Raleigh City Council To Consider Ban On Watercrafts At Lake Wheeler

TheRaleigh City Councilis considering limiting or banning boats and other motorized watercraft on Lake Wheeler.

They are concerned about water pollution and safety because the amount of boat traffic has increased in recent years.

Recreational boaters say the move is unfair. Opinions about a possible ban are widely divided.

"It is the only right thing to do. If you are going to drink from it, you can't drink motor oil or gasoline," says Robert Ward, who supports a boat ban.

"It is unfortunate that, after this many years as long as the lake has been available to the public, that they are telling us who can and who can't use and enjoy the lake. That is the unfortunate aspect of this whole situation," says Chris Shaw, who opposes the boat ban.

A committee studying the issue is expected to give the city council its recommendation by January 16. Until then, the city is not issuing any seasonal recreational boat passes.