At its April 17, 2025 meeting, the Vermilion Port Authority tackled a full agenda of financial updates, infrastructure improvements, and event planning—all while positioning itself as a key player in the city’s summer waterfront plans.
Operations Manager Arron Bias reported a strong cash position—up $11,000 from the same period last year—thanks in part to early donations. The Special Revenue Fund (214) ended February with a balance of $36,408.73, while the Capital Fund (411) held $48,598.50. Dredge Grant funds remain untouched at $404.99. March dock revenue came in at $1,232, nearly double that of March 2024. Bias credited the bump to earlier-than-usual season pass pickups and new customer signups.
The Port Authority approved $3,200 for excavation and backfill by Herk Excavating at McGarvey’s Landing, pending confirmation that the soil will support new tree plantings. A new sign for McGarvey’s was also approved at a cost of $5,682.03, sourced from L3 Sign & Image, with a completion goal of July 4. It will feature navy and gold tones to match existing city signage. Additionally, the board approved payment of a $577.50 invoice for architectural design work, which was privately donated.
Plans to rebuild the McGarvey’s kiosk are underway. The demolition will be handled internally, and the new structure will feature lighting and electrical outlets. Water service will not be included.
At Waterworks Marina, a $4,285 Shores & Islands grant will fund new picnic tables, umbrellas, and pavilion upgrades. The design will incorporate the sponsor’s branding as part of the grant requirement.
South Street Launch Ramp saw dock repairs completed on docks #9 and #10, with the kayak dock now fully open. New signage has been ordered, and grass seeding for the kayak area was postponed until late summer or fall. The Port also approved a $1,500 firewall upgrade for McGarvey’s Landing to meet cybersecurity standards. The expense will be paid from the Capital Fund. A new Xerox printer was also approved, with an additional $400 added to a previous authorization, bringing the total to $1,000. The printer will handle color printing, envelopes, and board packet production. The city will no longer charge the Port a $360 monthly fee for fiber internet service and will assume responsibility for repairs at South Street.
Dock repairs at Exchange Street are complete, including a new gangway on the north dock and board replacements to address wood rot. The Port is also considering acquiring two 25-foot aluminum docks recently offered by Bill McCarthy, pending donation or sale.
Preparations for the 2025 Poker Run are underway, with ticket prices increasing by $5 and capacity expanded by 25 participants. The Port may also participate in Showse Park’s July 4th celebration, with a potential kayak raffle, merchandise sales, and informational outreach. Gwen Fisher volunteered to manage the booth and will contact Cabela’s to inquire about kayak donations. Additional events discussed included a Crazy Craft race and the possibility of a Night at the Races, though members expressed concern over duplicating fundraising efforts already in place.
In a show of community support, the board unanimously voted to assist volunteer Mike Moes in conducting river soundings and preparing the harbor dredging report this fall. Moes, who has led the effort for years, signaled he may need help in the future. Port members committed to taking a more active role as key stakeholders in maintaining the river.
The Port’s March audit was completed without issue. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex.
