CCB Media Photo: Falmouth Heights Beach
FALMOUTH – Falmouth officials are considering what to do as more and more beach-goers are erecting tents on town beaches, sometimes to the annoyance of fellow visitors.
The trend has drawn criticism from those who say that the tents are unsightly, take up space, obstruct views, and even pose a danger to others trying to enjoy their time in the sun.
The issue came up last month as the Falmouth Beach Committee heard public comment from exasperated beach-goers, both residents and those visiting, seeking action in response to what is being called a general nuisance.
Acting Beach Superintendent Bruce Mogardo says that they do have concerns when it comes to the presence of the tents on town beaches.
“We don’t like them to be in the line of sight for the lifeguards, we might ask someone to move them away from the waterline so that the lifeguards have a clear eyeshot to the shore, and the deep water,” he said.
Members of the committee appeared to agree with the sentiment that the tents are inappropriate, offering their own reminiscences of a beach day ruined by the presence of a wanton tent.
“One guy parks a tent in front of another, it’s like your beach experience is over,” said committee member Paul Miskovsky.
While the board, and a significant portion of the audience, appeared to see eye to eye on the matter, members did express concerns regarding the legal ramifications of prohibiting tents on public beaches, particularly for those who have sensitivities to the sun.
The board agreed to have Mogardo look into tent use on town beaches, collect opinions from stakeholders, and investigate similar policies at other Cape Cod beaches.
“Everybody has their own view on how to relax and enjoy the ocean,” said Mogardo, “sometimes it conflicts with other people’s approach to enjoying the same ocean.”
By DAVID BEATTY, CapeCod.com NewsCenter
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