In the article, Capt Dylan Hubbard, the President of the Florida Guides Association, writes to Mayor Ty Penserga and the members of the Boynton Beach City Commission to express unwavering support for maintaining unrestricted recreational access to the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp for all users. The letter emphasizes the crucial role the ramp plays in the local community and its significance for anglers, boaters, and individuals with disabilities. The key points highlighted in the letter include:
Community Access: The boat ramp is the only public access point in the city, and any restrictions would limit the community's ability to engage in outdoor recreational activities, hindering their appreciation for the natural environment.
ADA Accessibility: The boat ramp provides ADA-accessible facilities, enabling people with disabilities to enjoy the fishing experience fully. The letter stresses the importance of upholding principles of inclusivity and equity by safeguarding this rare access point.
Lack of Alternatives: The CRA marina is not a suitable alternative for the diverse group of users who rely on the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp, emphasizing the necessity of preserving access for the community's various needs.
Legal Considerations: The letter advocates finding solutions that do not entail a blanket restriction on access, ensuring equitable access and adherence to legal mandates.
In closing, the letter respectfully urges the City Commission to consider the wide-ranging impact that restrictions on access would have on the community. Capt Dylan Hubbard expresses a willingness to collaborate with the City Commission in finding mutually beneficial solutions that maintain access while addressing concerns.
Mayor Ty Penserga
City of Boynton Beach City Commission
City Hall
100 E. Ocean Avenue
Boynton Beach, FL 33435
Dear Mayor Ty Penserga and Esteemed Members of the Boynton Beach City Commission,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. On behalf of the Florida Guides Association, I am writing to express our unwavering support for maintaining unrestricted recreational access to the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp for ALL users. We understand the vital role this ramp plays in the local community, and we wish to emphasize how crucial it is to preserve this access for the numerous anglers, boaters, and individuals with disabilities who rely on it to enjoy the natural beauty and resources of our beloved area.
Our organization is deeply committed to promoting responsible and sustainable outdoor activities, and we firmly believe that access to this public resource is integral to achieving these goals. We respectfully request that you consider the following points as you deliberate on any potential changes or restrictions regarding the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp:
Community Access: The Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp stands as the sole public access point within the city. Any restrictions imposed on its use would effectively deny countless individuals the opportunity to partake in the local fishery and the wider marine environment. By maintaining open access, you ensure that all members of the community can continue to engage in outdoor recreational activities that foster appreciation for our natural heritage.
ADA Accessibility: The boat ramp in question is unique in its provision of ADA-accessible facilities, allowing people with disabilities to fully enjoy the fishing experience. It is imperative that we uphold principles of inclusivity and equity by safeguarding this rare access point for those with mobility challenges. Any diminishment of this facility’s availability would contravene the spirit of accessibility and public accommodation that our society rightly values.
Lack of Alternatives: The CRA marina, while an asset to your community, does not possess the capacity to serve as a suitable alternative for the broad spectrum of users who currently utilize the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp. Restricting access to the park would impose undue burdens on those who rely on its facilities, without offering feasible alternatives to cater to their diverse needs.
Legal Considerations: The only path forward that preserves equitable access and adheres to legal mandates is to find solutions that do not entail a blanket restriction on access. We trust that the City Commission will prioritize a course of action that respects the rights of all citizens while effectively managing the resource in question.
In closing, we respectfully urge you to consider the wide-ranging impact that any restrictions on access to the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat ramp would have on our community. As stakeholders dedicated to responsible outdoor engagement, we remain committed to collaborating with the City Commission in seeking mutually beneficial solutions that ensure access while addressing any valid concerns. Your wise and considered decisions will undoubtedly shape the future of our cherished marine environment for generations to come.
Thank you for your time, attention, and dedication to the well-being of our outdoor community. We eagerly anticipate your thoughtful consideration of our perspective and stand ready to engage in constructive dialogue should you require further information or assistance.
Sincerely,
Capt Dylan Hubbard
President
