Minutes of July 3, 2007 
Regular Session
5:30 P.M. - Marina Center Boardroom

Present: Commissioners Sherry Bohn, Fred Duckwall, Don Hosford, Hoby Streich, and Kathy Watson; Attorney Jerry Jaques; from staff, Michael McElwee, Linda Hull, Mike Doke, Linda Shames, and Laurie Borton

Absent: None

Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News

Present: Commissioners Sherry Bohn, Don Hosford, Fred Duckwall, Hoby Streich, and Kathy Watson (arriving at 5:45 p.m.); Attorney Jerry Jaques; from staff, Michael McElwee, Linda Hull, Mike Doke, Linda Shames, and Laurie Borton

Absent: None

Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News

1. CALL TO ORDER: President Bohn called the regular session to order at 5:31 p.m.
a) Modifications, Additions to Agenda by Staff: None.

2. ELECTION OF 2007-2008 OFFICERS:

Motion: Move to nominate Fred Duckwall as President.
Move: Streich
--------
Motion: Move to nominate Hoby Streich as Vice President.
Move: Duckwall
--------
Motion: Move to nominate Kathy Watson as Secretary.
Move: Streich
--------
Motion: Move to nominate Sherry Bohn as Treasurer.
Move: Hosford
--------
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

Commissioner Hosford complimented Bohn on her two-term service as Commission President, and newly elected President Duckwall thanked Bohn for her leadership, time and effort stating that Bohn did a stellar job! The Commission, staff, and audience applauded Bohn.

3. PUBLIC COMMENT: None.

4. CONSENT AGENDA:
· Approve minutes of June 19, 2007 Regular Meeting
· Approve Hood River Interstate Bridge Toll Facility Improvements Change Order #11 in the amount of $23,650

Motion: Move to approve Consent Agenda.
Move: Bohn
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

5. COMMISSIONER, COMMITTEE REPORTS:
§ PNWA -Executive Director Michael McElwee reported that the mid-year meeting of the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association had provided a good opportunity to interact with government agencies and other ports about issues affecting the northwest. Hosford also said it was a fine conference and that highlights could be found in the June 25 Nor'Wester or the website www.pnwa.net. Hosford commented on the Port of Morrow's activities with the construction of an ethanol plant in Boardman and that Boardman is in a unique location at the junction of the Columbia and Snake rivers and highway transportation systems which results in 700,000 trucks off the highway and using water transportation instead.
§ Urban Renewal - Commissioner Streich reported the Ford Institute Community Building Agenda (the program in which Commissioner Bohn participated) would receive funding for its recycling program and that Urban Renewal would be match funds up to $5,000 for the attachments made of recycled materials to trash receptacles in downtown Hood River.

6. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: McElwee highlighted the following areas:
§ Waterfront Development - The Port is collaborating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on a draft scope of work to provide a basis for decision-making and potential actions regarding the Delta. Staff continues to review Group Mackenzie's draft Waterfront Development Strategy, and McElwee commented both topics would be on the July 17 meeting agenda for Commission discussion.
§ Airport - McElwee reported he and Mike Doke, Marketing Manger, had a good meeting in Seattle with the Federal Aviation Administration. They came away from this June 27 meeting with an indication from the FAA that an update to the Airport Master Plan would not be needed with regard to the development of the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum. McElwee did, however, comment that discussion with the Airport Advisory Committee would be needed relative to some small modifications. Streich asked if the FAA was concerned with "through-the-fence" agreements' (private property owners accessing taxiways and runways)? McElwee responded the FAA was more concerned with future development rather than Museum-related access.
§ Bridge - The toll plaza bypass lanes opened on June 29 for ticket use only. Staff has been monitoring traffic at peak hours and was happy to report there were no backups at the Toll Plaza when there was congestion at the junctions of Exit 64 and Button Bridge. McElwee complimented Finance Manager Linda Shames for her involvement with the Toll Plaza Project and commended the Commission's foresight in implementing the project. McElwee also commented that a discussion would be scheduled for the July 17 Commission meeting for policy issues involving the electronic toll collection system.

6. REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS:
§ RV Park Consulting LLC - McElwee noted the consultant's report provided an opinion about the potential for a temporary (5 to 7 year lifespan) recreational vehicle park at the waterfront and the Commission would need to determine the financial risk of the estimated $1.5 to $2 million build out for a quality destination RV resort with clubhouse, bath and laundry facilities. A site near the sewage treatment plant was considered, but the N. 1st Street site; i.e. Lot 1, was preferred by the consultant because of existing infrastructure and views, which they felt could accommodate 64 spaces with development costs averaging $20,000 to $24,000 per site. Bohn commented it was her impression an RV park on waterfront property was intended to address current needs and would require only minimal improvements with a 5-year maximum use and she was concerned that it would be difficult to discontinue use of a "full blown" resort after a 7-year time span when up to $24,000 have been invested per site. Bohn also commented the RV park was not included in the Port's strategic plan. Streich noted that he was not surprised with the consultant's emphasis on the high-end market but he also understood the consultant was impressed with the potential N. 1st Street location. Streich said he was looking for a return on investment (ROI) on the property as other waterfront development occurred. Streich posed the question if it was better to leave the land vacant or develop a RV park that would enhance Hood River, not compete with downtown merchants, and maintenance costs per investment would be low because Port had existing staff. Bohn stated she believed waterfront development, including Lot 1, would occur sooner than the

Commission had anticipated because Group Mackenzie's draft development strategies have been well received in initial Commission and public presentations. President Duckwall was concerned the ROI may not be achieved if occupancy rates are low because the site is not developed per user expectations. McElwee also commented the question needs to be answered regarding the proposed use with the current zoning, and staff would continue to identify alternative next steps and bring back for Commission consideration. Bohn recommended the use of a different consultant, which was endorsed by the other Commissioners.
§ Marina Expansion Draft Update - McElwee noted the Flowing Solutions, Inc. draft focused on marina basin plans and did not include upland development. The plan looked at potential dock expansions based on current needs and projected uses and potential market opportunities. An unanticipated result of the plan summary identified the need to upgrade the existing electrical system at an estimated cost of $250,000 to $300,000, which would need to be done before any expansion occurs. While the draft did include comments provided by the Hood River Yacht Club (HRYC), staff has not met with the HRYC 'Port Committee' to discuss the summary provided by Flowing Solutions. Staff would also like to discuss the plan with the Airport Advisory Committee with regard to floatplane needs. Streich asked if any thought had been given about contacting the Port of Klickitat to discuss the possibility of floatplane docks at the Bingen Marina. McElwee commented that following these discussions there would be a need for staff and the consultant to isolate costs and come back to the Commission with specific recommendations in order to finalize the report.

8. ACTION ITEMS:
a) Authorize the Executive Director to Execute a Contract with DiLoreto Architecture, LLC for Architectural Services at the Wasco Business Building in an Amount Not to Exceed $15,100: Identifying tenant improvement and other associated costs is the next step in the Port's efforts to move Mid-Columbia Council of Governments (MCCOG) into approximately 3,000 square feet on the first floor of the Wasco building. DiLoreto's services would provide bid documents so the project could be advertised. McElwee noted the before architectural work would proceed past initial conceptual design, a Memorandum of Understanding outlining mutual commitments with MCCOG would be brought to the Commission for approval.

Motion: Move to authorize the Executive Director to execute a contract with DiLoreto Architecture, LLC for architectural services at the Wasco Business Building in an amount not to exceed $15,100.
Move: Hosford
Second: Bohn
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
MOTION CARRIED

b) Authorize the Executive Director to Execute a Lease with High Seas III, Inc. for 24,270 Square Feet at the Western Power Building: McElwee informed the Commission that High Seas III, Inc., a division of Maritime Services, Inc., would like to lease the balance of the Western Power Building that is not occupied by Boeing. McElwee invited Charlie Capovilla, principal, to address the Commission. Capovilla explained all the services offered by Maritime Services, Inc. and further commented that Columbia River Gorge Freight, a Maritime-owned business, would use the additional space as a distribution outlet. Capovilla stated there might also be a potential to look for tenants other than Columbia River Gorge Freight who are interested in preserving the light industrial quality of the waterfront property. Bohn asked staff for clarification on the lease term, and McElwee responded the 5-year term had five successive 1-year extensions with the Port's right to terminate the lease prior to each extension period. Streich asked Capovilla how crucial the 5-year window was, and Capovilla responded that 10 years would be better, but the term with extensions was not a deal breaker. Duckwall thanked Capovilla for the background information and then entertained a motion.

Motion: Move to authorize the Executive Director to execute a lease with High Seas III, Inc. for 24,270 square feet at the Western Power Building.
Move: Bohn
Second: Watson
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
MOTION CARRIED

9. COMMISSION CALL: Hosford informed the Commission and staff that he would not be available to attend the July 17 meeting. Streich announced that he had been appointed to the Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation Board.

10. EXECUTIVE SESSION: President Duckwall called the Commission into Executive Session under ORS 192.660(2)(e) Real Property, and ORS 192.660(2)(i) Performance Evaluations of Public Officers and Employees at 6:25 p.m. Upon conclusion of Executive Session, the Commission was called back into Regular Session at 8:00 p.m.

President Duckwall recommended a pay raise for Executive Director McElwee by proposing a 2.2% performance raise be added to the 3.8% cost of living wage increase that all Port employees would receive, resulting in a combined salary increase of 6% for the next year. The following action was taken as a result of Executive Session.

Motion: Move to authorize a combined performance and cost of living wage increase of 6% for the Executive Director.
Move: Bohn
Second: Watson
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
MOTION CARRIED

10. ADJOURN: President Duckwall adjourned the meeting at 8:10 p.m.

---

Minutes of July 17, 2007
Regular Session
5:30 p.m. - Marina Center Boardroom

Present: Commissioners Sherry Bohn, Fred Duckwall, Hoby Streich, and Kathy Watson; Attorney Jerry Jaques; from staff, Michael McElwee, Mike Doke, Linda Shames, and Laurie Borton

Absent: Commission Don Hosford; from Staff, Linda Hull

Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News

1. CALL TO ORDER: President Duckwall called the regular session to order at 5:30 p.m.
a) Modifications, Additions to Agenda: None.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT: Allan Smith, a mechanical engineer who works at Insitu in Bingen, Washington, and spokesperson for approximately 30 people that would like to ride their bikes to work, introduced the idea of summer shuttle for cyclists who would like to commute across the bridge. A driver would shuttle up to three people across the bridge using a golf cart equipped with bike rakes. Smith suggested the Port and possibly some of the business community in Washington could sponsor the shuttle. Smith said he would be willing to provide a more formal proposal if the Commission was interested. President Duckwall thanked Smith for his comments and recommended that he contact staff with a proposal, which could then be presented to the Commission is staff found the proposal to be feasible.

3. CONSENT AGENDA:
· Approve minutes of July 3, 2007 regular meeting
· Authorize Executive Director to execute a contract with Elliot Management Group for credit and debit card processing
· Approve Accounts Payable in the amount of $3,150 to Coburn Electric for installations of a security and web camera

Commissioner Streich noted two corrections that needed to be made to the minutes related to the Urban Renewal and RV Park Consulting LLC reports, and Commissioner Watson commented on the good rates relative to the credit and debit card processing contract but noted the Port may find the percentage of qualified transactions would be a lot lower than 95%.

Motion: Move to approve Consent Agenda, with minutes amended as noted.
Move: Bohn
Second: Streich
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Hosford
MOTION CARRIED

4. COMMISSIONER, COMMITTEE REPORTS:
2007-2008 Committee Appointments - Duckwall asked the Commissioners if they were interested in any committee reassignments from the 2006-2007 appointments, which are as follows: Airport (Duckwall, Streich); Budget (All); Community Relations (Watson, Bohn); Finance (Duckwall, Streich); Personnel (President, Vice President); and Waterfront Recreation (Bohn, Streich).

Motion: Move to reappoint the Commissioners to the standing committees as assigned in 2006-2007.
Move: Watson
Second: Bohn
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Hosford
MOTION CARRIED

5. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Executive Director Michael McElwee noted that Operations Manager Linda Hull would be away from the office for a few weeks and while duties would be covered, staff was looking forward to her return. McElwee presented his preliminary Work Plan for fiscal year 2007-2008 for review and comment. Modifications suggested by the Commission included an update to the Hovee marketing report and an action item addressing the odor problem at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. McElwee noted highlights on the following areas:

§ Staff & Administration - A Term Sheet proposing lease rates for the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center was discussed. McElwee noted the Commission could elect to hold further discussion in Executive Session, but he did state the terms commencing January 1, 2008 appeared to be acceptable to the Chamber. McElwee also noted the High Seas III, Inc. lease approved by the Commission at the July 3 meeting would be modified in that the August lease rate would be based on existing square foot usage while improvements were being made to the additional leased square footage.
§ Waterfront Recreation - A public meeting, with discussion by Andrew Jansky of Flowing Solutions, LLC, will be noticed for July 26 regarding feasibility options of a marina expansion. Earlier that same day Jansky and staff will meet with the kite and windsurf schools, Columbia Gorge Windsurfing Association and the Columbia Gorge Kiteboarding Association to discuss the current impacts and issues of the Hood River Delta. McElwee noted Finance Manager Linda Shame's report regarding Event Site and Spit parking, which has increased roughly 50% from 2006, and McElwee indicated the increase may be a result of the Delta attraction.
§ Waterfront Development - McElwee reported that he had attended a Pre-Application conference with the City of Hood River and the Hood River Juice Company (HRJC) and that the HRJC project seems to be going forward and that Port property would not need to be acquired by HRJC. McElwee also noted that an application for a Site Plan Review would be made in a couple of weeks.
§ Bridge/Transportation - The Burgess & Niple "2007 Paint Condition Inspection and Coating Assessment" of the Hood River Bridge recommends that entire bridge should be painted rather than spot painting. Shames commented she thought it had been since the early 1980's since the bridge was partially painted. McElwee reported the painting needs would be analyzed and options and strategies would be provided to the Commission for discussion. McElwee also noted that negotiations had started with W&H Pacific for the Frontage Road Feasibility project and that more information would be available for the Commissioners in August.

6. REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS:
Electronic Toll Collection - Jerry Hautamaki, HNTB: The two-way communication between antennas that will be attached to the Toll Plaza canopy and transponders affixed on the inside windshield of the vehicles was explained. Hautamaki explained the antenna would communicate the transponder account information to a computer in the tollbooth and as the vehicle drove through the bypass lane at 5 to 7 MPH it would take only a second for the equipment to recognize the account was valid and raise the gate. Hautamaki also commented on the taper distance stating the space was fives times the minimum transportation standard, and it was his opinion there should not be a problem with merging vehicles. Hautamaki responded to Duckwall's question about computer crashes by stating that computers today have a high degree of reliability, but we also have a spare backup. The system will also be creating continuous backups and if the system malfunctions, the toll collectors would have the capability of overriding the gates. Hautamaki stated that HNTB was involved with the Tacoma Narrows Bridge electronic tolling project, which just opened, and the response for establishing transponder accounts had been overwhelming. Hautamaki then showed simulated modeling of the Tacoma Narrows project along with modeling of traffic volumes at the I-84's Exit 64 and the 4-way stop intersection pre- and post-Toll Plaza Improvements. It was Hautamaki's opinion that the modeling conclusively proved that local traffic backups were not just a result of queuing from the intersection to the tollbooth since the completion of the project. Duckwall and the Commission thanked Hautamaki for his presentation, and a brief discussion of electronic toll collection policies and procedures followed. Shames was commended for her report on issues and recommendations. There was Commission consensus that a motion to approve the staff policies and procedures was not necessary.

Waterfront Development Strategy Draft - Mark Clemons, Group Mackenzie: McElwee introduced the presentation by commenting development on the waterfront was an implementation strategy rather than a Master Plan, and that the waterfront is not currently development-ready as legal parcels are not yet identified, infrastructure updates will be required, and real estate details such as quality and features along with financing mechanisms, and lease rates need to be determined while balancing employee needs with recreational aspects. McElwee stated the presentation was another step in seeking Commission feedback before taking the draft strategy to the City. Clemons explained boards illustrating Public Objectives, Development Focus Areas, Development Concepts, 1-2 Year Implementation Strategies, and 3-5 Year Implementation Strategies. Categorized action items, with planning, infrastructure/improvements, and studies references were also discussed along with site development action items. Clemons received feedback from the Commission that will be used to modify the draft for presentation to the City. Duckwall and the Commission thanked Clemons for his presentation and the good job on the strategy draft.

7. ACTION ITEMS:
a) Lease of Port Office Building at 720 E. Port Marina Drive by the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center (agenda addition):

Motion: Move to authorize the Executive Director to initiate a lease agreement with the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center as proposed on the Term Sheet.
Move: Bohn
Second: Watson
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Hosford
MOTION CARRIED

8. COMMISSION CALL: Bohn complimented the Boardroom design and how well the electronic toll collection Power Point presentation worked. Bohn also asked if any reports had been received on the Nichols Boat Basin water quality. McElwee responded that the first report did not indicate there were any issues to be concerned with. Watson proudly reported her restaurants had recently received quite a bit of newspaper and magazine coverage. Streich asked for updates on the UTS yard cleanup, and about providing Port vehicles as courtesy cars for the September 7-9 Fly In and grand opening of the Western Antique Aeorplane and Automobile Museum. McElwee and Shames responded there were insurance concerns with liability exposures, and that Port vehicles were work trucks used on weekends. Streich recommended staff contact the Bend FBO to see how their courtesy car program operates.

9. EXECUTIVE SESSION: None.

10. ADJOURN: President Duckwall adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m.

---

Hood River Delta - Current Issues & Impacts and Potential Future Modification
Thursday, July 26, 2007 - 3:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Marina Center Boardroom

Port: Michael McElwee, Executive Director; Laurie Borton, Marina Manager
Guests: Andrew Jansky, Flowing Solutions
Attendance: Big Winds - Steve Gates
Brian's Windsurfing - Brian Schurton
Gorge Kite School - Mark Worth
CGWA - Katie Crafts and Bruce Peterson
CGKA - Jim Grady and Adam Monaghan
Gorge Commission - Jill Arens

AGENDA:
1. Introductions, Meeting Expectations and Outcomes - Michael McElwee
2. Current Impacts & Issues - Discussion by School Concessions, CGWA, CGKA
3. Potential Future Modifications - Andrew Jansky, Flowing Solutions
4. Next Steps
5. Adjourn

McElwee opened the meeting at 3:10 p.m. and apologized for the delay stating that a long-awaited call regarding waterfront infrastructure funding had been returned from Oregon State Senator Kurt Schrader. McElwee thanked everyone for attending and recognized his or her efforts on the progress that had been made for a safe season.

McElwee stated the Port is drafting a Scope of Work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding the Corps potential study of a predictive model of the Delta. In conjunction with this study, McElwee said that Jansky would prepare a permit for the Corps consideration to request sculpting of the Delta's windward (west) side for the purposes of protecting the Port's investment in the Event Site and enhancing the Delta. McElwee emphasized that dredging costs were prohibitive and Jansky said that initial conversations with the Corps and Division of State Lands indicates the agencies are not as concerned with moving fill around since any work done would probably be temporary and eventually wash away. With that said, McElwee said there was still a need to move quickly if (1) the sculpting was needed and (2) determined to be cost effective because the permit process often takes six months, which Jansky said would be record timing, and the in-water work period is November through February, so a placeholder is needed if work is to be done in 2008.

There was little discussion on current impacts and issues as two permitted work parties had successfully cleared log debris from the Delta. Jansky did comment, however, that today was a good example of the wind moving a large amount of sand in a direction different from the current, and it was not a trivial amount. The wind also sorts the composition of the Delta so more cobble is being exposed. The discussion then turned to potential future modifications:

· Peel a section of the western edge of the Delta to fill in along the Event Site and riprap in front of Luhr Jensen and Lot 6. Grading and pushing land is easier to permit than dredging for the purpose of creating new land, which Jansky said agencies don't like to permit. McElwee said there would be flowage easements to consider as well.

McElwee also asked that if sculpting were done in order to protect the Event Site asset, would the area for kiting be diminished. The answer was no and the separation of uses was reiterated.

A question about the necessity of the west groin at the Event Site was raised. If removed, the sand may eventually move and fill towards the Hook, but Jansky said the groin acts as a wave break. If the Event Site was filled in entirely between the groins, then there was a safety concern that all users would be thrown together.

Another question was asked about the dolphins off Luhr Jensen and the Event Site. McElwee commented that SDS Lumber had agreed not to tie off their log rafts this summer but that there was a need for recreational users to understand the future commercial use of the dolphins, which does have waterway preference over recreational use.

· The use of a culvert was suggested as a means to enhance the boat basin opening to address water quality issues and to assure schools that 'park' wave runners on the Spit's bank have quick and easy access to the Columbia River for rescues. Jansky said a channel would always be there because it's below the water table and that placing a culvert in a meandering river would continually need to be siphoned. Jansky also predicted the Delta would naturally move in front of the Event Site and Marina and the long-term effect of any culvert work was questionable. From an economic and development standpoint the money to dredge the Nichols Boat Basin was thought
to be a dead issue according to McElwee. A question was asked about filling the basin and McElwee said it would probably be a year or two before the future use of the basin was known. It was suggested that the Port should ask Naito for monetary assistance since their development plans included a small marina.

· Extend the parking at The Spit.

· Extend the Hood River/Spit jetty so future runoff from Mt. Hood down the Hood River would wash debris to the east or ideally into the deep east-west channel of the Columbia River.

The consensus of the group was to not pursue Option 1 of moving fill to the east and into the deeper channel of the Columbia River but instead pursue Option 2 -- sculpt the western edge of the Delta by pushing fill west towards the Event Site and in front of the Luhr Jensen building and create a deeper channel into the Nichols Boat Basin. The group felt this option would enhance rather than diminish the Event Site and open more lanes of use. McElwee said the Waterfront Recreation Committee would be convened to review the information. McElwee also stated that Commission action was not certain, and may be unlikely if the cost is washed away next year, but he would continue to look into permitting for placeholder purposes. McElwee again thanked everyone for his or her input and attending at the meeting, which adjourned at 4:15 p.m.

Submitted Comments:
It is important to have shallow water because deep, rapid drop-offs force schools to go elsewhere to teach. There is a good working relationship with the other schools this year. Instructors will rotate various learning tasks by repositioning from one location to the next. This means that "prime locations" are being shared. We hope that some dredging could be done on the west side of the sandbar where most of the teaching is done. Low water levels means we're directly into deep water drop-offs. High water levels on the west side are a good thing. Our school will be closing on September 20 and we will be heading to Baja by October 1. We would like an end-of-season meeting will all of the schools to recap the season and strategize for next year.

- Spring Milward, Kite the Gorge -

---

Hood River Marina - Potential Future Expansion
Thursday, July 26, 2007 - 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Marina Center Boardroom

Port: Michael McElwee, Executive Director; Laurie Borton, Marina Manager
Guests: Andrew Jansky, Flowing Solutions; Brad Howton, Columbia Crossings Marina
Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News
Attendance: Current moorage tenants and/or Hood River Yacht Club members:
Doug and Elaine Powrie, boathouse - power boat
Steve Tessmer, boathouse - powerboat
Doug Archbald, A Dock - sailboat
Mike Byrne, C Dock Eastside - sailboat
Charlie and Martha Capovilla, C Dock Eastside - sailboat
Randy Johnston, C Dock Eastside C - sailboat
Timm and Tammy Lakey, C Dock - powerboat
Brian Petros, B Dock - sailboat

AGENDA:
1. Introductions, Meeting Expectations and Outcomes - Michael McElwee
2. Draft Marina Basin Plan - Andrew Jansky (and Brad Howton)
3. Identification of Issues ( Discussion)
4. Next Steps
5. Adjourn

McElwee opened the 5:30 p.m. meeting by welcoming everyone and asking that they introduce themselves. McElwee commented that the Port had been working with Jansky on a conceptual plan to add new slips to accommodate the growing number of people on the Waiting List. Walkway and finger docks could be added to existing piers east of the boathouses as early as next summer but permitting for in-water work for additional piers may have to be phased in over several years. Jansky's Marina Basin Planning Study dated June 28 was presented to the Commission at the July 3 meeting. While preparing the study, Jansky identified that electrical upgrades for the existing facility were needed. McElwee commented this expense could impact the timing of a build out and financing would need to be identified before the Commission could authorize the implementation of any expansion plans. Borton said the Waiting List for open slips, as of the meeting date, was 127. This number did not include 21 names on the boathouse list as there is some blending with the open slip waiting lists.

Boat Classification	Power	Sail	Not Classified	TOTAL
Less than 30 feet	36	44	7	87
Over 30 feet	11	19	5	35
Over 45 feet	2	2	1	5

Jansky stated his study encompassed market information, wait list data, Oregon State Marine Board projections for future demand, and past layout designs. Jansky also acknowledged the input received from the Hood River Yacht Club. The basin was originally conceived and permitted as a moorage facility, which may simplify permitting with some agencies for the initial phase; i.e. adding on to the existing piers and adding docks inside the southwest corner of the basin. Jansky explained the conceptual second-phase expansion (extending A and B docks) and a third-phase expansion (docks built inside the basin on the north jetty) might not be as easily done since pile driving, dredging and launch ramp work would be required and the work would be restricted to the preferred in-water work window of November through February. Jansky also said this permitting may take up to two years.

Jansky and Howton both emphasized smart planning was critical to the layout in order to avoid impacts on current uses while planning for future needs. Howton commented the Port's marina expansion was unique because the chances of anyone else building a marina this size anywhere along the Columbia was pretty small. Howton said expansion costs are a huge issue and while the Port historically kept costs down it was his opinion that moorage revenue; i.e. increased moorage rates, would need to be built up to cover expansion costs.

The following underlined issues were discussed, with bulleted comments by participants:

Boathouses - An optional plan would be to move the boathouses within the basin to allow for placement of additional slips. Jansky's planning study identified boathouses provide a very limited revenue base, present a relatively high risk for fire and general pollution problems and, in general, tend to be depreciating eyesores over the long haul. It was Jansky's recommendation to trade boathouses for covered slips integrating transparent roofs and other light transmitting techniques, which would be viewed as a positive by fisheries agencies. Howton agreed that covered moorage was more efficient. Although there is typically a long payback on boathouse slips, Tessmer said his floating home structures, with sewage, will pay. (www.floatinghomes.com)

"D" Dock - This future expansion option was not considered as it was best thought to leave the space open for existing uses; i.e. having a safe, protected area for the youth sailing program, maneuverability room for the small cruise ships using the overflow dock, floatplane use, etc.

Dinghy and Kayak Storage - The conceptual plan identifies docks along the southwest corner of the basin.
· There is a demand and dry storage would be preferred.

Dry Storage -The conceptual plan identified dry storage potential in the maintenance yard at the Marina Center Building. McElwee said use of the yard was worth discussing but that security and fencing would have to be considered and the idea was still being sorted out since Port operations had moved just two months ago and the "old" maintenance building is still being. Comments and questions from the attendees included:
· Dry storage could be done tomorrow!
· The offer of dry storage could trim the number on the Waiting Lists.
· Offer dry storage for both power and sailboats.
· Could Marina Green space be utilized? (See "Hoist")
· Was it a rumor the HRYC would be given use of the maintenance shop - gratis? A ramp would need to be added for launching, and perhaps a crane launch in the southwest corner.

Floatplane Dock - Jansky asked how many floatplanes should be accommodated in plans for future expansion. Howton stated floatplanes become a risk for people using the basin and they require a lot of room. Borton commented there are currently three annual tenants who use their slips sporadically and one monthly tenant who uses a slip intermittently between July and September. The windsurfing and kiteboarding school concessions and the Community Education junior sailing program use the remaining three slips seasonally. McElwee did say that the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum (WAAAM) would argue more floatplane slips would be needed once the museum opens in September.

Funding - McElwee commented that funding a marina expansion had not been fully investigated because the public had not had the opportunity to comment until tonight. Jansky added the Oregon State Marine Board does not grant money for private facilities and his cost estimate, per slip with amenities (gangway, power) ranged from $14,000 to $20,000. Howton said floating homes, with permitting and upland amenities (sewage), cost approximately $75,000 per slip.
· If moorage costs are increased to pay for an expansion, they should be indexed to marinas comparing in size and services.
· The Port should look at sublet options.
· Have a 2-tier rate structure that benefits local tenants. Out of town tenants who use the marina for cheap storage should pay more.
· Add extra fingers between slips B-26 and B-29 for added revenue. This large slip used to accommodate a teaching concession with five sailboats and currently just two boats occupy the space.
· Charge to be on the Waiting List. Some marinas charge $100, which is non refundable and the fee is not applied to moorage when a slip becomes available.

Guest Dock - The conceptual plans incorporated a HRYC recommendation to relocate the guest dock to the more protected waters of the basin's southwest corner. Jansky commented the placement might not be a permitting issue due to historical or habitat issues.
· The HRYC is hosting a regatta in August and there will be upwards of 30 sailboats participating and an open invitation is planned for 2008. Usually 8 to 10 people per boat are figured during regattas, which should benefit Hood River business. A lot of guest dock space, however, is not always necessary because boats often raft 4-deep.

Hoist - Placement of a hoist at the boat launch may be questioned, according to Jansky, because the site was built with Oregon State Marine Board funding and there could be a potential impact on space for recreational boaters.
· A self-operated hoist would expand revenue to the Port with use by tenants and guests.
· Even small keel boats would benefit from a hoist during low water situations.
· Placement of a hoist west of the DMV building was suggested, which would necessitate moving the floatplane dock and shortening the proposed guest and/or dinghy dock.
· Fifty-feet of land space and 30-feet of water space are required. It was thought a 3-ton hoist would meet most needs.

Mooring Buoys - McElwee commented there would be the issue of getting people from their boats to land and back. McElwee asked if the placement of buoys in the northwest corner was a good idea.
· Rather than installing mooring buoys the Port should just consider letting boaters drop anchor inside the marina, which would be a cost savings.
· A 150-ft. radius is needed per buoy and this would take up a lot of room.
· The calm water of the northwest corner should be save for rigging, tacking, etc.
· Wide fairway lanes are a great asset.

Overflow Dock
· If there is no future need to cater to the bigger boats; i.e. Queen of the West, then the overflow dock should be utilized as is.

McElwee thanked the group for their input and attending the meeting. Staff and Jansky would review the comments and a report would be provided to the Commission for further discussion. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

Submitted Comments:
· The vision of a vibrant "city park" atmosphere with multiple uses and amenities should be kept in mind as part of any expansion. Come up with a good master plan for the marina area and then do not make any short term demand driven changes that do not move that master plan forward or would create future obstacles to a broader development plan.

The addition of covered coverage does not satisfy the demand for boathouse slips. The use of a boathouse far exceeds the use of a covered slip. Covered slips are an eyesore, in my opinion, and should not be added to the marina. The under 30-foot boats (ski boats) that would fill additional covered moorage would be better served by covered dry storage.

I don't think there is significant demand for additional transient moorage. What overflow demand there is on a busy weekend may be satisfied by the Port assigning transients to open slips in the marina. The Port should look at this policy in conjunction with a slip sub-lease policy. If additional guest moorage is to be added, a good option may be to build an additional dock that runs parallel and to the west of the existing dock. This would keep guest moorage in one place for large cruise-ins and provide protection to the west sides of the existing guest dock.

The proposed launch area for rack storage is too exposed. Launch should be inside the basin.

All east/west water lanes in the marina should maintain enough width for ingress and egress of a boat under 30-foot under sail.

There is a need to provide a ramp from the west end of the basin for dinghy docks. It would be ideal to connect this access to the former maintenance yard and use this area as a "small boat center" for tenant use as well as sail school use. The ramp should be wide enough and with a gentle enough slope to allow dinghies to be hand launched by dollies.

Where would parking and upland structures (restrooms) be located for the north expansion? This area is very impacted in summer.
- Doug Archbald, tenant -

· It would be great if wireless internet could become available? What if I were to purchase a router and give it to the marina? Could we (a) use the Port's internet access, and (b) put it on the roof of your office? I think it could be done for under $100.
- Jeff Kraemer, tenant -

· Something needs to be done to address moorage security. The moorage gate is often propped open.
-Greg Skwarczynski, tenant -

· My family owned a marina in Colorado and mooring buoys provided 2:1 moorings to slips. I would be glad to do the economic analysis, for free, to determine costs vs revenues for the option to present to the Commission. I work with Andy Jansky closely and would take advantage of his wealth of knowledge.
- Tod LeFevre, Common Energy LLC -