By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Navigo, a local boat-sharing tech startup, hit a snag in North Hatley recently and had to close up shop because according to the Town, the company was in contravention of municipal bylaws.
Self-described as the “Communauto of watercraft,” Navigo, based in Magog, aims to provide affordable and convenient access to boats and pontoons for people who do not own waterfront properties. However, the company’s recent experiences in North Hatley have highlighted challenges and bureaucratic hurdles that have affected its operations.
Navigo sent out a detailed press release July 30 outlining its attempts over the past year to reach an agreement with North Hatley, which was met with an equally lengthy retort on the Town’s website defending its position.
The company began operations in North Hatley in January 2023, initially out of the marina. However, logistical challenges, particularly with access to the lake that required navigating a narrow passage near a pedestrian bridge over the Massawippi River during periods of high water, led Navigo to seek a new location.
The company rented a commercial property on Main Street to establish a new base. However, local zoning laws allowed commercial activities related to water at only three specific locations: the marina, the federal wharf, and Pleasant View Beach. Navigo’s new location did not meet these criteria, resulting in disputes with the town over permits for signage and docks.
The town’s administration says, in the lengthy statement on its website, that Navigo proceeded with installing docks without the necessary permits, prompting a warning from the municipal inspector and Director General Benoit Tremblay. “Navigo has refused to comply with the current regulations, continuing its operations without the required permits,” says the statement, signed by Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish.
