GA-05-19 An Ordinance of the City of Punta Gorda, Florida, amending Chapter 25A, Punta Gorda Code, “Abandoned Property and Impounding of Vehicles”, to establish local regulations for at-risk vessels and the relocation and removal of derelict vessels; prohibiting the storing, leaving or abandoning of any derelict vessel; providing for enforcement; providing for conflict and severability; and providing an effective date. FIRST READING

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City Council approval at this first reading and schedule for the required second reading.

Abandoned and derelict vessels can be a problem on our local waterways for many reasons. They can be hazards to navigation, create environmental impacts, and detract from the boating experience. Derelict vessels within the City's jurisdiction are currently handled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC); however, under Florida law local law enforcement agencies have the same authority when it comes to investigation and removal of vessels. As such, staff is recommending adoption of local regulations to address at-risk and derelict vessels within our waterways.  

FWC as well as the West Coast Inland Navigation District (WCIND) offer funding assistance for derelict vessel removal so long as the local regulations comply state law and meet all FWC adopted standards. An overview of the FWC process and procedures is attached for reference. If the proposed ordinance is approved, staff will present for consideration a resolution to adopt a local procedures including an administrative hearing process at a future meeting.

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