Air Boat Regatta, Guests or Pests?

A regatta is a gathering of boats for racing. Air boats are unquestionably utilitarian, used by some clammers and fishermen to make a living. That is not the problem. Once a year an air boat fishing regatta descends on Cedar Key. In 2005 Cedar Key's City Park was taken over by an organized air boat event. Air boats were parked in the park and their transport trailers all over the island. At the start of the race, the mass exodus of air boats nearly blew away the beach, umbrellas and beach occupants. Returning air boats came through the swimming area which was occupied by a number of children according to several parents. (The race organizer denied those charges. Who do we believe?)

What cannot be denied is the noise and confusion caused by the air boat race. The City Commission must give tacit approval to use of the park by an organized group. A permit is required. But let's also require that the race starting line be well outside the swimming area. Let's also require that the finish line be in the marina or someplace other than the swimming area and the beach.

Each year brings an ever greater influx of tourists to the island. Harmonious use of our facilities and resources by tourists and locals alike can be encouraged by policies established by our City Commission.

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