Dredging
As we shake our heads and ponder what will happen next in the so-called revitalization of Dana Point Harbor, one must question accountability. Oxford’s definition reads: “the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.” The example given of how to use the word accountable reads “their lack of accountability has corroded public respect.” Sadly, the lack of accountability of Dana Point Harbor Partners and Orange County has corroded and possibly irreparably damaged the public’s respect for our City and County officials, and most certainly Dana Point Harbor Partners.
On April 6th we sent a letter to DPHP and the Orange County Real Estate Office expressing serious concerns about major damage to both sailing and power vessels due to the lack of dredging in the harbor. Click here for a copy of the letter. Of course, we have not yet received a response, but should we really expect one based on how we have been treated for the past three years?
As pointed out in the letter, it is our assertion they are in violation of Section 10.1 of the Master Lease. We could point out other violations as well but choose to center on the most immediate and serious concerns. Who is going to pay for the thousands of dollars in damage to vessels because of lack of maintenance in the harbor all the while extorting large slip fees out of boaters? We would bet, once again, the Dana Point Harbor Partners are laughing all the way to the bank.
When will DPHP, the County of Orange, and the City of Dana Point ever be held accountable? What politician has the gumption to do the right thing? If you are out there, now is the time to show your face. We are asking, is there anyone with integrity left in Orange County politics?
Day Use Parking
More games and things in the launch ramp boater parking.
As you may know, DPHP reduced by 2/3 the day-use boater parking in the launch ramp area without a permit or permission and seemingly with the City of Dana Point Permit and Planning Department’s blind eye. The reduced parking was a major issue for thousands of visitors yearly to the lovely City of Dana Point. This short-sighted parking theft sullied the City of Dana Point’s reputation of being boater friendly to be exactly the opposite as witnessed by thousands of very unhappy internet posts regarding the reduced parking in the launch ramp and inability to access the ocean from Dana Point’s harbor.
This unfortunate situation went on for years until a concerned boater found the permit and addressed the reduced parking with the City of Dana Point. Instead of restoring the entire lot to the 334 spots as required by the permit, planning documents, and the Master Lease, the City of Dana Point’s Permit and Planning Department allowed the DPHP to restore only 200-ish parking spots. After meeting with the City of Dana Point, it was disclosed that the remaining missing spots were “flex parking” and would be “allowed” as needed. Who is managing the “flex” of the parking spots? DPHP and the City of Dana Point’s Planning and Permit Department, of course. The same people who allowed the unpermitted 2/3 reduction in launch ramp parking in the first place. The coyote now controls the hen house.
The following documentation was exchanged between the City of Dana Point and the boater.
The shenanigans continue with the City of Dana Point and DPHP.
Oxford’s definition of turn a blind eye: “pretend not to notice.”
Orange County Officials, hear it loud and clear. Boaters are voters and we are noticing what you are not doing!