B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement Fall Consultation and Engagement Summary Report February 2013

Transcription

1 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Summary Report B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report February Prepared by: Kirk & Co. Consulting Ltd. & Mustel Group

2 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT About Kirk & Co. Consulting Ltd. Kirk & Co. Consulting Ltd. is a recognized industry leader in designing and implementing comprehensive public and stakeholder consultation and engagement programs. Utilizing best practices, consultation and engagement programs are designed to maximize opportunities for input. Kirk & Co. works with internationally recognized polling firms to independently analyze and report on large volumes of public and stakeholder input. About Mustel Group Mustel Group is a Canadian marketing and public opinion research firm. All consultation and engagement input received by feedback form and written submission has been independently verified and analyzed by Mustel Group. The views represented in the feedback forms in this report reflect the priorities and concerns of consultation and engagement participants. They may not be representative of the views of the public and other stakeholders because participants self-selected into the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012, and therefore do not reflect a random sample. The views represented in the public opinion poll in this report reflect the views of a representative sample of British Columbia residents that were randomly selected to complete the same online feedback form. The final sample of 500 residents completing an online survey yields a margin of error of +/-4.4% margin of error at the 95% level of confidence. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

3 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... 1 Background... 1 Purpose Overview of Results INTRODUCTION Consultation and Engagement Overview Pre-Consultation and Engagement B.C. COASTAL FERRIES CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT, OCTOBER 29 DECEMBER 21, Purpose Consultation and Engagement Topics Notification Participation Consultation and Engagement Methods Discussion Guide and Feedback Form Online Consultation Small Group Meetings and Webinar Public Open Houses Public Opinion Poll KEY RESULTS Key Theme Summary from Small Group Meetings and Public Open Houses Feedback Forms Written Submissions Public Opinion Poll APPENDICES Appendix 1 Pre-Consultation and Engagement Summary Report Appendix 2 Consultation and Engagement Discussion Guide and Feedback Form and Appendix: Route-Specific Information Appendix 3 Small Group Meeting Notes Appendix 4 Public Open House Q&A Session Notes Appendix 5 Display Boards Appendix 6 Advertisements and Notifications Appendix 7 Social Media Notifications Appendix 8 Feedback Forms* Appendix 9 Written Submissions* Appendix 10 Public Opinion Poll CD copy of materials *Available on request

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT A. BACKGROUND BC Ferry Services Inc. (BC Ferries) operates one of the largest integrated marine transportation networks in the world. Despite being comparable in efficiency with the world s best services, rising costs and declining ridership have created a financial challenge for the corporation. BC Ferries lost more than $16 million in the fiscal year ending March 31, The independent BC Ferry Commissioner noted in his January 2012 report that, without changes, increasing costs and the ongoing need to replace aging vessels could drive funding shortfalls to $56 million a year within the next five years. These shortfalls would have to be recovered through one or more of the following mechanisms: operating efficiencies, additional fare increases, service adjustments (mostly reductions), increased contributions from taxpayers or other forms of contributions from coastal communities. B. PURPOSE B.C. COASTAL FERRIES CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT, FALL 2012 A Public and Stakeholder Consultation and Engagement, held from October 29 to December 21, 2012, was designed to consult and engage the public and stakeholders about the depth and nature of the challenges facing the coastal ferry system and invited feedback and input on two areas under consideration: 1. Immediate Challenge: The first part of the consultation and engagement sought feedback on the considerations to achieve $26 million in savings to Long-Term Vision: The second part of the consultation and engagement invited feedback on what strategies should be pursued to achieve the long-term vision of connecting coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT PARTICIPATION There were a total of 4,518 participant interactions during Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012: 2,056 people attended 41 consultation events > 502 people attended 13 small group meetings (487 participants) and 1 webinar (15) > 1,554 people attended 27 public open houses 1,259 feedback forms received > 988 online feedback forms > 271 hard-copy feedback forms 703 written submissions received 500 people randomly selected to participate in an online public opinion poll Some people may have participated through multiple methods, such as attending a consultation and engagement meeting and completing a feedback form. 1 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

5 C. OVERVIEW OF RESULTS There were a variety of methods by which participants provided feedback into the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement. The following section is an overview of the results from input received through feedback forms, public opinion poll, written submissions, and consultation and engagement meeting key themes. Detailed results from each of the feedback methods mentioned above are summarized in this report beginning on page 18. FEEDBACK FORM AND PUBLIC OPINION POLL OVERVIEW OF RESULTS CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW OF FEEDBACK The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries will need to look at a combination of these considerations to find $26 million in savings, but are interested in your view on the prioritization of these considerations. QUESTION 1: PLEASE INDICATE YOUR PREFERENCE BY RANKING THE FOLLOWING CONSIDERATIONS FROM 1 6, WITH 1 BEING THE MOST IMPORTANT AND 6 BEING THE LEAST IMPORTANT. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM The Consultation and Engagement Feedback Form results represent views from participants who self selected into the engagement. 1. Basic Levels of Ferry Service 46% ranked as top priority 2. Significant Annual Shortfalls 17% ranked as top priority 3. Complexity of Multiple-Stop Routes 12% ranked top priority 4. Low Round-Trip Utilization 9% ranked as top priority 5. Low Annual Utilization 8% ranked as top priority 6. Routes Requiring Vessel Replacement 7% ranked top priority Base: All those ranking their top 3 preferences (n=972) Top 3 Additional Comments: Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (162) Reduce/cancel underused routes or sailings (130) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers (110) Base (n=428) PUBLIC OPINION POLL The Public Opinion Poll results represent a proportionally representative sample of the population of British Columbia who were randomly selected by the research firm. 1. Basic Levels of Ferry Service 45% ranked as top priority 2. Significant Annual Shortfalls 18% ranked as top priority 3. Low Annual Utilization 13% ranked as top priority 4. Low Round-Trip Utilization 10% ranked as top priority 5. Complexity of Multiple-Stop Routes 9% ranked top priority 6. Routes Requiring Vessel Replacement 5% ranked top priority Base: All those ranking their top 3 preferences (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Reduce/cancel underused routes or sailings (96) Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (92) Miscellaneous suggestions regarding changes to the service (i.e., build a bridge, consider the size of ferry, replace/refit) (39) Base (n=187) QUESTION 2: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH BC FERRIES REDUCING SAILINGS TO ACHIEVE $26 MILLION IN SAVINGS TO CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM PUBLIC OPINION POLL 47% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 46% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) 1 Base (n=1,161) Top 3 Additional Comments: Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings (141) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers (137) Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (115) Base (n=508) 1 The remaining number is comprised of Neither Agree nor Disagree 58% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 30% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Reduce/cancel underused routes or sailings (85) Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (79) Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (64) Base (n=228) 2

6 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW OF FEEDBACK continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT QUESTION 3A: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH CONNECTING COASTAL COMMUNITIES USING ALTERNATIVE FERRY TECHNOLOGIES, SUCH AS CABLE FERRIES OR PASSENGER-ONLY VESSELS. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 66% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 21% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,152) Top 3 Additional Comments: Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) (116) Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) (68) Support cable ferries that will still allow vehicle traffic (61) Base (n=309) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 67% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 11% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) (67) Support cable ferries that will still allow vehicle traffic (33) Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) (27) Base (n=141) QUESTION 3B: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH SERVING SOME ROUTES USING A COMBINATION OF PASSENGER-ONLY FERRIES AND A BARGE TO TRANSPORT VEHICLES. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 51% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 32% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,129) Top 3 Additional Comments: Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduce vehicle usage) (44) Problems with barges (i.e., increased travel time, safety) (39) Support use of barges that still allow vehicle traffic (34) Base (n=235) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 63% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 18% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Problems with barges (i.e., increased travel time, safety) (27) Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) (24) Dependent upon route/current level of service (17) Base (n=93) QUESTION 3C: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH SERVING ROUTES WHERE THE PROXIMITY AND SERVICE NEEDS ARE SUCH THAT TWO OR MORE ROUTES COULD SHARE A CAR FERRY AND A PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY ON ALTERNATE DAYS OR PARTS OF DAYS. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 58% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 26% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,130) Top 3 Additional Comments: Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) (36) Dependent upon route/current level of service (35) Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduce vehicle usage) (25) Base (n=176) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 76% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 11% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Dependent upon route/current level of service (12) Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (11) Does not appear to provide any cost savings (9) Base (n=48) 3 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

7 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW OF FEEDBACK continued QUESTION 3D: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH SERVING SOME ROUTES BY A BRIDGE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 62% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 24% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,147) Top 3 Additional Comments: Build a fixed-link, bridge or tunnel (210) Too expensive/extra burden on taxpayers (75) Most economical solution in the long term/tolls would pay for construction/maintenance (73) Base (n=404) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 63% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 20% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Most economical solution in the long term/tolls would pay for construction/maintenance (42) Too expensive/extra burden on taxpayers (31) Not feasible on most routes (22) Base (n=115) QUESTION 3E: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH IMPROVING LINKAGES BETWEEN FERRY TERMINALS AND COMMUNITIES WITH BETTER CYCLING CONNECTIONS OR BETTER PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 78% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 8% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,141) Top 3 Additional Comments: Supportive of improved public transit connections (196) Cycling is not a feasible option for the area/majority of users (45) Supportive of improved cycling options/positive cycling comments (39) Base (n=305) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 76% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 9% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Supportive of improved public transit connections (57) Cycling is not a feasible option for the area/majority of users (18) Would decrease vehicle traffic/environmentally friendly (15) Base (n=95) QUESTION 3F: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS, SUCH AS LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG), TO POWER FERRIES WHERE IT IS ECONOMICALLY FEASIBLE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 78% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 7% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,145) Top 3 Additional Comments: Dependent on cost (i.e., retrofitting ferries, cost of LNG) (207) Environmental concerns associated with LNG (57) Environmentally friendly/reduced carbon footprint (39) Base (n=305) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 80% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 3% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Dependent on cost (i.e., retrofitting ferries, cost of LNG) (70) Environmentally friendly/reduced carbon footprint (29) Environmental concerns associated with LNG (17) Base (n=104) 4

8 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW OF FEEDBACK continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT QUESTION 3G: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH STANDARDIZING VESSELS AND DOCKS TO ALLOW FLEXIBILITY TO SWITCH FERRIES AND CREWS BETWEEN ROUTES. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 83% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 5% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,143) Top 3 Additional Comments: Dependent upon the cost of standardizing vessels/docks (73) Would improve efficiency (i.e., staffing, maintenance) (43) Use smaller vessels (11) Base (n=153) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 83% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 5% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 2 Additional Comments: Dependent upon the cost of standardizing vessels/docks (38) Would improve efficiency (i.e., staffing, maintenance) (26) Base (n=63) QUESTION 4A: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH INCREASING PROPERTY TAX IN COASTAL COMMUNITIES TO HELP FUND FERRY SERVICE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 21% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 71% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,159) Top 3 Additional Comments: BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province/taxpayers (278) Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user (88) Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (44) Base (n=448) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 38% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 48% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Should be user paid/increase fares (58) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province (41) Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes (24) Base (n=145) QUESTION 4B: PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF MENT WITH INCREASING FUEL TAXES IN COASTAL COMMUNITIES TO HELP FUND FERRY SERVICE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM 20% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 71% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=1,142) Top 3 Additional Comments: BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province/taxpayers (143) Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user (35) Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (33) Base (n=248) PUBLIC OPINION POLL 32% of participants agree (strongly or somewhat) 51% of participants disagree (strongly or somewhat) Base (n=500) Top 3 Additional Comments: Should be user paid/increase fares (31) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province (14) Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes (10) Base (n=75) 5 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

9 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW OF FEEDBACK continued QUESTION 5: PLEASE PROVIDE ANY INNOVATIVE IDEAS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING CHANGES TO THE B.C. COASTAL FERRY SYSTEM TO MAKE IT MORE SUSTAINABLE. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM Of the 1,259 participants, 683 provided innovative ideas regarding changes to the B.C. coastal ferry system to make it more sustainable. Top 3 Comments: Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership (239) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province/taxpayers (156) Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (138) Base (n=683) PUBLIC OPINION POLL Of the 500 participants, 186 provided innovative ideas regarding changes to the B.C. coastal ferry system to make it more sustainable. Top 3 Comments: Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (55) Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership (35) Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings (32) Base (n=186) QUESTION 6: OTHER ADDITIONAL COMMENTS. CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT FEEDBACK FORM Of the 1,259 participants, 321 provided other additional comments. Top 3 Comments: BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province/taxpayers (99) Ferry service is an essential service/coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) and basic service/routes must be maintained (79) Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (68) Base (n=321) PUBLIC OPINION POLL Of the 500 participants, 55 provided other additional comments. Top 3 Comments: Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) (17) Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership (14) Build a fixed-link/bridge/tunnel (13) Base (n=55) 6

10 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS Open-ended feedback was received in the form of 703 written submissions. The top 10 key themes from written submissions were: B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT RANK KEY THEME KEY THEMES FROM WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS 1 BC Ferries is part of the highway system and should be funded by taxpayers and the government 2 If fares were lowered, discounts were offered or the reservation fee was removed, ridership would increase 3 The ferry service is an essential service and coastal communities are completely dependent upon ferries to meet economic needs and maintain quality of life; basic service and routes should be maintained 4 Service reductions would have a negative economic and social impact, further reducing ridership NUMBER OF MENTIONS PERCENTAGE OF MENTIONS % % % % 5 Comments about the consultation/information provided/feedback process % 6 Reduce operational costs associated with crew sizes, fuel, maintenance, salaries, pensions and other compensation % 7 Inland ferries should not be free and coastal ferry users should be treated the same % 8 Dissatisfaction towards the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act, and/or BC Ferries should revert back to a Crown corporation % 9 Support for the use of alternative methods to connect coastal communities % 10 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings % 2 Of 294 submissions that make critical reference to the consultation process, 210 were a form letter from the Powell River Economic Development Society, submitted by local residents. The form letter noted the process was flawed and did not represent meaningful consultation. 7 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

11 KEY THEME SUMMARY FROM PUBLIC OPEN HOUSES AND SMALL GROUP MEETINGS While many comments and questions were heard in each of the 13 small group meetings, webinar, and 27 public open houses held in British Columbia coastal communities, the following is a summary of the most frequently mentioned key themes. It is important to note that this key theme summary represents a qualitative analysis of public open house and small group meeting notes, as opposed to the quantitative analysis of feedback forms, which is summarized in the Executive Summary and presented in more detail starting on page 30. Please refer to pages for the key theme summary for each of the 41 meetings. 1. Fares are not affordable (a key theme at 33 meetings) Participants are extremely concerned about the lack of affordability of fares. Participants said that high fares have contributed to a decline in ridership and tourism. As a result, they said that coastal communities are experiencing negative socio-economic effects as families and businesses move away because they can no longer afford to live and do business in their communities. Participants expressed a strong desire for fares to be reduced, adding that reduced fares, discounts or differential pricing to incent travel on sailings with low utilization will increase ridership. 2. BC Ferries should be an essential part of the provincial highway system and should be funded by the province and taxpayers (a key theme at 32 meetings) Participants expressed a strong desire for BC Ferries to be under the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because their view is that ferries constitute a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants added that, as part of the provincial transportation system, coastal ferries should be focused on providing safe, reliable transportation with no frills. 3. Suggestions regarding increasing revenue or reducing operational costs (a key theme at 27 meetings) Participants provided suggestions for how the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries could increase revenue or reduce operating costs. Suggestions included increasing tourism marketing and advertising activities to encourage greater ridership; considering differential pricing, such as off-peak rates or seniors discounts, to increase ridership on low-utilization sailings; reducing BC Ferries labour, administrative and management costs; considering alternative fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), to power ferries; reducing the amount of infrastructure (specifically, the number of ferry terminals in Nanaimo); and generally reassessing the B.C. coastal ferries service, including consideration of passenger-only ferries, bridges and cable ferries. It should be noted that not all participants were supportive of passenger-only ferries, seniors discounts, bridges or cable ferries, citing that they did not serve the needs of their respective communities. 4. Concerns and suggestions regarding BC Ferries operations (a key theme at 20 meetings) Participants expressed frustration with several aspects of BC Ferries operations and suggested potential solutions, including improvements to the reservation system, scheduling and coordination with connecting ferries and transit, and changing the locations of home ports. Participants stated that the current reservation system is not meeting the needs of islanders, noting that it is unreliable and there is a lack of information about cancellation or delays, particularly on the north- and mid-coast routes, where sailings are less frequent. Participants also noted that the ferry schedule on some routes does not provide convenient sailing times for tourists who would otherwise travel and contribute to the economy. Participants suggested home-porting vessels at different locations to reduce deadheads. 5. Opposition to service reductions (a key theme at 11 meetings) Participants expressed opposition to service reductions because coastal communities are heavily reliant on ferries to access employment, education, health services and other essential services. Should service reductions occur, participants cited concerns about losing employment on- and off-island and about a continued decline in the tourism economy. 6. Opposition to increased taxes to fund ferry service (a key theme at 6 meetings) Participants expressed their opposition to using increased local property or fuel taxes to pay for the ferry service, citing recent fare increases and coastal economies that are already struggling. 8

12 1. INTRODUCTION B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 1.1 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW A Consultation and Engagement Discussion Guide and Feedback Form was developed and outlined the following: IMMEDIATE CHALLENGE The BC Ferry Commissioner concluded in his January 2012 report that the government, BC Ferries and ferry users will all need to contribute towards ensuring the sustainability of the ferry system. In response to the BC Ferry Commissioner s report: The Province is contributing an additional $79.5 million on behalf of taxpayers to 2016 BC Ferries has committed to achieve $15 million in efficiency improvements Ferry users are being asked to contribute $30 million through service adjustments: > $4 million has been found through service reductions on the major routes between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland > There is a need to find $26 million in savings to 2016 The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries have identified the following considerations to achieve $26 million in savings to 2016: Significant Annual Shortfalls: Consider service reductions on routes that experience significant annual financial shortfalls before taxpayer contributions Low Annual Utilization: Consider service reductions on routes that experience low annual utilization (such as less than 55% total utilization per year) Low Round-Trip Utilization: Consider service reductions on routes that experience low round-trip utilization (such as round-trip sailings that have less than 20% utilization) Basic Levels of Ferry Service: Basic levels of service should be considered, i.e., for the majority of users, ferry service would be provided to and from work or school Routes Requiring Vessel Replacement: When considering service reductions, take into account routes that require imminent vessel replacements, including alternatives such as route reconfiguration Complexity of Multiple-Stop Routes: When considering service reductions, take into account the complexity of routes with multiple ports and those that provide connections to other areas These considerations are not mutually exclusive. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries will need to look at a combination of these considerations to find $26 million in savings, and sought public feedback on the prioritization of these considerations. 9 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

13 A VISION FOR THE FUTURE The BC Ferry Commissioner has estimated that, with the current trends of labour and fuel cost increases, and anticipating the need to replace aging ferry infrastructure, funding shortfalls from 2016 to 2020 could average $56 million per year, while from 2020 to 2024, they could continue at $85 million per year. The Province is committed to a long-term vision to connect coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. It is clear that BC Ferries and B.C. taxpayers need a long-term plan to fund or avoid the predicted shortfalls. The BC Ferry Commissioner recommended that a vision should be based on a long-term forecast of demand and that it should consider the potential use of alternative service providers, fuel alternatives and integration with other transportation systems. He also recommended a standardization of vessels, making it easier to switch vessels and crews (who would not need additional training) between routes. There are many other potential innovations. For example, a change to different vessel types (i.e., cable ferries, passenger-only ferries, barges that carry vehicles, etc.), a change in the way BC Ferries manages traffic and books reservations, or servicing a small number of routes more efficiently with bridges 3. One long-term goal is to bring ferry fare increases in line with the increase in the cost of living (as defined by the Consumer Price Index or CPI). While fare increases will continue to be one method of generating additional revenue, ferry users and coastal communities might choose to contribute through community contributions (i.e., a fee, charge or tax) sufficient to cover some or all of the increasing ferry service costs. If a property tax were to be used, it could be levied equally among all communities or could vary by area. Likewise, a fuel tax could be introduced to cover some of the shortfall and be levied equally among all coastal regional districts or varied by area. 3 Islands Trust has expressed their opposition to bridges, including in their Policy Statement: "It is Trust Council's policy that no island in the Trust Area should be connected to Vancouver Island, the mainland or another island by a bridge or tunnel, notwithstanding the existing bridge between North and South Pender Islands." (Policy 5.3.2) 10

14 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 1.2 PRE-CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT In October 2012, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI) sought Pre-Consultation and Engagement input from key stakeholders regarding the design and content of its B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement program. As part of the process, one-on-one telephone interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, and meetings were held with Ferry Advisory Committee Chairs and Coastal Regional District Chairs to review the draft Discussion Guide and Feedback Form. Input received during Pre-Consultation and Engagement was considered by MoTI in finalizing the public and community stakeholder and engagement process and materials. The following is a summary of MoTI s response to input received during this Pre-Consultation and Engagement: 15 communities were added to the schedule, for a total of 30 communities visited during the consultation and engagement > 20 small group meetings or public open houses were added, for a total of 40 consultation events (27 of which were public open houses) Some small group meetings that were scheduled during daytime hours were changed to evening or weekend public open houses New small group meetings or public open houses were scheduled for evenings or weekends Notification advertisements included the fact that public open houses would include a question and answer session for the last 90 minutes of the three-hour meetings A footnote was inserted into the Discussion Guide and Feedback Form to note Islands Trust s policy regarding bridges Utilization tables were revised to illustrate round-trip utilization. This information was also included on the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement website. The B.C. Coastal Ferries Pre-Consultation and Engagement Summary Report can be found in Appendix B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

15 2. B.C. COASTAL FERRIES CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT, OCTOBER 29 DECEMBER 21, PURPOSE The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure undertook the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement to seek input into considerations to find $26 million in savings to 2016 and, in the longer term, strategies to connect coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. The public and stakeholder input summarized in this consultation and engagement summary report will be considered, along with technical, financial and policy considerations, as the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries plan for the long-term sustainability of the coastal transportation system. 2.2 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT TOPICS The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure sought public and stakeholder feedback on the following consultation topics: 1. Immediate Challenge: What is the best way of achieving $26 million in savings to 2016? 2. Long-Term Vision: What is the best way to connect coastal communities? 2.3 NOTIFICATION Notice of opportunities to participate in the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement was comprehensive, including the following: Notification and Reminder s: More than 1,700 stakeholders were sent notifications and reminders of opportunities to participate in the small group meetings, webinar and public open houses, or to submit a feedback form online, by or by mail. Follow-Up Phone Calls: More than 3,500 follow-up phone calls were made to remind stakeholders and the public of small group meetings, public open houses and online feedback opportunities. Advertising: The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure notified stakeholders and the public about the opportunity to participate in the consultation and engagement through print advertising: > Newspaper: A newspaper advertisement was placed in 20 local, regional and provincial publications, notifying the public and stakeholders about the consultation and engagement. The advertisement included a list of meetings that were scheduled in each coastal community around the province, as well as opportunities to provide input online. > News Release: A provincial news release was issued on October 29 to promote the consultation and engagement, and to notify the public about in-person and online participation opportunities. 12

16 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT Social Media: 68 tweets were sent from the project s Twitter which has approximately 105 followers. These tweets were retweeted by the Ministry of Transportation and BC and the provincial government's social media news > All tweets were retweeted at least once, reaching an estimated 36,000 Twitter accounts Consultation and Engagement Website: A dedicated consultation and engagement website, coastalferriesengagement.ca, was launched on October 29. All consultation and engagement materials are available on the project website. A copy of all notification materials can be found in Appendices 6 and PARTICIPATION There were multiple opportunities for the public and stakeholders to participate in the B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement from October 29 December 21, There were a total of 4,518 participant interactions during this time. 2,056 people attended 41 consultation events > 502 people attended 13 small group meetings (487 participants) and 1 webinar (15) > 1,554 people attended 27 public open houses 1,259 feedback forms received > 988 online feedback forms > 271 hard-copy feedback forms 703 written submissions received 500 people were randomly selected to participate in an online public opinion poll Some people may have participated through multiple methods, such as attending a consultation and engagement meeting and completing a feedback form. 13 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

17 2.5 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT METHODS Public consultation and engagement materials were available online at coastalferriesengagement.ca beginning on October 29, Input and feedback were collected through the following methods: DISCUSSION GUIDE AND FEEDBACK FORM A 20-page Discussion Guide and Feedback Form was developed to explain the immediate challenges that BC Ferries faces and potential strategies for connecting coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. This document was used in small group meetings with stakeholders, ferry users, local government and the public, and was available in PDF format on the consultation and engagement website coastalferriesengagement.ca. An online version of the feedback form was also available. Results from the feedback forms can be found beginning on page 30 of this report. A copy of the Discussion Guide and Feedback Form can be found in Appendix ONLINE CONSULTATION Consultation and Engagement Website: All consultation and engagement materials were available on the project website coastalferriesengagement.ca, including an online version of the feedback form that could be submitted electronically. Of the 1,259 feedback forms received, 988 were received online through this consultation and engagement method. Social Media: A dedicated project Twitter account (@coastalferries) was established to notify stakeholders and the public of ways to participate in the consultation and engagement, including public open house meeting dates and times, links to the online feedback form and consultation materials, and reminders to submit feedback in hard copy or online before the December 21, 2012 deadline. 68 tweets were sent from the project s Twitter which has approximately 105 followers. These tweets were retweeted by the Ministry of Transportation and BC and the provincial government's social media news > All tweets were retweeted at least once, reaching an estimated 36,000 Twitter accounts 14

18 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT SMALL GROUP MEETINGS AND WEBINAR 502 people attended 13 small group meetings and a webinar held on the following dates: SMALL GROUP MEETINGS LOCATION DATE TIME 1. Queen Charlotte City Wednesday, November 7, :00pm 3:00pm 2. Prince Rupert Friday, November 9, :00pm 3:00pm 3. Nanaimo Thursday, November 15, Salt Spring Island Thursday, November 15, :00am 11:00am 1:00pm 3:00pm 9:00am 11:00am 2:00pm 4:00pm 5. Powell River Monday, November 19, :00pm 3:00pm 6. Port Hardy Friday, November 23, :00am 11:00am 7. Vancouver Monday, November 26, :00pm 3:00pm 8. Cortes Island Wednesday, November 28, :00am 1:00pm 9. Gibsons Saturday, December 1, :00am 12:00pm 10. Comox/Courtenay Tuesday, December 4, :00pm 4:00pm 11. Victoria Wednesday, December 5, :00pm 3:00pm 12. Webinar Tuesday, December 11, :00pm 3:00pm A Kirk & Co. facilitator and meeting recorder attended the small group meetings with Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries project team members. At each meeting, participants were provided with a copy of the Discussion Guide and Feedback Form and Appendix: Route-Specific Information. A Ministry representative presented information, focusing on the consultation and engagement topics. Participants were encouraged to provide comments to and ask questions of the project team. At in-person meetings, some participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to review and provide feedback, and appreciated that senior Ministry staff were present at the meetings. A record was kept of small group meetings; these notes can be found in Appendix 3. Key themes from each of the small group meetings are summarized in this report beginning on page B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

19 2.5.4 PUBLIC OPEN HOUSES 1,554 people attended 27 public open house meetings held on the following dates: PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE MEETINGS LOCATION DATE TIME 1. Sandspit Tuesday, November 6, :00pm 9:00pm 2. Queen Charlotte City Wednesday, November 7, :00pm 9:00pm 3. Masset Thursday, November 8, :00pm 9:00pm 4. Gabriola Island Tuesday, November 13, :00pm 9:00pm 5. Penelakut Wednesday, November 14, :00pm 3:00pm 6. Thetis Island Wednesday, November 14, :00pm 8:00pm 7. Pender Island Wednesday, November 14, :00pm 8:00pm 8. Salt Spring Island Thursday, November 15, :00pm 9:00pm 9. Nanaimo Thursday, November 15, :00pm 9:00pm 10. Galiano Island Saturday, November 17, :00pm 3:00pm 11. Powell River Monday, November 19, :00pm 9:00pm 12. Klemtu Tuesday, November 20, :00pm 9:00pm 13. Bella Coola Wednesday, November 21, :00pm 9:00pm 14. Alert Bay Thursday, November 22, :00pm 9:00pm 15. Sointula Friday, November 23, :00pm 9:00pm 16. Bella Bella Saturday, November 24, :00pm 4:00pm 17. Vancouver Monday, November 26, :00pm 9:00pm 18. Quadra Island Tuesday, November 27, :00pm 9:00pm 19. Bowen Island Wednesday, November 28, :00pm 9:00pm Gibsons Saturday, December 1, :00pm 4:00pm 21. Mayne Island Monday, December 3, :00pm 8:00pm 22. Saturna Island Tuesday, December 4, :00pm 8:00pm 23. Comox/Courtenay Tuesday, December 4, :00pm 9:00pm 24. Texada Island Wednesday, December 5, :00pm 9:00pm 25. Victoria Wednesday, December 5, :00pm 9:00pm 26. Hornby Island Saturday, December 8, :00am 1:00pm 27. Denman Island Saturday, December 8, :00pm 6:00pm 4 After the Discussion Guide and Feedback Form was printed, the meeting on Bowen Island was changed from a small group format to a public open house format, per the request of the Bowen Island Ferry Advisory Committee. 16

20 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT The Discussion Guide and Feedback Form and Appendix: Route-Specific Information booklets were provided to those who attended the public open house meetings. Display boards summarizing the consultation and engagement materials were set up around the room, and people were encouraged to complete their feedback forms. For approximately the first half of the public open house, participants had the opportunity to engage with Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries staff in one-on-one and small-group discussions. The remaining half of the public open house were used for a plenary-style question and answer session, where participants were encouraged to ask questions of and provide comments to project staff. A record was kept of these plenary question and answer sessions; these notes can be found in Appendix PUBLIC OPINION POLL From November to December 2012, Mustel Group recruited a representative sample of British Columbia residents to complete the same online feedback form. Based on an estimated 50% completion rate, approximately 1,000 residents were recruited, from which 500 went on to complete the online survey. All telephone recruitment was conducted by Mustel Group, employing industry-standard randomization techniques and including both landlines and cell numbers to achieve a representative sample of the population. Each recruited participant provided a contact address and was sent an electronic invitation to complete a survey. Each invitation contained a unique survey link allowing the participant to complete the survey just once. The unique link also allowed for reminder s to be sent only to those who had not yet completed a survey. At the data processing stage, minor weighting adjustments were applied to ensure that the final sample was proportionally representative of the population of British Columbia according to age, gender and region, matching Statistics Canada census data. The final sample of 500 residents completing an online survey yields a margin of error of +/-4.4% margin of error at the 95% level of confidence. Results from the public opinion poll can be found in this report beginning on page 46 and in Appendix 10. Input received during the consultation and engagement will be considered, along with technical, financial and policy considerations, as the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries plan for the long-term sustainability of the coastal transportation system. 17 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

21 3. KEY RESULTS 3.1 KEY THEME SUMMARY FROM SMALL GROUP MEETINGS AND PUBLIC OPEN HOUSES The following table includes the key themes from the small group meetings, webinar and public open houses. The meetings are listed in the order in which they were held. As much as possible, the language expressed by participants was retained in the key themes. KEY THEME SUMMARY MEETING/MEETING TYPE 1. Sandspit Public Open House November 6, :00 9:00pm 2. Queen Charlotte City Small Group Meeting November 7, :00 3:00pm 3. Queen Charlotte City Public Open House November 7, :00 9:00pm 4. Masset Public Open House November 8, :00 9:00pm KEY THEMES Participants expressed concern about potential service reductions to Queen Charlotte City, given the lack of services in Sandspit and the community s reliance on ferries to access employment, health services and other essential services. Participants expressed frustration with the lack of coordination in the schedule when travelling between Queen Charlotte City and Prince Rupert. With a two-hour lead time required to catch the Prince Rupert ferry, passengers often cannot make it and must spend money on accommodation and food in Queen Charlotte City. Participants are frustrated with the operation of BC Ferries, citing lack of access to information about cancellations or delays, an unreliable reservation system, requirement to show identification three times, and unreasonable freight limitations. Participants communicated that BC Ferries appears to be more concerned about their business than the people they are serving, despite the fact that people in the north are dependent on BC Ferries. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants expressed frustration about operational challenges, including the lack of coordination with the Prince Rupert ferry schedule, because frequent cancellations of sailings leave people stuck spending money on accommodation and food. Participants made suggestions for improving ridership, including improved research and marketing strategies, and better integration with the north coast economic development work being done in other areas of government. Participants expressed strong feelings about BC Ferries perceived lack of attention to the needs of the community, with greater emphasis being placed on tourism, and a lack of respect for people who live in Haida Gwaii. Participants asked about labour costs and whether there was any opportunity for efficiencies. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. No Q&A session was held because participants had their questions answered by project staff throughout the public open house, so did not feel the need for an additional group Q&A session. 18

22 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 5. Prince Rupert Small Group Meeting November 9, :00 3:00pm 6. Gabriola Island Public Open House November 13, :00 9:00pm 7. Penelakut Public Open House November 14, :00 3:00pm KEY THEMES Participants stressed that fares are too high: > Participants think that the recent fare increases were self-defeating and reduced ridership even further. > Participants asked why BC Ferries does not offer seat sales or specials to fill the ship instead of travelling with very few passengers. Participants stated that the ferry system should be subsidized and treated as part of the provincial highway system. Participants stated opposition to any service reductions, citing concerns with losing jobs, dangerous road conditions in winter and loss of tourism revenue. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants said that fares are not affordable and are causing a reduction in ridership. Participants are concerned that high fares and potential service reductions would cause young families to move out of island communities because they cannot afford to live there. Participants did not support service reductions, stating the importance of maintaining basic levels of service to get to and from work or other essential services. Participants would like to see an improvement in transit services and integration between transit and ferries, which they said would increase ferry ridership and revenues. Participants thought the seniors discount should be eliminated during peak sailings. Participants said the consultation process includes a lot of detailed information, but is not asking the right questions and instead should be about changes to the current delivery model. Participants said that the ferry service is crucial to residents of Penelakut Island and is needed to access essential services. Participants said that fares are too costly, making the service unaffordable and inaccessible: > The community has high unemployment and most people cannot afford ferry fares. > People in the community cannot work minimum wage jobs located off-island because it is too expensive to take the ferry. > Participants said high fares have become a barrier between sports and other activities for school-aged children. > Participants said the cost of the ferry service is a serious barrier to improving Penelakut s economic development. > Participants suggested BC Ferries should offer First Nations a one-way fare, creating a 50% discount. Participants said that passenger-only ferries will not properly service people who need their vehicles to transport groceries and other supplies for a week or longer. Participants noted that the triangle run between Penelakut, Thetis and Chemainus creates many problems for Penelakut: > Thetis has three designated runs, while Penelakut has only one. > Penelakut has longer wait times between sailings than Thetis. > Emergency runs to Penelakut are not available; BC Ferries employees decide who and what is an emergency requiring an extra run. > People on Penelakut would like to be able to provide input on the ferry schedule. Participants noted that their concerns have still not been addressed despite meeting with BC Ferries two years ago to discuss operation and service concerns. Participants noted that only two out of every 50 employees on the Thetis-Penelakut ferry service are actually from Penelakut and are concerned about inequality of employment opportunities. Participants said that the federal government needs to increase its support to help Penelakut receive better ferry service. 19 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

23 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued MEETING/MEETING TYPE 8. Thetis Island Public Open House November 14, :00 8:00pm 9. Pender Island Public Open House November 14, :00 8:00pm 10. Nanaimo Small Group Meeting November 15, :00 11:00am 11. Nanaimo Small Group Meeting November 15, :00 3:00pm 12. Nanaimo Public Open House November 15, :00 9:00pm KEY THEMES Participants are concerned that because the consultation is province-wide, the general public s feedback may outweigh the feedback coming from coastal communities who rely on the ferry service. Participants said that basic ferry service should not be defined as school and work only; it should also include access to health, food and other services. Participants said that BC Ferries should be treated and funded as part of the highway system, and that the provincial government needs to increase its subsidy. Participants said that fares are not affordable: > High fares are resulting in decreasing ridership. > High fares are reducing the number of tourists coming to the island. > High fares are having socio-economic impacts, such as reducing business opportunities on the island. Participants said that service reductions will eat away at the fabric of the community and if service is reduced any further, more people will be forced to leave the island. Participants suggested that BC Ferries should reduce operational costs associated with overtime by reorganizing shifts and personnel. Participants said that the service provided by BC Ferries needs to be seen as and treated as a strategic element of our provincial transportation system. Participants mentioned the cost of the ferry service as their number one concern, saying that the fares are past the tipping point of affordability: > Participants said they could no longer afford to travel for pleasure or businesses on the ferries. > Several participants suggested that high fares are the cause of declining ridership, and that greater incentives should be provided to increase revenue. Participants questioned the utilization chart data and said the way it is presented does not include the downtime of extra ships on Routes 1 and 2, and should be calculated per person rather than per vehicle. Participants said BC Ferries must improve the reservation system: > An improved reservation system would allow BC Ferries to better manage the number of sailings. > Participants recommend implementing a no-fee online reservation system similar to airlines. Participants said that fares are too high and have caused a decline in tourism. Participants had mixed feelings regarding further analysis of bridges. Participants said that a basic level of service should be provided by BC Ferries, rather than the luxurious vessels that are running on the major routes. Participants said fares are simply too high and are causing the decline in ridership. Participants said the property tax should not be used to help fund the ferry system. Participants said that a basic level of service should be provided by BC Ferries, rather than the luxurious vessels that are running on the major routes. Participants said that BC Ferries and the government should look at implementing additional revenue generating sources, such as gaming on vessels. Participants suggested that BC Ferries and the government consider having seniors pay a small fee, for example, $5 from Monday to Thursday, instead of riding the ferry for free. Participants said BC Ferries and the government should seriously study the feasibility of bridges to connect some communities. Participants said that BC Ferries and the government should look at reducing the number of ferry terminals in Nanaimo. Participants said that fares are too high and should be restructured to offer discounts to commuters. Participants said that BC Ferries should make a significant effort to reduce costs so that fewer service reductions will be needed. Participants said that some new vessels on the Nanaimo routes have more capacity than actually needed and that BC Ferries could have saved capital costs by building smaller vessels. Participants said that BC Ferries and the government should look at reducing the number of ferry terminals in Nanaimo. 20

24 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 13. Salt Spring Island Small Group Meeting November 15, :00 11:00am 14. Salt Spring Island Small Group Meeting November 15, :00 4:00pm 15. Salt Spring Island Public Open House November 15, :00 9:00pm 16. Galiano Island Public Open House November 17, :00 3:00pm KEY THEMES Participants noted that BC Ferries should be part of the provincial highway system. Participants wanted clarity regarding how ferries fit within the provincial transportation system. Comparisons were drawn between the subsidy provided to TransLink (as a percentage of the cost of the system) versus coastal ferries, and the cost of the highway system. Participants raised concerns about the impact that higher fares have had on the local economy and the long-term effects on healthy communities in the Gulf Islands. Participants encouraged an outside the box approach to solving the problem, by looking creatively at the entire system and reorganizing the existing service to make more efficient use of resources. Participants would prefer a no-frills basic service to get on and off the island, and are opposed to spending money on unnecessary onboard amenities. Participants urged the government to look at the negative impact of higher fares, noting that they are contributing to a decline in ridership. Participants suggested that BC Ferries become more involved with tourism organizations to bolster marketing strategies and build ridership from tourism. Participants asked why BC Ferries is not considered part of the provincial highway system and asked how much money is spent on provincial highway improvements and how much of that investment is covered by users. Participants suggested that a multi-modal ridership model be examined to better integrate the needs of those using transit and cycling to and from ferry terminals. Participants raised concerns about the impact that higher fares have had on the local economy and the long-term effects on healthy communities in the Gulf Islands. Participants suggested that BC Ferries give more consideration to regular ferry users, who rely on ferries for their livelihood, rather than catering to tourists. Participants said BC Ferries should be treated and funded as part of the provincial highway system, and that the government needs to increase its subsidy. Participants expressed concern about the high cost of the ferry service and the negative impact on the local economy. Participants stressed the importance of tourism on the island and the impacts felt across the island when tourism struggles. Suggestions were made about how marketing and advertising could support tourism. Participants insisted that the ferry system should be part of the provincial highway system, focused on providing safe, reliable transportation with no frills. Participants mentioned the increase in foot passenger ridership and the importance of supporting this with an integrated approach to transit across the region. Participants expressed frustration with the operation of BC Ferries, citing the lack of a reservation system and sailing schedules not being responsive to the needs of islanders. 17. Powell River Small Group Meeting November 19, :00 3:00pm Participants said the ferry system should be treated as a marine highway and that finding savings from service reductions based on low utilization is the wrong approach. Participants are concerned that service reductions will negatively impact the economies of Powell River and Texada Island: > Service reductions will put small businesses, which contribute to the coastal economy and provide taxes to the province, at risk. Participants said that the high cost of ferry fares is having many negative impacts: > Participants said high fares are causing a decline in tourism, hurting communities like Powell River who rely on the tourism economy, and contributing to the low utilization on some routes. Participants commented on the age of BC Ferries vessels, noting that the Queen of Burnaby and North Island Princess are breaking down and adding to fleet maintenance costs. Participants said smaller vessels likely make sense, but a larger conversation must occur regarding how they service Vancouver Island, Powell River and Texada. Participants said they do not agree with using local taxes to pay for the ferry service. Participants said that a larger public and government conversation must to be undertaken regarding taxpayer-funded transportation infrastructure (including roads, bridges and ferries). 21 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

25 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued MEETING/MEETING TYPE 18. Powell River Public Open House November 19, :00 9:00pm 19. Klemtu Public Open House November 20, :00 9:00pm 20. Bella Coola Public Open House November 21, :00 9:00pm KEY THEMES Participants said the government is not considering the fact that ferries should be part of the provincial highway system. All taxpayers pay for the major infrastructure projects and no one thinks the highways that lose money in remote areas should be closed. Participants are concerned about the cost of fares and think that fares are directly correlated to declining ridership: > Participants said that young families cannot afford to take the ferry and when they do, they chose to walk on. > Participants said that high fares are impeding their way of life and fares are ballooning out of control. Participants said that inland ferries should not be free because users have the option of driving when coastal ferry users do not. Participants are concerned about the negative socio-economic impacts of high fares: > Participants said their children are either not returning home after post-secondary school or not going to post-secondary education at all because the fares are too expensive. > Participants said that because of the increasing costs of the ferry, there are fewer jobs, which means the community is losing doctors and medical services, teachers and small businesses. Participants expressed frustration with the operational coordination offered by BC Ferries: > Participants said there is no way to connect efficiently to ground transportation systems like Greyhound. > Participants mentioned that when the Langdale ferry is running late, BC Ferries will not hold the Saltery Bay to Earls Cove ferry because BC Ferries says it is not a connecting ferry, causing passengers to be stranded, even if it is the last sailing. Participants expressed frustration about the hours of the cafeteria and said that often the cafeteria will shut down even though there are customers. Participants said that fares are too high and have caused a decline in tourism. > Participants said that the tourism economy is crucial to youth who rely on summer jobs so they can pay for their post-secondary education. Participants expressed a desire to home-port the ferry in Powell River: > Participants said that this would be a better choice because people in Powell River are isolated, and often are stranded in Comox if they miss a sailing. > Participants said if the home port was in Powell River, people could leave in the morning and return at night, making it more worthwhile to take the trip across. Participants emphasized the importance of Route 10 to the community, and noted it is critical to the health and well-being of the people of Klemtu to be connected by the marine highway. Participants noted that Route 10 has much more value to the community than Route 40, with many participants saying Route 40 could be eliminated to save money. Participants commented that they would like to see BC Ferries support more economic development in Klemtu and along the mid-coast. Participants said they would prefer to be connected to Vancouver rather than to Prince Rupert by Route 10. Participants mentioned the cost of using the ferry service as a very serious concern. Participants are very worried about the impact reduced ridership is having on tourism and the economy. Participants said that they do not want an increase in taxes to pay for the ferry service because the tax base in Bella Coola is too small and the mid-coast region is already suffering. Participants mentioned frustrations with the operations of the route, including the BC Ferries website, reservations system, frequent cancellations and lack of comfortable accommodations for overnight sailings. 22

26 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 21. Alert Bay Public Open House November 22, :00 9:00pm 22. Port Hardy Small Group Meeting November 23, :00 11:00am KEY THEMES Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants said that fares are too high, making the cost of living in Alert Bay unaffordable for many, hurting economic development as a result. Participants did not support service reductions, noting that the ferry is vital for connecting residents to employment, school and services on Vancouver Island. >Participants noted that schoolchildren rely on the ferry for access to sporting and school events. Participants expressed concern that the data regarding utilization rates is incorrect, and that decisions may be made based on data that does not accurately reflect the actual capacity of the vessels. Participants expressed support for a bridge connecting Alert Bay to Port McNeill. Participants questioned the cost of administration and wanted to see administrative costs at BC Ferries cut. Participants wanted to know why the inland ferries are free and coastal ferry users must pay. Participants wanted to know what the next steps are: what will government do with the consultation summary report, how will input be used, how will decisions be made, and will the community be consulted before reductions are put in place? Participants did not support service reductions, noting that ferry service is critical for industry, tourism and other employment in the region. Participants said that ferries are part of the provincial highway network, and all taxpayers should contribute. Participants expressed concern that the data regarding utilization rates is incorrect, and that decisions may be made based on data that does not accurately reflect the actual capacity of the vessels. Participants noted that fares have exceeded the tipping point, which is resulting in declining ridership. Some participants noted that, as a result, a shift has occurred from vehicles to foot passengers. Participants noted that the North Island contributes to the provincial economy, with one participant pointing to stumpage fees as an example, and another participant highlighting Namgis First Nation projects in the region. Participants want to see options to raise revenue explored, rather than just service reductions. Some participants asked if BC Ferries has information about the breakdown of ferry usage between residents, commercial users and tourists. 23. Sointula Public Open House November 23, :00 9:00pm Participants emphasized that Sointula is a rural, remote community and the ferry is their highway and vital to their community. Participants said that fares are too high, resulting in many socio-economic impacts to the community: > Participants said people are leaving the island because they cannot afford the ferry and, as such, the population of Sointula has been cut in half. > Participants said rising fares have also resulted in the increasing cost of doing business on the island. Participants did not support service reductions, noting that ferry access is directly tied to the economic and social well-being of the community. People noted that the ferry is critically important for access to health services, school and employment. Participants would like to see an earlier sailing connecting Sointula to Port McNeill. The current schedule does not allow people to get to work on time, or access various community activities on Vancouver Island. Participants expressed concern that the data regarding utilization rates is incorrect, and that decisions may be made based on data that does not accurately reflect the actual capacity of the vessels. Participants expressed an interest in a bridge. 23 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

27 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued MEETING/MEETING TYPE 24. Bella Bella Public Open House November 24, :00 4:00pm 25. Vancouver Small Group Meeting November 26, :00 3:00pm 26. Va ncou ver Public Open House November 26, :00 9:00pm KEY THEMES Participants said that they would like a direct ferry connection to Port Hardy and Prince Rupert. Bella Bella is an island; therefore, ferries are the "highway". Participants said that ferry fares are too expensive; flying is much more convenient and airfares are not much more than ferry fares: > Participants noted the poor conditions on the ferry and noted that for overnight trips, the vessel is crowded and there is nowhere to sleep. Participants said that the summer season is very important to the economy of Bella Bella and that a more direct service is needed to serve the much larger summer population. Participants said the big ferry goes by Bella Bella in the summer, only stopping at Bella Bella once every two weeks, so you can go north once a month and south once a month. Participants said that the Nimpkish should be used only to travel to places if there are reservations and actual people that need to travel. Participants said they would like a pre-board reservation system so that they do not have to go to the ferry terminal two hours prior to sailings. Participants suggested that ferries should engage with Aboriginal tourism in a more meaningful way to increase ridership and improve local coastal economies. Participants said that fares are not affordable and are causing a reduction in ridership. Participants expressed concern about the impact that ferry service reductions and high fares have on the value of real estate in coastal communities. Participants said that BC Ferries and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure should consider reductions to the number of sailings, rather than eliminating routes. Participants expressed a desire for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries to consider further analysis of potential bridges to replace ferry routes, where feasible. Participants said that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries should focus on creating additional revenue sources first, rather than reducing sailings to save money. Participants said that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries should seek additional federal funding to support the ferry infrastructure. Participants said that the government needs to look at alternative ways to provide ferry services, such as offer passenger-only services, improved intermodal connections and consider having the private sector deliver service on some routes. Participants said seniors should not travel free during the week. Participants suggested that Route 9 Tsawwassen/Gulf Islands should be broken down into smaller, more direct routes with smaller vessels. Participants supported using LNG to fuel ferries because it would reduce fuel costs and the carbon footprint. Participants expressed support for the consideration of passenger-only vessels. Participants said the ferry system should be put back under the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. Ferries are part of the highway system, and should be properly funded and affordable. Participants said that BC Ferries should be careful about eliminating the seniors discount, as it was originally intended to shift the travel patterns to midweek so there would be more capacity on the weekend. 24

28 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 27. Quadra Island Public Open House November 27, :00 9:00pm 28. Cortes Island Small Group Meeting November 28, :00am 1:00pm KEY THEMES Participants said the ferry system should be put back under the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. Ferries are part of the highway system, and should be properly funded and affordable. Participants said people living on islands do not have an option when they want to travel except to take ferries. Participants asked why ferry users should pay higher fares for ferry service when the rest of the public does not directly pay more for new highways or bridges. Participants said that ferry fares are too high and should be decreased: > Participants said that high fares are causing a decline in ridership and a drop in the tourism economy. > Participants said that people are leaving the islands because families are now finding it unaffordable. > Fares should be rolled back. Participants did not support service reductions, noting that cuts to ferry service will damage the communities of Quadra and Cortes. Participants asked why the inland ferries are free, and said that inland ferries should have fares to help offset some coastal ferry costs. Participants wanted to know what the next steps are: what will government do with the consultation summary report, how will input be used, how will decisions be made, and will the community be consulted before reductions are put in place? Participants said that BC Ferries and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure should look at what it can do to increase services and revenue instead of focusing exclusively on cost reductions. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly: > Participants said that investments in other transportation infrastructure such as the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Port Mann Bridge and other transit projects shows that there is government money available to support important transportation infrastructure. Participants said that ferry fares are too high and should be decreased on sailings with low ridership as an incentive for people to use the service: > Participants said that high fares are causing a decline in ridership and a drop in the tourism economy. Participants said that BC Ferries and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure should think about a more flexible system that moves people and goods, rather than vehicles. Participants said that the ferry terminals and vessels are being run like a cruise line, rather than an essential ferry service. Participants said that BC Ferries and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure should work towards much better integration with transit service. Participants said that BC Ferries should have a modern, efficient reservation system and it should be free or at least affordable. 29. Bowen Island Public Open House November 28, :00 9:00pm Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants expressed concerns about the suggestion of a tax increase, citing recent fare increases and an already struggling economy on the island. Participants suggested that the Bowen Island route is well used and would have even higher utilization if the fares were lowered. Participants mentioned operational frustrations, including lack of coordination with transit, lack of timeliness, overloads, no reservations system and indifferent customer service. 25 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

29 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued MEETING/MEETING TYPE 30. Gibsons Small Group Meeting December 1, :00am 12:00pm 31. Gibsons Public Open House December 1, :00 4:00pm 32. Mayne Island Public Open House December 3, :00 8:00pm KEY THEMES Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly: > Participants said that taxes paid by those who live and work on the Sunshine Coast contribute to funding the provincial highway system; therefore, they said it is only fair for the coastal ferry service to also be operated and funded under the provincial highway system. Participants said that the high ferry fares are causing the decline in ridership, making taking the ferry too expensive for families and tourists: > Participants said the region is losing businesses, jobs and population, which will continue to drive the ridership down. > Participants suggested that the government and BC Ferries undertake a socio-economic impact analysis to fully understand the impact of fare increases and unaffordable fares. Participants said that BC Ferries should develop a more flexible fare system, comparable to many airline companies; fares could be increased when the economy is growing, and decreased when the economy is stagnant or declining. Participants said they are supportive of passenger-only ferries and BC Ferries should consider an hourly service between Gibsons and Bowen Island. Participants said that a standardized approach to vessel size is worth further consideration. Participants expressed concern that BC Ferries is spending too much money on extravagant vessels, when all they want is a basic service. Participants said they do not agree with the idea of funding the coastal ferry system through local property taxes or a regional gas tax. Participants said that the ferry schedule on the Sunshine Coast needs to be more consistent; time changes from winter to summer are disruptive to families and businesses. Participants said that ferry fares are too high and should be decreased: > Participants said that high fares are causing a decline in ridership and a drop in the tourism economy. > Participants said that people are leaving because families are now finding it unaffordable. Participants said that the ferry schedule on the Sunshine Coast needs to be more consistent; time changes from winter to summer are disruptive to families and businesses. Participants said they are supportive of passenger-only ferries and that BC Ferries should consider an hourly service between Gibsons and Bowen Island. Participants said they do not agree with the idea of funding the coastal ferry system through local property taxes or a regional gas tax. Participants said that ferry fares should be used to cover fuel and labour costs, while the provincial government should cover all other costs. Participants said that different fares could be charged at different times of the day to provide incentive to use the ferry. Participants are opposed to further service reductions, noting that cuts to ferry service will damage the economy and steepen the decline in ridership. Participants said high ferry fares are causing a decline in ridership, and that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries should look at ways to increase ridership. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants expressed an interest in the Mayne-Saturna Short-Link proposal, a service where the vessel is home-ported on Mayne Island: > Participants said a restructured service would be more cost-effective because it is a short distance to sail, and BC Ferries could increase trips to deal with peak demand. > Participants mentioned that porting vessels at Salt Spring Island and Swartz Bay has negatively impacted Mayne Island. Participants suggested that BC Ferries consider differential pricing and other incentives to move demand to sailings with lower utilization. 26

30 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 33. Comox/Courtenay Small Group Meeting December 4, :00 4:00pm 34. Saturna Island Public Open House December 4, :00 8:00pm 35. Comox/Courtenay Public Open House December 4, :00 9:00pm 36. Victoria Small Group Meeting December 5, :00 3:00pm KEY THEMES Participants said BC Ferries should be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, citing lower administration costs, fewer people in management, and a lower cost of borrowing as potential benefits. Many participants said that fares have reached the tipping point; high fares are resulting in declining ridership. Participants emphasized that high fares are negatively impacting Vancouver Island s tourism industry. Participants said that the ferry service should focus on connecting coastal communities in an affordable and efficient manner, not on extras such as food and retail services. Participants said that ferry fares are too high and should be decreased: > Participants said that high fares are causing a decline in ridership and a drop in the tourism economy. > Participants said that people are leaving the islands because families are now finding it unaffordable. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants asked for better scheduling of service and an aggressive government marketing program to raise public awareness and promote the Gulf Islands. Participants expressed an interest in the Mayne-Saturna Short-Link proposal, a service where the vessel is home-ported on Mayne Island: > Participants mentioned vessels need to home-port on Saturna, as opposed to Swartz Bay, noting that 25% of BC Ferries sailing on this route are deadheads (no passengers or freight). No Q&A session was held because participants had their questions answered by project staff throughout the public open house, so did not feel the need for an additional group Q&A session. Participants expressed that the service BC Ferries provides is responsible for connecting coastal communities and should focus on that, rather than the transportation of tourists. Participants said that BC Ferries and the government should look at reducing the number of ferry terminals in Nanaimo. Participants suggested that BC Ferries consider differential pricing and other incentives to move demand to sailings with lower utilization. Participants expressed an interest in improving cycling facilities on vessels, buses and at ferry terminals. Participants expressed an interest in a mix of passenger-only service with vehicle service. Participants said that the service BC Ferries provides should be focused on moving people efficiently and affordably, and not about moving vehicles. Participants said BC Ferries should be treated and funded as part of the provincial highway system under the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. 27 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

31 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued MEETING/MEETING TYPE 37. Victoria Public Open House December 5, :00 9:00pm 38. Texada Island Public Open House December 5, :00 9:00pm 39. Hornby Island Public Open House December 8, :00am 1:00pm KEY THEMES Participants said fares are too high and ferry users are being asked to carry too much of the cost to operate BC Ferries. Reducing fares would encourage more ridership. Participants said that if service reductions are necessary to make the system more sustainable, then cut the low-utilization runs. Participants suggested that BC Ferries consider differential pricing and other incentives to move demand to sailings with lower utilization. Participants expressed support for smaller vessels and passenger-only vessels, especially if transit connections are improved. Participants said users should pay for the inland ferry system. Participants said the reservation system needs to be improved and tourists could be charged a premium to make reservations to help bring in revenue. Participants were divided about support for bridges. Some participants said bridges should be considered to reduce longer-term costs and the costs of moving goods. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants said BC Ferries should not cater to high-end tourism and should provide a basic service to connect coastal communities. Participants strongly recommended that BC Ferries be returned to the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure because ferries are a marine highway and should be funded accordingly. Participants cited other transit infrastructure projects and noted that they were fully funded by taxpayers. Participants raised concerns about the B.C. Ferry Authority model and the Coastal Ferry Act. Participants said that ferry fares are too high and should be decreased: > Participants said that high fares are causing a decline in ridership and a drop in the tourism economy. > Participants said that people are leaving the islands because families are now finding it unaffordable. Participants said that the ferries are the economic engine for communities, and noted that the economic benefit that comes with developing coastal economies goes into federal and provincial coffers. Participants said they need early morning and late night sailings, and noted that service cuts would be detrimental to businesses on the island. Participants said that ferry service is an essential service, and noted that the definition of Basic Levels of Ferry Service should include access to health care and medical services. Participants said that utilization data should not be a consideration for service adjustments, because the community has no say in the size of their vessel and the vessels serving the routes in the area are too large. Participants mentioned the cost of the ferry service as a serious concern: > Participants said the unaffordable fares are creating hardship and social impacts in island communities. Participants said that people do not take day trips to Hornby Island anymore, seniors cannot afford to leave the island for medical appointments, and relatives rarely come to visit. Participants said that the ferry system should go back under the authority of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and treated as part of the provincial highway system. Participants are concerned about a new cable ferry, including safety concerns in relation to the width of the cable and what replacement service will look like when the cable ferry is undergoing maintenance or repair. 28

32 KEY THEME SUMMARY continued B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT MEETING/MEETING TYPE 40. Denman Island Public Open House December 8, :00 6:00pm 41. Webinar December 11, :00 3:00pm KEY THEMES Participants are concerned about a new cable ferry, including safety concerns in relation to the width of the cable, what replacement service will look like when the cable ferry is undergoing maintenance or repair, and worries about the ability of the cable ferry to deal with strong winds. Participants said that ferry fares have reached a tipping point and are contributing to the decline in ridership and economic hardship for coastal communities. Participants said that the ferry system should go back under the management of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and should be treated as part of the provincial highway system. Participants said the reservations system must be improved and suggested that BC Ferries consider differential pricing and other incentives to move demand to sailings with lower utilization. Participants noted that fares are too high for oversize vehicles, which is discouraging RV tourism to the islands. Participants questioned why the inland ferries are free while coastal ferries users must pay. Participants were interested in finding alternative ways for BC Ferries to bring in additional revenue. Participants expressed an interest in exploring the use of LNG to fuel vessels. 29 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

33 3.2 FEEDBACK FORMS The following section provides detailed results from input received through the feedback forms. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries will need to look at a combination of these considerations to find $26 million in savings, but are interested in your view on the prioritization of these considerations. 1. Please indicate your preference by ranking the following considerations from 1 6, with 1 being the most important and 6 being the least important: Base (n=972) RANK ORDER OF CONSIDERATIONS CONSIDERATION TOP PRIORITY RANKED 1 OR 2 RANKED 1, 2 OR 3 Basic Levels of Ferry Service For the majority of users, ferry service would be provided to and from work or school 46% 53% 62% Significant Annual Shortfalls Consider service reductions on routes that experience significant annual financial shortfalls 17% 29% 39% Complexity of Multiple-Stop Routes Service reductions should take into account the complexity of routes with multiple ports and those that provide connections to other areas 12% 28% 42% Low Round-Trip Utilization Consider service reductions on routes that experience low round-trip utilization (such as round-trip sailings that have less than 20% utilization) 9% 22% 42% Low Annual Utilization Consider service reductions on routes that experience low annual utilization (such as less than 55% total utilization per year) 8% 29% 43% Routes Requiring Vessel Replacement Service reductions should take into account routes that require imminent vessel replacements, including alternatives such as route reconfiguration 7% 19% 32% 30

34 FEEDBACK FORMS Reasons for ranking: B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT COMMENTS REGARDING RANKED CONSIDERATIONS Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained TOTAL COMMENTING 428 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 130 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 39 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 27 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 21 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 18 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 16 Cannot rank, as all are equally important 14 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 13 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user 13 Increase fares Ferry service should be run like any other business 5 Reduce the amount of advertising 4 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 2 Remove seniors discount 1 31 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

35 FEEDBACK FORMS 2. Please rate your level of agreement with BC Ferries reducing round-trip sailings to achieve $26 million in savings to REDUCING ROUND-TRIP SAILINGS Agree 20% 27% 47% Disagree 31% 14% 46% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 7% BASE: (n=1,161) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING REDUCTION OF ROUND-TRIP SAILINGS TOTAL COMMENTING 508 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 141 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/ entire province/taxpayers Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 62 Miscellaneous suggestions (i.e., build a bridge, build ferries in B.C.) 27 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 20 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 16 Taxpayers and other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 10 Increase fares 7 Ferry service should be run like any other business 6 Do not like the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act 6 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 5 Reduce the amount of advertising 5 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 4 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user 4 Remove seniors discount 3 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes

36 FEEDBACK FORMS 3. Please rate your level of agreement with exploring the following potential options as part of the longer-term vision for making the coastal ferry system sustainable. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 3a) Please rate your level of agreement with connecting coastal communities using alternative ferry technologies, such as cable ferries or passenger-only vessels. ALTERNATIVE FERRY TECHNOLOGIES BASE: (n=1,152) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 13% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 34% 13% 8% 21% COMMENTS REGARDING ALTERNATIVE FERRY TECHNOLOGIES Agree with alternative ferry technologies > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Support cable ferries that will still allow vehicle traffic > Preferable option for smaller communities NEITHER NOR DIS 33% 66% DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING Disagree with alternative ferry technologies > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) > Problems with cable ferries (i.e., increased travel time, safety) > Does not appear to provide any cost savings Dependent upon route/current level of service 55 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 34 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 12 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 6 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 6 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 3 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 2 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

37 FEEDBACK FORMS 3b) Please rate your level of agreement with serving some routes using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge to transport vehicles. COMBINING PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY AND VEHICLE BARGE Agree 24% 27% 51% Disagree 21% 11% 32% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 17% BASE: (n=1,129) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING COMBINATION OF PASSENGER-ONLY FERRIES AND A BARGE TO TRANSPORT VEHICLES Agree with serving some routes using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Support use of barges that still allow vehicle traffic > Preferable option for smaller communities > It will still provide service/access Disagree with alternative ferry technologies > Problems with barges (i.e., increased travel time, safety) > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) > Does not appear to provide any cost savings TOTAL COMMENTING 235 Dependent upon route/current level of service 37 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 8 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 8 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 7 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 5 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Increase usage by lowering fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee 2 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 1 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 1 Do not like the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act 1 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 1 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes

38 FEEDBACK FORMS 3c) Please rate your level of agreement with serving routes where the proximity and service needs are such that two or more routes could share a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry on alternate days or parts of days. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT TWO OR MORE ROUTES TO SHARE USE OF A CAR FERRY AND PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY BASE: (n=1,130) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING TWO OR MORE ROUTES SHARING A CAR FERRY AND A PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY ON ALTERNATE DAYS OR PARTS OF DAYS Disagree with two or more routes sharing a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) > Does not appear to provide any cost savings Agree with two or more routes sharing a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Preferable option for smaller communities > It will still provide service/access > Car ferry will accommodate vehicle traffic TOTAL COMMENTING 176 Dependent upon route/current level of service 35 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/ entire province/taxpayers Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 11 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) 27% 17% 9% 26% 16% NEITHER NOR DIS 31% 58% DIS Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) DIS Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 5 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 4 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 4 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 4 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 1 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 1 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 1 Increase fares 1 35 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

39 FEEDBACK FORMS 3d) Please rate your level of agreement with serving some routes by a bridge. SERVE SOME ROUTES BY A BRIDGE Agree 42% 20% 62% Disagree 18% 6% 24% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 14% BASE: (n=1,147) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING SERVING SOME ROUTES BY A BRIDGE Agree with building a fixed-link > Build a fixed-link, bridge or tunnel > Most economical solution in the long term/tolls would pay for construction/maintenance Disagree with building a fixed-link > Too expensive/extra burden on taxpayers > Bridges would destroy the appeal of living on an island > Not feasible for most routes > Environmental concerns BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers TOTAL COMMENTING 404 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user 7 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 4 Taxpayers and other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained 4 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 1 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 1 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 1 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 1 36

40 FEEDBACK FORMS 3e) Please rate your level of agreement with improving linkages between ferry terminals and communities with better cycling connections or better public transit service. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT BETTER CYCLING CONNECTIONS OR TRANSIT SERVICES BASE: (n=1,141) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 5% 3 8% 14% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 58% NEITHER NOR DIS COMMENTS REGARDING BETTER CYCLING CONNECTIONS OR BETTER PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICE Agree with improving cycling or transit connections > Supportive of improved public transit connections > Supportive of improved cycling options/positive cycling comments > Would decrease vehicle traffic/environmentally friendly > Would increase the number of foot passengers/economic benefit Disagree with improving cycling or transit connections > Cycling is not a feasible solution for the area/majority of users > Does not appear to provide any cost savings > Expanding cycling routes is expensive/waste of money > Will not reduce overall costs DIS 20% 78% DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 305 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 5 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/ entire province/taxpayers 5 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 3 Miscellaneous comments 3 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) 1 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 1 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 1 Taxpayers and other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 1 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 1 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user 1 Increase fares 1 37 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

41 FEEDBACK FORMS 3f) Please rate your level of agreement with using alternative fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), to power ferries where it is economically feasible. USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS Agree 57% 21% 78% Disagree 4 3 7% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 15% BASE: (n=1,145) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS TOTAL COMMENTING 305 Dependent upon cost (i.e., retrofitting ferries, cost of LNG) 207 Disagree with use of alternative fuels > Environmental concerns associated with LNG > LNG safety concerns Agree with use of alternative fuels > Environmentally friendly/reduced carbon footprint > Canada/western provinces have vast reserves of natural gas > Other countries already use different types of fuels/lng BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 5 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Basic service levels need to be maintained 2 Miscellaneous comments 2 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 1 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 1 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership

42 FEEDBACK FORMS 3g) Please rate your level of agreement with standardizing vessels and docks to allow flexibility to switch ferries and crews between routes. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT STANDARDIZING VESSELS AND DOCKS BASE: (n=1,143) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 2 3 5% 12% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 59% COMMENTS REGARDING STANDARDIZING VESSELS AND DOCKS NEITHER NOR DIS 24% 83% DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 153 Dependent upon the cost of standardizing vessels/docks 73 Would improve efficiency (i.e., staffing, maintenance) 43 Use smaller ferries 11 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 8 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 5 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers 5 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 2 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 1 Do not like the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act 1 39 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

43 FEEDBACK FORMS Overview of Input from Long-Term Vision Options: LONG-TERM VISION OPTIONS TOTAL Standardizing vessels and docks to allow ferries and crews to switch between routes Better cycling connections or better public transit service Using alternative fuels (e.g., LNG), to power ferries where economically feasible Using alternate ferry technologies, such as cable ferries or passenger-only ferries Serving some routes by a bridge Two or more routes share car ferry and a passenger ferry on alternate days or parts of days Using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge to transport vehicles 59% 24% 12% % 20% 14% % 21% 15% % 33% 13% 8% 13% 42% 20% 14% 6% 18% 27% 31% 16% 9% 17% 24% 27% 17% 11% 21% 83% 78% 78% 66% 62% 58% 51% NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 40

44 FEEDBACK FORMS 4. What is the best way to provide community funding to support the ferry system in the long term? B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 4a) Please rate your level of agreement with increasing property tax in coastal communities to help fund ferry service. INCREASING PROPERTY TAX BASE: (n=1,159) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 9% 7% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 13% 21% COMMENTS REGARDING INCREASING PROPERTY TAX 58% 13% 71% NEITHER NOR DIS Disagree with increasing property tax > BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers > Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user > Property taxes should be last resort > Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 448 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 9 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 8 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 2 Remove seniors discount 2 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 1 Increase fares 1 41 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

45 FEEDBACK FORMS 4b) Please rate your level of agreement with increasing fuel taxes in coastal communities to help fund ferry service. INCREASING FUEL TAXES Agree 7% 12% 20% Disagree 57% 14% 71% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 9% BASE: (n=1,142) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING INCREASING FUEL TAX Disagree with increasing fuel tax > BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers > Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user > Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life) > Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) TOTAL COMMENTING 248 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 8 Increase fares 6 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 6 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 6 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 4 Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings 3 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 1 Ferry service should be run like any other business 1 Miscellaneous comments

46 FEEDBACK FORMS 5. Please provide any innovative ideas you may have regarding changes to the B.C. coastal ferry system to make it more sustainable. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT COMMENTS REGARDING INNOVATIVE IDEAS FOR CHANGES TO THE B.C. COASTAL FERRY SYSTEM TO MAKE IT MORE SUSTAINABLE TOTAL COMMENTING 683 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 239 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 103 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 80 Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings 63 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 40 Remove seniors discount 25 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 21 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 20 Increase fares 15 Reduce the amount of advertising 14 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user Do not like the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act 6 Ferry service should be run like any other business 5 Taxpayers and other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 4 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 1 43 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

47 FEEDBACK FORMS 6. Other additional comments: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS BC Ferries is part of the highway system/should be funded by the provincial/federal governments/entire province/taxpayers Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) TOTAL COMMENTING 321 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 64 Too many amenities, cruise ship-style luxury is not needed 29 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 28 Operational cost reductions (i.e., crew sizes, salaries, fuel, maintenance) 23 Comments regarding inland ferries (i.e., they should not be free if coastal ferries are user pay) 18 Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings 14 Remove seniors discount 9 Reduce the amount of advertising 8 Use smaller ferries or appropriate size vessels 6 Ferry services should be self-sustaining, paid for by the user 5 Do not like the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act 4 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 3 Service reduction would have a negative economic impact, with fewer overall users 2 Ferry service should be run like any other business

48 FEEDBACK FORMS 3.3 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT In addition to comments on the feedback forms, open-ended feedback was also received in the form of written submissions. Of the 703 written submissions received, the following were the most commonly mentioned themes. It should be noted that a submission may have included more than one theme. 1. BC Ferries is part of the highway system and should be funded by taxpayers and the government (503 mentions) 2. If fares were lowered, discounts were offered or the reservation fee was removed, ridership would increase (477) 3. The ferry service is an essential service and coastal communities are completely dependent upon ferries to meet economic needs and maintain quality of life; basic service and routes should be maintained (415) 4. Service reductions would have a negative economic and social impact, further reducing ridership (391) 5. Comments about the consultation/information provided/feedback process (294 5 ) 6. Reduce operational costs associated with crew sizes, fuel, maintenance, salaries, pensions and other compensation (273) 7. Inland ferries should not be free and coastal ferry users should be treated the same (168) 8. Dissatisfaction towards the B.C. Ferry Authority model/coastal Ferry Act, and/or BC Ferries should revert back to a Crown corporation (158) 9. Support for the use of alternative methods to connect coastal communities (157): a. Fixed-link, bridge or tunnel (46) b. Use smaller ferries and more appropriately sized vessels (41) c. Convert vessels to liquefied natural gas (LNG) or alternative fuels or electricity (24) d. Passenger-only vessels (22) e. Build highways along the coast or in northern B.C. (8) f. Support for improving service and routes for cyclists (8) g. Barges (6) h. Cable ferries (2) 10. Reduce or cancel underused routes or sailings (126) 11. BC Ferries offers too many amenities and the cruise ship-style luxury is unnecessary (74) 12. Find cost savings at terminals, such as relocation, reduce the number of terminals and remove service or amenities (47) 13. Consider privatizing ferry service on underutilized routes (35) 14. Increase revenue by adding services on vessels or at terminals, such as casinos, bars, restaurants and retail services (32) 15. Remove seniors discount (30) 16. Ferry services should be self-sustaining and paid for by the user (27) 17. Ferry service should be run like any other business (25) 18. Support for the Mayne to Saturna Short-Link Gulf Islands Ferry Corporation proposal (25) 19. Taxpayers and ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes (20) 20. Miscellaneous comments (20) 21. Reduce the amount of money spent on advertising (15) 5 Of 294 submissions that make critical reference to the consultation process, 210 were a form letter from the Powell River Economic Development Society, submitted by local residents. The form letter noted the process was flawed and did not represent meaningful consultation. 45 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

49 3.4 PUBLIC OPINION POLL The following section provides detailed results from input received through the public opinion poll. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Ferries will need to look at a combination of these considerations to find $26 million in savings, but are interested in your view on the prioritization of these considerations. 1. Please indicate your preference by ranking the following considerations from 1 6, with 1 being the most important and 6 being the least important: Base (n=500) RANK ORDER OF CONSIDERATIONS CONSIDERATION TOP PRIORITY RANKED 1 OR 2 RANKED 1, 2 OR 3 Basic Levels of Ferry Service For the majority of users, ferry service would be provided to and from work or school 45% 52% 64% Significant Annual Shortfalls Consider service reductions on routes that experience significant annual financial shortfalls 18% 32% 50% Low Annual Utilization Consider service reductions on routes that experience low annual utilization (such as less than 55% total utilization per year) 13% 37% 58% Low Round-Trip Utilization Consider service reductions on routes that experience low round-trip utilization (such as round-trip sailings that have less than 20% utilization) 10% 28% 49% Complexity of Multiple-Stop Routes Service reductions should take into account the complexity of routes with multiple ports and those that provide connections to other areas 9% 25% 33% Routes Requiring Vessel Replacement Service reductions should take into account routes that require imminent vessel replacements, including alternatives such as route reconfiguration 5% 18% 31% 46

50 PUBLIC OPINION POLL Reasons for ranking: B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT COMMENTS REGARDING RANKED CONSIDERATIONS TOTAL COMMENTING 187 Reduce/cancel underused routes or sailings 96 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Miscellaneous suggestions regarding changes to the service (i.e., build a bridge, consider the size of ferry, replace/refit) BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province 36 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Should be run like any other business 15 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 12 Cannot rank, as all are equally important B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

51 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 2. Please rate your level of agreement with BC Ferries reducing round-trip sailings to achieve $26 million in savings to REDUCING ROUND-TRIP SAILINGS Agree 24% 34% 58% Disagree 11% 19% 30% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 12% BASE: (n=500) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING COMBINATION OF PASSENGER-ONLY FERRIES AND A BARGE TO TRANSPORT VEHICLES TOTAL COMMENTING 228 Reduce/cancel underused routes or sailings 85 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) BC Ferries are part of the highway system/funded by the entire province 29 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 25 Should be run like any other business 23 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 22 Miscellaneous suggestions (i.e., build a bridge, build ferries in B.C.)

52 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3. Please rate your level of agreement with exploring the following potential options as part of the longer-term vision for making the coastal ferry system sustainable. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 3a) Please rate your level of agreement with connecting coastal communities using alternative ferry technologies, such as cable ferries or passenger-only vessels. ALTERNATIVE FERRY TECHNOLOGIES BASE: (n=500) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree/Not Stated 5% 6% 11% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. NEITHER NOR DIS COMMENTS REGARDING ALTERNATIVE FERRY TECHNOLOGIES Agree with alternative ferry technologies > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Support cable ferries that will still allow vehicle traffic > Preferable option for smaller communities > It will still provide service/access Disagree with alternative ferry technologies > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) > Problems with cable ferries (i.e., increased travel time, safety) > Does not appear to provide any cost savings NOT STATED TOTAL COMMENTING 141 Dependent upon route/current level of service 15 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 5 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) 31% 12% 10% 22% 36% 67% DIS DIS B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

53 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3b) Please rate your level of agreement with serving some routes using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge to transport vehicles. COMBINING PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY AND VEHICLE BARGE Agree 25% 39% 63% Disagree 9% 8% 18% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 19% BASE: (n=500) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING COMBINATION OF PASSENGER-ONLY FERRIES AND A BARGE Disagree with serving some routes using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge > Problems with barges (i.e., increased travel time, safety) > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) > Does not appear to provide any cost savings Agree with serving some routes using a combination of passenger-only ferries and barges > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Support use of barges that still allow vehicle traffic > Preferable option for smaller communities > It will still provide service/access TOTAL COMMENTING 93 Dependent upon route/current level of service 17 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained

54 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3c) Please rate your level of agreement with serving routes where the proximity and service needs are such that two or more routes could share a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry on alternate days or parts of days. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT TWO OR MORE ROUTES TO SHARE USE OF A CAR FERRY AND PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY BASE: (n=500) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 4% 7% 11% 13% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 32% NEITHER NOR DIS COMMENTS REGARDING TWO OR MORE ROUTES SHARING A CAR FERRY AND A PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY ON ALTERNATE DAYS OR PARTS OF DAYS Agree with two or more routes sharing a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry > It will still provide service/access > Support passenger-only vessels (i.e., lower fares, reduced vehicle usage) > Car ferry will accommodate vehicle traffic > Preferable option for smaller communities 44% 76% DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 48 Dependent upon route/current level of service 12 Disagree with two or more routes sharing a car ferry and a passenger-only ferry > Does not appear to provide any cost savings > Problems with passenger-only service (i.e., lack of public transit, lack of parking) Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 2 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

55 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3d) Please rate your level of agreement with serving some routes by a bridge. SERVE SOME ROUTES BY A BRIDGE Agree 38% 25% 63% Disagree 11% 9% 20% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 16% BASE: (n=500) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING SERVING SOME ROUTES BY A BRIDGE Disagree with building a fixed-link > Too expensive/extra burden on taxpayers > Not feasible for most routes > Bridges would destroy the appeal of living on an island > Environmental concerns TOTAL COMMENTING 115 Agree with building a fixed-link > Most economical solution in the long term/tolls would pay for construction/maintenance

56 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3e) Please rate your level of agreement with improving linkages between ferry terminals and communities with better cycling connections or better public transit service. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT BETTER CYCLING CONNECTIONS OR TRANSIT SERVICES BASE: (n=500) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 3 6% 9% 14% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 49% NEITHER NOR DIS COMMENTS REGARDING BETTER CYCLING CONNECTIONS OR BETTER PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICE Agree with improving cycling or transit connections > Supportive of improved public transit connections > Would decrease vehicle traffic/environmentally friendly > Would increase the number of foot passengers/economic benefit Disagree with improving cycling or transit connections > Cycling is not a feasible solution for the area/majority of users > Expanding cycling routes is expensive/waste of money > Does not appear to provide any cost savings DIS 27% 76% DIS TOTAL COMMENTING B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

57 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3f) Please rate your level of agreement with using alternative fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), to power ferries where it is economically feasible. USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS Agree 53% 27% 80% Disagree 2 3% 3 Neither Agree Nor Disagree/Not Stated 16% 2 18% BASE: (n=500) NEITHER NOR DIS NOT STATED DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING USING ALTERNATIVE FUELS TOTAL COMMENTING 104 Dependent upon cost (i.e., retrofitting ferries, cost of LNG) 70 Agree with use of alternative fuels > Environmentally friendly/reduced carbon footprint > Canada/western provinces have vast reserves of natural gas > Other countries already use different types of fuels/lng Disagree with use of alternative fuels > Environmental concerns associated with LNG > LNG safety concerns

58 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 3g) Please rate your level of agreement with standardizing vessels and docks to allow flexibility to switch ferries and crews between routes. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT STANDARDIZING VESSELS AND DOCKS BASE: (n=500) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 2 3 5% 12% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 57% COMMENTS REGARDING STANDARDIZING VESSELS AND DOCKS NEITHER NOR DIS 26% 83% DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 63 Dependent upon the cost of standardizing vessels/docks 38 Would improve efficiency (i.e., staffing, maintenance) B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

59 PUBLIC OPINION POLL Overview of Input from Long-Term Vision Options: LONG-TERM VISION OPTIONS TOTAL Standardizing vessels and docks to allow ferries and crews to switch between routes Using alternative fuels (e.g., LNG), to power ferries where economically feasible Better cycling connections or better public transit service Two or more routes share car ferry and a passenger ferry on alternate days or parts of days Using alternate ferry technologies, such as cable ferries or passenger-only ferries Serving some routes by a bridge Using a combination of passenger-only ferries and a barge to transport vehicles 57% 26% 12% % 27% 16% 22 49% 27% 14% 6% 3 32% 44% 13% 7% 4 31% 36% 12% 6% 5 10% 38% 25% 16% 9% 11% 25% 39% 19% 8% 9% 83% 80% 76% 76% 67% 63% 63% NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS NOT STATED *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 56

60 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 4. What is the best way to provide community funding to support the ferry system in the long term? B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT 4a) Please rate your level of agreement with increasing property tax in coastal communities to help fund ferry service. INCREASING PROPERTY TAX BASE: (n=500) Agree Disagree Neither Agree Nor Disagree 14% 12% *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING INCREASING PROPERTY TAX 25% 38% 27% 22% 48% NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS TOTAL COMMENTING 145 Should be user paid/increase fares 58 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province 41 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 24 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Property taxes should be last resort 15 Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 1 57 B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

61 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 4b) Please rate your level of agreement with increasing fuel taxes in coastal communities to help fund ferry service. INCREASING FUEL TAXES Agree 11% 20% 32% Disagree 29% 22% 51% Neither Agree Nor Disagree 17% BASE: (n=500) NEITHER NOR DIS DIS DIS *Totals may not add up to 100% due to rounding. COMMENTS REGARDING INCREASING FUEL TAX TOTAL COMMENTING 75 Should be user paid/increase fares 31 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province 14 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 10 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings 2 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership

62 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 5. Please provide any innovative ideas you may have regarding changes to the B.C. coastal ferry system to make it more sustainable. B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 SUMMARY REPORT COMMENTS REGARDING INNOVATIVE IDEAS FOR CHANGES TO THE B.C. COASTAL FERRY SYSTEM TO MAKE IT MORE SUSTAINABLE Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) TOTAL COMMENTING 186 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 35 Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings 32 Too many amenities/cruise ship-style luxury not needed 27 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province 23 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 23 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 18 Use smaller ferries 8 Reduce amount of advertising 6 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 6 Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained B.C. Coastal Ferries Consultation and Engagement, Fall 2012 Consultation and Engagement Summary Report, February 2013

63 PUBLIC OPINION POLL 6. Other additional comments: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS Operational cost reductions should be made (i.e., management and administration salaries and pensions, crew sizes, fuel, maintenance) TOTAL COMMENTING 55 Reduce fares/offer discounts/remove reservation fee to increase ridership 14 Build a fixed link (bridge or tunnel) 13 BC Ferries is part of the highway system/funded by the entire province Ferry service is an essential service, coastal/island communities are completely dependent upon ferry service (i.e., economic needs, quality of life)/basic service levels/routes need to be maintained 4 Should be user paid/increase fares 3 Taxpayers/other ferry users should not have to subsidize underutilized routes 3 Too many amenities/cruise ship-style luxury not needed 2 Should be run like any other business 2 Reduce/cancel underused routes/sailings 2 Consider privatizing service for underutilized routes 1 Use smaller ferries 1 60

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