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A Publication of Guidry News Service |
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A Publication of Guidry News Service |
The Galveston Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that Galveston City Council approve the Beach Access Plan as presented by the staff of the Department of Planning and Community Development, with the added recommendation that Half Moon Beach, Miramar Beach, Bay Harbor and Caribbean Village, Access Point 33 to Access Point 35, be designated as pedestrian beaches year around, rather than seasonally. Pat Lawson made the motion to recommend the changes, although Planning Director Wendy O'Donohoe said the Texas General Land Office is not likely to approve them. "I would hate to throw it on City Council, but unfortunately, or fortunately, it is their problem in the end," Lawson said. "If we were to recommend no driving in this area, it could be sent to Council with that." "I don't have any problem with throwing anything on Council," said David Miller. "They are elected; they ought to do the right job." The action came after a series of speakers, for and against the plan, addressed the commission. "We have 43 access points in this plan as developed," said West Galveston Property Owners Association President Jerry Mohn, speaking in support of prohibiting vehicular traffic in the area addressed in Lawson's motion. "The access points down in the San Luis area are more than adequate." "I'm shocked; I'm disappointed," said Wanda Greer a property owner in the Bay Harbor and Terramar subdivisions. "How can you consider this a fair solution?" Linda Dawson of Miramar, citing unacceptable behavior by those who drive on the beaches, was more emotional, citing problems with motorists doing "donuts". "My husband went down there to confront them and they said, if you don't mind your own business, it will be your house next; and it won't be donuts, I will be whipping your ass!" Dawson quoted. Patrick Dugan, owner of property at Pointe San Luis, spoke in support of restrictions on vehicular traffic on the far West End, but representatives of Texas Open Beach Advocates were opposed. "We do need places to take motorized boats; we do need places where the handicapped can access, said Lorraine Brown of TOBA. "This whole plan seems to me like it is strictly done on the basis of appeasing property owners." Galveston City Council will consider the Beach Access Plan and the recommendation of the Planning Commission at Thursday's regular meeting.
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