SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve Slip Rate Increases for Marina Transient, Recreational and Commercial Tenants.
Body
SUMMARY:
At the August 6, 2025 special work session, Council gave direction to adjust the slip rental rates based on the Market Rate Study conducted by Walter Duke and Partners. Following the results of the comprehensive slip rental market rate study conducted in Spring 2025, staff recommends adjusting marina slip rental rates to align with current market conditions. The study revealed that Clearwater’s rates were significantly below market averages across all marina facilities.
To mitigate the impact on tenants and provide a smooth transition, the rate adjustment will be phased in over a six-month period as recommended by the Marine Advisory Board as follows:
Effective October 1, 2025:
Harbor Marina and Beach Marina Tenants
- Clearwater Resident: $17.46 per foot per month
- Non-Resident: $19.61 per foot per month
Island Estates
- Clearwater Resident: $16.16 per foot per month
- Non-Resident: $18.47 per foot per month
Transient Dockage
-Daily per foot per day: $3.50
-Weekly per foot per Week: $17.50 ($2.50 per day)
-Monthly per foot per Month: $53.27 ($1.78 per day)
Effective April 1, 2026:
Harbor Marina and Beach Marina Tenants
- Clearwater Resident: $23.00 per foot per month
- Non-Resident: $25.30 per foot per month
Island Estates
- Clearwater Resident: $20.00 per foot per month
- Non-Resident: $22.00 per foot per month
Effective After Phase 1 of Beach Marina Construction (Est. November 1, 2025)
Beach Marina Commercial Tenants
-Commercial: $23.65 per foot per month
Effective 6 Months After Phase 1 of Beach Marina Construction (Est. May 1, 2026)
Beach Marina Commercial Tenants
-Commercial: $31.05 per foot per month
This phased approach ensures fairness and transparency while maintaining financial sustainability for marina operations and aligning with market expectations. The goal is to be net neutral providing the enterprise fund with the ability to cover all costs for operations, major repairs, and eventual replacement of all marina facilities.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
High Performing Government
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
Economic & Housing Opportunity
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, supports eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality job growth.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
