The Culver Town Council members opened a public hearing Tuesday night to take comments on the proposed pier slip rental fee increases.
Park Superintendent Amber Cowell explained that Culver and Union Township residents would pay $1,200 for an interior slip and $1,450 for an exterior slip. Non-residents would pay $1,450 for an interior slip and $1,700 for an exterior slip.
A five percent discount would apply if paid by January 15 or a final deadline of February 15.
Fees for personal water craft that require a lift would be $500 for Culver and Union Township residents, and $600 for non-residents. Kayaks, canoes, and other craft that fit on small water craft racks would be $225 for Culver and Union Township residents, and $325 for non-residents.
Council members explained that installation and maintenance costs with inflation are driving the increases. There had not been an increase in fees in about five years. Pier slip fees also help pay for other park operations.
Residents questioned about pier maintenance costs and how often it occurs. Cowell said panels and other equipment are replaced as they are needed, but complete replacements would be very costly.
The council approved the first reading of the ordinance that increases the fees. A motion was made and approved to suspend the rules and approve the ordinance on second and third readings, thus adopting the ordinance.
