Harpswell’s harbormaster hopes to lease office and wharf space at Cook’s Wharf on Bailey Island, saying it would boost efficiency and dramatically cut response times for maritime emergencies.
At its meeting on Wednesday, March 19, the Harpswell Planning Board heard from Harbormaster Paul Plummer, who explained his rationale for pursuing the lease. He said Cook’s Wharf, on Garrison Cove, is the best location available with both office and wharf space for the harbormaster’s vessel.
Because the property, across from Cook’s Lobster & Ale House, is zoned for commercial fisheries, the town needed to apply for a change of use from commercial to institutional. The Planning Board unanimously approved the request, saying the change won’t have any greater impact on the area than a commercial use would.
Planning Board Chair Amy Haible said granting the use change will allow the harbormaster to spend more time on the water helping boaters and others in need of assistance. The office is on the second floor, above a lobster pound owned by Portland Lobster Co.
For insurance reasons, residents wouldn’t be allowed to visit the new office, town officials said. However, signs would be posted that inform residents about the harbormaster’s office hours at the Town Office, where staff would continue to make themselves available.
In an email Tuesday, April 1, Plummer said Town Administrator Kristi Eiane is working with Harpswell’s legal counsel to draft a lease agreement for the space that would be acceptable for both the town and the property owner. He hopes to lease the space from April through December of each year.
“After that document is drawn up, it will go before the Harpswell Select Board for review and approval,” Plummer said. “We are hopeful that will occur at (its) April 10 meeting.”
Plummer said his office is excited about the prospect of being able to respond to requests for assistance much more quickly because personnel would be working right on the waterfront next to the town boat.
“Having the ability to access the boat within eyesight to address mooring issues, marine debris or wharf reviews will drastically increase the department’s efficiencies,” he said.
