Marine Institute’s Status Still on Hold

For the third time, the City Council has delayed a vote on an agreement with the Orange County Marine Institute that would allow the institute to become a nonprofit corporation.

The council lacked a quorum this week after Councilman Bill Ossenmacher unexpectedly left the meeting without comment. Councilwoman Toni Gallagher was absent, and Mayor Karen Lloreda abstained because of a conflict of interest, leaving only two council members.

“It’s absolutely ridiculous that Councilman Ossenmacher has left and will not stay to hear the item,” Councilman Harold R. Kaufman said, adding he supported the agreement.

Ossenmacher could not be reached for comment.

His departure angered the more than 50 institute supporters at the meeting.

“Every other member agency voted in support of this item,” institute board president Bill Habermehl told the council. “It is now your turn.”

The issue is whether to allow the institute to become a tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation. Currently, it is classified as a governmental agency and is controlled by several public entities, including the city of Dana Point and the county.

The institute is seeking the change because as a nonprofit corporation, it would qualify for grants, endowments and other support from private corporations and foundations.

Mel Chambers, chairman of Friends of the Orange County Marine Institute, said he was disappointed the council did not even have the opportunity to vote.

“We’re stuck now,” Chambers said. “I don’t know what we’re going to do.”