La Conner Marina adjusts commercial float rates

Businesses leasing space – the “upland tenants of the Port” – will join commercial fishing boats at the La Conner Marina in having priority use of the P and R docks in the north basin over other charter or rental boats and recreational users in the east half of the commercial dock, Port of Skagit Commissioners decided at their Aug. 9 meeting. They adopted a resolution setting policies for the Marina’s commercial float that will take place in January.

Staff recommended the policy change to better emphasize the Port’s mission of economic opportunity growth and jobs by providing the most efficient use of commercial dock space to its job-producing commercial tenants and supporting the needs of the commercial fishing industry.

“The Commission looked at our existing business model and changing economic conditions and provided staff with the direction they want the marina to go. We strive to provide excellent customer service to all of our tenants and customers,” harbormaster Chris Omdal wrote in an email.

Next year these groups will have the monthly rental slip base rate increase by reducing the scheduled discount to 25% from 50%, to increase Marina revenue. Other commercial entities will not get any discount. The targeted users will also sign 24-month contracts when displacing tenants.

Staff expect space will accommodate all commercial fishing needs on the commercial dock, based on historical trends in demand, Linda Tyler, Port communications director, noted in an email Monday. 

The commissioners also approved expansion plans for the Island Grown Farmer’s Cooperative at the Port’s Bayview Business Park facility.