by Dottie Ives Dewey
One of the first physical changes you are certain to notice is the new channel side docks. The Board of Trustees and Club Management are excited about the completion of this project, and the new activity that it promises to bring to the Club. While reflecting on the change, we feel that it is important to recognize the many individuals that were involved in turning the vision of the channel side docks into a reality.
For many years a number of club members have worked diligently to complete each of the multiple phases of the project. The earliest attempts to establish new docks began in 1974 under the leadership of Chairman Paul McConnell, soon after the motor cruiser Mon Amie (which had been moored at the club for many years) moved out.
This seemingly simple construction project proved to be encumbered with planning and permitting requirements that meant working with and through astonishing levels of bureaucracy. Seeking the permits was a time-consuming and painstaking process which required patience and perseverance. Approvals were required from a number of state and federal agencies, including the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Borough of Stone Harbor. Nearly 15 years were spent applying for and chasing down permits, which included a 5 year hiatus. Trustees Chris Weber, Paul McConnell, Bill Dahms and Craig Scott provided leadership through this lengthy stage of the process, and devoted many hours to the tasks at hand.
Once the permits were granted, a window of opportunity was open to construct the docks. But obstacles still remained, including the development of a financing plan to fund the project and a marketing plan to secure the approval of the proprietary membership. Chairman Julian Miraglia, Trustee David Morrow, and Commodores Tim Noble and Jay Corrigan, among others, worked within their Board and Flag Officer roles to focus attention and resources on the completion of the docks.
The right opportunity presented itself in 2003 when interest rates fell to historic lows and the time seemed right to borrow the money for construction. Credit and thanks must be given to the Proprietary members who, in September 2003, saw the merits of the project and voted to approve the borrowing of the funds.
With permits and funding in hand, the Board evaluated construction proposals, selected contractors, and initiated construction. Club Manager Chris Hodson and Dock Master Skip Hoyt were instrumental in attending to the details, making decisions and organizing contractors to see the project to completion.
And now, thanks to the help of these many tireless souls, the docks are ours to enjoy!
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