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The Village of Winthrop Harbor is issuing this statement to update residents, businesses, and regional partners on recent developments regarding the operation and management of North Point Marina and the surrounding state park properties.
North Point Marina and the adjacent Illinois Beach State Park lands are owned, managed, and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). While these areas lie within the geographical boundaries of the Village of Winthrop Harbor, the Village does not operate, oversee, or direct the day-to-day or long-term functions of the marina or the state-controlled lands. All operational decisions, including maintenance, capital improvements, concessions, leasing, programming, and staffing, fall exclusively under IDNR authority or its designated operators.
Approximately a week and a half ago, the Village first learned through unofficial channels of potential leasing issues involving the current marina operator. Upon receiving this information, Village staff immediately began coordinating with our state legislators, State Representative Joyce Mason and State Senator Mary Edly-Allen. Neither had previously been made aware of any potential concerns regarding marina operations. They moved quickly to engage with IDNR leadership to confirm the situation and seek clarification on the status of the operator’s lease and any impacts on North Point Marina.
The Village wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Representative Joyce Mason, Senator Mary Edly-Allen, and the Governor’s Office for their responsiveness and efforts to obtain answers and work toward solutions. Their engagement has ensured that concerns surrounding the marina are being elevated and addressed at the highest levels of state government.
North Point Marina is a critical economic engine and an essential part of the Village’s identity. Any disruption to its operations would result in significant negative impacts on our local economy, including the potential loss of approximately 150 jobs and the ripple effect on businesses that rely on marina activity. This includes our charter fishing industry, boat service and repair businesses, hospitality partners, and restaurant establishments. These industries contribute to local sales tax generation, tourism, and the overall vitality of Winthrop Harbor.
Any disruption in the operations of North Point Marina places added strain on the Village’s economy and local taxpayers. The Village continues to provide vital public safety services on Lake Michigan, including police, fire, and emergency response, without direct operational or financial support from IDNR. We remain hopeful that IDNR leadership will recognize the importance of addressing these concerns and work collaboratively to ensure the marina’s stability moving forward. It is also our sincere hope that IDNR leadership will improve communication between their organization and the communities they serve, as these decisions have a direct and lasting impact on local residents and businesses. We stand ready to assist IDNR and the affected parties in any way possible.
The Village remains optimistic in IDNR’s ability to ensure seamless and uninterrupted operations at North Point Marina for the 2026 boating season. We respectfully ask for the public’s patience as IDNR works toward a long-term solution that supports a successful and vibrant 2026 season at North Point Marina.
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