PORTLAND – The city is reopening a debate over how much development should be allowed on the working waterfront by mailing questionnaires to 137 owners of waterfront businesses.

The effort is part of a fact-finding mission to determine the economic conditions and needs of the central waterfront, which includes 16 wharves and piers, some of which are in poor condition.

“It’s the way to reach into the waterfront community and put your hands on the pulse,” said Charles Poole, a member of the city task force reviewing zoning regulations.

So far, only 15 businesses have returned the questionnaire. Officials plan to telephone people to ask them to take part, in hopes of getting at least 40 surveys back.

Waterfront zoning has been a contentious issue.

Some business owners and officials believe allowing more nonmarine uses would make it possible for property owners to subsidize the working waterfront.

Others worry that zoning changes would alter the waterfront’s character and drive out marine-related businesses.

Mark Usinger, co-owner of the A.L. Griffin ship chandlery, said he won’t complete the survey. He said he’s suspicious of the city’s planning efforts, which he believes will lead to more nonmarine development on the waterfront.

“They are not looking out for the working waterfront right now,” Usinger said. “It is being gutted slowly but surely.”

But Pete McAleney, owner of New Meadows Lobster on the Portland Pier, said he’s happy the city is asking questions.

“It has to be done,” he said. “I don’t think they really know what people go through down here in the central zone.”

The survey results will determine the zoning adjustments the task force will propose, said William Needleman, a senior planner for the city.

“We just hope property owners and business owners are forthcoming so we can get as accurate information as possible,” he said.