The City of Rock Island Sunset Marina Boaters Advisory Committee met Thursday, Aug. 18.
The Sunset Marina Boaters Advisory Committee was created to advise on matters related to Sunset Marina. The Advisory Committee consists of members who are appointed by the Mayor with the consent of the City Council. No more than two of the members may be from the same dock series. The other two members of the Committee shall be residents of Rock Island representing the general public.
Here are the meeting minutes as provided by the Rock Island Sunset Marina Boaters Advisory Committee:
SUNSET MARINA BOATERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES August 18, 2016
MEETING OPENS Acting Chairperson Randy McMurray opened the meeting at 6:05 p.m.
ATTENDANCE Members Present: Nick Detert, Dave Dipple, Randy McMurray, Rick Riley and Allen Shay
Members Absent: Denny Maenhout and Mike Thoms
Staff Present: Randy Tweet, Melody Miller and Theresa Burrage
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Rick Riley made a motion to approve the July 21, 2016 minutes. Allen Shay seconded the motion. Motion carried by voice vote.
MANAGER’S REPORT
• Staff reported as of August 5th the marina was at 46.1% occupancy; this is one slip above leases this same time in 2015. There was brief discussion.
• Staff called 400 Dock leaseholders regarding the 400 Dock wash being postponed. 5 thought the wash was beneficial, 14 weren’t sure if it was helpful, and 17 didn’t have an opinion or didn’t answer. Staff will look at the docks at the end of the season and follow-up as needed.
• Staff reported with Floatzilla being held the upcoming weekend the public launch ramps would be closed by Parks and Recreation from approximately 2 p.m. on Friday to around 4 p.m. on Saturday. There was brief discussion.
• Staff reported the lights on the entrance billboard have been repaired. The security light will be done at a later date since there was water in the electrical box.
• MidAmerican was again notified about the security lights along 300 and 400 Docks.
ACTION ITEMS 2017 Budget – Customer Survey Results
In follow up to the study session presentation to City Council on the marina, a survey was mailed to all customers and was also available on-line.
69 surveys were returned. Staff reviewed the questions and answers with discussion on each item. It was agreed that people like the marina.
Staff explained survey answers indicated boaters aren’t interested in a rate increase for major capital improvements; they are interested in keeping the marina the same. Dredging was listed as very important. A 15% increase for dredging was rejected by the majority as well as a 25% rate increase for replacement of the 400 Dock. Respondents did not want to reduce fuel dock hours and were in favor of Staff continuing to launch/pull boats with a reduction in scheduled days. A reduction in office hours would be acceptable.
The restaurant/bar suggestions were discussed along with a ship’s store and mechanic services. Staff suggested if leaseholders knew of a business or individual interested in taking on the job; they would be willing to speak with them.
Rick Riley asked what would be presented to City Council based on the survey results. Staff explained that suggestions for the 2017 season would include some options for hours of operation and office hours. Staff will also compile some maintenance numbers to be presented to the City Manager to see how we want to move forward. Staff would propose the City would pay for the dredging.
Staff put on the table an understanding of not wanting a rate increase, but that the desire for some things such as potable water isn’t feasible without that being an option. It was suggested that leaseholders could consider fundraisers or committees to assist with maintenance such as landscaping, painting projects, etc. as a partnership to help offset costs. Staff would be willing to provide supplies. There was discussion.
Staff suggested members read through all the comments for further discussion at next month’s meeting.
Allen Shay asked about a marked path to the channel. Staff explained that it was reviewed in the past and was understood that if the marina marked the channel, the City could be held liable for any damages that someone may incur. Staff will follow up.
Rick Riley asked if there were any publications the marina could advertise in as far as a restaurant. Staff did not know, but would speak with Economics Development for suggestions. Food carts were again discussed. Nick Detert suggested calling the new owner of City Limits for interest.
In summary, the survey indicated leaseholders are not interested in a large rate increase even if it comes with major maintenance. There will be a plan for reducing office hours and the days lift services are offered to see what impact that has on the budget. Staff will look at a plan to dredge over the next two years. The information will be presented to the City Manager to see where we go from here. Staff reported the City will continue to cover the marina debt service of $54,000 in 2017 as in 2016. There was discussion about how salaries are not paid just by the marina but allocated to other funds based on work performed.
There was a brief discussion about discontinuing Saturday launch services.
Rick asked about the bottom line on 400 Dock. Staff explained it will continue to be operated as is as long as it can. If at some point it becomes unsafe, operation will stop. Al asked if floatation would be replaced. Staff will replace minimal poly floatation, but no tub floats. There was a brief discussion regarding the possibility of awning-type covers on other docks to offer additional covered slips.
NEW BUSINESS No new business
ADJOURNMENT Rick Riley made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Allen Shay seconded the motion. Motion carried by voice vote.
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