Storm damage repairs approved for Morro Bay harbor

Morro Bay Harbor's damaged docks have been in need of repairs for years, but recent storms have made the situation much worse. 

Morro Bay Harbor Director Ted Schiafone has expressed concerns over the dire state of the docks, which are causing boats to be pushed out of line and making it difficult for people to step onto the docks without fear of falling into the water.

The Morro Bay City Council has planned to vote on allocating up to $80,000 for emergency dock repairs, as the damage is now too significant to ignore. While a meeting to discuss the funding was postponed due to blackouts affecting the telecast, the repairs are seen as an emergency and will be prioritized, according to a report by New Times.

Schiafone, who has worked as the city's harbor director for the past six months, believes that stakeholder engagement and identifying appropriate revenue sources will be crucial components of the process. However, harbor supporters have faced challenges in attempting to get money allocated for upkeep and needed infrastructure repairs.

The recent storm damage to the docks is expected to cost millions of dollars to repair, and the Harbor Department is attempting to turn to FEMA as a source of assistance in addition to what the city can provide. 

While the recent damage has highlighted the urgent need for repairs, Schiafone hopes that the repairs will encourage more people to support harbor emergency repair funds, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the harbor.