ThThe Vermilion Port Authority met August 14 at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex, with members Larry Drouhard, David Miklos, and Jonathan Hauck present. Peter Corogin and Heidi Riddle were absent.
Public Comment on Dredging
Bill Everett of Lagoon Lane raised concerns over increasingly shallow river conditions near his property, noting dredging hasn’t been done there since 2015 or 2016. He said the high cost and permit requirements make it difficult for individual property owners to arrange, and attempts to piggyback on others’ permits have failed. Everett described resistance from equipment operators who won’t mobilize for just one or two properties. Mayor Jim Forthofer pointed to past dredging supported by federal grants and suggested checking for Ohio Department of Natural Resources opportunities.
Financial Review
Port Operations Manager Arron Bias reported the following as of June 30, 2025:
- Special Revenue Fund: $86,051.07 ending balance (revenues $115,951.66; expenses $75,656.18).
- Capital Fund: $27,161.47 ending balance, reflecting McGarvey’s project spending.
- Dredge Grant Fund: unchanged at $404.99.
- July dock revenue: Water Works Marina $24,282.25 (+13.8% over 3-year average, +1.8% from 2024); McGarvey’s Landing $8,102.50 (+25.6% over 3-year average, +15.8% from 2024); South Street Launch Ramp $8,709.00 (–13.8% over 3-year average, –11.4% from 2024).
Activity Reports
- Water Works Marina: Repairs included fixing a watermain break in a pedestal, replacing rusted hose, bug spraying, debris removal, and installing door locks. Plaques for the Lake Erie Shores & Islands grant tables are pending approval.
- McGarvey’s Landing: A contractor invoice increased from $975 to $1,500 without explanation; payment is on hold pending board review. Kiosk installation has been delayed; a draft map is under review. Fiber installation also faced a setback. A parking arrangement for charter boat customers at Quaker Steak is being reviewed.
- South Street Launch Ramp: Work included weeding, golf cart repairs, and maintenance on “Baby Blue” pontoon barge. A septic pump failure closed restrooms for two weeks; a rebuilt pump from the wastewater plant is installed temporarily. Options include purchasing the rebuilt unit for $1,500 or a new pump with installation and warranty for $3,425.
- Clarion Drive: Installed three new cleats, added Republic trash cans, and changed trash pickup to Mondays. Adjusted slips after a lessee upgraded to a larger boat; lease will be updated for next season.
- Exchange Street: Weeds were pulled and sprayed in the brick walkway; Parks Department will assist with ongoing maintenance.
Events and Fundraising
Kayak raffle ticket sales stand at $1,060. The drawing will be held during the Showse Park celebration on either September 13 or 20. Sponsorship opportunities remain for planters ($2,500 each) and the McGarvey’s sign.
Other Business
- The 2025 audit will be conducted next year by state auditors; past audits have passed without issue.
- A presentation on Dockwa marina software is planned for the September 11 meeting; current systems are functioning, but Dockwa could add features like online reservations and automatic renewals.
- McGarvey’s kiosk map will be printed in large format for review and possible inclusion of off-waterway businesses, with changeable listings to reflect business turnover.
The meeting adjourned with the next session scheduled for September 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex.
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