Port of Coupeville established a policy offering a 50 percent discount to nonprofits on moorage and rental fees.

The move was in response to continued debate over a fair partnership with the nonprofit group that owns the sailing vessel Suva.

“I think we want that discount because Suva is valuable to visitor experience,” said Commissioner John Mishasek.

Commissioners have had a long-standing discussion over reasonable and fair rates to subsidize the nonprofit sailing vessel that utilizes prime moorage space during the wharf’s peak season.

“A standard 50-percent discount makes sense,” said Commissioner William Bell. “It’s something we can have year after year so we don’t have to have a continuous debate. “I’d like to make a single policy.”

Mishasek suggested making additional exceptions for Suva in addition to the policy.

Commissioner Bob Monroig said he wants to treat all nonprofit entities equally.

“I think a single policy that’s reasonable that encourages nonprofit participation in port facilities, I think makes sense,” Bell said, “and therefore I wouldn’t want to see exceptions to this rule, but I think a 50-percent discount is fair.”

Mishasek countered suggesting the board give the executive director the latitude to negotiate an agreement with Suva. The others agreed.

The 50-percent discount applies to nonprofits renting moorage at Coupeville Wharf and space at any port property.