The City of Clearwater Marine Advisory Board convened on September 13, 2023, to discuss various updates and initiatives related to marine operations and community engagement. The meeting began with the introduction of Dr. Bugai, who expressed his commitment to the board's objectives.

The first agenda item was the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. With only three members present, the minutes were reviewed and unanimously approved without any amendments.

Moving on to new business, Mike Hodgson provided an update on Harbor Marine Operations. He highlighted the grand opening of the new dock manager's office on June 28, located at 206 Beers Street. This facility is now accessible via a Cox card, which will eventually also control access to the dock gates. Hodgson noted that the transition to this new access system is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Inside the new office, amenities such as a washer and dryer have been installed for transient guests and permanent tenants. Additionally, a bulletin board has been set up to promote local events, enhancing community engagement for visitors and residents alike.

Hodgson also reported on the preparations made prior to a recent storm, where extra measures were taken to secure wave detangulators in the South Basin. Although some structural damage occurred, the detangulators held up well, and replacements are scheduled for December 4, lasting approximately two to four weeks. The board is coordinating with affected tenants to ensure they have alternative slips during the construction period.

The meeting concluded with no further items on the agenda, and members expressed their commitment to ongoing improvements in Clearwater's marine operations. The next steps include finalizing the new access system and preparing for the upcoming construction work.