Harbormaster Paul Blank

As we move into the close of 2025, the Newport Beach Harbor Department continues to evolve to meet the growing and changing demands of the most active recreational harbor on the West Coast. This year has been marked by expanding responsibilities, increased vessel activity, major infrastructure projects, and new regulatory challenges — all while remaining true to our mission of keeping Newport Harbor clean, safe, and well-enjoyed. 

Expanding Roles and Requests 

The scope of services requested of the Harbor Department continues to broaden in unexpected ways. In addition to our traditional roles — vessel assistance, code enforcement, and water quality protection — we’ve recently been asked to provide security support for the Newport Beach Film Festival Awards Brunch, coordinate safety zones for special events, and assist with emergency responses across the harbor. These new assignments underscore the growing trust in our department’s capability, adaptability, and professionalism. Harbor users now call on us for everything from after-hours safety checks to managing large-scale public events — a testament to the department’s growing presence and reputation for dependable service. 

Large Vessels and Temporary Anchorage Management 

This summer and fall saw an unprecedented increase in the number and size of vessels using Newport Harbor’s temporary anchorage. With many yachts exceeding 100 feet in length, managing these visits has required careful coordination between Harbor Safety Officers, Code Enforcement, and visiting captains to ensure safe anchoring and compliance with local regulations. The influx has brought both benefits — added vitality and visibility to the harbor — and challenges, including congestion and environmental oversight. 

Dredging for a Better Future 

Three major dredging efforts are either underway or about to begin, marking one of the most significant collective improvements to Newport Harbor’s navigational and environmental health in recent memory: 

• Main Channel Dredging (City and Federal Project) – Targeting accumulated sediment to restore full design depth and improve tidal circulation. 
• Balboa Yacht Basin Dredging (City Project) – Set to improve marina conditions and safety for tenants and visiting vessels. 
• Linda Isle Lagoon Dredging (Privately Funded) – A locally initiated project that complements public dredging efforts by improving water quality, accessibility, and flow in the lagoon area. 

These projects, when completed, will enhance navigation, safety, and overall water quality — ensuring that the harbor remains both functional and environmentally resilient for years to come. 

After-Hours Patrols and Code Enforcement 

A significant increase in after-hours patrols and investigations has produced immediate and measurable benefits. Harbor Safety Officers and Code Enforcement staff have documented dozens of after-hours incidents leading to formal investigations — including illegal charter operations, unpermitted construction, and unsafe berthing practices. These proactive efforts have greatly improved compliance, reduced conflicts, and increased community confidence that the harbor is monitored and protected at all hours. 

Copper TMDLs and Long-Term Water Quality Goals 

One of the most significant ongoing regulatory challenges for Newport Harbor is compliance with Copper Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) limits imposed by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board. Copper, commonly found in antifouling paints, poses a risk to marine life at elevated concentrations. The City is implementing a 12-year plan to achieve the required copper reductions. The plan includes increased monitoring, boater outreach, and pilot programs to encourage the use of alternative coatings. The Harbor Department is committed to collaborating with the boating community to ensure these reductions are achieved without compromising vessel maintenance or harbor usability. 

SAVE Grant Funding Reduction 

Another issue facing the department this year is a reduction in funding for the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange (SAVE) program, which provides critical financial support for removing derelict or abandoned boats from the harbor. While the City continues to prioritize the safe removal of these vessels, the loss of state funding means fewer resources to cover towing, disposal, and environmental cleanup. The Harbor Department is actively pursuing alternative funding sources and partnerships to continue this important work. 

Recognition for Outstanding Performance 

In October, the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO) announced the selection of the Code Enforcement Officer of the year at their annual convention in Sacramento. This year’s honoree is Jeffrey Goldfarb, a member of the Harbor Department’s Code Enforcement team. 

Goldfarb joined the Harbor Department in October of 2020 and has made a large impact on the formation of the harbor code enforcement team and the delivery of code enforcement services to the harbor community. His contributions were instrumental in the Harbor Department being awarded the 2022 CACEO Innovative Program of the Year. Some of the programs and systems that CEO Goldfarb specifically worked on include: 

• Establishment of the Southern California Dilapidated and Transient Vessel Working Group- a task force of city, state, and federal agencies that are responsible for enforcement activities and management of harbors along the Southern California coast; 
• Implementation of an inspection program for local and transient boaters, ensuring the safety, operability, and integrity of vessels in Newport Harbor; 
• Creation of an Inoperable Vessel Abatement Program; 
• Revision or update of systems, policies, and procedures; and 
• Development of a training program specific to towing, anchoring, and assisting visiting mariners onto moorings. 

Updating the Municipal Code 

Finally, the Harbor Commission is preparing proposed revisions to harbor-related sections of the Municipal Code to reflect evolving conditions and community expectations. Updates will address vessel operations, anchorage use, enforcement processes, and modernized definitions to improve clarity and efficiency. Public input will be encouraged throughout the review process to ensure the revised code accurately reflects the shared values of Newport Harbor users. 

In closing, Newport Harbor remains a dynamic and treasured resource — one that demands constant stewardship, collaboration, and innovation. Whether responding to a late-night vessel emergency or coordinating with federal agencies on dredging and water quality, our team remains dedicated to 

ensuring that Newport Harbor continues to be a source of pride and enjoyment for all who live, work, and play on its waters. 

Mapped Harbor Department Calls for Service, January thru October 2025

SIDEBAR: Newport Harbor 2025 — By the Numbers
Harbor Department Activity Snapshot (January–October 2025)

Service & Safety 

• 22,433 total service calls initiated, 21,141 service calls completed 
• 68 vessels dewatered 
• 154 environmental responses (fuel spills, storm runoff, debris) 
• 842 investigations resulting in Code Enforcement cases 
• 139 vessels assisted or towed to safety 
• 157 mooring assists 
• 71 mooring permit transfers processed through the new EnerGov online portal 
• 1,271 community interactions — education, outreach, and concierge service provision