Breakwater |
03-20-2011 12:48 AM |
Register with the State!
Boat registration fees go to the Marine Patrol with a small fixed fee going to ramp maint(Fish & Game), milfoil(DES), and the agent fee ($5.) to the marina or Town Hall (Can you say double dip?). Prior to Marine Patrol receiving the dedicated funds, town's were supposed to use their portion to support boating on their waterfront.
To say giving it to the town because the state isn't as frugal...true statement if talking about general fund but not Marine Patrol! But to say giving it to Gilford (for example), what does a boater get from Gilford if they can't use the ramp or Town Docks? Only an Isalnd resident can park there for any length of time. What does Laconia and Meredith do for boaters...public docks to bring $$$ to their waterfront.
I'll send my money to the State for buoys, lights, a free tow when broken down, emergency response faster than local police and fire/ems, and the agency that responds to my 9-1-1 call. And they don't charge you the extra $5. agent fee!
Lastly, why give $$$ to a town when the town doesn't even have waterfront? Numerous towns are are taking advantage of the boaters who don't know where the $$$ goes.
For those that know how the $$$ is used I respect your decision...but to all boaters- educate yourself on this issue and decide what's best for you.
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