Clarion, Exchange boaters face 2027 increase
VERMILION — Boat owners leasing slips at two city-operated docking locations will pay more next year after the Vermilion Port Authority approved a rate increase during its Oct. 8 meeting.
The board voted 3-0 to raise seasonal slip rates at Clarion Drive and Exchange Street from $75 to $80 per foot beginning with the 2027 boating season.
For a 35-foot boat, the average length cited by assistant operations manager Bill Yancar, the increase amounts to an additional $175 per season, bringing the seasonal cost from $2,625 to $2,800.
The decision followed a discussion about marina operating costs, demand for slips and how the city’s rates compare with other facilities along the Vermilion River.
Board member Larry Drouhard supported raising rates, noting that fees had remained unchanged for approximately five years. He also pointed to the authority’s waiting list as evidence of continued demand.
Drouhard suggested increasing rates to $85 per foot and discussed establishing annual increases tied to inflation to prevent fees from remaining unchanged for extended periods.
However, board member Heidi Riddle expressed concern about the size of the increase, including whether the approved $5 adjustment could discourage existing customers from renewing their leases.
Board member David Miklos also questioned whether higher rates were justified given the limited amenities available at the two locations, particularly the lack of restrooms directly at the docking facilities.
Miklos said he supported a more modest $5 increase rather than the proposed $10 adjustment.
Yancar told members the authority’s existing rates were generally competitive with other marinas along the river. He noted that some facilities charge less, while others charge $80 or more per foot.
The board ultimately agreed on the $5 increase, with Drouhard making the motion and Miklos seconding it. All three members present voted in favor.
The board did not adopt a policy requiring automatic annual increases.
Separately, Yancar said Riverside Drive leaseholders would receive letters confirming that their rates would remain unchanged for five years, consistent with an earlier board decision. Those leases will continue to be issued annually.