Previous Story
DLNR asks MRC, boat operators to settle marina dispute
|
Posted on Aug 03 2000
Department of Lands and Natural Resources Secretary Jack Tenorio yesterday said he is still optimistic that commercial boat operators and the Marine Revitalization Corp. will be able to agree on an acceptable passenger departure fee for the use of the Outer Cove Marina.
Mr. Tenorio indicated that a public hearing may be held soon so that the boat owners can make their recommendations. Just like MRC, the department wants the controversy that has dragged on for two years now settled as soon as possible.
Anthony Pellegrino, president of MRC, has demanded an increase in departure fee to allow him to recoup the $4 million he borrowed from the bank for the marina construction.
The DLNR chief said the Mr. Pellegrino should also accept some of the suggestions made by the people so that they can finally come to an agreement.
MRC, a non-profit corporation, entered into an agreement with DLNR and the National Parks Service to build and operate the marina where it was granted a 15-year lease on some 16,394 square meters of submerged land. Under the partnership agreement, both the local and federal governments will assist in ensuring the smooth operation of MRC.
In an effort to find a solution to the problem, Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has asked the Commonwealth Ports Authority to study the request of MRC for the government to take over the operation.
CPA will make a study on how the possible takeover of Outer Cove Marina operations will affect the ports authority, which is also saddled with a huge debt. But the CPA board said taking over the management and operation of the marina is not a priority of the agency since its revenue could barely support to service its $33 million seaport bond.
Meanwhile, Mr. Pellegrino has accused the government of betraying the trust and confidence he has given as a partner in the establishment of the Outer Cove Marina as he is continuously losing $24,000 a month to pay interest rate alone.
