The Vermilion Port Authority met September 11 at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex, with Chairman Larry Chairman Larry Drouhard presided over the Sept. 11 Vermilion Port Authority meeting, with members David Miklos and Heidi Riddle present and Peter Corogin and Jonathan Hauck absent. Mayor Jim Forthofer and Port Operations Manager Arron Bias also participated.
Dockwa Presentation
Jonathan Depew, account executive with Dockwa, presented the company’s online marina reservation and payment software. The system, already in use at the Huron Boat Basin and on the platform at Put-in-Bay, offers centralized records, payment processing through Stripe, and automated communication with boaters.
Board members questioned whether the benefits justified the subscription cost, since Vermilion marinas currently use a no-cost system. Forthofer asked about return on investment and fee structures, while members weighed potential time savings against new equipment needs. No decision was made, but members agreed to continue evaluating the option.
Financial Review
Bias reported the Port Authority’s overall cash position at $204,186.66 as of July 31. Revenues were up compared to 2024, largely due to dock fees and donations.
- Water Works Marina reported $59,587 year-to-date, up about 8%.
- McGarvey’s Landing reported $22,084 year-to-date, about a 47% increase.
- South Street Launch Ramp brought in $32,820 year-to-date, down 12% from the three-year average.
Facility and Equipment Updates
- Water Works: Anchor repainted; grant plaques for picnic tables ready for installation; new service pit grate installed.
- McGarvey’s Landing: New sign and kiosk nearly complete; nautical rope wrap planned for posts. The fiber installation project was canceled, but basic Wi-Fi is in place. A proposal to replace aging umbrellas ($881.25) was discussed but not acted on.
- South Street Launch Ramp: Existing security cameras no longer work. Bias presented a $4,845.25 quote for a new system with expandable 4K cameras. The board held off on approval, citing costs and other priorities.
Other Business
- Approved purchasing the refurbished septic pump currently in use for $1,500 rather than investing in a new $3,425 model.
- Approved five-year leases with $10 annual increases for Parson’s, Boat Club, and D&M.
- Approved $1,248.14 for pedestal backstock items (breakers and faceplates).
- Kayak raffle ticket sales totaled $1,350; the drawing date is still pending.
- Minor maintenance at Clarion Drive parking lot was noted, with work likely deferred to spring.
Next Meeting
October 9, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., Vermilion Municipal Court Complex, 687 Decatur Street, Vermilion.
Compiled from official meeting minutes and video.
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