The Colusa City Council introduced an ordinance on May 19 that will regulate activities near the citys boat launch on the Sacramento River.
City Manager Jesse Cain said that the facility has been opened since the end of 2018, and that its probably time to enforce reasonable regulations to ensure the boat launch is used in a safe and healthy manner.
The city intends to largely regulate prohibited uses, such as swimming and fishing off the dock, and hopes to enforce the payment of fees, which has largely been unenforced since the boat launch was completed.
The launch fee is currently $13, payable to the city.
Cain said swimming and fishing off the dock and the nearby rocks has also created problems at the dock because it impedes the ability of boaters to get their watercraft in the water.
Additionally, the nonpayment of fees has been costly for the city, which has to maintain the facility.
” Until we get an electronic gate, it is what it is,” Cain said.
The city does plan to install cameras, which could aid the Colusa Police Department in enforcing the restrictions.
The new ordinance will also make it illegal to launch a boat or parking without displaying proof of payment in the windshield of vehicles.
The City Council discussed fines from $100 to up to $500 for the third offense.
The ordinance, which will go into effect 30 days after its former adoption, will make it illegal to participate in prohibited activities, such as swimming, camping, fishing, building and maintaining a fire, and the city plans to install signage to that effect.
Officials said the boat launch facility at the Sacramento River Recreation Area provides a tremendous and positive service to the community.
” Not only does it allow people to recreate in the Sacramento River, it draws people to the city, who in turn enhance the local economy, according to the Resolution adopted by the City Council.
The City Council voted unanimously in favor of the ordinance at its first reading.