Ideas and Solutions

The Lower Matecumbe Beach Issue

Village Council passed the ordinance to create the swim zone at the beach in front of Port Antigua and White Marlin Beach on August 12, 2020. Permits are required from several state and federal agencies.  

Monitor permit process

The impacted residents and the Village must monitor the permit process to assure it moves as smoothly and quickly possible.

Monitor Results

Once the buoys are in place, monitor to assure the project is a success.

Public Relations

Print brochures for enforcement to provide. The brochure could explain the importance of compliance and suggest that if there is inadequate compliance, the next step may be more stringent in order to promote appropriate use of the area and consideration for those on the water and on the nearby land. Explain that the beach is privately-owned and the abutting properties are private property.

Enforcement

Law enforcement is a key component. Once the buoys are installed, be prepared to enforce regulations regarding the vessel exclusion zone and swim zone to assure the rules are followed.

Mooring Field

Alternatives must be considered if the current process is inadequate. A proposed solution in the future is creating a mooring field offshore.

• In Florida, a mooring field is established by local ordinance, codifying a management plan that regulates activity within the mooring field.
• Boaters can secure their boat to a mooring buoy attached to permanent anchors. Mooring buoys provide an organized and secure way to protect both boats and the environment. With a mooring field, the Village would be able to control the number of boats anchored. It would be illegal for a boat to anchor within the mooring field unless on a mooring buoy.