Dear Mr. Ash,

I believe that you may represent Northport in the Joint Standing Committee on Marine

Resources.

I would very much appreciate your advice on the DMR proposal currently tabled at the

Legislative Committee as it might impact current and future aquaculture leases off shore

of my home town of Northport. Can you suggest how Northport Selectmen might make

the general consensus of Northport opinion on this subject known to the appropriate

Committee member in time for consideration before the Legislature reconvenes?

The Town of Northport has very recently established a Harbor Committee and a Harbor

Ordinance. However, we are unclear as to how we might best protect local jurisdiction

of our waters. For example, should we be establishing a shellfish maintenance provision

within our local ordinance?

Currently, the Town and Village of Northport has very serious safety concerns with the

existing “experimental” mussel farm lease.

Thank you kindly for your help.

Todd Park Merolla
Northport resident and constituent