TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: Discussion and Possible Direction Regarding Options to Prohibit Internal Combustion Engine Powered Recreational Vehicles on City of North Port Non-Tidal Waterways
Recommended Action
Discussion and possible direction regarding options to prohibit internal combustion engine powered recreational vehicles on City of North Port non-tidal waterways.
Background Information
During the City Commission Regular Meeting on January 25, 2022, there was a discussion regarding prohibiting internal combustion engines on stormwater drainage canals, except for government-owned vessels. City Commission consensus was to direct staff to review options for prohibiting internal combustion-powered recreational vessels on City of North Port waterways.
Ø Staff research has identified possible benefits from prohibiting internal combustible engines from waterways;
o Reduced risk of gas and oil leaks from internal combustion-engine powered vessels into City’s drinkable water source.
o Reduced risk of damage to water control structures by an internal combustion-engine powered vessel.
o Reduced erosion of the stormwater canal banks caused by the wakes of vessels powered by internal combustion engines.
o Less interaction between the internal-combustion powered vessels and the recreational paddlecraft that utilize the stormwater canals.
Staff identified several areas within Florida that have restrictions in place to prohibit internal combustion engines from waterways; most are independent water bodies such as lakes and reservoirs.
Currently, the Water Quality Index from Sarasota County for Cocoplum, Big Slough and the Myakka River is rated as “Good” as of March 2022.
Strategic Plan
Efficient & Effective Government
Health and Public Safety
Financial Impact
Not applicable.
Procurement
Not applicable.
Attachments:
1. Code of the City Chapter 82 Article II
2. Examples Where Combustion Engines are Prohibited
3. Sarasota County Water Quality Index
Prepared by: Chuck Speake, Public Works Director
Department Director: Chuck Speake, Public Works Director