City Issue: Private Docks on City Property

The Winsted City Council is reviewing possible strategies for dealing with private docks that are put out on city property. This issue is the most relevant along Kingsley Street, where the city owns the property on the east side of the street out to Winsted Lake. The city is aware of two (2) individuals that make use of this property for dock access into the lake.

The issue for the city revolves around a court case where an individual jumped off a private dock on city property and ended up becoming severely injured. The individual sued the city for damages and won. The city’s insurance company is recommending the following should the city want to allow private docks on city property:

1. The dock owner should agree in writing to defend, indemnify, and hold the City harmless for claims arising out of the existence of the dock.
2. The dock owner should carry adequate insurance, in the amount specified by the Minnesota State Statutes, and the policy relating to the dock should name the City as “an additional insured.” A certificate of insurance would be required to be presented to the city each year.
3. The dock owner should maintain the dock to certain specifications as outlined in the agreement or permit.
4. The dock owner should install warning signs in English and Universal symbols indicating “NO SWIMMING” and “NO DIVING” and/or “PRIVATE DOCK—KEEP OFF.”

The City Council needs your feedback regarding how they should handle the situation; their options are:

A) Create an ordinance that establishes a dock inspection program, so that the city may be able to enforce the above criteria. A fee would most likely be established for the administration of the ordinance.

B) Don’t allow any private docks on city property.

C) Other

The City Council would like to hear your thoughts regarding this issue and will be discussing it at their meeting on Wednesday, April 16th at 6:00 p.m. (Winsted Council Chambers). If you’re unable to attend, please feel free to contact the Mayor or members of the City Council, or Brent at city hall at 485-4718.