Board hears Maverick Marine request; approves port/marine infrastructure financing motion

The board reviewed a $4.5 million funding request to support a marine manufacturing launch, bulkhead work and a 300‑ton travel lift at Wakanda Marina. Staff recommended a loan at 2.5% over 20 years and noted the port and applicant are exploring value‑engineering options to stagger costs.

Bailey Shutech, president of Maverick Marine, described a large multi‑year ferry contract and the company’s workforce needs: "We grew from a handful of employees to about 50 people... We're at 100 people now, looking to grow to 120 at the end of the year and to 150 to 170 people next year," he said. Board members asked about shore‑side infrastructure, permitting timelines and workforce training; speakers noted that shore power and dredging are constraints and that staged construction (bulkhead first, pier later) could reduce upfront costs.

Staff and the board discussed leveraging workforce programs (CareerConnect and local apprenticeships) to ensure training pipelines. After discussion, the board moved, seconded and approved staff’s recommendation to support the port and Maverick Marine project; staff will finalize financing terms and adjust scope as necessary.