The City re-opened discussion on access to the Crescent City Jetty. Chief of Police Richard Griffin and Public Works Director David Yeager presented the current status of Jetty safety for those who choose to walk out onto the harbor-protecting barrier, to fish, ride their bikes, or walk their pets.
The Chief advised councilors the City's responsibility is to respond and locate individuals who are either in the water or stranded atop the Jetty. He referred to County Search and Rescue as the primary source of assistance in effectuating emergency life saving services. Griffin reminded the Council the Jetty is owned and maintained by the United States Corps of Army Engineers (USACE) and the City has no jurisdiction to enforce trespassing ordinance. Griffin stated most of Jetty access problems come from non-locals and additional education, more visible signage and possible fine penalties as possible deterrents. Griffin underscored it is not illegal to access the Jetty. USAC would have to grant approval to levy or enforce trespassing ordinance.
Yeager underscored the public safety aspects of Jetty access.
Resistance to accessing the Jetty was palpable. Public speakers and Zoom caller reactions were mixed. Some expressed opposition to implemented ordinance. A Zoom caller shared a complete trespass ordinance would be unfair. He stated, most people act responsibly in accessing the Jetty and a complete ban would punish those who enjoy the Jetty and should not be punished by what the caller referred to as government overreach.
The ensuing discussion on Jetty access will continue later this month.