Marathon City Council to discuss issues
with Harbor Drive Boat Ramp
BY TERRY SCHMIDA
The ongoing problems associated with the Harbor Drive Boat Ramp were to be among the items tackled by the City Council at Tuesday’s meeting.
The ramp has become something of a thorn in the side of nearby residents, in the area behind Marathon International Airport, who say that its usage has congested the area, diminishing their quality of life, and paving the way for accidents.
“That boat ramp is an issue right now,” said Council Member Michelle Coldiron. “It was originally intended for use by the residents of that neighborhood back in the day, but now it seems like its being used by everybody. Cars are illegally parking on the bike path, which is dangerous, and I’ve had a few residents in that neighborhood email me with their concerns. I’ve encouraged them to attend the meeting. We need to talk about that ramp, and the need for more boat ramps in Marathon.”
Council Member John Bartus said that discussion of the item, which is being brought forward by Council Member Dan Zieg, would likely include input from local law enforcement, and the incoming City Manager, Charles Lindsey.
“Hopefully we’re going to figure all of this out, and find a solution, so that we can get everybody sort of peacefully co-existing,” Bartus said. “We do need to do something in terms of getting people to be a bit more considerate regarding the neighbors. There are a number of ‘no parking’ signs in the area, but it seems like many people are just ignoring them these days.”
Zieg could not be reached for comment.
Then-Council Member Mark Senmartin had proposed trying to use Monroe County Tourist Development Council money to purchase a parcel of land adjacent to the ramp for a park, during a public workshop discussion of the matter back in August.
That idea, however, met with overwhelming resistance from local residents, and the proposal was quickly shelved.
Lively public input on the subject could prove to be the highlight of an otherwise light meeting, characterized by an agenda heavy on routine housekeeping items.
The gathering will, however, include a formal farewell t
o former City Manager Mike Puto, who departed his post at the end of last month to become a member of the Board of Trustees at Florida Keys Community College.
Lindsey was chosen to replace the retiring Puto in August of last year.
“We’ll be sending [Puto] off in style,” Coldiron said.

 

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