The doors of the Tofino Harbour Authority have been closed for three weeks due to “security” concerns, as the organization embarks on upgrades to its facilities.
James Mason, vice-president of the harbour authority, said he and the president are voluntarily maintaining washroom and shower facilities at the Fourth Street facility.
No staff are in the facility, but the office is expected to open again shortly, he said.
Established in 1999, Tofino Harbour Authority is responsible for the Fourth Street office and related facilities, including what is called the Crab Dock — Armitage Point Services — which has commercial and recreational moorage, shore power and fresh water.
It also runs Wingen Lane Services offering commercial and recreational moorage.
It imposes charges to use the public facilities, including a launch ramp and parking for motor vehicles.
A spokesman for Fisheries and Oceans sa国际传媒 said the department is aware of “the issues that the Tofino Harbour Authority board has been managing,” and “will continue to support the board as they work to resolve these issues.”
Craig Macartney’s statement did not provide any details of the issues involved.
DFO operates a national system of harbours to provide commercial fish harvesters and other harbour users with safe and accessible facilities, said Macartney, noting harbour authorities are incorporated, not-for-profit organizations whose boards of directors and members represent local interests.
Harbour authorities are independent legal identities that manage, operate and maintain one or more public fishing harbours through a lease agreement with the federal department.
“DFO maintains an arm’s length relationship with the board, as outlined under the lease agreement,” Macartney said.
The Tofino Harbour Authority board remains responsible for keeping the harbour open and operational, he said.
The Harbour Authority Association of sa国际传媒 has been supporting the board with governance issues, Macartney said.
Last month, the federal government announced $32 million over three years for improvements to 18 sa国际传媒 small craft harbours, including nine on Vancouver Island. Tofino’s harbour is expected to see wharf and float reconstruction.
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