Mr. Baker, Thank you for expressing your concern about the Marina project. Allow me to clarify a few things in order for you to better understand the circumstances. First and foremost, I was the councilor who initiated and advocated for Navtours to be the preferred operator of the marina. This support for this organization has never weaned or diminished. They are a world-class organization that believe in our City and are ready to make our waterfront an International destination. The International marketing effort by Navtours will be unmatched. Mr. Ducatte approached the council with a scenario and a financial breakdown of a municipal marina. This was not a plan; In fact, there was no strategy for implementation let alone management and day-to-day operations. However, the information was valuable and it gave the council and Mayor an indication of the potential that existed on our waterfront. It would have been foolish for any of us to write off this potential without further investigating the possibilities. Armed with the new information, I met with representatives of Navtours. We discussed how to modified and adjust their plan to fit into the increased revenue potential that Mr. Ducatte described. Although there are no finalized plans, it is very clear that a hybrid plan will work with Navtours concentrating their efforts on docks, boat tours and ancillary land based activities and services. In turn, the City will focus on the moorings revenue. This is what was discussed at our Council meeting. Navtours is prepared to move forward and create the finalized plans in order to garner all the necessary permits for the marina. This process takes a large amount of time, energy and money. Navtours wanted the assurance from City Hall that we are standing behind our decision. If you look back at my Dock Street Landing proposal, I state very clear that Navtours will be the operator of our City Marina. I would like to clarify one last issue. A municipal run marina is actually a great idea and appears to have immense revenue potential. However, we could never offer the level of service and marketing effort that Navtours is committed to providing. That is the key difference, that is why the LDC recommended Navtours, and that is why I stand behind their organization. Thank you again for allow me to clarify this issue. I would be happy to meet with you anytime this week. Please feel free to contact me through email: [email protected] or by phone 518-335-9505.
Posted on: Sun, 01 Sep 2013 22:26:12 +0000
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