Port earns praise, trims budget

Manager Todd Souvenir and staff continue to make their mark on the Elochoman Slough Marina and the surrounding Port 1 environs, increasing access to power and water at campsites, and creating a more verdant setting.

Commissioners temporarily waived the lid on discretionary spending last Thursday, allowing Souvenir to move forward with the purchase of new fire pits for the campsites, which were recently filled and leveled before being hydro seeded in the last month.

Visitors have taken notice of the improvements and commissioners remarked on the positive response.

A public hearing was held for proposed marina rate increases, followed by a hearing for the proposed 2024 budget. The suggested budget, totaling $1,176,275, is down from last year’s budget of $1,339,975. It has a beginning cash balance of $310,000; potential projects totaling $395,075 include a food cart area and mini splits to cool and heat the port cabins and port office. A $51,000 loan for a replacement dock was paid off this year, and a change in insurance coverage will save the port about $13,000.