Editorial — Workshop Offers Forum for Newport Dock Owners

There have been a lot of complaints about the city of Newport Beach’s new permit fee structure for private piers and docks. But on Aug. 21, owners of private piers — including many Newport Harbor homeowners — will have an opportunity to share their concerns with city officials about the new fee structure, “rent” calculations and the appeal process (which requires a $100 form-filing fee to be paid to the city).    

Two “Public Pier Fees Implementation Review Workshops” have been scheduled. The first one, Aug. 15, was scheduled to occur as The Log went to press. However, the second one is scheduled for 6 p.m. Aug. 21 at Oasis Senior Center, 801 Narcissus, in Corona del Mar.    

If you have any concerns about the implementation process for the new fees, this is your chance to make your voice heard.     According to a notice of the workshop issued by the city, “Specifically, the city council is interested in the public feedback received as staff was calculating the square footage used for rental charges.”    

City staff members will review feedback received at the workshops, along with exhibits depicting examples where improvements in the process could be made. Exhibits can be reviewed online at newportbeachca.gov or at the city clerk’s office.    

If you are one of the many pier owners who have expressed concerns about the new fees or the permit fee implementation process, you’ll want to attend this workshop.