Editor:
As the operator of a marine business, I informed Gibsons council recently that due to closure of facilities in the harbour, I was compelled to have my essential vessel servicing performed at Silva Bay on Gabriola Island, which involved a loss to local businesses of $2,000. With some 500 vessels in the harbour, I pointed out that the loss to the community economy is considerable.
I was informed that the Town is proceeding with a harbour development plan, but it seems this is primarily focussed on land use issues. I pointed out that the marine area from Armours Beach to the green beacon has an economic value to the community of several hundred million dollars if managed effectively.
I recommended that the Town take action to: carry out an economic study to establish the value and broad strategy; secure the rights to the expanded harbour area; and create a new Harbour Authority with directors representing all marine interests to manage marine facilities and operations in the expanded harbour area.
As the Town is considering a new harbour bylaw that proposes to give away private moorages in this high value water area, I feel it is essential to defer this bylaw and any decisions impacting this water area until the economic evaluation of these valuable marine assets is completed.
As well as my business, I am concerned about possible impact on my taxes from what could be a major loss to the community economy if council acted before being fully informed about the economic impacts and opportunities.
John Roper
Gibsons
