Memorandum 15-130 Restriction of Vehicles on Beaches

Memorandum 15-130

TO:                       Mayor Wythe and Homer City Council

THROUGH:       Katie Koester, City Manager

FROM:                 Julie Engebretsen, Deputy City Planner

DATE:                  August 3, 2015

SUBJECT:         Ordinance to close beaches to vehicles

Summary

Currently, three beach areas are closed to vehicles. The proposed ordinance would close the remainder of Homer beaches to vehicles, with one exception. Vehicles would be allowed on the beach seasonally in the winter, October 1 to March 31, in the Mariner Park area, down the west side of the Spit. See ordinance for description of boundaries. Additionally, landowners of beachfront property would still have the right to access their land to perform maintenance on their property, using a permit system.

Permit System

A simple permit system for beachfront landowners has been suggested by Chief Robl. A landowner would call or visit Dispatch, and let them know they plan to work on their land that day. They could pick up a key to the gate at Bishop’s Beach. Dispatch could keep track of license plate numbers for the day, so that if there are any complain calls, dispatch will know if the vehicles are legitimately on the beach.

Implementation

There are three locations where the ordinance would change existing conditions.

1. Bishop‘s Beach. A gate would be installed at the driveway to the beach. A budget ordinance is needed for the gate. The effective date of the ordinance should coincide with the gate installation.

2. Mariner Park.  This beach access could be managed by creating a driveway, and blocking it off in the summer. The rest of the area along the berm could be lined with driftwood. Ideally, a minor berm could be created and allowed to establish beach grass, like the landscaping next to the Spit Trail. Signage is also needed. A budget ordinance may be required.

3. Airport Beach Access/Area 1. The city originally placed rocks at the bottom of the access road when the beach policy was adopted in the early 2000’s. At that time, the City may have thought it owned the land. A recent title report has proved the City does not own the land – it belongs to the State, and may be airport lands. Generally speaking, this beach area is much less of a problem than it historically has been – a lot fewer illegal campers and parties. If physical access needs to be further limited now or in the future, staff could contact the State to investigate some options, such as a gate, or install more rocks. A budget ordinance may be needed in the future.