Harbor Commission to reexamine sailboat racing

The Newport Beach Harbor Commission is expected to take the first step toward tightening regulations on sailboat racing in Newport Harbor tonight with the creation of a committee to examine the issue.

The reexamination of sailboat racing comes after Newport Beach Harbor Patrol recently cited some racers for traveling at unsafe speeds and creating a nuisance in the harbor.

County codes allow for motorboat races if participants get a permit, but both county and city law give city officials the power to restrict or stop traffic — including races — in the harbor for safety reasons.

If approved, the racing committee will meet with people in the community who could be affected by new racing rules.

The commission will meet at 6 p.m. today at Newport Beach City Hall, 3300 Newport Blvd.

— Brianna Bailey