Norfolk County Council has approved several recommendations aimed at improving the operation and sustainability of its local marinas.
The decisions came during a council meeting on Thursday, where the Marina Business Sustainability Plan was formally received as information.
Among the approved actions is the allocation of $10,000 to remove the remaining derelict and abandoned boats from Port Dover Harbour Marina—a key step in improving safety and aesthetics at the popular waterfront site.
Council also approved $2,000 to advertise seasonal and transient marina slips as well as winter storage availability, in a bid to attract more boaters and boost local tourism.
Another $2,000 will be put toward a pilot program at the Port Rowan Harbour Marina, testing new security cameras and ramp payment systems for the boat launch area.
These enhancements are part of a larger goal to increase security, encourage self-serve technology use, and improve the user experience for both residents and visitors.
All unbudgeted spending will be drawn from the 2025 Marina Operating Surplus/Deficit budget.
Meanwhile, a set of additional action items—including a permanent advertising budget, an annual derelict boat removal fund, a Port Rowan Pier inspection, and upgrades to dock gates and automated payment technology—have been deferred for consideration in the 2026 Budget.
Council hopes these targeted investments will improve marina safety, increase revenues, and support tourism and local recreation.