2/16/1983 - Laserfiche WebLink

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� FEB 1 1983 �Ac information, including costs, and draft an ordinance for protection of the grass flats to bring back to the Commission for consider- ation. John Thomas, commercial fisherman, noted that the area discussed was apparently all in the southern end of the County, and he hoped consideration would be given to includ- ing the Sebastian area of the river. Commissioner Lyons felt the only place we can do this is where we have an aquatic preserve, but Attorney Brandenburg believed the law indicates we have jurisdiction in the river except within the IntraCoastal Waterway itself. Commissioner Lyons stated, in that case, he would like to include all the grass flat areas. Commissioner Wodtke asked if Mr. Thomas felt the wake itself causes the damage or just the boat propeller blades. Mr. Thomas believed it is the propeller that causes the damage, and the problem is boats running around over the grass flats. He noted that between the two Vero bridges there presently is a No Wake zone because of the manatees. He further commented that if you run your boat at a high speed in a No Wake zone, you will be arrested; the basic idea is to slow down. Commissioner Lyons concurred that the main idea is to keep the speed merchants out of these areas. Commissioner Scurlock felt it would be logical to post more complete information about aquatic preserves and grass flats, etc. at boat launching areas and possibly include this on the No Wake signs. Commissioner Lyons stated that he would research to see what else can be put on the signs, but he had felt we were limited to No Wake zones. 64