OXNARD : County’s OK Sought for Boat Operation
A local entrepreneur is asking Ventura County to allow him to operate four sportfishing boats and one excursion craft from the Channel Islands Harbor’s Marine Emporium, a proposal that is generating opposition from other marinas at the harbor.
The Ventura County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday will consider allowing the boats to work from that marina, a proposal that would result in an additional $20,000 to $25,000 in lease payments a year for the county, according to a staff report. Ventura County owns and operates the Channel Islands Harbor.
Under the proposal submitted by Fred Buenger, the fishing boats would only be allowed to operate from the Marine Emporium for a seven-month trial period, and the tour boat would be given a full trial year.
At the end of the trial period, supervisors would then decide if the boats could operate from the marina permanently.
Buenger requested an amendment to his marina lease to allow for the fishing and excursion boats.
Some rival sportfishing facilities say they oppose the plan because it would hurt their business.
Others contend that the site, which is surrounded by live-aboard boats and marinas, is a poor choice for additional sportfishing activities.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
