While they are still working to bring the pontoon back to Horseshoe Bay this Summer, Alexandrina Councillors have expressed concern about costs, liability and risk.
The flotation device washed ashore in stormy weather on the weekend of 14 and 15 September after the mooring came loose. The structure was removed for an assessment of the damage but has not been returned since.
Community groups have been campaigning in recent months for it to be re-installed, including the Port Elliot Surf Life Saving Club and Port Elliot Town and Foreshore Improvement Association.
After pledging to bring it back in a special Council meeting in November and this week resolving to support the reintroduction of the pontoon to Horseshoe Bay, they still have issues to work through.
The cost to meet management requirements for the remainder of this financial year to provide for labour, specialised contractors and maintenance operational costs has blown out from the previously estimated $36,785 to now $58,853.
“Council still believes the requirements of our insurers are still cost-prohibitive for our community,” Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes said.
“We will continue to have further discussions with our insurers about this issue.
“We know that Alexandrina is not the only coastal council grappling with the insurance risk of pontoons, and we are advised that the South Australian Coastal Councils Alliance is advocating on behalf of Councils across the State for practical requirements for managing pontoons and coastal assets for the sector.
“We are hoping that the Alliance and the LGA can come to an agreement that makes it affordable for our communities to have these popular assets.
“At this point, Council has concerns about the significant cost to ratepayers and how we need to manage the risk and liability of the pontoon.
“Council welcomes discussions with prospective community groups. Come and talk to us so we can work through a solution together.”
