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Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels Final Report
For the purpose of accepting the Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels' final report.
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City Council of the
City of Annapolis
Resolution 46-25
Introduced by: Alderman Arnett
Co-sponsored by:
A RESOLUTION concerning:
Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels Final Report
FOR the purpose of accepting the Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels' final report.
WHEREAS, The City of Annapolis is a historic maritime community with limited harbor space and competing demands for waterfront access; and
WHEREAS, There has been an increase in commercial residential marine vessels operating in Annapolis waters, including liveaboard vessels, charter boats with sleeping accommodations, and floating accommodations serving as short-term rentals; and
WHEREAS, Questions have arisen regarding the appropriate regulation of these vessels to balance economic opportunity, public safety, environmental protection, and the character of the City's harbor and waterfront; and
WHEREAS, On January 13, 2024, the City Council, by Resolution 46-24, established a Task Force on Commercial Residential Marine Vessels to study the types of vessels operating in City waters, assess their impacts, and recommend appropriate policies; and
WHEREAS, The Task Force consisted of local marina operators, members of the general maritime industry, business-community representatives, environmental organizations, commercial and recreational boaters, the liveaboard community, and residential stakeholders;
WHEREAS, The task force was supported in its efforts by representatives from the Harbor Master's office, the Department of Planning and Zoning, as well as the expertise of the Port Wardens Board and Maritime Advisory Board; and
WHEREAS, The need for this study arose from concerns including:
* Safety and Navigation -- The potential for overcrowding in the harbor and...
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