Report from the CEO/Harbormaster, Tim Petrick

April 16, 2024

I am honored to provide you with updates and significant developments concerning our Harbor District. Your continued support and engagement are invaluable as we navigate various challenges and opportunities. Here are the key highlights:

1. Welcoming the Japanese Delegation from Rikuzentakata: President Adams and I had the privilege of participating in a welcoming committee alongside representatives from the City, the county, the Tolowa Dee-ni', and Elk Valley Rancheria, as well as the Kamome Foundation. Together, we hosted a Meet and Greet with the Japanese Delegation from Rikuzentakata, fostering strong bonds of cooperation and friendship. We further showcased our spirit of collaboration by hosting them for a Harbor Tour on Friday afternoon. Our relationship with our sister city is flourishing, and we look forward to continued partnership and exchange.
2. Closure of Salmon Fishery: Unfortunately, for the second consecutive year, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the Pacific Fisheries Management Council have decided to close the salmon fishery to both commercial and recreational fishing. This decision is undeniably a setback for our harbor and our community, and we remain committed to supporting our fishermen through these challenging times.
3. Maintenance Team Expansion: We are pleased to announce that we have filled one opening in our maintenance team and have one more position to fill. If you are interested in joining our dedicated crew, please submit your application to the office staff or directly to Rich Salvaressa. Your contribution will play a vital role in ensuring the continued maintenance and functionality of our harbor facilities.
4. Harbor Landscaping RFP: We have recently posted a Request for Proposals (RFP) for harbor landscaping, and we are delighted to see strong interest from potential bidders. We eagerly anticipate reviewing proposals and selecting the best candidate to enhance the beauty and appeal of our harbor.
5. Permitting Process Progress: Representatives from Moffat and Nichol, along with CSS, have made significant progress in discussions with permitting agencies regarding our plans for the Citizens Dock and seawall. Despite challenges, we remain on schedule and committed to obtaining the necessary permits for these crucial projects. Furthermore, discussions with FEMA regarding disaster funding for the Whaler Island Groin and Anchor Way failure are ongoing, albeit at a slow pace.
6. Opposition to AB2220: The Harbor District has joined forces with the California Association of Harbor Masters and Port Captains, the San Diego Fishermen's Working Group, the Alliance of Communities for Sustainable Fisheries, and others in opposing AB2220. This detrimental bill poses a severe threat to the California commercial fishing industry, and we vehemently oppose its provisions. We urge everyone to reach out to Assemblyman Bennet's office before April 16th to express our strong opposition ahead of the bill's hearing on April 23rd.
7. Exploring Wave Energy Generation: I had preliminary meetings with representatives of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a department of the U.S. Department of Energy, to explore the potential of wave energy generation. Currently, wave energy generation is seen as experimental and small-scale, which could make it a perfect fit for Crescent City. Offshore wind and major solar projects that are underway are focused on power grid scale. Wave energy could make CCHD a scientific destination while providing power on a rural community scale and could fit into our current infrastructure improvement plans as well.
8. Boater’s Choice Award: I am immensely proud to announce that the Crescent City Harbor District has been honored with the 2023 Marinas.com Boater’s Choice Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes marinas for their exceptional service, superior amenities, and overall boater satisfaction, as determined by direct feedback and ratings from the boating community. The dedicated efforts of our CCHD staff have been instrumental in providing an outstanding experience that goes above and beyond for boaters, earning us this distinguished recognition that enhances our Harbor's reputation.

Your continued support and advocacy are crucial as we strive to overcome challenges and advance the interests of our harbor district and community.