The Georgian Queen and Serendipity Princess could soon have a mate.
Georgian Shores Boat Tours (GSBT), the company that has acquired the former Orillia Island Princess, is vying for a spot at the Town of Penetanguishene wharf.
A presentation and staff report will be received and debated at tonight's council and committee of the whole meetings, respectively.
The staff report, part of the committee of the whole agenda, outlines the key items in the agreement the town could approve with the company. According to the document, GSBT will be required to pay $1,650+HST, the cost of an upgrade to access a dedicated hook up for wastewater services. Staff also recommends GSBT cover $635+HST, the cost for a dedicated hydro meter at the wharf. The agreement, if approved, will be in place for four years, to be reviewed by the next elected council.
The agreement leaves open the option to sell tour tickets either through the Tourist Information Centre or place their own kiosk at the wharf. In its presentation to council, the Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce is offering to staff the ticket office for seven days a week, starting from Canada Day till Thanksgiving.
Council will also hear from Midland Bay Landing Development Corporation about its project to attain a UNESCO Global GeoPark designation for North Simcoe. The group is not asking for resources or money from the town but just wants to introduce council to the feasibility study currently underway.
Committee of the whole will also consider a $25,000 project that proposes the construction of a parking aisle on the east side of Church Street between Yeo and Burke Streets. This price is estimated if no utility relocations or retaining walls are required as part of the construction of the six parking spots. If approved, the project will be funded using surplus funds, which were previously transferred to the town’s contingency reserve with council approval.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. tonight and will be streamed live on Rogers TV, as well as online.
