Port District 1 votes to increase some fees

Port District No. 1 commissioners voted to increase some fees and district property taxes collected to support the district at their meeting October 13.

As they did last year, the commissioners voted to increase the property tax levy by 1 percent. Park employees Jackie Lea and Abe York will receive a 2½ percent salary increase. At present, the two employees’ health care is provided without cost to them. They select from among the health plans available to county employees.

The 2011 budget was influenced by the strong spring chinook season, though launch fees were down, as fishermen used Svensen Park on Puget Island, Port Assistant Manager Abe York said.

The board passed resolutions authorizing a 2012 rate schedule, which includes increases. In 2010, the board added $5 fees to out of county residents mooring their boats at the marina on a long-term basis.

In 2012, the cost per foot for monthly moorage increased 25 cents; an annual launch pass went up from $125 to $150.

The port is awaiting details from the Wahkiakum County Assessor’s Office to finalize the 2012 budget.