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Comox Marina users pack chambers

Hopes of keeping fees in check for the coming years.
8096comox09ComoxMarina
Comox Marina

Erin Haluschak

Record Staff

Hoping a new council will bring a fresh look at marina rates, Comox Marina users packed council chambers Wednesday in hopes of keeping fees in check for the coming years.

Speaking on behalf of users, Bruce Morrison asked council to consider keeping rates the same for users for the foreseeable future, as he noted increases over the past 10 years are “unjustifiable and unfair.”

“There have been a large increase in berthing fees in a 10-year period … the fees have increased 80 per cent over those 10 years,” he explained.

There are around 144 tenants which use the facilities, and despite the rising fees, users don’t see funds from the increases going towards marina amenities, he added.

“I always thought that in the 1970s when the marina was developed it was supposed to be self-supporting rather than a revenue stream for the town.”

He noted the area is “not a luxury yacht marina,” with many boats holding a value between $15,000 to $20,000.

“These aren’t rich guy’s boats.”

Morrison added the group isn’t seeking subsidies or tax fees from the town, rather asking for a freeze on marina fees.

He is also asking the town to create a dialogue between users, as Morrison explained there are opportunities to create transient moorage with users who may not use their slip for extended periods of time, especially during the summer.

“Comox I think is a great place to bring a boat, but there’s a lot of missed opportunities because of facilities,” he added.

Comox council will consider the request during upcoming budget discussions.

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