The area known as Crab Corner in Menemsha will remain closed for the rest of the summer, Chilmark selectmen decided last week.

The decision comes after consultation with the harbor master, inspector of wires, electrical contractors, harbor advisory committee and town counsel over the summer-long issue of stray voltage in the water.

“As an elected official responsible for this town’s well-being, I cannot in good conscience expose this town to a liability, because we know that there is an issue there,” said selectman Jim Malkin at the board’s August 8 meeting.

Mr. Malkin said a report summarizing the results of 10 days of voltage testing is forthcoming.

The shallow area in the channel, a popular spot for wading and crabbing, has been closed since mid-summer, after people reported feeling a tingle in the water. The closure has been unpopular among some who frequent Menemsha.

After much investigation and head scractching among town officials, including electrical inspectors, a subpanel was located that had not been grounded. The theory is that this was the source of the problem.

Now that may not be certain.

Selectmen said town wiring inspector Cole Powers will conduct a complete survey of the electrical work at the harbor on Sept. 7. Mr. Malkin said Eversource will conduct a survey of the electrical work for which they are responsible.