POLICY 16

PUBLIC FUNDS SHALL ONLY BE USED FOR EROSION PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES WHERE NECESSARY TO PROTECT HUMAN LIFE, AND NEW DEVELOPMENT WHICH REQUIRES A LOCATION WITHIN OR ADJACENT TO AN EROSION HAZARD AREA TO BE ABLE TO FUNCTION, OR EXISTING DEVELOPMENT; AND ONLY WHERE THE PUBLIC BENEFITS OUTWEIGH THE LONG TERM MONETARY AND OTHER COSTS INCLUDING THE POTENTIAL FOR INCREASING EROSION AND ADVERSE EFFECTS ON NATURAL PROTECTIVE FEATURES.

Explanation of Policy

Public funds are used for a variety of purposes on the State's shorelines. This policy recognizes the public need for the protection of human life and existing investment in development or new development which requires a location in proximity to the coastal area or in adjacent waters to be able to function. However, it also recognizes the adverse impacts of such activities and development on the rate of erosion and on natural protective features and requires that careful analysis be made of such benefits and long-term costs prior to expending public funds.