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Could "Dockominiums" Rock the Boat in Long Lake?

April 09, 2008 - BRIDGTON -- A yet-to-be resolved water-use issue has some lake residents concerned about boat saturation on lakes, while others say it could prove an affordable alternative to summer homes. [0]

An aquatic version of a condominium, dockominiums are surfacing all over the country. While marinas rent a space of water for a boat, known as a slip, dockominiums sell that slip. Buyers would still need to pay annual membership dues for maintenance.

Bridgton resident Bob MacDonald has a house on Long Lake and said he's afraid if dockominiums were allowed, the lake would be so full of boats he could walk across it.

"I live on the lake and I want to keep the lake safe and enjoyable for everyone else," he said.

He said he wants to draw attention to the issue and although no one is attempting to create a dockominium in town, he hopes the town makes a ruling to prevent them.

Rob Baker, the Bridgton code enforcement officer, said the town doesn't allow new commercial enterprises on the lakes in town. However, it is murky if the owners of existing marinas would be able to transform into dockominiums.

"It's a possibility, I'd have to do a lot of research on it. It might be allowed," said Baker.

MacDonald said a proposed dockominium in Rangeley could sell slips for more than $19,000 to more than $34,000. He is afraid a lot of people would purchase these instead of a lakeside camp.

"I could never afford a summer place," agreed Baker. He said lakeside property in the area sells for $200,000 to $500,000 per lot.

"But someday I might be able to purchase a $70,000 boat," he said. With the additional cost of a dockominium, he could have a place on the water for half the cost of the cheapest lakeside camp.

Dan Craffey, the owner of Moose Landing Marina in Naples, said he doesn't understand why anyone would oppose dockominiums. He also said the amount of slips would not change if a marina became a dockominium.

"Most boaters are very caring in regards to the environment," said Craffey. "They want to enjoy the pristine water conditions." Instead of temporary slip users, he said there would be boaters with a vested interest in the condition of the lake.

By Michael Hartwell, the article first appeared on www.keepmecurrent.com, April 7, 2008.


Lakes: Long Lake
Regions: Sebago


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