The District of Oak Bay is moving forward in negotiations for a new marina lease after a proponent was identified from a round of proposals.
Council has not yet identified the party behind the winning proposal, and in official documentation they are referred to simply as “Proponent 1.”
The selection of Proponent 1 follows a round of public feedback on the final two candidates who advanced to the last stage of proposals for leasing the Oak Bay Marina at Turkey Head.
The District of Oak Bay’s current lease is set to expire at the end of 2022. The next lease period, which this proponent is negotiating to take over, will last from 2023 to 2052.
“Turkey Head has significance beyond the marina, retail, and restaurant operations,” says Mayor Kevin Murdoch.
“Among hundreds of good ideas heard through the public engagement process, some consistent themes emerged, including the importance of ocean environmental protection, seeking opportunities for First Nations reconciliation, access to beaches, supporting small craft watersports, all-ages walkability, opportunities for gatherings, and of course ensuring the District sees revenue proportional to the high value of the property.”
Information on the public feedback that was received is detailed in a document on the District website, along with information on the proposal’s plan for the rea.
The detailed plan for the new lease partner includes revising the parking layout, expanding and widening the Turkey Head walkway, installing First Nations interpretive signage and a Songhees House Post, and the addition of a new waterfront viewing pier.
The District says that lease negotiations are set to begin shortly and could last into 2022. Updates to the public will be provided online through oakbay.ca/marina-lease-negotiations.
