LETTER: Massive condo encroaches on Port’s best asset—the marina

To Ozaukee Press:

It is good to see Port Washington undergoing such a revitalization. It has responded to a changing demographic that has restored a once dying community. This can be seen with the new shops and restaurants and the multiple condominium projects.         

The greatest and most enduring asset in this town is the marina. I keep a small boat in a slip there and have had nothing but the best experiences with the personnel, especially Harbormaster Dennis Cherny and Assistant Harbormaster Lisa Rathke.

The marina is a well maintained and clean facility. It is unfortunate, however, that the Newport Shores condominium project is adjacent to the marina—because the marina has suffered from its excesses.         There has been regrettable encroachment on marina property, further limiting much need parking spaces and relocating the fish cleaning station. Trees have been removed that were promised to remain. Flowers have been destroyed that were the work of a single volunteer putting in countless hours. Largely, these trespasses have been enabled by the city officials.

Lake Michigan itself and the marina are the most important features in Port Washington’s landscape. The city fathers need to show it the respect it is due and keep this project in check.

Gary Beaumier
Town of Grafton