The city of Martinez has been notified by Suntex Marinas — the company that recently acquired the city’s longtime marina operator, Almar Marina Management — that Suntex will exercise its option to terminate its marina management contract with the city, effective Aug. 21.

The city said Suntex primarily owns the marinas it operates, which differs from the city’s publicly owned marina.

The city said in a statement that the move will have several significant impacts related to marina operations and city staff are working on short-term and permanent solutions. No possible impacts or solutions were outlined in the city’s statement.

The city said it is focused on a smooth marina management transition and long-term planning to improve the waterfront’s economic viability and prominence.

“The city is taking immediate steps to ensure marina operations continue seamlessly, so that those who enjoy our waterfront, in particular those who moor their boat in the marina, can continue to do so,” said Martinez Mayor Brianne Zorn. “We are keeping the public, including boat owners, informed throughout the process.”

“The city remains committed to our ambitious long-term vision of making the waterfront a regional destination,” Zorn said.

Zorn and Community and Economic Development Director Jill Bergman held question and answer sessiois expectedns with the public at the marina on Friday and Saturday. The Martinez City Council is expected to hear a report at its next meeting this Wednesday at 7 p.m.

A foundation for managing the marina

The waterfront has recently experienced safety-related issues, including the closure of the Marina Bait and Tackle Shop and storm-related pier damage.

The Martinez Waterfront Plan is the foundation for managing the city’s overall approach to marina improvements and revenue increases.

“The city is taking immediate steps to ensure marina operations continue seamlessly, so that those who enjoy our waterfront … can continue to do so.” Mayor Brianne Zorn

“It is important for our community to understand that the marina is very expensive to maintain and that it does not generate enough revenue to cover operational costs or repay debt from marina improvement loans from decades ago,” said Bergman. “The city’s exciting waterfront plan addresses these issues, including full marina redevelopment, new seawall construction, education/event center development, tidal marsh restoration, pier renovation, and several park and recreation improvements.”

Bergman said the city is disappointed at the closure of the marina bait shop but said safety is its most important consideration. A recent inspection showed significant damage to most of the shop’s structure, forcing the city to close the shop.

“We are exploring an agreement with a new business partner to operate a store on the Martinez waterfront in a new structure, such as a manufactured building,” she said.

More information about plans for the waterfront and marina can be found on the city’s website. For questions, email Jill Bergman or phone 925-500-3460.