The North Carolina General Assembly ratified a local bill allowing the Town of Manteo to regulate boating and navigation in Shallowbag Bay. The legislation was approved unanimously by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

In a prepared statement, Mayor Bobby Owens said, “I’m pleased this bill passed the Legislature.”

Owens added, “Our citizens have been asking for it and we need a better way to regulate Shallowbag Bay and deal with problems like derelict boats.”

Regulations could address matters such as anchoring and mooring of vessels, the types of activities permitted, speed zones, no-wake zones and placement of navigational aids.

The town has set up a special email address at shallowbagbayregulations@manteonc.gov for the public to share ideas and suggestions as commissioners begin the process of establishing the regulations.

The town promises the development of the Shallowbag Bay regulations will include a community engagement effort and are encouraging public comments at upcoming Manteo Board of Commissioners meetings.

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