PSA Sailing

This excellent Discussion of perceptions and suggestions seems to have covered most of the areas of concern requested by the Fleet Captain. Regardless the Budget proposal, it appears most of our immediate needs can be met with what appears to be the current scope meaning fix potholes, fix the sharp bend, repair the apron and underwater entrance etc. It would be nice to know if all the permits etc, are included in this price, the contractor has a license or if its a Midnight special. Beyond that, extending the length of the ramp or making it wider etc. etc. to more safely accommodate deeper draft, heavier or wider beamed boats does not seem to be included in that scope. Perhaps we should agree on use limitations and display them. Heavier double axle trailers and boats can definitely overload the design.. Staying within the available depth of the water and the available footprint for this ramp seems like the correct approach. Going beyond that will require a rethinking of the Scope of the project and users expectations. There is a big difference in a ramp design to launch a 1000 lb dinghy and that of a 7000lb Sea Ray with twin 400 Hp Outboards or a 27 foot multi hull. Lets fix what we have with the understanding that it has its limitations. Regards, Ross

One of our key Historians informed me that our Ramp was originally conceived and constructed to handle narrow beam shallow draft 20ft max vessels. No question that Trimarans and twin axle trailers have a difficult time especially in such tight quarters as our Turning circle. One of the key uses of our ramp is raft launch and recovery and smaller dinghy trailers for Jr. Sail vessels. Perhaps if we can limit the design scope to repairs necessary to support that mission it can be done this season.

Since this is not an emergency or life threatening project , the ramp is still usable, and the purpose of this discussion is to " look into getting the ramp repaired" and assist the Fleet captain to gather recommendations; perhaps it is a tad premature to propose this as a mature project plan and budget obligation especially with COVID having broad impacts on availability of labor and materials. R/Ross

I have used this ramp several times and yes, it definitely needs improvement and repair. Also, with the wall design and installation still in the planning phase, perhaps now is the time to consider its orientation and impact on the access to the ramp. In the grand scheme of things while being a problem, It should be placed on a priority list with other competing projects for the members to consider as part of the budget. I would also like to see some other engineering designs explored besides concrete. https://www.cmilc.com/solutions/marine-access-boat-ramps?gclid=Cj0KCQiAip-PBhDVARIsAPP2xc1hwisK_xROqp_BKiqoeXLuKeltv3fwk5betJHpZgXk6_0S0u0UxjEaAgyOEALw_wcB The above link offers some newer design concepts that may prove useful. Changing Environmental conditions are important to consider as well as Emergency Management Services access. We might even contact the Fire and Rescue folks for some input. In summary I agree it is in need of repair, replacement etc. but I think we have time to explore options. We have lived with it and cursed it for many years so I think we have time to not just fix it but improve and modernize the overall design. Regards, Ross

Thanks Mike and Board, you answered my question that the $11K is being borrowed from reserve to make room for other projects. While this is not a new concept, it was only done on Emergent Projects beyond the available Budget like the electric upgrade and no assessment was used. Its not about the cost as much as procedural practice and the absence of the Budget. The Bylaws of course are silent regarding Fiscal Management and Policy. I know about the bathroom job 12 years ago but needless to say, it is not a customary practice hence all the helpful comments. Respectfully, Ross

Mike and Board, I think if I interpret the tea leaves correctly, many members including my self, are for the project if needed and understand the benefits of making a prompt decision however what is left unsaid is what other new discretionary expense " wish list" items like the new skiff, boat ramp, boat masts etc. that were listed in previous posts, have remained in the Budget lines solely because the $11K is being borrowed from reserve instead of expensing the wall from the Budget?? Essentially, in addition to last years carryover, the money saved from cancellation of the Annual Banquet, hangover party, initiation fees and increased Mooring and slip fees, appears to provide the Board with a windfall of resources. Resorting to a special assessment without presenting the landscape of other planned Budget line items prevents members from fully understanding the urgency of need for the assessment. The project however seems well received. Regards, Ross

"Premature" is an understatement. The Budget is still under development, no emergent motion has been presented to the membership and comments from the Board indicate a vote on the Assessment will be forthcoming which considers all previous comments and suggestions AND an explaination and request from the membership for its approval. I have complete confidence in the members ability to comprehend the importance and need for an expedited project and to respond accordingly. Clearly an $18,000 project is worthy of compliance with the meaning and intent of the Bylaws. Ross

Keegan, last comment. I just received my 2022 price list for Anchors,chain,shackles etc. from my supplier. He also called me on Monday to suggest I order ASAP. It seems all his inventory of anchoring materials ordered last spring to support his 2022 contracts is delayed by at least 90 days and his costs are increasing by the day. His Pyramid anchors are currently priced at $1.85/lb (East Coast). Thats $925/500 lb for his current 2022 US price not including freight. Chain is also headed the same direction. You may be able to cruise the yards and find a used Pyramid at a better price. Regardless, your anchoring system total cost will be in the order of $2K not including labor. REBII Edit: (Canadian dollars)

Keegan, Great to hear from you. Good comments from Jim, I will add that exposure, bottom holding conditions, depth of water and tidal conditions play a big role in making your decision. I am familiar with the Tides in BC so as Jim suggest, talk to some old salts out there who moor in those waters. The size of the chains is also important as is the typical scope required for your conditions is probably more like 5/1 versus our 2/1 at PSA. lastly, a Folkboat is a great boat. She is also a relatively heavy displacement hull, stoutly build for her waterline and most made from Wood. When she starts to tug on her mooring in even moderate sea and wind, it puts quite a strain on your tackle. Make sure her cleats are sized for that job. If you have any questions of would like to just chat boat, my email is seaduce@comcast.net. Make sure you have a copy of Slocum's book on board! Ross Bradley

Excellent Project. Needs to be done and will contribute to the overall landscape of the club. One Comment: Since Senior members already significantly contribute to the reserve fund as part of annual dues, I would like to see this cost shared by all members who have voting rights which includes Life members who still have a boat at the club. To vote for a project which expends funds from the the Reserve Fund from which one is exempt from contributing to appears to me as a conflict of interest. This perspective is supported by standard Parliamentary rules followed by Most non-profit organizations. Regardless, its is a much needed project and I thank this Board for the effort. Ross