Dear friends and neighbors:

We are writing to you today about an issue that is very dear to our hearts: The Medford Lakes Borough will conduct a hearing and will then vote on a ordinance on Thursday May 26th that is summarized as follows:

Prohibit any watercraft with a manufacturer’s rating of more than four (4) persons from operating on any Lake in the Borough.

This recommendation was forwarded to the Borough by the Colony primarily due to (unfounded) safety concerns about pontoon paddleboats that are owned by 4 colonists. Contrary to perceptions by some colonists (and apparently some Colony Directors), these boats are simply the safest vessels on our lakes. They are more stable, slower-moving, quicker-stopping, and much more difficult to fall out of than all other boats on the lake. They are highly visible to other boaters and provide excellent visibility to their operators. In addition, these boats have provided a safe opportunity with easy access for many elderly, young and disabled colonists to enjoy being on the lake who would not otherwise be able to do so.

We feel the Colony has unfairly singled out these boats. We are incredibly disheartened that they may be taken away from us, and that we will no longer be able to share their immense enjoyment with our friends and neighbors.

We are asking for your support in this matter if it is possible to attend the May 26th meeting at 7:00PM and also by signing this petition in support of allowing our boats to stay. Our gratitude is heartfelt and anyone is welcome to come explore these boats up close so that you can feel comfortable knowing how safe they are.