Delta council this week approved higher moorage fees at the Ladner Harbour boat basin.
A staff report notes that the fees have been historically low to support the local fishing industry and have not increased in a number of years.
Staff reviewed rates at other locations including harbours and marinas at Port Hardy, Powell River, Sechelt, Steveston, Captain’s Cove and the Ladner Yacht Club.
Despite the increased moorage rates, the new rates will remain low in comparison to other locations, according to staff.
Monthly fees for larger commercial vessels are increasing at a greater percentage than the annual rates to provide an incentive for vessel owners to choose the annual rate.
Council also agreed that a yearly review of moorage fees should take place for inflationary adjustments.
The federal government owns the small craft harbour, which includes a boat basin located at the end of McNeely’s Way, approximately one km west of Ladner Harbour Park.
In 1998, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) - Small Craft Harbours divested operation of its working harbours to local harbour authorities throughout Canada.
That same year, the City of Delta signed a lease agreement with the DFO, designated the Ladner Harbour Authority of the DFO’s Small Craft Harbour.
The city assumed the responsibility of the management and operations. The lease is in place until March 31, 2038.
