Dear Mr. Collins,

I’m writing in response to the Parks and Recreation board’s request for feedback from local residents about the proposed boat show to be held at Sunset Bay in August.

At the public meeting last week, several local residents loudly expressed their concerns about possible problems with parking, noise, and crowd control at this event. I am a long-time resident of this area and wish to indicate my support for the boat show. There are many advantages to having this event in our community. 

This year’s proposed boat show has an environmental theme that will be focusing on quieter craft, such as sailboats, kayaks, and canoes. These vessels are a welcome alternative to noisy and polluting powerboats seen most summers around the Bay. As a result, the noise level at the event should be lower than expected. 

The biggest complaint from local residents is about expected parking problems. To help ease the traffic problems, the organizers of the boat show have stated that only local residents will be issued parking passes. No other traffic will be permitted in the immediate area except for vendors and emergency vehicles. An off-site parking lot will accommodate visitors and help ease traffic congestion.  Last, but not least, is the important issue of water traffic safety during this event. The experienced event planners and local authorities have developed regulations to address this issue. As well, extra marine patrols will be scheduled to monitor activity on the water during this weekend.

I have lived near Sunset Bay for 30 years, and this neighborhood is changing quickly. Each summer, more people are discovering this beautiful area in our city. Yes, this well-organized two-day boat show may create some minor disruption for residents. I feel, however, that the chance to show people from the rest of the country the natural beauty of Sunset Bay and to bring prosperity to local businesses is a more important consideration. 

Yours sincerely,
Roberta J. Sands