COLD LAKE – Updates are coming to the Cold Lake Marina following council’s regular meeting on June 10, where a series of proposed amendments to the Cold Lake Marina Operations and Allocation Policy were brought forward by administration for approval.
The Cold Lake Marina Operation and Allocation Policy governs how the City manages and allocates slips at the marina, said Paul McWilliams, general manager of Community Services.
“These updates are part of our continued effort to enhance fairness, improve operational clarity, and ensure alignment with the city's service levels and users' expectations,” he added.
Originally adopted in 2012 and last amended in 2023, the policy was reviewed following operational issues and direction from the Corporate Priorities Committee in May.
Among the most significant changes are:
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Minimum usage requirement: Yearly slip renters must now use their assigned slips for at least 50 per cent of the boating season. Exemptions can be granted for legitimate reasons such as military deployment or medical emergencies.
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Revised subleasing rules: Subleasing is now capped at 50 per cent of the season unless prior written consent is obtained. Renters approved to sublease cannot reclaim their slip early unless another slip is available.
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Extended no-boat provision: Renters without a vessel now have an entire season, rather than 30 days, to acquire one. If they fail to do so by April 16 of the following year, their slip will be forfeited.
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Updated night watch hours: Night watch operations will align with staff scheduling to avoid overlap and improve efficiency.
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Key fob access: One fob per slip will be included with the rental, additional fobs will cost $10. These will be assigned directly to renters and can be deactivated for security.
The new rules also affect commercial renters, who must have a valid City of Cold Lake business license. Annual council approval for renewals is no longer required, and commercial subleasing is no longer permitted.
“These amendments are designed to ensure that the marina slips are actively used, fairly allocated and managed with greater consistency and accountability,” McWilliams said.
Council approved the amendments to Policy No. 141-RC-12, being the Cold Lake Marina Operations and Allocation Policy, as presented.
