made by the town one year ago. Fishermen were promised a hoist (provided by the fishermen), a modified ramp, and a reserved area on the pier for public and fishing access. Most or all of the promises were not kept.

The hoist was never installed because “one person” didn’t think it was pretty. The dock is continually full with Oliver’s patrons’ boats. The ramp has never been modified, and fishermen have found notes saying, “Do not park here all day, and if you need to park all day, park at the yacht club.”

The crowning glory, after all the concerns were stated at the meeting, the selectmen voted unanimously to approve the float that evening, (it would have been nice to tell us that they had already made up their minds and the vote was happening that day). One would think that after some of these concerns, they would have waited and had a meeting to get more input.

All the opinions expressed at the meeting could not compete with one man, “Our benefactor,” as Gerry called him. Sounds like the tail is wagging the dog, to me. What’s next?

Glen Hutchins
Southport Island