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February 27, 2006

Governor urges CRMC to reject Champlin Marina expansion

PROVIDENCE -- Governor Carcieri today called on the Coastal Resources Management Council to reject an application by Champlin’s Realty Associates to dramatically expand its marina at the Great Salt Pond on Block Island.

“I fear that expanding Champlin’s Marina will seriously threaten the health of the Great Salt Pond. I am also concerned that it will result in the transfer of a valuable public asset into the hands of a private company,” the governor said in a press release late this afternoon.

CRMC is scheduled to hold a public meeting on the proposal tomorrow at 6 p.m.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 5:00 PM | Permalink

Comments

I respectfully but totally disagree with the Governor on this issue. His statement about threatening the health of the Salt Pond is clearly contradicted by the factual and formal certificate issued by RI DEM less than 1 year ago. That signed certificate by a department within the Governor's Administration stated the water quality would not be harmed by an expansion as modified by DEM, and which the Marina reluctantly accepted. CRMC should
decide on the evidence within the record, not by what is politically correct nor by comments by Mr. Takoian to anyone who will listen. Mr. Takoian's position is "I've already decided no, now let's have a fair hearing." He should be off the CRMC. As a native Rhode Islander I hope the request for more availability is approved. Remember, Block Island is one town in our State; it is not a sovereign entity, any more than is the City of Warwick in making airport expansion decisions.

Posted by: Patrick L at February 27, 2006 10:06 PM

We don't need bigger marinas on Block Island! That will bring more polution and traffic to one of our state's treasures. I live in Providence and I don't think the expansion makes any sense. This is just another example of rich people trying to make more money at the expense of the environment.

Where's the public outrage?

Block Island, Rhode Island is with you!

Posted by: Bob A at February 28, 2006 09:34 AM