Depoe Bay commission weighs card‑lock, co‑op and lease options to keep fuel dock open

Depoe Bay — The Depoe Bay Harbor Commission spent the bulk of its May 2025 meeting on ways to keep the city fuel dock open and reduce the harbor fund deficit, considering four options: a card‑lock system, a user co‑op, a private lease, or bulk purchasing agreements.

Commissioners and harbor staff said the dock’s operation affects local charter businesses, whale‑watch operators and recreational boaters who rely on the harbor for tourism revenue and local jobs. "We're trying to keep the fuel dock open," the commission chair said; the body agreed to have staff produce updated background information and bring the options back for discussion at a joint work session with the City Council scheduled for June 11 at 5 p.m. (no public input).

Why it matters: Harbor users told commissioners that higher dock fees and fuel costs threaten small businesses and local tourism. Several commenters urged the commission to examine whether non‑harbor revenues — such as transient room tax — or other city funding can help cover harbor costs. "The bottom line is: why are we trying to…