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Port Authority and state agencies weigh options after boat sinks at Portage marina
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Summary
A partially submerged, unregistered boat at Portage marina is under DNR and IDEM review; the Port Authority discussed removal costs, ownership uncertainty and the discontinuation of a state derelict-vessel funding program.
Port Authority members discussed a partially submerged boat near Westmore that officials say is likely owned by an individual who is currently unlocated and that IDEM and the DNR have inspected.
Barb reported that the State IDEM inspected the submerged vessel and “cleared it that there was no hazard currently.” The board was told the DNR has been notified and that the agency asked whether the city would pay for removal; staff said towage contractors require payment up front and estimated removal costs at about $6,000–$10,000.
Tom and other board members noted the state’s derelict-and-abandoned-vessel program was discontinued in 2024, removing a previously available source of cleanup funding. The board discussed options including identifying an owner, asking the DNR to take further steps, or paying removal costs directly; staff said the vessel is not registered in the suspected owner’s name and ownership is unclear.
Board members asked staff to research legal obligations and possible enforcement steps, and Attorney Dogen said the authority would examine statutory options and whether local code or civil processes could be used. No formal directive to remove the vessel using Port Authority funds was made at the meeting; the board emphasized follow-up with DNR and that the insurance/cleanup funding gap remains unresolved.
One board member asked whether law-enforcement divers had reason to suspect anyone was injured or missing; staff replied they doubted that but said they could follow up with law enforcement if requested. The board noted that if the boat becomes a hazard or pollutant, agency removal authority could change.
The board asked staff to report back when they have further documentation from the DNR and IDEM and to confirm whether the state will reestablish any derelict-vessel funding program in the near term.
