Local officials are seeking public input regarding grant funding through the Waterways Improvement Fund for two proposed projects.

Sheriff Daryl Wheeler sought public opinion on funding the repowering of a twin-engine patrol vessel and constructing a breakwater and additional dock space at the Garfield Bay boat launch.  

According to Wheeler, the patrol vessel’s engines are “quickly approaching the end of their projected life cycle and its imperative they be replaced to ensure the vessel remains available to serve the public.” Wheeler added that, while BCSO runs a small fleet of vessels, the twin-engine patrol vessel remains the largest, and most critical, in handling severe weather conditions or large-scale operations.  

The two motors are estimated to cost around $65,000, with a grant match ranging from 33% to 40%, according to Lieutenant Doug McGeachy, as reported in a Waterways Advisory Committee meeting on Dec. 11, where several WIF projects were presented to the board.  

The second project Wheeler is seeking input on would install a breakwater in front of the existing Garfield Bay dock to minimize extensive damage caused by harsh weather conditions, according to Wheeler. If approved, the breakwater would also be decked to include additional dock space.  

A breakwater is a permanent structure installed into a body of water for the purposes of absorbing harsh waves that may cause damage to harbors or shorelines.  

“The existing dock is home to a sheriff’s office patrol vessel, but the unprotected nature of the dock has subjected boats to harsh weather that has caused extensive damage over the years. The proposed project would install a breakwater in front of the existing dock to minimize damaging waves,” Wheeler said.  

The project is estimated to cost about $120,000, according to McGeachy. 

Comments for either project can be submitted to [email protected] before Jan. 26, 2026. Emails are requested to have the applicable project name in the email subject line — “Sheriff’s Patrol Vessel Repowering” or “Garfield Bay Dock and Breakwater.”