Wilmington Water Tours was in danger of closing down for good due to a disagreement with its homeowners association. Fortunately, the business is here to stay for the time being.
Risk of Losing Wilmington Water Tours
For 15 years, Wilmington Water Tours has been a beloved fixture in the downtown community. The business offers scenic cruises along the Cape Fear River. However, it now faces a significant threat due to a dispute with its homeowners association.
The trouble began when a large yacht docked nearby, obstructing the view of an HOA board member. According to co-owner Doug Springer, the incident triggered a series of actions from the board members. The board member has since spent over $50,000 in HOA funds over the past two years to secure an injunction against the business.
Springer argues that the HOA is overstepping its bounds.
“Even the technicality that they’re using, they’re trying to enforce like federal legislation and interpret it when it’s not theirs to interpret,” he said. “They’ve rewritten the rules and regulations of the homeowners association 10 years after we were here. They’re saying we’re an unauthorized business, so they’re also trying to play zoning.”
Community Backlash and Court Appeal
This conflict has stirred strong reactions from the local community. Stephanie Rathbun, a resident, expressed her dismay.
“The Wilmington Water Tour has been a part of Wilmington for several years; it’s something that I do every time I have company in town,” Rathbun said. “It’s something that we’ve all grown to love; it’d be terrible to see them have to leave.”
On July 3rd, a court decided that Wilmington Water Tours would remain in business. An appeal has been filed, and the hearing will occur next month. However, the full appeal process may span over a year.
