HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Watershore And Beach Advisory Committee - 03/01/2001 Minutes
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 1, 2001
Members Present: Frank Beck, Alan Dinn (Chairman) (1), Dr. Oscar Garcia, Dr. Joseph
Horvat, Steven Moody (Vice Chairman), Dr. JoAnna Mott, Terri Nicolau (1), Roy Pell
and Richard Poremba
Staff Present: Marco A. Cisneros, Director of Park & Recreation; David Ondrias,
Assistant Director for Operations; Peter M. Davidson, Marina Superintendent; Rene
Garza, Marina Maintenance Technician; Benita Brunner, Management Aide; Bill Murch,
Carl Miniex and Mark Smith, Senior Marina Specialists; and Frank Guerra, Marina
Maintenance Foreman
Call to Order: Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Chairman Dinn called the regular
meeting of the Water/Shore Advisory Committee to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Bay Yacht
Club, Lawrence Street T-Head.
Action on Minutes: The motion was made by Mr. Beck, seconded by Dr. Horvat, to
amend the one-line section on the first page of the February 21, 2001 Minutes to reflect
the lengthy discussion involving the public and Committee members over the fact that the
Committee was given the budget with a due date two days later and no one from the Park
& Recreation Department was present that could discuss the budget. The motion passed
unanimously. [Mr. Poremba entered the meeting.] The motion was made by Mr. Beck,
seconded by Dr. Horvat, to approve the January 4, 2001 and February 2, 2001 Minutes as
amended. The motion passed unanimously.
Presentations and/or Public Comment: Dick Frenzel representing Barney's Place
commented that they responded to the Request for Proposals for the fuel lease. He
indicated their plans, in addition to operating a safe, quality fuel station may include a
casual restaurant, Seatow-type operation, sewage boat and opportunities for boater
education. He reported Danny Duzich is negotiating with City Staff regarding the
building design (two-story, stilted, 2,000 square foot building possibly with a deck
surround) and lease and that, once the lease is signed, they can be operational within three
weeks. In response to concerns regarding whether the building design fit into the overall
planning and if the lease would come back before the Committee, Mr. Davidson reported
that at the February 2001 meeting the Committee had appointed Chairman Dinn to serve
on the RFP selection committee due to short timelines regarding the lease; that Mr.
Duzich submitted the only response to the RFP that was sent to/received by 134
businesses. Chairman Dinn reported that the concept was to keep things as broad as
possible in order to attract a knowledgeable operator that would do fuel along with
another operation and that Mr. Duzich's response included a small restaurant along with
the required fueling operation. Dr. Horvat commented that he was not against the
concept but felt the Committee should have received that information prior to rather than
at a public meeting. Mr. Frenzel responded to Dr. Horvat that they were aware of and
SCANNED
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Ivlinutes -1- March 1, 2001
A
•
would be willing to making soy-based fuel sales available if there was a market. Mr.
Davidson reported that the intent was that the old fuel station was to be removed and the
new facility to be operational by the end of April 2001 and that there should not be any
interruption in fuel services. He responded to questioning that City Staff is discussing
plans for the relocation of the sanitary pump out facility to the new fuel location. He
added that the fuel station would be located toward the northeast corner of the L-Head.
Mr. Cisneros reported that the rental requirement will include payment of a monthly flat
rent or a percentage, whichever is greater.
Public Comment and/or Presentations: Chairman Dinn thanked the Bay Yacht Club for
hosting the meeting and encouraged those in present to attend the regularly scheduled
meetings held at City Hall.
Andy Ficken commented that slip rates should not be increased but if they are, it should
be equal regardless of pier or pleasure/commercial vessel; that if rates increase, Parks will
find a way to take money from the Marina; that the Marina should be allowed to run as a
marina with Marina Staff/funds going toward Marina duties (lights out); that the Parks
Department should perform park responsibilities (Seawall, Miradores, etc.); and that
dredging will have to be addressed as a bond issue.
Dick Leonard commented that the personnel salaries and benefits ($476,000) was a lot of
overhead for the boat owners/slip renters to carry given the fact that boats leave faster and
debts continue to increase; that eventually the debts would have to be carried by a few
boats; that Marina should not continue encumbering big debts given the diminishing
number of tenants; that maintenance costs, for non-Marina related projects, put the costs
well over $500,000; and that tenants, as the Marina's income source, should be treated
more politely instead of as has been complained about on numerous occasions, as if they
are doing wrong and are being policed/watched so Staff can catch them doing wrong.
Ralph Bowen commented that it is not fair that tenants subsidize the public's use of the
Marina i.e. putting boats in the water (boat ramps), fisherman and those who use the
facilities and thrown trash around; that the burden is placed on the tenants when rates are
increased for which they get nothing in return; and that the City owes tenants respect
because they are paying for their use of the facility.
Nela Wilems commented that Mr. Cisneros'/Mr.. Ondrias' absence at the last meeting
was acutely noted; that she had asked several City Councilpersons to attend the meeting;
that it is important that the Committee and other City representatives listen to those who
actually utilize the Marina and those who have used facilities at other marinas; that she
had serious problems with the budget i.e. the huge increase in computer costs that should
not be borne solely by tenants; that tenants should not have to pay for maintaining the
Miradores/benches; that she appreciated the Marina Staff and the kindness and
consideration they have extended to her; that the City got ripped off regarding costs
associated with the bait stand and that something needs to be renegotiated so that tenants
do not have to pay for the facility; that boater facilities in other marinas have a library,
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -2- March 1, 2001
computer access/hookup and a television; that tenants pay their share of what the Marina
charges them but they never see the City giving back monies for the work the Marina
Staff is doing for the City (Marina is not compensated for costs associated with Marina
Staff picking up trash following community events); that slip increases cause desertion so
there is less money taken in; that vacant slips needs to be advertised to attract boaters;
that the five-day stay aboard needs to be negotiable in order to attract visiting boaters; and
that cruisers do not consider Corpus Christi a boater friendly community.
Cindy Johnson commented that because they were aware and were very careful about
dates, they stayed with local relatives in order to comply with staying aboard limitations;
that due to be hounded by security, they felt they were not supposed to be on their boat;
that security would not answer who/when someone had been onboard their boat when
they left the State; that they were accused of being onboard when they were out of the
State; that Port Aransas is a real Marina where live aboard provide security because they
question those with whom they are unfamiliar; that ordinances can easily be revised to
address environmental issues (i.e. USCG Auxiliary annual inspection, locking off y-
valves, meeting IRS standards for residence); and that in their travel, they had never run
across a marina that required onboard permits or treated visitors as does Corpus Christi.
Martha Respondek commented that the boating community is generous and helpful with
directing the volumes of tourists who visit the Marina; that the Marina/City Council
should consider that the Marina is the front door to the City and that the City should be
putting money into and not taking money away from the Marina so that it can be properly
maintained so that it looks nice and pristine for the tourists.
Jerry Vaughn commented that adequate parking should be considered for the L-Head
restaurant; regarding his opposition to tenants paying for repairs to the barge dock/boat
ramps and for cleaning the waterfront/Seawall which should be a General Fund
responsibility; that history proves that rate increases result in loss of tenants; that he
questioned why tenants should decorate/participate in community events as they are
encouraged to do when the City turns around and dumps on them; that City Staff from
Mr. Davidson down are helpful but he is convinced that those over Mr. Davidson do not
care whether or not there are Marina tenants; that the City does not seem to appreciate the
beauty of the Marina; that he resents tenants having to subsidize the bait stand which has
not paid rent for over a year; and inquired about the water quality since the live aboards
have departed.
Bob Dawson commented that his boat would not have been stolen from just in front of
the Marina Office if there were live aboards looking at what's going on and if thieves
were not aware that Marina personnel go home for the night.
Jane Stubbs commented that she has paid rent to the Marina for 17 years; that she owns
commercial shrimp boats and works with shrimpers but is not herself a shrimper; that her
contract stated that she would start paying rent when the new facility was completed; that
she was forced to move into the new facility before it was completed; that when she tried
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -3- March 1, 2001
to have the electricity work done so the live wells would be operational, City Staff
contacted the electricians from whom she had received bids, advising they could not do
the work because it was the City's responsibility; that 10,000 bait stand customers signed
a petition in one week because they knew what the City was doing (forcing the fuel on
her) was unfair; that she would be happy to answer further questions regarding the matter;
that when there is a problem in the Marina, someone should be responsible just like it's
her responsibility for what occurs at the bait stand regardless of whether or not she is
there; that she feels things are made hard and it is ridiculous that she is required to put
requests for information/service in writing; and that it is not pleasant to deal with the
Marina anymore. Ms. Stubbs responded to Mr. Beck that as of January 26, 2001, when
the electricity was completed she is satisfied that the City has completed their contract;
and that she will be submitting a check for her first month's business by March 10, 2001.
Judge Robert Blackmon commented that Ms. Stubbs owns the only local fleet that
slows/stops for small boats; regarding the Sea Scout programs/boats/participation within
the Marina; and that a slip increase will result in removal of Sea Scouts boats.
Paul Earls commented that the Marina has the sorriest reputation of any along the Texas
coast; that the overall attitude of the Marina is what detracts from everything; that he
witnessed one late afternoon, an individual being threatened with arrest for lack of an
overnight permit; that he would like to see a change in the requirement, found only in this
Marina, to pay $200 per year for the right to be in business freely in the Marina with no
relief on the insurance (naming the City additional insured) or property taxes; that the
City should be satisfied with the sales tax he pays; and that he feels the $200 fee is in the
same category as the unnecessary rules put upon those who want to live aboard.
Discussion Items:
Increasing Slip Occupancy - Mr. Davidson commented that marketing strategies include
discussions with Susan Cable of City Communications, using a marketer ($75/hour),
utilizing the website (corpuschristimarina.com, which is linked to marinas.com and the
Marina Association of Texas website), advertising in the Texas Cruising Guides and
investigating attending boat shows in the upcoming year. Mr. Davidson reported that
there is only a small Staff responsible for dealing with numerous areas of responsibility
i.e. live aboards that does not leave adequate time for marketing. He reported the Marina
Staff works 24/7/365 and is comprised of eighteen positions (Administration: one Marina
Superintendent, one Maintenance Mechanic (acting supervisor), one Management Aide,
and two, part-time Office Aides; Operations/Maintenance: one Maintenance Foreman,
two Marina Specialist Is (night guard), three Marina Specialist IIs (maintenance), three
Marina Specialist Ills (boater assistance/maintenance) and three Senior Marina Specialists
(day-time security/SARs).
Installation of Additional Electrical Meters - Mr. Davidson reported the Marina is
currently spending $55,000 per year on electricity and that with the CP&L take over the
upcoming 20% fuel surcharge will increase the cost to $66,277 per year. An investigation
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -4- March 1, 2001
revealed two ways to accomplish meter installation in the 294 wet slips that are not
currently metered (102 are currently metered). The first remedy would be for Marina Staff
to build the support stanchions (if the pier will support that) and then to hire an electrician
to install the meters. Materials, labor, fasteners, wiring and an electrician would cost
approximately$104,000 or $354.37 per meter. The second remedy would be to purchase
fiberglass stanchion digital meters (access for two boats including a dock light and hose
bib and are telephone and cable television ready) and hire an electrician to install the
meters. Materials, labor, fasteners and an electrician would cost approximately $141,804
or $482 per meter. He reported the Texas Senate is currently considering a Bill that will
affect all Texas marinas and require that Marinas not charge more than that for which the
utility company bills them. The Marina does not currently profit on electricity but the
Bill does not consider nor allow for collection for wear and tear or maintenance of the
electrical equipment and the Marina replaces approximately thirty electrical meters each
year. Mr. Davidson indicated that he did not believe it would benefit the Marina to install
meters at this time and most especially until the outcome and the impact of the Bill is
known.
Mr. Davidson responded to questioning: that the Marina charges a monthly utility
recovery fee (covering garbage, water, power) to tenant vessels according to the vessel
length ($3.75, $6.87, $13.12 and $23.75) and requests the City Electrician to install
meters in non-metered slips when electrical use is determined to be excessive (air
conditioning, etc.); that charges from CP&L and the Public Utilities divided by occupied
slips indicate expenditures equate to what is collected from the monthly utility recovery
charge; that 280KWH is credited toward the monthly utility recovery base charge for non-
commercial, metered use of electricity and usage above 280KWH is charged at $0.12 per
KWH; that he could not answer (hypothetically) whether or not the current billing
practice goes against the proposed Bill; that the utility recovery rate currently balances
out with utility expenditures (garbage, water, power) but that will not be the case with the
projected $11,000 increase in electrical charges for next year; that there is a CP&L meter
indicating electrical use on each pier;
Mr. Garza responded to questioning that a 30amp, in-line meter costs approximately$375
and the 50amp, in-line meter costs approximately $500 without installation and that the
meters go bad and do not last very long which is still a high cost per slip. Mr. Beck
commented that the Marina is somewhat ahead given electric bills run between $2,800
and $3,000 per month and the amount collected, based on boat length, is approximately
$3,700 per month from which garbage and water are required to be paid from the amount
collected. Mr. Davidson commented that he would like to install more meters but given
the upcoming boating events (Optimists World Championships, J-22 Championships,
etc.) restrooms and other issues need to be addressed before meter installation. Mr. Beck
commented he felt the Marina is suffering a monthly loss for lack of metering. Mr.
Davidson reported that the problem is not just installing meters but how to do it and make
it viable. He reported problems with the wooden stanchions on Piers A, B, C and D
(floating) that due to their weight are causing the piers to be lopsided and commented that
fiberglass meters which are lighter will allow the piers to float as intended. Mr. Davidson
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -5- March 1,2001
commented that he would prefer to spend time advertising the vacant boat slips that could
bring in an estimated $140,000 per year and then reconsider the meter situation.
Dredging - Mr. Davidson indicated that he has been discussing options with the Port
Authority and City Engineers; that Staff is waiting for the underwater map being prepared
by the Corps of Engineers; that the top soil is good and possibly could be used to
replenish area beaches but that soil sample tests would be required for what is beneath the
top soil; that mobilization fees for a dredge could be as much as $60,000 so he is looking
into piggybacking the gap dredging onto a Port Authority project; that Island Moorings
owns their own dredge and were willing to lease it to the Marina based on a per hour
charge (pending); that the USCG installed an extra buoy and performed readings at the
gap; that City Engineering indicated he could revisit the issue when funds were available
to perform the work; that the issue should be resolved within the next few months. Mr.
Beck encouraged Mr. Davidson to get a yardage guarantee related to the hourly charge
suggested by Island Moorings. Mr. Cisneros responded to questioning that the short-term
concern is dredging only the gap and the long-term is dredging overall; that anything over
$50,000 would have to come from the General Fund or be addressed through a bond fund
program because the large scale projects can not be supported by the Marina Fund; that
dredging was included in the $44,000,000 Bond 2000 Program for the Park & Recreation
Department and City Council reduced that to $4,500,000 for all projects; that the Port is a
separate entity from City of Corpus Christi and frequently provides cursory assistance but
has no obligation to fund Marina projects. Mr. Moody commented that a Marina Office,
dredging, bulk heading and wiring are needed in the Marina, the City's front door, and
that the City offered little assistance, unless something major went wrong, to maintain the
infrastructure and facilities. Mr. Cisneros commented that some bulk heading would be
addressed in the Seawall project and that Staff is attempting to increase other changes for
the Marina related to bulkhead-type detailing if that will result in a cost savings. Mr.
Moody wondered if the City was aware of the Marina's needs with regarding to
upcoming City events. Mr. Cisneros responded that moving forward with the Seawall
and Bond 2000 Projects and educating the City Council on the importance to address
dredging and structure needs in the next bond program. Mr. Cisneros responded to Mr.
Beck that the Seawall project address filling the voids in the under structure; that the
concrete cover does not change; there is a possibility that ADA access to t-heads/l-head
would have to be addressed in some manner; that the bearing capability of spoil materials
proposed to be dredged from the Marina. Mr. Davidson responded to questioning that he
is waiting for the dredging study performed five years ago by Shiner Moseley. Mr.
Cisneros reported that the Marina has not been fully dredged since it was built; that
Stormwater carries some responsibility with regard to their outfalls carrying sediment into
the Marina. Mr. Davidson commented that the water surge resulting from tankers
accessing the Port also affects the Marina and eroding the Seawall. Mr. Beck commented
there should be a way to work out a user fee to the Port since each ship/barge goes
through the Marina. Discussion followed regarding the concept of a user fee to the Port.
Director's Report - Mr. Davidson and/or Mr. Cisneros responded to questioning that
sanitary pollution incidents indicated in the report had occurred approximately one year
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -6- March 1,2001
before and that Staff reported the incidents to the USCG and sent a letter informing the
offender of the problem which has not been reported; that the Health Department does not
currently take samples within the Marina; that the Health Department did not provide a
report prior to the meeting; that the R-Pier gate was replaced entirely and a marine-related
scene will be painted on the entrance; that the Seafood Market (Draft #9 and #10) issue is
going back before the Health Advisory Committee at that Committee Chairman's request;
that the Water/Shore Committee Chairman will make the Seafood Market presentation to
the City Council; that a debt service is set up to pay for expenses (coasted out since 1985)
related to bulkhead and major repairs and-of the approximately $600,000 debt service, the
Marina Fund pays around $50,000 and the balance is paid out of the General Fund; that
new bulkhead work within the Marina will be covered in the Seawall Project; that the
City Council directed City Staff to desist regarding working on live aboards; that City
Manager and Assistant City Manager are in New York City seeking funding for Bond
2000; that the information indicating there is no significant crime in the Marina was
presented to the Committee by Commander Smith at a previous meeting; that Marina
Staff encourages those who have had problems report it to the Police Department; and
that the effluent report was provided in answer to questions presented to Staff previous to
the meeting. Chairman Dinn commented that citizens could contact their City
Councilperson regarding their support for whatever are the citizens' issues. Chairman
Dinn requested that information regarding incidents that are reported to the Committee
include a reference date. Dr. Mott requested that when answers to questions are included
in the director's report that they be indicated as a response to provided questions and from
what source.
The Committee recessed at 7:52 p.m. and the meeting was resumed at 8:01 p.m.
Budget - The motion was made by Dr. Horvat, seconded by Mr. Pell, to leave the slip
rentals alone. . Dr. Horvat stated the Enterprise Fund is what needs to be discussed and
he requested that it be a topic for discussion at the next meeting. He added that the
current system can not function and that raising rates does nothing for the good of the
City; it just makes poor leadership possible. Mr. Cisneros responded that a report
regarding the Enterprise Fund history, with respect to the length of "this" meeting, is
scheduled to be presented-for discussion at the April 2001 meeting; that solely revenues
were reviewed at the last, special-called meeting and that historically, the budget process
requires review of revenues, expenditures, debt service and capitol improvements yet the
City budget process does not provide the complete picture either for an Enterprise or a
General Fund and you can not look at revenues without know what you are trying to
cover. Mr. Pell commented that was exactly the point the Committee was trying to make.
Mr. Cisneros stated Staff projected the known increases i.e. increases in fuel prices,
electricity, utilities, etc. but indicated last years' numbers where the allocations have yet
to be determined i.e. MIS, fleet, etc.; that the debt service and construction.has taken a
toll on the Marina funds which need to be replenished in case of a bond review for which
a good balance (approximately $500,000) would be needed to show solvency with regard
to borrowing money to do a particular job in the Marina. Dr. Horvat agreed with Mr.
Cisneros' points adding that just because there is bad management in the City is no reason
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -7- March 1,2001
to increase fees without returning something; that he was tired of trying to keep the
Marina afloat when the rest of the City seems bent on sinking it. Mr. Cisneros responded
to questioning that the increase would result in an additional $28,000. Mr. Davidson
responded to questioning that filling slips that are currently vacant would result in an
additional $130-140,000. Dr. Horvat commented that in the past three years, the City has
shot down each suggestion (live aboards, five-day limit on visiting vessels, etc.) the
Committee made regarding increasing revenues; that private enterprise could succeed
because they are not hamstrung as is the Marina. Discussion followed regarding the
2001-2001 revenues estimates; a rate increase reflected in the revenue estimates; no
control over allocations; debt service (for piers built, bulkhead work, Marina
improvements since 1985); debt service (approximately $51,000 per year) not being
reflected in the expenditures; correcting $51,000 to $66,000 for heat, light and power;
expenditures that are not reflected in the draft budget document; fund transfers (ancillary
costs i.e. Human Resources, Legal) assessed to all City departments; and office rental
(beginning 7/1/01) not reflected in expenditures. Mr. Beck inquired why some
expenditures did not appear on the printed information and how the Committee could get
the information. Mr. Davidson responded that the budget was in the draft stages and was
presented for the Committee's comments. Mr. Cisneros responded that some items are
not identified in the operating budget because they are taken out at the end of the year.
Mr. Dinn asked if there was a way to include the information. Mr. Cisneros responded
that he would check with the Finance Department. Mr. Davidson responded to Mr. Beck
that the bait stand and boater facility were the facilities on which the $590,000
expenditure for buildings was spent. Mr. Cisneros added that $70,000 was the tenant's
contribution and the net ($519,000) is the two buildings; that the $70,000 was reflected in
the balance sheet for this years budget and probably would be done as a line item transfer
at year end. Someone called for the question and the motion passed (six for; one against).
Mr. Cisneros responded to questioning that the recommendation would be noted but it
was too late to change revenues indicated. Mr. Davidson responded to questioning that
the proposed rate increase went to the Budget Office; that the issue had been tabled and
the Committee was informed that the deadline was the following Friday. Mr. Beck stated
the motion was made to table the slip rate increase until and for discussion at the 3/1/01
meeting and that if it could be raised at the 3/1/01 meeting, it would; if not, it was to
remain the same. Several Committee members agreed. Mr. Cisneros reported that Staff
worked through the Committee recommendation. Mr. Beck asked where the
recommendation came from. Mr. Vaughn asked why the Committee even exists. Mr.
Beck stated the slip fee increase, as noted in the Minutes, resulted from a Committee
member's inquiry and that City Staff opposed a rate increase. He asked why, when the
Committee voted not to increase rates, the City proceeded with the idea. Mr. Cisneros
stated that the Committee had received an overview of all revenues; that Mr. Poremba's
proposal was to consider different pricing relative to slip rental; Staff considered that
option as another to increase the fund balance; consideration is still the Committee's
recommendation; that the budget process continues and is a work in progress until the
budget is adopted at the end of June 2001.
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -8- March 1,2001
Mr. Pell commented it was deceptive for Staff to move forward a rate increase against the
Committee's recommendation. Mr. Cisneros responded that Staff would work with
Budget to amend and reduce the budget taking slip rates to the current rate; that the
$28,000 revenue is reflected and has been put into the system. Mr. Davidson responded to
questioning that a fee for use of the boat ramp has been added into the recommendations.
Discussion followed regarding self-insurance expenditures relative to staffing and
facilities. Mr. Davidson responded that the Marina fund balance fluctuates month-to-
month depending on expenses and revenues and that interest goes into Marina funds. Mr.
Beck indicated it was his understanding that the fund balance is whatever is left over at
the end of the year and that it is not touched through the fiscal year of the budget process;
that the Marina operates from revenue and income separate and apart from reserves. Mr.
Pell, referring to allocations, expressed a business can not successfully operate without
control over hands in the piggybank; that either the Enterprise Fund is allowed to operate
as a business or it should be turned back over to the City to run it. Mr. Cisneros reported
that Staff is required to work with the provided allocations; that allocation numbers are
not available because departments benefiting from allocations are currently working on
their expenditures (they have no revenue stream); Fleet expenditures are allocated across
the entire City. Mr. Pell asked why an Enterprise Fund could not opt out of allocated
services. Mr. Cisneros responded that the Enterprise Fund is a part of the City, first and
foremost. Mr. Pell stated it was not right that the Enterprise Fund is required to generate
its own revenue yet has not control over who has their hand in our piggybank. Mr.
Cisneros stated allocations are assigned by department, and there is no opportunity to opt
out. Discussion followed regarding how allocations have changed over the years and
whether or not other City departments are paying allocations at percentages equivalent to
what is paid by the Marina. Mr. Beck stated he would like to hear from a Fleet
representative regarding the allocations. Mr. Davidson reported the Sailing School would
not be available this year for lack of trained Staff but plans are to continue in the future.
The motion was made by Mr. Beck, seconded by Mr. Garcia, to include $6,000 for
Sailing School expenses. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion followed
regarding expenditures i.e. minor tools (hand tools, etc.); printing (brochures-to
advertising); minor computer equipment; special services (consultant); the $10,000 from
Landry's to remove the fuel station will be put into the Marina fund; will not borrow
money from Landry's; Marina Staff being required to purchase equipment and operate
fuel station if there is an operator is not found; employee salary increase not included in
budget; and forwarding allocations information to the Committee when it is received.
Mr. Davidson indicated he would contact the Committee if information is received in
time to call a special meeting to address the allocations; that there was a subcommittee
appointed to review the allocations and there has been no report to date.
Restrooms - Mr. Pell reported that there would have been no problem qualifying for
CDBG funds to renovate an existing facility, but the project was determined ineligible to
receive funds to build a new facility. Mr. Beck stated that Landry's has total lease
assignment from the Lighthouse, and they are required to provide those facilities. Mr.
Davidson responded that the Legal Depai tnient is reviewing the matter but has not
answered to his satisfaction. Mr. Beck commented that Mr. Bray needs to be encouraged
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -9- March 1,2001
to strengthen the lease assignment; that if they do not perform per the lease, they should
pay more since the City is compelled to provide those services. Mr. Dinn requested that
whomever is in charge respond to the Committee regarding lease negotiations.
Marina Office - Mr. Davidson reported G E Capital's offer to sell both trailers to the City
for $54,000 and their agreement to apply rent paid toward the purchase price. Discussion
followed regarding making G E Capital another offer; seeking other facilities; removal
responsibly; purchase must be through bid process; moving into and buying one trailer;
purchasing/relocating/refurbishing a barge ($430,000 for 8,000SF) which could be
removed for hurricanes and resold; option to build an office ($425,000 for 3,750SF);
private citizen offering to purchase a barge to lease back to the City (not pursued); putting
out a request for available barges; option is to opt out of one trailer, lease/purchase
second trailer and relocating some Staff to Haulout Facility (safety concerns related to
boat traffic in/out); and locating an office outside the Marina Complex.
Committee Reports: None offered.
Current Concerns: None offered.
Request for Information/Agenda Items: Discussion of Enterprise Fund; five-day stay
aboard permit; what is required to put flags on CP&L light poles and preliminary ideas on
special event reimbursement.
Confirmation: Next Meeting Date - April 5, 2001
Adjournment: As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Peter M. Davidson
Marina Superintendent
SCANNED
Water/Shore Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes -10- March 1,2001