The February 5th, 2025 meeting of the Dana Point Harbor Oversight Advisory Committee (DPHOAC) centered on updates regarding the ongoing harbor revitalization elements, including the marina, Golden Lantern extension, OCSEC, and developments on the hotels.
Christian Gagne, the County's Dana Point Harbor Oversight Manager, provided updates on the bi-weekly discussions between the County’s Fifth District, CEO Real Estate, and Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP). These discussions focused on the advancement of the new parking structure, the rerouting of Golden Lantern, the continued revitalization of the marina, with phase 8 anticipated to open April 1st, and the subsequent phase 7.2 aiming for a July completion, was also highlighted. The committee was informed that progress with the Dana Point Yacht Club (DPYC) will be addressed in a future meeting between Supervisor Foley, DPYC management, & Burnham-Ward aiming to establish clear communication channels. The White Seabass Fisheries Enhancement Project's future relocation due to marina phase 9 construction, slated for August 2025, was also discussed, with a commitment to finding a collaborative solution. An overview presentation on the program is planned for the March DPHOAC meeting.
Supervisor Foley's office addressed funding concerns related to recent federal executive actions and confirmed that the Army Corps of Engineers' dredging funding remains unaffected. Michael Wilson of OC Parks introduced John Silber of IDS Group, who presented the findings of the OCSEC space planning study. The study proposed short-term solutions within the existing footprint and a long-term vision for expansion, contingent on funding and approvals. The OCSEC dock rebuild, targeted for completion by December 2026, is under County review, with consideration given to award a direct construction contract with Bellingham Marine in an effort to reduce costs for taxpayers as their crews are actively engaged in nearby marina construction, and can ensure that the new docks are consistent with the overall aesthetic of the marina.
The Dana Outrigger Canoe Club relocation to Baby Beach was outlined, pending Coastal Development and City of Dana Point Planning Department approvals.
Committee member Mike Frost requested a public benefits analysis of the partnership between DPHP and the County. Diane Wenzel of Westwind Sailing announced the cancellation of the Festival of the Whales parade and promoted the annual Dinghy Race fundraiser. Action items were established, including the resolution of the OCSEC dock construction contract and the new public benefit analysis by DPHP and the County to be presented at a later DPHOAC session.
The meeting concluded with the next session scheduled for March 5th, 2025.
The details of this report can be read in the meeting minutes (dated 2/5/25) which will be posted on Supervisor Foley’s homepage at: Minutes DPHOAC 2.5.25
