Westport Landing Commission Raises Commercial Rents 7 Percent in 3-1 Vote

WESTPORT -- March 17, 2026, Westport Landing Commission votes 3-1 to raise commercial waterfront rents 7 percent. The commission, meeting March 17, approved the increase for two tenants, a kayak shop and a property identified as the Atterbury property, after a majority concluded that two straight years at 6 percent was insufficient given continued inflation. The kayak shop's annual rent rises to roughly $4,139, a $39 difference over a 6 percent hike. The commission also unanimously approved Andrea DeVoe's return for her 12th consecutive season of Yoga by the River, conditioned on signatures from police and fire safety officers before a planned June 3 start; DeVoe donates roughly $500 to $600 per summer in program proceeds to the commission. In other business, the chair reported ongoing discussions with the Select Board about sticker pricing at Hicks Bridge Landing, currently $30, and potential increases to overnight parking fines from $50 to as much as $200, mirroring beach fine structures. The commission also opened a broader conversation about whether it should formally assume oversight of public landings beyond its current four, with members agreeing to compile a comprehensive list before taking any action. Sean Leach is running unopposed for a commission seat in the April 14 town election.