Reef Relief offered Thompson Fish House as new home; city and nonprofit to define costs and fundraising path

Port staff and the property manager presented options to relocate Reef Relief into the city‑owned Thompson Fish House while its current site is redeveloped. Staff said the building needs substantial work to host a public, hands‑on marine center: flooring repairs, ventilation and air conditioning, bathroom facilities and secure, code‑compliant public access.

Port staff estimated design and construction costs in the broad $450,000–$500,000 range for the work needed to convert Thompson Fish House into a usable education and exhibit space. Commissioners and staff agreed the Waterfront/Maritime (BITE) advisory board should review options and provide a recommendation in November that lays out which capital items the city would fund and which Reef Relief could reasonably raise through donations or a capital campaign.

Reef Relief said the organization wants a hybrid classroom/theater and interactive exhibit area and prefers to remain in the Thompson Fish House location if feasible; the nonprofit also said the hospitality house option is not large enough to house its full current program and staff. Commissioners signaled broad support for Reef Relief’s mission but stressed the need for a clear funding plan before committing city capital; staff said they would return with detailed costs and potential lease terms after BITE’s review.

No final budget commitment was made; staff will solicit BITE advice and return with a detailed cost and lease recommendation.