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Harbormaster says FY2027 budget unchanged; harbor usage fee helps offset costs for offshore wind traffic
Summary
Harbormaster Bill McHugh told the committee his FY2027 budget includes no major changes, that patrol season timing and part‑time staffing depend on weather and seasonality, and that a harbor usage fee adopted by the Salem Harbor Port Authority captures additional revenue for vessel services tied to the prospective offshore wind terminal.
Harbormaster Bill McHugh told the administration and finance committee that his office’s FY2027 budget shows no major changes and that operational needs—especially seasonal routine patrols—are driven by weather and maritime seasonality. "No major changes to the budget for fiscal year 2027," McHugh said, while noting he has shifted fuel‑related allocations in prior years and may add part‑time help when qualified candidates are available.
Why it matters: The Harbormaster’s budget recommendation clears routine operations and confirms that the Salem Harbor Port Authority’s harbor usage fee will start capturing some revenue associated with commercial arrivals (including vessels for the Salem Offshore Wind Terminal), funds that are held by the port authority rather than the general fund.
McHugh said federal grants and a winter‑storage revolving account have reduced pressure on the general fund for operational and improvement items. When asked about a fire at Pickering Wharf earlier in the year, he deferred to the Fire Chief for cost estimates but said no injuries occurred and that vessel owners are required to maintain insurance. On mutual‑aid and underwater response, McHugh said Salem’s underwater search and recovery team has assisted Coast Guard operations in the past but is not a formal Coast Guard mutual‑aid unit; the closest Coast Guard station is Gloucester.
Action and next steps: Councilor King moved to recommend approval of Harbormaster personnel ($414,000) and expenditures ($60,299); both motions were seconded and carried by recorded assent (four hands in favor), bringing the department total to $474,299. The committee’s recommendation will be forwarded in the city’s budget process.
