OPP Marine Unit training will be held at Muskoka Wharf next year
Gravenhurst’s Manager of Operations, Caroline Kirkpatrick told councilors that “Upon looking for a new home, they came back to Gravenhurst,” regarding the OPP Marine Unit leasing the Wharf for the second year.
Next year’s two-week lease period will change from May 15th to June 1st, at a rate of $8,875, said Kirkpatrick in the Gravenhurst Council meeting on June 21, 2022.
Council members concurred about the benefits of partnering with the Marine Unit, with the anticipation of it continuing to being a win moving forward.
At this rate, Deputy Mayor, Heidi Lorenz said, “It’s a good bang for the buck,” when it comes to having people being “on their best behavior.” Although she wondered if this two-week delay would deter renters in the area.
Kirkpatrick said that the impact on rentals was “not a concern because there is a robust waiting list,” and added that it will “brand a code of conduct up at the Wharf and will be at other launch locations.”
Councillor Penny Varney said she was “pleased with the presence there because of complaints regarding boat rentals not adhering to speed - an accident waiting to happen.”
Town Mayor, Paul Kelly concurred about the safety for the area with the OPP around, indicating that it’s a “deterrent”, as well as being a benefit to the Marriott, with the Unit staying there.