Halifax Weighs Tougher Measures for Beach Management
Town approves higher parking fines, discusses potential jet ski restrictions and resident-only access amid mounting complaints
HALIFAX, MA - June 25 - Halifax officials and residents wrestled with ongoing enforcement challenges at town beaches during a Selectmen’s meeting Monday night, as complaints about disruptive jet ski activity and parking violations reached a fever pitch.
The meeting, which stretched past two hours, saw heated exchanges between residents, business owners, and town officials as they debated potential solutions to address longstanding issues at popular swimming spots like the Fourth Avenue Beach.
"We understand all the frustrations that a lot of the residents have," said Police Chief Joao Chaves. "And we've enlisted the help of Environmental Police, the Office of Fisheries and Boating, a bunch of other state agencies to kind of help us with this problem."
A key move approved by the board was increasing parking violation fines from $15 to $50 in areas under Parks Commission jurisdiction. Officials hope the steeper penalty will deter illegal parking that has plagued beach areas.
"People were just taking the tickets. They were taking the citations and just paying the $15 for them," explained Deputy Police Chief Ted Benner.
However, enforcement remains a major challenge, particularly on the water. Benner said the department has no way to pull over speeding jet skis in the moment.
"We have no authority in our law enforcement offices to go up to someone and say, in looking at the proof on the solicitor, it's a violation of the Fourth Amendment," Chief Chaves said, explaining legal limitations.
The police are planning joint patrols with environmental police but did not provide specifics "so we don't have to make arbitrary decisions," according to Board of Selectmen Chair John Bruno.
Residents and business owners voiced frustration with disruptive jet ski activity, describing it as a hazard and nuisance.
Amy Sapphire, co-owner of the 550 Tavern and Lake House wedding venue, said jet skis have ruined ceremonies.
"There is a right of quiet enjoyment as a business owner, as a guest. The restaurant patrons are complaining. They can't hear themselves speak," Sapphire told the board. "There's nothing more heartbreaking than having a bride crying on her wedding day because she can't hear her vows."
Some residents called for banning jet skis outright, as other towns have done. Officials said such a move would likely face opposition from waterfront property owners and require town meeting approval.
The Parks Commission is exploring other solutions, including improved signage and a potential carry-in, carry-out trash policy to address litter. Commission members also expressed interest in resident volunteers to help with parking enforcement.
Making town beaches residents-only was also floated, though Town Administrator Cody Haddad cautioned it would face legal hurdles.
As the meeting wrapped up, officials pledged to continue exploring enforcement options while urging patience from frustrated residents.
"We hear the problem, and these possible solutions include water enforcement, bylaw changes. None of that happens overnight," Bruno said.