Port of Hood River renews rates, fees and charges

The biggest increases came from the rentals at different locations on the waterfront. Lot 1 rental fees saw an average increase of 120% and annual T-Hangar rates and fees will go up 10% for an average of $458.17 per year. These new rates take effect July 1.

Marina Park, The Hook and Spit and Nichols Basin permit rates all increase 75%. Cruise ship docking fees go up from $350 to $415 and boat ramp parking lot fees will be raised as well. Majority of the approved rates will take effect Jan. 1, 2025.

The port continues on its timeline to self-sufficiency and on May 21 commissioners discussed the possibility of forming a 501c3 nonprofit organization. On June 5, Executive Director Kevin Greenwood said potentially forming a nonprofit is an “out of the box way of looking at other revenue streams.” Greenwood provided an update to the commissioners and said they are waiting on a cost estimate for the articles of incorporation. Through conversations with others, Greenwood said it has taken up to four months to receive the Determination Letter. Commissioner Tor Bieker said it allows the port to “get money from more places.” Receiving nonprofit status would enable the port to accept donations, apply for tax exempt status and solicit further grant funding for the Ken Jernstedt Airfield and Waterfront Park.

In October, the current Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge will turn 100 years old and the port has started planning a centennial event in collaboration with TrueWest Events — the same group who organizes the Hood River Hops and Harvest Festivals. A planning meeting was held on June 12. They proposed a “fun run” that would allow entrants to run the entire length of the bridge and back, but commissioners were hesitant for safety reasons. Conversations are ongoing.

The port commission approved new contracts with Radcomp and PSquare LLC for information technology services. The port has been contracting with Radcomp since 2017 for 24/7 technology support.