The Vermilion Port Authority met on November 13 at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex, covering a full slate of financial updates, dock repair options, and infrastructure needs heading into the 2026 season.
Chairman Larry Drouhard, along with members David Miklos and Jonathan Hauck, were present. Operations Manager Arron Bias provided the bulk of the evening’s updates, with Mayor Jim Forthofer also participating in discussion.
Leaser Request Denied
The board reviewed a letter from a boater at Exchange Street requesting a reduction in dockage fees due to parking and nearby dock restrictions. Bias recommended denying the request, noting that the 30-foot dock is fully usable and that the renter was aware of its conditions when he signed. The board agreed there was no basis for an adjustment.
Financial Position Strong
Bias reported that the Port Authority remains financially solid, with total cash-on-hand across all funds at $262,745.56. Much of the increase over last year is tied to recent donations, though revenue and expenses remain consistent with 2024.
Dock revenue continues trending upward overall. Water Works Marina is up more than 10 percent over last year, and McGarvey’s Landing has seen a 39 percent increase. South Street Launch Ramp is running below previous years after a slower start to the season, leaving total revenues up about 9 percent system-wide.
Repair Needs Dominate 2026 Budget Talks
A large portion of the meeting focused on two failing docks that require attention. Two repair approaches were discussed: a long-term restoration similar to work completed at Romp’s Marine, or a lower-cost option focused on bracing and new floats. After debate, the board leaned toward the longer-lasting fix and set aside $7,000 in the 2026 budget to repair two docks this spring.
Other capital needs were also identified for South Street Launch Ramp, including asphalt that has deteriorated beyond patching. The board approved $7,500 for paving, $600 for a yard hydrant plumbing upgrade to restore potable water, and $5,100 for new parking lot lighting.
Umbrellas at McGarvey’s Landing, equipment repairs, and possible HVAC replacements were discussed but not formally prioritized.
2026 Budget Approved
With the additions outlined above, the board unanimously approved the 2026 budget. Bias noted that current projections show a negative operating margin for next year, but the Port Authority expects roughly $136,000 in carryover to offset the difference.
Activity Report and Approvals
The board authorized payment of $19,052.14 in donated funds for the completed Water Works kiosk project, which also included a new roof for the utility building.
At South Street, a failed septic pump required emergency replacement. The board approved $1,400 for the new pump and $600 for labor, noting that rebuild options were no longer viable.
The kayak raffle drawing also took place during the meeting. Mayor Forthofer drew the winning ticket, awarded to local resident Russ Owens.
Contract Updates and Seasonal Work
Valley Harbor, which handles dock removal for the Port Authority, requested its first price increase since 2017. The board approved moving from $5,000 to $5,950 beginning in 2026.
Bias also received approval for his standard 150 off-season work hours, consistent with past years.
The board briefly discussed the water tower light, which may require a new fixture, and will be evaluating it once a contractor is available.
Other Updates
Mayor Forthofer addressed questions about long-term wastewater planning and the possible impact on South Shore parking. He said the city has filed for a different compliance path that does not include immediate major construction, adding that any changes would be far in the future.
The Pearl Harbor Observation Day ceremony will take place December 7 at the South Shore Boat Launch.
The Port Authority’s next meeting is scheduled for December 11 at 6:30 p.m.
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