April 23, 2026 Harbor and Waterways Board Meeting Agenda Packet

April 23, 2026 Harbor and Waterways Board Meeting · 2026-04-23 · agenda_packet

[722 Harbor Blvd; case HWB-001666-2025] The Harbor and Waterways Board recommended City Council approval for residential marine construction at 722 Harbor Blvd. The project involves extending an existing terminal platform by 8 ft x 5 ft and adding two 2 ft x 15 ft finger piers. This adds 100 sq. ft. of over-water area, bringing the total dock square footage to 805 sq. ft. The applicant, Gary Gorman, confirmed new framing would be inside existing pilings and the adjacent neighbor had no objections. The recommendation was approved with conditions requiring federal/state approvals and compliance with LDC Section 11.05. [510 Norriego Rd; case HWB-001671-2025] The Harbor and Waterways Board recommended City Council approval for residential marine construction at 510 Norriego Rd. The project includes constructing a new roof structure over an existing upland slip, with an overhang extending approximately 2 feet into the canal. This adds about 72 sq. ft. of new over-water area. Adjacent property owners were notified, and no public comment or objections were received. The recommendation was approved with conditions requiring federal/state approvals and compliance with LDC Section 11.05. [602 Lagoon Dr; case HWB-001682-2025] The Harbor and Waterways Board recommended City Council approval for residential marine construction at 602 Lagoon Dr. The project involves constructing a new marginal dock, 5 feet wide, running along the property line for approximately 227 feet, creating about 1,135 sq. ft. of new over-water construction beyond the platted property line. Notifications were sent to adjacent property owners, and one representative, Ryan Gerdy (attorney for Susan Shackelford), raised concerns about a potential boundary line dispute regarding an existing upland cut, stating his client believes it encroaches on her property. The Board noted that city review relies on submitted surveys and boundary disputes are private civil matters. The recommendation was approved with conditions requiring federal/state approvals and compliance with LDC Section 11.05. The Harbor and Waterways Board discussed the Net Positive Environmental Benefit (NPEB) Fee structure. The current construction-based fee averages $25,000 annually, while harbor operations cost $45,000-$50,000. A proposed new structure, recommended by the Local Planning Agency (LPA), would replace the construction-based fee with an annual fee of $50 for residential docks and $100 for commercial docks, estimated to generate ~$87,000 annually. This proposal aims to stabilize revenue, reduce the financial burden on dock improvements, and simplify administration. Board member Tadlock expressed concerns about the fee being perceived as a tax and equity issues between dock owners and general harbor users. Alternative funding ideas included fees for all waterfront property owners, boat registration fees, and contributions from the Tourist Development Council and businesses. The LPA emphasized the need for a self-sustaining funding model due to current deficits. A motion to support the LPA recommendation with modifications for renovations and eco-friendly materials failed for lack of a second. A motion to support the LPA recommendation as presented and forward it to City Council passed 4-1, with Board member Tadlock dissenting. [Destin Harbor] The Harbor and Waterways Board received an update on the Destin Harbor Pump Operations and Costs. The harbor flushing pump is currently down for repairs due to a burned bearing caused by cooling system failure, with estimated repair time of 1-2 weeks at an approximate cost of $52,000. The board discussed past investments in the pump, maintenance plans, and operational challenges, including the need for specialized equipment and external contractors for repairs. They emphasized the need for future preventative maintenance contracts, a critical spare parts inventory, and faster response to failures. The board also discussed water quality considerations, noting that the pump alone cannot fully address issues and that stormwater runoff remains a major contributor to pollution. The board members discussed the need for future preventative maintenance contracts, critical spare parts inventory, and faster response to failures. [South of Destin Yacht Club] Vice Chairman John Stephens reported on a large, submerged metal cage, possibly a chicken coop, located south of Destin Yacht Club. Staff attempted removal but found it too large and heavy for the city boat. Consideration was given to marking the hazard with a buoy for safety. [Joe’s Bayou Recreational Boat Launch (initial installation); Clement Taylor Park (2028); Leonard Destin Park (2029); Noriego Point Park (2030)] The Harbor and Waterways Board is developing a Life Jacket Loaner Program, with a flagship installation planned at Joe’s Bayou Recreational Boat Launch by February 2027. The program aims to improve public safety by providing life jackets for free use. The board is defining specifications for life jackets and loaner stations, developing standard operating procedures, and exploring funding partnerships with organizations like BoatUS Foundation, Sea Tow Foundation, and FPL. The program will involve monthly inspections by board members and a tracking system for inventory. Future installations are planned for Clement Taylor Park (2028), Leonard Destin Park (2029), and Noriego Point Park (2030).