Commissioners have first hearing of proposed New Hanover County Abandoned Vessel Ordinance

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Monday morning during the New Hanover County Commission meeting commissioners discussed removing abandoned vessels from coastal waters. 

Monday was the first reading of the proposed New Hanover County Abandoned Vessel Ordinance. Chief Deputy Sheriff Jonathan Hart presented the ordinance. He said it would provide authority to the sheriff’s office to remove these left behind boats. 

Commissioner Rob Zapple said this is a “problem that has plagued us forever.” 

This ordinance would not prevent N.C. Wildlife, who currently manages abandoned vessels, from taking the initiative to remove the vessels. Commissioner LeAnn Pierce said this will simply just be another tool to get the job done. 

“It endangers other boaters, it endangers wildlife in the waterways, and it’s something that’s really important that we clean that up,” Pierce said. “I’m really glad you guys took that initiative. I did reach out to the beach town mayors and they’re all excited and want to get on board and let’s all be on the same page.” 

The proposed ordinance will have a second reading and final adoption at the June 17 county commissioner’s meeting.