It could cost extra to launch a boat at the Sorting Gap Marina in Fort Frances.

Town council is supporting an increase that would move the daily fee to ten dollars.

Administration had proposed doubling the current charge to over 18 dollars.

Councillor Wendy Brunetta sees that driving users to other launches in the area.

“I’m concerned that if we go from just over $9 a launch to up to $18, we are going to see less and less people using the launches,” says Brunetta.

“So I don’t see that it would equate to the revenue projections that you’re suggesting.”

Brunetta notes people launch at the Causeway for free or at Taylor’s Cove Resort at Bear’s Pass, 56 kilometres east of Fort Frances, for ten dollars.

Administration is also looking at an increase in slip rentals, parking fees on boaters’ vehicles left at the marina and a change in hours of operation.

The changes could generate an extra $3,200 in revenue.

The marina sold 133 daily passes and 23 passes for the season in 2023.

Councillor John McTaggart is concerned that some boaters may not be paying to launch.

“I see the number of vehicles that are there parked on weekends, and we’re not getting the income that’s due to us,” says McTaggart.

Town official says they have taken steps to ensure individuals are paying, including ongoing monitoring of the launch with the use of surveillance cameras.