Beach Security Issues and Guidelines

Updated August 2007

Security at the MBEA’s members-only beach has become an area of particular concern. There have been many incidents of intrusion by non-members who believe this is a public beach. There have also been incidents of vandalism, loitering, littering, fires, underaged drinking and thefts of kayaks and a dinghy. Although there are some concerned Gulls Cove neighbors who assist the MBEA by closing the entrance gate, checking the beach at night and calling the police when necessary, the cooperation and support of all MBEA members will be needed to fully address these issues.

Given this situation, the MBEA Board requests your assistance and involvement in the protection of our valuable and enjoyable beach property. This includes promoting and following these guidelines:

1. The beach officially closes at dusk, except for members going to or from their watercraft.

2. If you are the last to leave the beach please lock the gate and always carry the gate key to avoid getting locked in. The Port Washington police have a key for emergencies (their number is 883-0500).

3. Beach access is strictly limited to MBEA Members. Guests are allowed only when an MBEA Member accompanies them.

4. To the maximum extent possible, MBEA Members using the beach should have their identifying membership decals visibly affixed to their vehicles.

5. As an MBEA resident you can challenge individual(s) who appear not to be MBEA members and politely advise them that the beach is private and for members only, but you are encouraged to leave the confronting of people trespassing or otherwise violating the law to the Port Washington police, who have been notified about our security issues and can be reached at 883-0500, or 911 in an emergency.

6. MBEA family teenagers should be made aware that these rules apply to them, and in particular should know that the beach is closed at dusk in part because nearby homeowners expect and have a right to peace and quiet at night.

7. If you have any authorized and currently registered watercraft or trailer on or near the dinghy racks they should be secured with adequate chain/cable locks. This storage space is for MBEA members’ use only and cannot be used by friends or any non-resident family members. Any unauthorized watercraft and trailer will be removed and permanently disposed of.

8. Dogs (other than service animals) are not permitted according to an MBEA rule posted at the beach, and moreover it is illegal for them to be unleashed on the beach at any time (per Chapter 14, section 4 of the Town Code for North Hempstead).

Suggestions to improve safety are always welcome – please email the MBEA Board at board@mbayestates.org.