Dear Boaters and Tenants:

The Santa Cruz Port District Commission approved the FY26 budget at its public meeting on February 25, 2025. As part of the budget process, a 5% rate increase was approved for the following types of marina fees:

• Slip Rent
• Dory Ties
• Dry Storage
• Inside Ties
• Rack Storage (kayak, rowing shells, etc.)
• Catamaran / Outrigger Storage

The increased rates will take effect April 1, 2025. Please ensure that your automatic payments are updated to reflect the new amount to avoid late fees.

FY26 Budget Highlights

Adoption of the FY26 budget maintains service levels, funds approved labor contracts, and identifies priority capital projects, while balancing anticipated impacts from the Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit and Barrier Replacement Project and addressing critical storm surge recovery efforts. Key capital projects for the upcoming fiscal year are highlighted below:

• Redecking of East Side Public Pier
• Installation of Additional Security Cameras
• Fuel System Upgrades
• Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Equipment Upgrades
• Continued Planning & Permitting for a New Restaurant Building at 616 Atlantic Avenue

The revenue generated from the 5% rate increase has been allocated in its entirety to storm surge recovery efforts, which will assist in the repair and replacement of damaged marine infrastructure following the significant storm event on December 23, 2024.

For more details, the Port District’s operating budget and Capital Improvement Program are available in the FY26 Budget Report, which can be viewed on the District’s website at www.santacruzharbor.org/financial-statements-budgets.

Stay Informed – Santa Cruz Port Commission Meetings

Slip renters and members of the public are encouraged to attend regular Port Commission meetings to stay informed about harbor projects and operations. Regular monthly meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 PM.

For more information and to sign up for meeting agendas, visit www.santacruzharbor.org/port-commission,

Thank you for your continued support of the harbor.

Sincerely,

Holland MacLaurie
Port Director
February 28, 2025