Haines fishermen aren’t opposed to paying for using the crane at the Small Boat Harbor, but they don’t want to have to go to city hall for a key to unlock it. 

Gillnetters, city councilors and boat harbor committee members on Monday worked out a proposed ordinance change for using the crane that would require a seasonal or per-use fee. 

Those paying a seasonal rate would get a key, otherwise keys would be available at the harbormaster’s office and at the police station. Proposed fees are $10 per use or $50 for a season. 

“Everybody who understands the value of the crane, and that we’re going to have to pay for it,” said fisherman Stan Wood. An ordinance setting fees and key policy is being drafted to be introduced at the next council meeting. 

Wood said he’d like to see penalties for unauthorized use of the crane. If funds raised by the fee exceed maintenance on the crane, the city should buy an additional, smaller lift, he said. “There’s no point wearing his big crane out to pick up 300 pounds at a time.” 

City administrator Vince Hansen said he’d also like to establish a log of crane use, in part to determine wear and tear on equipment. Replacing the crane would cost an estimated $36,000.