Channel Islands Harbor marks 60th anniversary as officials, residents and businesses celebrate

Channel Islands Harbor celebrated its 60th anniversary on May 20 as the Ventura County Board of Supervisors presented a proclamation and dozens of harbor stakeholders — elected officials, marina operators, nonprofits and businesses — praised the harbor''s role in the local economy and community life.

Harbor history and economic role

"The harbor was finalized in 1965," Michael Tripp, Ventura County Harbor Director, told the Board. "It wasn't much back then — it was only 500 slips ... today it's one of the largest recreational harbors in California. We have 2,100 slips." Tripp said a 2018 economic study put the harbor's regional impact at $159 million; he told the board that number has likely grown since the study.

The harbor''s history, Tripp said, traces to federal dredging and the Army Corps'' work to manage sand flows. Today the harbor features marinas, hotels, restaurants, a maritime museum, public parks and a boating center.

Community praise and private investment

Speakers from local governments and community organizations emphasized the harbor's cultural and economic contributions. Port Hueneme Mayor Martha McQueen Lejeune thanked the board and cited harbor dredging and ongoing projects that "sustain economic vitality and safety for our community." The Oxnard mayor and other local officials joined the delegation.

Representatives of the Harbor and Beach Community Alliance, the Channel Islands Harbor Foundation, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Island Packers and several marina operators said recent renovations and new private investment are attracting visitors and supporting job growth. Renee Ayew of the Harbor and Beach Community Alliance said the harbor is…