In a major blow to property rights advocates, the Central Puget Sound Growth Management Hearings Board (CPSGMHB) has upheld the Bainbridge Island city ordinance that amends its Shoreline Management Master Program (SMMP). The ordinance essentially limits all new dock development in Blakely Harbor.

The Blakely Harbor Dock Ordinance allows the development of two community docks (one along each the north and south shores) and a public dock.

The CPSGMHB found that theordinance is “consistent with and supported by the goals and policies [of the City’s SMMP and Comprehensive Plan]” and that the Ordinance complies “with the goals, policies, and provisions of the [Shoreline Management Act and with the relevant requirements of the GMA.”

The CPSGMHB also noted that “part of the distinctive quality and unique attribute of Blakely Harbor is its relative lack of docks” and ruled that limiting docks in Blakely Harbor “is well within the City’s authority.”

“This determination supports a public process that recognized the unique beauty and character of Blakely Harbor and voiced a desire to preserve it,” said Mayor Darlene Kordonowy.

The CPSGMHB also cited the Blakely Harbor Cumulative Impact Analysis as well as the city’s other extensive research, which between them calculated a probable build-out of 45 docks in Blakley Harbor as well as assessed impacts to views, navigation, and natural resources. The baord also recognized the city’s extensive policy analysis and the level of public participation in a two-year process addressing the preservation of the unique character and natural resources of Blakely Harbor.

Blakely Harbor residents have expressed desire to construct community docks and the city says it is prepared to help with those efforts.