The Marion Marine Resources Commission met on Thursday, March 11 in the Maritime Center and touched upon the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, the harbor management plan, various capital improvement projects, and the development of more kayak racks in town.
The main talking point was a meeting with UMASS Boston representatives about the importance of implementing a formal harbor plan.
The school members noted that such a plan would engage the public more. MRC members said that a plan could help alleviate confusion as to whether the plan represents an arbitrary regulation instead of something that people helped develop.
UMass representatives noted that it could improve access to shoreline, including for those with disabilities. It was noted the work can also help educate the public on how climate change can impact future access to shorelines.
There is funding in place for a master harbor plan, and commissioners said the MRC would help with engaging the community while UMass could help with technical aspects and collect data from the public. They mentioned that in one community there was a public outcry for more public access in one area that was once seen as not accessible.
UMass said they would like to have a kickoff meeting with the public in the spring, followed by a public survey. After collecting data and analyzing it in the summer and fall, the consultants expect to share a draft in the fall.
Once the MRC reviews it, it will then go back to the public, usually in the winter. After that, it would seek final approval. The school representatives said they have other options for implementing the strategies.
MRC members stated they are an advisory committee; the Select Board would get final approval. Members added that the town’s Open Space plan is relatively new and might be a good resource to understand public needs and understanding. UMass responded that that situation is standard, so there would not be a need to start a new committee.
The next meeting of the Marion Marine Resource Commission was not scheduled at adjournment.
Marion Marine Resource Commission
By Jeffrey D. Wagner