Council looks to re-address Boat Float situation with Port Edward Harbour Authority

Fairview Floats - photo from
Port Edward Harbour Authority website

It was a topic that was high on Councillor Joy Thorkelson's list back in February and now, after a tour of the public boat floats of a number of locations up and down the coast, the City Councillor is even more determined to get some action on the state of the Prince Rupert Floats.

Ms. Thorkelson outlined the nature of her frustration at the Prince Rupert situation as part of Monday's Council session, the Councillor observing that in her opinion the public floats at Fairview, Cow Bay and Rushbrook are among the worst on the coast.

Lacking in facilities such as bathroom and shower facilities, life jackets for children and full access to telephones, that other communities would seem to consider basic.

She recounted a number of other concerns about the situation and how its impacting on the immediate area surrounding the float locations.

As part of her review of the situation, she suggested that this Council or the one to be elected in November make contact with the Port Edward Harbour Authority and address the issue once again.

Seeking a more enthusiastic reply from the organization that is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the floats in the region.

Councillor Cunningham followed up on those concerns, advising that the Council should also send a letter to Small Crafts and Harbours to address those issues that Councillor Thorkelson had highlighted. Stating that adding the larger government body to the distribution list, may help the case of the local organization.

Councillor Ashley, outlined that if Councillor Thorkelson wished, Council could direct staff to write a letter of concern on the issue on behalf of the City.

Council decided to use that approach, with Councillor Thorkelson to provide the necessary background for the letter.

You can review the full exchange on the situation from the City's Video Archive page.

It starts at the 1 hour 25 minute mark and continues to about 1 hour 30 minutes.

For more items on developments from City Council see our archive page here.