Adam Prudhomme
Beaver Staff
A proposed kayak and paddleboard rental business received Greater Napanee council’s support last week and could be in operation by this summer.
Harley Cunningham of Riverbank Rentals earned unanimous votes in favour to proceed with launching her watercraft rental business plan, which would set up shop next to the Water Street boat launch on the Napanee River.
“It would provide the opportunity to experience water sports, which would be stand up paddleboards and kayaks, along the Napanee River,” Cunningham told council. “Bringing that experience and the opportunity to see Napanee from a different perspective than just on land. It would give renters a chance to learn more about our waterways and encourage a healthy active lifestyle in our community.”
Her plan is to operate out of a small shack in the boat launch parking lot. She identified that area as her ideal location as it provides the best place for renters of all skill levels to push off into the water.
Among the concerns from council was safety and potential liability. Cunningham assured council she would have full insurance coverage. She also noted that all renters would be required to wear a personal floatation device, would be given a brief safety briefing before departing and no equipment would be rented in the case of inclement weather.
She also added she felt it would be a nice compliment to the town’s growing tourism industry.
“This would provide a unique opportunity to enjoy what Greater Napanee has to offer and would help to support and enhance tourism in Greater Napanee,” she added.
Riverbank Rentals would operate from June 15 to Sept. 3, with the potential to run until Thanksgiving were the weather to cooperate. She also added that guided tours could also be possible, but she would want to establish her business first before looking into tours.
Cunningham also promised to donate three per cent of total profits in 2018, four per cent in 2019 and five per cent in 2020 back to the town, who would then be able to use it as funding for its annual grants.
Council gave her their support to push forward with her business plan, with the intent that she would be able to open her business the weekend following the annual Riverfront Festival.