Several options were explored but no obvious solutions arose from the public engagement session on the contested boat ramp at Coopers Green Park in Halfmoon Bay.
Island residents, barge operators and fishers said accessing the ramp is essential for their livelihoods and housing, while mainland Halfmoon Bay residents who live near Coopers Green Park said industrial operations are at odds with recreational uses of the park and pose a risk to beachgoers.
About 30 people attended the July 20 online meeting.
“I really do wish to see a solution, because the people of all of the islands do benefit from it and do need it,” said North Thormanby Island cabin-owner Danielle Mervin, who also said ramps in Gibsons and Madeira Park were out of the question due to cost and marine conditions.
Other residents, such as Andrea Smith, agreed they need a solution, but “but not [at] Coopers Green.”
One resident suggested operators could use a ramp at nearby Brooks Road. Another asked about installing a ramp at Port Stalashen in Wilson Creek. Others suggested the boat ramp at Selma Park.
Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) chair and Halfmoon Bay director Lori Pratt, who moderated, said access to the Selma Park ramp for industrial users “is a conversation I’ve been having with Chief Paull,” since it’s located on shíshálh Nation land.
But barge operators and other business owners at the meeting said those options would be difficult due to the conditions of the ramps or the surroundings. The Selma Park ramp, for example, is far steeper and has its own safety issues.
Another speaker, who uses the ramp for their commercial fishing operation, suggested that with the future development of Coopers Green Hall improved traffic measures, such as a roundabout, could reduce potential safety hazards.
Gambier Island Trustee Dan Rogers said the last time the issue was explored, “there was lots of checking of various locations and it was very difficult to fine one,” adding that he is “happy to help find a solution.”
Pratt noted that as commercial waterfront property is sold off, “we are seeing this more and more that commercial does not have access.”
The condition of the ramp is deteriorating and is in need of an upgrade. According to an SCRD information sheet, “there may also be vehicle or other insurance implications associated with failing to adhere to posted load limits.”
Pratt said she had contacted MP Patrick Weiler and MLA Nicholas Simons, and may be asking about support and potential funding opportunities to augment the existing ramp and expects to meet with SCRD staff to “figure out next steps.”
