Developer proposes boathouse-boathouses to end Windermere controversy

In the latest in a years-long battle over boathouses in Windermere, a local developer has proposed a unique solution that could make all parties happy.

Waterway Enterprises LLC officials will be meeting with Windermere town commissioners and boathouse owners this week to discuss what they’re calling boathouse-boathouses.

Instead of attempting to assign ownership to the existing boathouses, Waterway’s plan will include constructing second boathouses attached to each of the five already there, effectively doubling the number of boathouses at Palmer Park. A boardwalk would connect each new boathouse to the originals.

“It’s like when kids are fighting over the last slice of pizza, and then Mom comes out with a whole new pie,” Waterway President and CEO Gary Bruin said. “We’ve watched for years as the town and boathouse owners have argued, and we’ve always wondered why they didn’t just make more.”

Of course, the addition of new boathouses likely will spark another debate: Who gets the new ones? 

Bruin’s idea is simple: Rock, Paper, Scissors. 

“Best two out of three wins and gets to pick first,” he said.

If town commissioners and owners approve this idea, construction will begin by the end of the month — bypassing all traditional development procedures.

Bruin said his company likely won’t respond or even check the account, but those who wish to contact him should email [email protected].