Moore Haven marina users urge off‑season rates, better amenities and clearer payment signage; council will revisit monthly pricing

Boat owners who use the Moore Haven marina urged the City Council on Aug. 5 to consider separate off‑season and on‑season monthly rates and to improve facilities and communication about payments.

Resident and marina user Stanforth said he and other long‑term visitors have chosen other marinas because of monthly pricing and amenities, and recommended offering seasonal rates and a clearly labeled payment drop box at the marina. Stanforth said competing marinas offer features such as loaner cars, pools and air‑conditioned showers at comparable monthly prices.

City Clerk Ashley Wills replied that a drop box is located at City Hall by the front door and that an employee typically collects payments; she acknowledged that clearer signage or communications would help visitors find it. City Manager Larry Tibbs said the council previously adjusted dockage rates and suggested the council formally revisit monthly marina rates; Attorney Steve Ramunni confirmed rate changes are a council decision.

Why it matters: marina users provide revenue and economic activity to Moore Haven; sustained loss of long‑term tenants could affect local tourism and marina upkeep. Councilmembers asked staff to explore rate options and to improve signage and communications about the payment drop box.

What happens next: the council agreed to revisit marina monthly rates at the next meeting and directed staff to improve signage/notice about the City Hall payment drop box. No formal rate change was made at the Aug. 5 meeting.