Storm Lake, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com)  — The Buena Vista County Conservation Board has established a new direction for the Storm Lake marina, prioritizing public-oriented development over administrative relocation.

During its April 7 meeting, the Board formally voted to maintain its conservation offices, naturalist programming, and operational functions at the existing Buena Vista County Park. That means the current offices will stay put at the location just south of Peterson.  This decision allows the board to move forward with previously paused plans to expand office and education space at the park location.

During its April 7 meeting, the Board formally voted to maintain its conservation offices, naturalist programming, and operational functions at the existing Buena Vista County Park. This decision allows the board to move forward with previously paused plans to expand office and education space at the park location.

While the county initially explored moving its headquarters to the marina to potentially save costs, officials determined that keeping operations at the park better serves the conservation system’s long-term functionality

With the administrative footprint removed from the equation, the Conservation Board is now inviting private entities to submit proposals for long-term lease opportunities at the marina. The board is looking for viable business concepts that enhance the area as a recreational destination.

The decision follows years of improvements to the property and a focused effort to gather community feedback. “Our goal has been to find a solution that balances public input with the long-term needs of the marina,” said Greg Johnson, Director of the BVCCB.  Contact Buena Vista County Conservation for more information.