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In Sarasota, Florida, local officials are contemplating modifications to the regulations governing motorboat and jet ski activities on the southern stretch of Lido Beach.
“We might be able to address some of the problematic behaviors on the water, allowing families to continue enjoying the shoal,” remarked Commissioner Mark Smith.
The commission evaluated several potential changes, ultimately opting for a measure that would prohibit boaters and jet ski riders from operating within 300 feet of the shoreline.
“There are established rules for renting jet skis, yet compliance at this location is somewhat questionable,” Smith commented.
This decision follows a tragic incident in June when a collision between two jet skis resulted in the death of a minor league Baltimore Orioles player and left three others injured.
“The struggle I have is recreational boating is so fun, you grab your family and you moor your boat at the beach, and there’s not many places in the county to do that,” said Commissioner Ron Cutsinger.
The commissioners weren’t able to come to a final decision on what a rule change, if any, may actually look like. They voted to open it up to a public discussion at a later meeting.
“We’re not shutting it down as a means of enjoyment,” said Mark Smith. “We’re trying to control the activity because some of it’s rather dangerous, that close to the beach.”
Commissioners also added that they take issue with jet ski rental companies that set up shop in the parking lot and take space away from residents.