ISSUE: 'NO FISHING' SIGNS FOR RIO VISTA ISLES BRIDGES

RVCA and the RVCA Security Committee have received a number of emails over the past few months expressing concern about fishing on the bridges. Based upon review of the calls to the patrol cell phone, it appears to be the number one complaint at this time. Due to safety concerns, the City Attorney has approved 'NO FISHING' signs for each of the Isle bridges. Before proceeding, we want to ensure that there is a consensus in the neighborhood to make each of these bridges 'NO FISHING' bridges. Please read the survey article on pg. 36 of the newsletter, or click here to read the .pdf version of the newsletter article and survey.
(NOTE: The very first post here on this issue asked for information on the rules re: fisherman. Here's a link to that info: http://www.municode.com/resources/gateway.asp?pid=10787&sid=9. Also, you can research Florida statutes here: www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?Tab=statutes&submenu=-1&CFID=73142391&CFTOKEN=53539539 - courtesy RVCA Board Member Christina Currie)
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Summary: This section provides representative postings grouped by position on the issue of the comments to-date (1/30/09). The full text of the comments follow this summary section.

Representative Postings Against No Fishing Signs

Parking, noise, and litter are the issue, not the fishing itself. Instead of signs prohibiting fishing for everyone, install trash receptacles and one- or two-car parking areas near the more popular fishing areas in the neighborhood: SE 10 St. Isle, Cordova at 11 St., Cordova at 9th St. and Cordova at 7th St. Seems to me that would be a much more civilized, enlightened method to deter the things that really bother us. I think the age-old argument that "making it easier for fishermen" will encourage more fishermen to use our bridges is ridiculous---the fishing in our canals has never been that good."

I, too, am concerned that a total ban may be overkill. I kind of feel like the people who move next to an airport and then object to the noise. True some may leave trash and illegally park. However, we do have a security patrol. I say we start by asking the officer to speak to the fisherman about being respectful to the neighbors. Perhaps then regroup in six months."

Pro-active law enforcement and citizens with a vested interest in their community can do big things without jumping the gun and chipping away at the freedoms we all enjoy. If the FLPD knows this is a concern of the community then I am sure they will work diligently to ensure anyone fishing is doing so lawfully, ie. with a valid fishing license, without being a nuissance to private property owners, without littering, etc. It's what they are trained to do, deter crime without violating constitutional rights of the innocent. As long as citizens are confident that reporting will result in law enforcement response then I am confident the desired results for all interested parties will prevail. This is an opportunity to encourage enrollment in the security program FLPD offers to our community."

Representative Postings For No Fishing Signs

I have read the recent postings and want to correct misinformation provided on some of the posts: There used to be no fishing signs posted on the isle bridges. They were vandalized many years ago after the bridges were built, removed, and have yet to be replaced. Fishing on the bridges is not a Rio Vista right that would be “taken away”. It was never intended to be a fishing spot. Originally the city and county deemed it unsafe and now we have citizens of RV advocating an unsafe practice? It is not the case that the bridges are public and therefore not subject to regulation. The bridges are owned publicly, but like all roads, rules are made for safety reasons. The original rule was no fishing, that’s always been the rule; it just hasn’t been posted in recent times. The only relevant question is whether fishing off a small bridge with little to no parking and a 3 ft wide sidewalk is safe. It was deemed unsafe when officials originally made the decision and is clearly not safe now that traffic has increased. One posting says fishing is not the problem it’s the loitering and noise. While I understand and respect the point the poster is attempting to make, fishing is in fact the problem as it is the very activity that brings people to the bridges and puts them and oncoming traffic both in harms way. I am for fellowship while fishing and am for allowing the less fortunate to fish in any safe place either in our community or outside of it (and I commend our neighbors who are sensitive to others) but the isle bridges simply are not the appropriate place. Those advocating allowing fishing are putting the less fortunate among us and our kids and other residents who fish in a situation that has been deemed unsafe by the very transportation officials who designed the bridges. That’s exactly the opposite of our neighbors’ good intentions. It’s simply not our neighbors place to demand in opposition to the original rule a right to fish on the bridges for themselves or others. If the community would like a designated fishing spot (for any resident and non resident of course) then let’s establish a more reasonable fishing spot where there is not constant traffic--perhaps in the park being built above the tunnel. I strongly vote to reinstall the no fishing signs."

I would like to express my support for posting "no fishing" signs on the isle bridges. I think this will help improve security and cleanliness in the neighborhood. There isn’t anywhere for people who don’t live in the neighborhood to park, these areas were not intended for a public fishing spot- There are certainly other places to fish that are open to the public and provide parking. It is a logical and safe idea."

We are 100% for it! The current situation has been out of control, we are tired of being wrapped up in fish line- dead fish on the bridges, fish hooks on the ground. Not to mention the noise, and weekend "get together's", with the mess left behind for us to clean up!! Orchids to you for getting the approval for the signs!! Many Thanks"

Complete text of posts in the order recieved.

"Maybe instead of trying to ban fisherman on the bridges, which I am opposed to, how about just setting a curfew? - Like no fishing from Midnight - 6 AM. Just a thought!"
"I totally agree [with idea of signs]. The 7th St. bridge is a popular spot and is frequently littered with trash and leftover fishing gear. It also invites who knows who into our neighborhoods and creates an excuse for n'er-do-wells to be there. “No Fishing” signs would be welcome."
"We are against any such restrictive signs. My son fished from those bridges, and I would like my grandsons to have the same opportunity. Surely there is a better way to spend our city resources than to condemn such a benign sport."
"I would like to express my support for posting "no fishing" signs on the isle bridges. I think this will help improve security and cleanliness in the neighborhood. There isn’t anywhere for people who don’t live in the neighborhood to park, these areas were not intended for a public fishing spot- There are certainly other places to fish that are open to the public and provide parking. It is a logical and safe idea."
"Concerning fishermen: I understand the need for security, but I also have compassion towards some of these folks. In today's economy and with so many struggling, I know some fishermen or women are catching fish to help feed their families. Not all... but some. I have even stopped to say hello and ask how the fishing is going. Of course, I don't always do that, but I have found some to be very friendly and humble. I also would hate for our neighborhood to disregard such people, and/or get the reputation that we don't care for people seeking one possible means of sustenance and/or some fishing enjoyment. Not everyone is blessed to have boats and docks. I would just encourage our neighborhood to allow fisherman to fish as long as they keep things clean as best possible and remain respectful of the neighborhood. I feel the hundreds of random contractors are far more of a risk to have in our neighborhood than some fisherman. Possibly - if we were to allow people we continue to fish on our bridges, maybe we could post attractive, small 'Fishing Guideline' signs near the bridges, or major incoming intersections? Possibly, a resolution could be a vote and only allow it on certain streets. I know people fish on 7th because the fishing is better there due to the currents. These are just some ideas."
"I have read the recent postings and want to correct misinformation provided on some of the posts: There used to be no fishing signs posted on the isle bridges. They were vandalized many years ago after the bridges were built, removed, and have yet to be replaced. Fishing on the bridges is not a Rio Vista right that would be “taken away”. It was never intended to be a fishing spot. Originally the city and county deemed it unsafe and now we have citizens of RV advocating an unsafe practice? It is not the case that the bridges are public and therefore not subject to regulation. The bridges are owned publicly but like all roads, rules are made for safety reasons. The original rule was no fishing, that’s always been the rule; it just hasn’t been posted in recent times. The only relevant question is whether fishing off a small bridge with little to no parking and a 3 ft wide sidewalk is safe. It was deemed unsafe when officials originally made the decision and is clearly not safe now that traffic has increased. One posting says fishing is not the problem it’s the loitering and noise. While I understand and respect the point the poster is attempting to make, fishing is in fact the problem as it is the very activity that brings people to the bridges and puts them and oncoming traffic both in harms way. Please refer to the traffic study commissioned when the isle road was built. I am for fellowship while fishing and am for allowing the less fortunate to fish in any safe place either in our community or outside of it (and I commend our neighbors who are sensitive to others) but the isle bridges simply are not the appropriate place. Those advocating allowing fishing are putting the less fortunate among us and our kids and other residents who fish in a situation that has been deemed unsafe by the very transportation officials who designed the bridges. That’s exactly the opposite of our neighbors’ good intentions. It’s simply not our neighbors place to demand in opposition to the original rule a right to fish on the bridges for themselves or others and it’s certainly not appropriate for them to label their neighbors who support the signs snobs or racist. I’m not interested in keeping people out of our neighborhood. I’m interested in keeping people safe (including all residents and non residents; anglers and drivers)! If the community would like a designated fishing spot (for any resident and non resident of course) then let’s establish a more reasonable fishing spot where there is not constant traffic--perhaps in the park being built above the tunnel. I strongly vote to reinstall the no fishing signs."
"I, too, am concerned that a total ban may be overkill. I kind of feel like the people who move next to an airport and then object to the noise. True some may leave trash and illegally park. However, we do have a security patrol. I say we start by asking the officer to speak to the fisherman about being respectful to the neighbors. Perhaps then regroup in six months."
"Pro-active law enforcement and citizens with a vested interest in their community can do big things without jumping the gun and chipping away at the freedoms we all enjoy. If the FLPD knows this is a concern of the community then I am sure they will work diligently to ensure anyone fishing is doing so lawfully, ie. with a valid fishing license, without being a nuissance to private property owners, without littering, etc. It's what they are trained to do, deter crime without violating constitutional rights of the innocent. As long as citizens are confident that reporting will result in law enforcement response then I am confident the desired results for all interested parties will prevail. This is an opportunity to encourage enrollment in the security program FLPD offers to our community."
"My two cents...If you ban fishing on the isles,the problem will only move to other areas in Rio Vista: Abreu Park, 9th Street Bridge, 9th Ave Bridge, South Rio Vista, Let the security patrol continue what they have been doing and don't legally ban fishing for the rest of us."
"On the matter of the NO FISHING SIGNS on our bridges in Rio Vista, I am strongly opposed to this infringement on this freedom. Yes, we live in Rio Vista and pay high taxes and I’m sure a lot of us think that this is only our neighborhood to enjoy, but the fact of the matter is that we may own our property but we don’t own the bridges or the water or the fish! The families and people who fish off of “our Bridges” are here enjoying their family doing something together. Maybe they cannot afford a boat and realize the beauty of a simple act of sharing a day with their children. I am a runner and leave my house by 6am and I have never felt threatened by the men getting bait or fishing for snook. They are always polite. I hardly think that the increase in crime is do to these anglers but to the number of different people we have working on our homes, mowing our lawns and doing odd jobs. I don’t like the idea that my son cannot go down to the bridges with his buddies and fish in our neighborhood. Can’t we share our wealth?"
"As residents of nearby 7th Street bridge, we oppose the “NO Fishing” signs. The streets and bridges here are public property. The fishing bridges have been destinations for families both here in the neighborhood and for those less advantaged who come here as friends and families to enjoy a pleasant pastime and fellowship. This is not a gated community. Our security forces are doing an admirable job. We, and several neighbors here on 7th Street would not like to see fishing from the bridges banned. How about a sign that says : Welcome to the fishing bridges. Please do not litter. Thank you!"
"Thank you, thank you, and thank you. I am glad that something is finally being done to curb the “fishing” activity around the Rio Vista Isles bridges. I too am a fisherman, so I realize how much fun it is to fish, but sometimes the people using the bridge areas are really not actually fishing. I have watched some people clean up after themselves by actually throwing the debris into the water. Others just prefer to leave the garbage on the ground. I have walked the areas in question many times and yes the 10th Street East area is a definite problem as well. It looks like there was a party there at times. I have lived here for many years, and on only few occasions have I seen children fishing from the bridges. I have actually witnessed a fisherman casting close to a parked boat, only to eventually hit the boat with the sinker. “Oops, thought I was better at casting then that!!” I guess further evidence of that is shown by the fishing line dangling from the power lines. I will continue to call on the disturbing noise and mess that is occurring. YES, I do support the NO FISHING signs to be posted at the proposed areas."
"YES!! We are very happy to see No fishing Signs posted on the bridges leading to the isles. Enough is enough. We appreciate your actions and the cooperation of the City Attorney. Orchids!! All Around!!"
"We are 100% for it! The current situation has been out of control, we are tired of being wrapped up in fish line- dead fish on the bridges, fish hooks on the ground. Not to mention the noise, and weekend "get together's", with the mess left behind for us to clean up!! Orchids to you for getting the approval for the signs!! Many Thanks"
"Anyone who is upset about people fishing on the bridges really needs to get over themselves. We live on the island just past the 11th St. bridge and constantly see people fishing but have not once seen anything remotely objectionable. Quite frankly if these snobs want to keep out "undesirables" this badly we may as well just gate the community. The truth is these bridges belong to everybody and everybody should be able to enjoy them, if you are upset about folks out enjoying themselves I would suggest you go ahead and lock youselves inside to make absolutely certain you are safe. Oh, and make sure you keep the patrol car on speed-dial incase those fishermen get unruly. Feel free to post up our names on the forumissue board as well. (Signed) Very annoyed"
"The "No Fishing from the bridges" is great, and should have been done a long time ago."
"I don't get it! It's OK for our kids to drive golf carts overloaded with their friends all over the streets, but they can't fish on the bridges. What's next, a ban on boating?"
"Be careful what you wish for!!! The reason we all live near the water is so that our families can enjoy the water. GET REEL!!!!! Let the people fish!!!"
"totally agree with the proposal. thank you"
"No on No Fishing signs"
"The bridges are public property. The "No Fishing" signs appear to me to be overtly racist in nature. I doubt this would be an issue if it were only our neighborhood children fishing off the bridges. I understand the issue of littering but that can be handled on an individual basis. I bike the isles regularly and have not found this to be an issue. I would like to think that I can fish off our bridges if I so desire."
"Thank you for the article about NO FISHING signs to be posted on bridges. I want to report my opinion that I am totally AGAINST this idea! We have lived in Rio Vista for almost 40 years...For years, my husband and sons have enjoyed walking across the street and fishing from the 11th Street bridge. Now we have the pleasure of taking our grandkids there to fish. I would be very disappointed if we could not continue that tradition. The waterways are public and they should remain that way for the neighborhood. Please reconsider this idea and poll more residents, not just the ones who complain."
"As for the fishing, I think that as a resident, with my kids, if I wanted to fish with them I should be able to. What I don’t like is the people who don’t live in the vicinity coming into our neighborhood to fish. We don’t know who they are and if they have negative intentions. The issue is that I don’t think we can really separate the two."
"If, as has been stated, folks fishing off of the bridges that belong to everybody is the Number #1 complaint registered with the RVCA Security Committee and the Police Patrol cell phone, the phrase "Get a life" comes to mind. This proposal suggest strong racial undertones--which I find reprehensible."
"Definitely yes. Though as others have mentioned that there are well meaning fisherman that catch bait off our bridges, there are likely some that do not have the best of intentions. Our neighbor across the street was burglarized this past year and it is suspected that the burglary might have happened partially by water. The suspects would have had to "case" the house to figure out what there was to steal (two big screen televisions). Unfortunately, a few "bad characters" in our opinion spoil this activity for others and we would support signage and enforcement of no fishing from our bridges."
"We also have a significant problem with fishermen at the east end of 10th street. My neighbors and I regularly complain to the Police about problems with fishermen including: littering, drinking alcohol, speeding, and even smoking pot. I firmly believe the east end of 10th street needs to become a no fishing area as well. Making the Rio Vista bridges No Fishing areas and not including 10th Street as a No Fishing area will only drive the unwanted fishermen from the bridges to 10th street. As we strive to make our neighborhood more safe it's imperative that we solve the fishing problem in all areas of Rio Vista, not just the bridges. I appreciate the efforts of the RVCA police patrol and the RVCA Security Team. Thank you!"
"I am strongly in favor of posting the no fishing signs. While fishing itself is a wonderful thing we all love, fishing at a small entrance way to an isle road is neither appropriate nor safe. I rent on a dry lot in Rio Vista and love to fish. But I drive down Cordova every day and see the issue. Those of us who wish to fish have other more appropriate, safe and wider, outlets both within the neighborhood and within Fort Lauderdale more broadly. This is not about preventing anyone from fishing. It’s just about preventing fishing narrow bridges with constant traffic. There is a time and place for everything and having fisherman park and cast lines over narrow bridges is not wise, safe, or prudent (and from what I see no one is catching anything off these bridges any way)…"
"Parking, noise, and litter are the issue, not the fishing itself. Instead of signs prohibiting fishing for everyone, install trash receptacles and one- or two-car parking areas near the more popular fishing areas in the neighborhood: SE 10 St. Isle, Cordova at 11 St., Cordova at 9th St. and Cordova at 7th St. Seems to me that would be a much more civilized, enlightened method to deter the things that really bother us. I think the age-old argument that "making it easier for fishermen" will encourage more fishermen to use our bridges is ridiculous---the fishing in our canals has never been that good."
"I would like to express my support for posting "no fishing" signs on the isle bridges. I think this will help improve security and cleanliness in our neighborhood. Thank you for moving this issue forward."
"I am in favor of the installation of the signs!"
"My wife and I totally support the no fishing signs on the bridges to the finger islands and on any other bridges in our neighborhood that pose a problem. I am not sure you can do the same at the East end of SE 10th Street, but it would sure keep people out of our block that I don’t care to see coming and going ----- which is mostly at night. Now we might be able to go on our morning walk with out me having to pick up trash from the fishing activity of the night before."
"My husband and I live on SE 7th Isle and we firmly support No Fishing on the Isles. There are some wonderful people who fish and cause no harm but unfortunately, there are more people that litter, loiter, park illegally, make excessive noise, and leave broken glass that children and pets can be harmed by. There is also the probability that some people 'fishing' are not really doing so, just staking out the neighborhood."
"How can I find out what the city rules are regarding the fishermen? "IF" indeed they truly are fisherman??? Lately we have had so many on Cordova and SE 11th St.and Cordova S.E. 10th & 9th Streets. Often times leaving messes, food drinks, fishing line, etc. all over the streets. I have called the police a few times. Sometimes they scare them away - once actually they make them clean up the messages, and others they do nothing. After 11:00 pm on many weekends they are still out there with flashlights, and noise, and it has taken up to an hour for a response. I'd like to know the rules as this is not a comfortable situation for us - Who knows if they are really fishing, drinking, loitering, or on a look out??" Thanks.