Beginnings

In 2007, the federal government transferred ownership of the Port Dover Harbour Marina to Norfolk County as part of the Recreational Harbour Marina Divestiture Program. Norfolk County paid $1.00 for the marina and received a one-time federal grant of $200,000.00. One year later, Norfolk County received an unsolicited offer from a developer to lease, expand and operate the Port Dover Harbour Marina with the option to purchase. Strong support for this offer was outlined in a Norfolk County Staff report, even though federal covenants preventing the sale of the property for four more years were still in place and no Request for Proposals had been issued.

This situation prompted a group of seven Port Dover residents to meet regularly to develop a plan of action to encourage the County to keep the marina as a publicly owned and operated facility. After seeking legal advice, the group decided to formally organize and develop a viable business plan to counter the developer’s plan. To do this, the group founded the Port Dover Waterfront Preservation Association, a not-for-profit corporation. The Association received its Letters Patent on December 15, 2008.

The Association encouraged other community organizations, local politicians, and the public to support the Port Dover Harbour Marina remaining as a publicly owned and operated facility. As a result of growing public pressure, initiated by the Association, Norfolk County decided to reject the unsolicited offer from the developer. The Port Dover Harbour Marina was to remain as a publicly owned and operated facility.

Since 2008, the Association has continued to advocate for the preservation of our waterfront for community enjoyment.