8/7/24: Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee Update

Update as of

This month's Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee (DPHOAC) meeting began with updates from Christian Gagne, the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Representative for the County of Orange. He presented on the progress of the market study/appraisal, including the development of a qualified appraiser shortlist and the upcoming definition of the appraisal's scope of work.

Christian also addressed that a finalized Q&A document is nearly ready for discussion and publishing that includes boater concerns raised by the Dana Point Boaters Association (DPBA). The Committee will have a chance to discuss the answers, and the DPBA can offer follow-up questions if needed once published to the DPHOAC Updates webpage.

For the Fifth District website updates, Christian highlighted the addition of a navigation section for ease of access to committee resources and past presentations, alongside a new section showcasing construction progress photos and videos.

The waitlist and deposit interest for the Marina at Dana Point also came under discussion. While the waitlist wasn't yet available for committee review, the Committee learned that the Marina currently doesn't hold deposits in an interest-bearing account. Supervisor Foley expressed interest in exploring this possibility for future benefit within the Harbor.

Scott Fegley from O.C. Parks provided updates on the OC Sailing and Events Center (OCSEC) space planning effort. He emphasized the need for outstanding user group surveys to be submitted for the space planning study as soon as possible. Additionally, Zoom meetings with user groups are scheduled for late August, with a draft report on the space study anticipated in Fall/Early Winter 2024. He also offered news on the OCSEC West dock repair project, with permit applications submitted and construction expected to begin after summer camps conclude.

Supervisor Foley took the opportunity to present some exciting ideas. She highlighted the Surf and Turf Therapy program utilizing non-traditional therapy approaches at the Harbor, followed by the proposal for

an Olympic Parade showcasing local Olympians and promoting the 2028 LA Olympics. This electric vehicle parade, aiming for a September/October timeframe, is being spearheaded by District 5.

Discussions then shifted to future events. Committee member Colin Harris expressed interest in collaborating with event promoters to bring more events to the Harbor, acknowledging parking limitations as a current hurdle.

The meeting concluded with action items and future plans. The Committee awaits the finalized boater concern Q&A from CEO Real Estate, while Supervisor Foley requested CEO Real Estate to add Tideland maps areas to the D5 website. Additionally, the waitlist and deposit interest will be reviewed for potential solutions regarding an interest-bearing account. The meeting adjourned after setting the next session for September 4th, 2024.

The details of this report can be read in the meeting minutes (dated 8/7/24) which will be posted on Supervisor Foley’s website here.