Kelowna Watercraft Operators Urge City for Immediate Changes

UPDATE: Kelowna’s commercial watercraft operators are pressing the city for urgent changes at the Water Street boat launch, following a temporary closure of the parking lot aimed at easing traffic congestion over the long weekend. The Kelowna Marine Tourism Association (KMTA), led by Denys Storozhuk, reports that the city is responding to their concerns, which could signal a pivotal shift in local marine operations.

The parking lot closure is a direct result of mounting pressure from operators who have threatened to withhold their commercial boat launch fees, due on July 31, citing a lack of communication and support from city officials. Storozhuk stated, “I sent them an email to them (city)…they actually said that they are following our recommendations about closing the parking lot for regular car traffic.”

Conditions at the launch have reached a critical point, with many KMTA members frustrated over perceived neglect from the city. They argue that fees, which were set at $2,000 per boat and $1,000 per jet ski for the year, are unfair without necessary infrastructure improvements. “For the last three years, we paid a lot of money to the city in fees, and we did not get anything in return,” Storozhuk added.

In a recent announcement, Kevin Mead, Bylaw Services Manager, confirmed that the department is monitoring all boat launch usage—not only targeting commercial operators but also unlicensed individuals. “We’re ensuring compliance while keeping both venues as safe as possible,” Mead stated.

The situation escalates as operators were initially warned of $500 fines per boat starting today, but later learned from a senior bylaw member that those with proper business licenses and insurance would not face penalties. “They do take pictures of every truck and trailer,” Storozhuk noted, adding uncertainty to the enforcement process.

Traffic flaggers have been deployed to manage the area, ensuring safety for both commercial and recreational users. “The focus of our enforcement is education,” Mead explained. “We want to make sure everyone is aware of what is required or expected of them.”

This ongoing dialogue comes after renovations to the Water Street launch in April 2024 aimed at enhancing public safety and accessibility. However, operators claim the renovations lacked industry input, leading to design flaws that have made launching boats more hazardous.

As the city and the KMTA seek to find common ground, the urgency for a transparent fee structure and infrastructure improvements remains paramount. “Hopefully we will be able to cooperate and ensure that these fees are actually used to improve the boat launch,” Storozhuk said.

With the situation developing, all eyes are on the city’s next steps and how they will address the mounting concerns of the marine tourism industry in Kelowna. The outcome of this dialogue could significantly impact local watercraft operations and community safety moving forward.