In a continuing effort to bring greater government efficiency to city and county government, Mayor Michael Pantelides and County Executive Steve Schuh today announced a partnership to better patrol and enforce current boating regulations on Weems Creek.
As part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the county has authorized the Annapolis Harbormaster to apply and enforce certain provisions of the City Boating Ordinance throughout the waters of Weems Creek, including the portion owned by the county, since the creek is the boundary line between the county and the city.
“This agreement not only allows the city to enforce on both sides of the water, but it prohibits vessels from moving to the county side of the water to avoid enforcement, Mayor Pantelides said “The MOU outlines a strategy that enables consistency in enforcement.”
“I want to thank the Mayor for his willingness to step up and ensure county residents on Weems Creek receive the same protections as city residents,” said County Executive Steve Schuh. “This agreement is another example of both jurisdictions better serving our citizens.”
The extension of enforcement authority is limited to the specific sections of the City Code found in Title 15 Chapters 15.04.030 through 15.14.040 and shall not extend to permitting, collection of fees or regulation of any improvements extending into the waters of Weems Creek from land within the County.
Residents along Weems Creek are applauding the MOU. In a recent letter to the Harbormaster, Cindy and John Weber wrote, “We can see what a chilling effect the liveaboards and the derelict vessels had on regular cruisers and others who wanted to enjoy the creek. People simply did not come here in their cruising boats when the liveaboards held sway here. Now that they are gone we see many cruisers coming in and anchoring overnight and using the Tucker Street landing to get to West Annapolis and Annapolis. We see more paddleboarders and small sailboats and dinghies and people swimming in the creek. It is now the way it should be and used to be before the mid 2000s. Thank you very much for all the great work you have done on our creek under the MOU.”