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Drummond III drydock delayed after fuel-tank scrubbing; ferries see revenue uptick despite lower vehicle counts
Summary
Board was briefed on Drummond III drydock delays after fuel-tank scrubbing revealed significant steel loss requiring frame and hull plating replacement; trustees were also told ferry revenues were the highest since 2021 even as vehicle counts fell and a 6% fare increase was implemented.
The board received several operational updates at its Sept. 5 meeting: a report on Drummond III drydock work, ferry revenue trends and staffing and facility matters.
On vessel repairs, staff reported Drummond III's drydock schedule was delayed after fuel-tank scrubbing and inspection revealed significant loss of steel wall thickness near fuel tanks. The contractor is replacing frames and hull plating in affected areas and replacing hatches; blasting and painting had not yet begun. Minutes estimate drydock completion in about one month but note weather and shipyard factors remain uncertain.
Finance and operations staff also reported a 6% increase in ferry fares and a 1% increase overall for the year; 2025 ferry revenue was recorded as the highest since 2021 even though vehicle counts were down. Staff noted more single-trip full fares than commuter fares were collected. The minutes record that ferries will continue to receive 50% reimbursement as regulated by Act 51.
Other operational items: staff offered an update on hiring for a Mobility Manager/General Office Assistant; Lori Padgett accepted an offer and is scheduled to start Sept. 15, 2025, and staff member Kathy will move to the Mobility Manager role on Oct. 1, 2025. Staff also reported a civil rights complaint had been received and that EUPTA provided requested information and is awaiting further contact from the investigating entity. The board discussed facility punch-list work scheduled for October and a potential 25-year lease renewal with the Detour Passage Historical Museum covering building and restrooms; staff will present an updated lease for board approval at a future meeting.
Why it matters: Vessel repairs affect ferry availability and operational budgets; increased ferry revenue may offset some costs but vessel work and federal/state reimbursement decisions will affect long-term operations. Staffing changes and facility work have near-term operational implications.
What happens next: Staff will monitor Drummond III drydock progress and report updates; an updated lease and further details on facility work will be provided at future meetings. The minutes record the board accepted these reports as presented.
