05-12-2011 VC WS-MMINUTES OF THE WORKSHOP SESSION
VILLAGE COUNCIL OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
MAY 12, 2011
Present:
Darryl C. Aubrey, Sc.D., Mayor
David B. Norris, Vice Mayor
William L. Manuel, President Pro Tem
T.R. Hernacki, P.E., Councilman
Robert A. Gebbia, Councilman
Jimmy Knight, Village Manager
Leonard Rubin, Village Attorney
Melissa Teal, Village Clerk
ROLL CALL
Mayor Aubrey called the meeting to order at 8:46 p.m. All members of Council were present.
All members of staff were present.
CODE AMENDMENTS -ALLOWABLE DOCK SIZE AND BOAT AND BOATLIFT COVERS
Discussion was held concerning proposed amendments to Chapter 5 of the Village Code of
Ordinances to increase the allowable dock size in the North Palm Beach Waterway, and to allow
boat and boatlift covers in residential areas.
Mr. Knight reviewed a request to increase the allowable dock size within the North Palm Beach
Waterway, and advised that Village Administration supports increasing the allowable dock size
by an additional five feet, provided it is limited to the North Palm Beach Waterway. Mr. Knight
referenced backup materials, which include the Waterways Board recommendation to allow
docks in the North Palm Beach Waterway to extend a maximum of 10 feet out from the
bulkhead. Bard Rockenbach, 891 Country Club Drive, addressed the Council regarding his
request that the Village Code be amended to provide for construction of a 10-foot wide floating
dock in the North Palm Beach Waterway.
During discussion, it was clarified that the proposed amendment addresses only docks
constructed parallel to the seawall, and only in the North Palm Beach Waterway. It was
requested that language be included in the ordinance to limit mooring at floating docks by
providing for loading and unloading only.
By consensus, this item was moved forward to an upcoming Regular Session agenda.
Mr. Knight reviewed a request from the property owner at 618 Shore Drive to install a canopy
over the existing boat and boatlift, which would require a code amendment. Concern was
expressed that coverings installed over boats or boatlifts located in lagoons or canals could
obstruct the view of residents who are further away from the main waterway. Discussion ensued
regarding length and height of such coverings. A concern was expressed with allowing
freestanding shade structures on waterfront properties if not allowed on land-locked properties.
The Village Council was not in favor of moving forward with a code amendment on this matter
due to concern with impeding views and difficulty in developing enforceable language that
would resolve the other issues noted.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to come before the Council, the meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m.
Melissa Teal, CMC, Village Clerk