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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 2 - Proposed Water TaxiCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HARBOR COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Agenda Item No. 2 January 13, 2010 TO: HARBOR COMMISSION FROM: Harbor Resources Division Chris Miller, Manager (949) 644 -3043, cmiller(dnewoortbeachca.gov SUBJECT: Report on the Proposed Newport Harbor Water Taxi System ISSUE The Harbor Commission will hear a report about a proposed Newport Harbor water taxi system from Mike McNamara, Committee Chair. RECOMMENDATION The Harbor Commission is requested to: 1. Receive and file. DISCUSSION On May 12, 2009, the City Council adopted a Resolution to form a Committee which would explore the idea of a water taxi system in Newport Harbor in order to address Goals 4 and 4.5 of the Strategic Plan for Fiscal and Economic Sustainability. Goal 4: The City shall facilitate an economically viable concentration of marine uses, and enhance the maritime viability of Newport Harbor. Goal 4.5: The City will invite proposals for the implementation of a privately owned and operated summer water transportation service, with funding supplemented by grants, private contributions and public monies. Research should be conducted into the transferability of existing models in Los Angeles County and other areas. The formation of the Committee consisted of individuals from the Economic Development Committee, Harbor Commission and local maritime and tourism industries. The functions of the Committee were to create a map of public docks and nearby points of interest, to research other water transportation services and to provide the Council with a report on the feasibility of a summer water taxi service. The Committee will sunset one year after its establishment. Water Taxi Report January 13, 2010 Page 2 PUBLIC NOTICE This agenda item has been noticed according to the Ralph M. Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the public meetings at which the Harbor Commission considers the item). It was also posted on the City's website. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The Harbor Commission's review of this agenda item does not require environmental review. Submitted by: Chris Miller Harbor Resources Manager