<p>An outside independent review of Steamship Authority operations is set to begin next week, with staff from a Seattle-based marine consulting firm scheduled to arrive Tuesday for a site visit.</p>
NANTUCKET -- An outside independent review of Steamship Authority operations is set to begin next week, with staff from a Seattle-based marine consulting firm scheduled to arrive Tuesday for the first site visit.
Boat line governors, absent Vineyard governor Marc Hanover who did not attend the monthly meeting Tuesday at the Whaling Museum on Nantucket, signed off on a project plan for the review.
Steamship Authority general manager Robert Davis said SSA management has worked on the project plans and scheduling with HMS Consulting, the marine firm hired last month to conduct a top-to-bottom review after an unprecedented string of ferry breakdowns this spring.
While service has mostly returned to normal this summer, public relations at the boat line are at a low ebb and minor breakdowns continue to crop up, especially on the ferry Martha’s Vineyard which has been plagued by problems since her return from an $18 million mid-life refurbishment at a Rhode Island shipyard last spring — including failed HVAC systems and doors that are not water tight.
The meeting included detailed discussion about ongoing talks with Senesco Marine, the company that did the work, to correct the problems.
On the outside review, general counsel Steven Sayers, who is retiring and will transition to part time work at the end of this month, will serve as an SSA point person for the project along with retiring human resources director Phillip Parent.
The SSA will pay HMS $217,976 to conduct the review, which is expected to take 12 weeks and will cover five general areas: vessel operations, fleet maintenance, management structure, public communications and IT systems. Among other things consultants will gather data and information, examine logs and records and examine reasons behind trip cancellations and communication lapses.
Mr. Sayers said the HMS project leader is scheduled to fly in from Seattle Monday and conduct the first site visit from Tuesday through Friday, with trips to the Vineyard, Hyannis, Nantucket and the boat line maintenance facility in Fairhaven on the schedule. HMS staff will conduct interviews with SSA employees and passengers along the way, he said. Members of the Coast Guard will be interviewed as well.
Governors voted 3-1 to approve a 15-page draft plan for the project. New Bedford governor Moira Tierney objected, saying that Mr. Hanover should be part of the decision.
“This particular project was in large part generated by the Vineyard’s wholesale dissatisfaction with what was going on with some of our operations,” she said. “I think not to have Marc involved in this is inappropriate and we didn’t have notice that we would vote.”
Speaking to the Gazette by phone Wednesday, Mr. Hanover said he did not attend the meeting because he was detained at the last minute by a problem at work. “I had my flight and was ready to go at 7:30, but we had an emergency at work so I was unable to go,” he said. Mr. Hanover owns Linda Jean’s restaurant in Oak Bluffs.
On Tuesday board members said they came prepared to take action.
“I just want to get on with the process,” Nantucket governor Robert Ranney said. “[HMS] have a dedicated focus on the stuff they need to know and they have a certain time in which to accomplish that. For myself I just want to continue. It’s consistent with their original proposal so I have no problem with his.
Falmouth governor Elizabeth Gladfelter noted the plan was based on an earlier proposal chosen by the board.
Ms. Tierney pressed to have a ferry employee representative present at meetings with the consultants.
Mr. Sayers said that decision would be up to the union. He added that he and Mr. Parent are non-supervisory staff members and would assure employees that they could speak freely to consultants without fear of retaliation.
Meanwhile, Mr. Davis outlined the punch list of items still needing to be resolved on the Martha’s Vineyard. One significant issue is that the passenger side doors are not water tight, he said, noting that a temporary fix has been installed since Senesco cannot make repairs until the fall. A staff summary prepared for the meeting describes a work-around where Senesco “created troughs under the doors this spring as a temporary measure in order to catch water where it is leaking.”
Failed air conditioning units near the ferry lunch counter also remain an ongoing problem. Mr. Davis said at one point during the recent heat wave temperatures in the lunchroom exceeded 100 degrees, and counter staff had to rotate shifts every 15 minutes for relief. The cause was a failed circuit board, Mr. Davis said, and then a replacement also failed. He said a technician diagnosed the problem and made repairs last week. Portable air conditioning units remain in use. “I’m told temperatures in that area have become more acceptable,” the general manager said. “Not refrigerator cold but comfortable is what I am told.”
The staff summary notes: “The SSA continues to clear the drains for the HVAC units so that condensation can be collected and drained without overflowing onto the deck.”
The SSA has paid $16.5 million so far toward the total refurbishment cost of $18 million. “We will continue to work with Senesco on the project status as well as any open items we need to address with them,” Mr. Davis said. He said a meeting with shipyard owners is planned for later this month.
Ms. Tierney asked if there was any chance the boat line would not have to pay the remaining amount. Mr. Davis said the SSA is required by contract to pay most of the money. “The way the contract is written our options are somewhat limited,” he said. “We’re trying to resolve this amicably with them . . . to get the boat working in the manner that we require it to be working.”
Mr. Davis said the boat line is working to reolve an issue with Peter Pan Bus lines to be sure the last bus of the day arrives in time to meet the last ferry of the day. An issue arose last month when the last bus of the day from Boston arrived late and the last ferry had already departed. Young adults were on the bus and had trouble finding lodging for the night, Mr. Davis said.
Going forward, terminal agents will call Peter Pan if the bus has not arrived by 9:40 p.m. for the 9:45 p.m. ferry, Mr. Davis said. He said he has also had discussions with hotels nearby to accommodate people of all ages who miss the ferry.
The ongoing project to reconstruct the Woods Hole terminal and boat slips is suspended for the summer season and set to resume in the fall. Mr. Davis said he had spoken with contractor Jay Cashman Inc. about possibly postponing construction of the permanent terminal and using the temporary terminal for a longer time. The extension would relieve pressure on the capital budget and allow the boat line more time to study traffic patterns, he said, but in the end the state building inspector would not authorize the delay.
“There’s also a lot to be said for just getting the project done,” Mr. Sayers said.
In his monthly business summary Mr. Davis said operating revenue is up about .6 per cent compared to budget projections. Year-to-date operating revenues are down by about 2.2. per cent compared to budget. Year-to-date, ferries have made 7,957 trips, five per cent off traffic projections. So far this year on the Vineyard route 556 trips were canceled because of mechanical reasons, 221 for weather and 121 for traffic demands. Ferries ran 608 additional unscheduled trips.
Port council member Robert Huss of Oak Bluffs told the board the council discussed starting off-season excursion rates for Islanders on the Wednesday after Labor Day. Currently the rates go into effect on Sept. 15.
“People on the Vineyard, they can’t wait until Labor Day comes,” Ms. Gladfelter said, noting pent-up demand among year-round Islanders for more affordable travel.
Mr. Davis noted the date had already been moved up from Oct. 15 and said he would look into the idea. “The space demand at that time of year is still very high,” he said. “We can look at it . . . if it’s an opportunity to fill space that’s one thing. If it’s a matter that we don’t have the space, then it’d be a policy decision.”
Mr. Davis’s annual performance evaluation was postponed due to Mr. Hanover’s absence.
The boat line also recognized Nantucket boat captain Bruce Malenfant, who is retiring after more than 40 years with the SSA. The board agreed to adopt a new policy of sending letters of appreciation when longtime employees retire.
The board also thanked Mr. Sayers, who was attending his last meeting as general counsel after more than 25 years with the SSA.
Comments
The name of the company that
Dean Rosenthal EdgartownThe name of the company that built the Woods Hole, to the tune of $46.6 million dollars, is named Conrad Shipyards. They sold us a LEMON. I don't understand how they are not responsible for their shoddy craftsmanship and poor marine work, but they SHOULD be – it's time to take them into account. If we had bought a car and it was giving us this many problems, they would have more than a bad Yelp review to contend with, this was the biggest waste of money spent in a long time, almost as bad, but far more costly, as the debacle with the Airport Commission and the Mobil station. But lest this comment look too 'local yokel' let's keep this subject on the LEMON we all get to live with – it can't even be fixed well. Maybe it's time to ask for a refund and start from scratch.
I fail to understand why
Gabrielle West TisburyI fail to understand why Islanders have to pay more in the summer and why the SSA restricts our excursions.We are not on vacation.Furthermore, passenger rates don't change,parking rates don't change, bus rates don't change. It simply makes no sense.
I do hope the consultants
Jack A. West TisburyI do hope the consultants weigh in on the safety of the new bow door installed on the Martha's Vineyard. It has never been tested in rough seas. Since the new bow doors are recessed into the hull and not of the the edge of the bow, swells with tons of water may breach the doors. Normally, the water would hit the doors and fall into the sea, the new recessed doors will keep at least 3-4 feet on the freight deck before the next swell. A potential unsafe situation could happen. Let's make the boat safe now.
They don't run the boats in
Steve FalmouthThey don't run the boats in rough seas
Steve,
Jack A. West TisburySteve,
You probably work for the steamship authority. But, there are swells even in calm seas when there are just 15 miles per hour winds. There is a very rough spot near a buoy going to Woods Hole, near the island of Naushon. How about testing the new doors out when there are small, medium and heavy swells. Let the consultant or coast guard report to all of us any limitations they feel imposing on the new door design.
I remember many trips when the Islander used to bob up and down through rough seas going across without any problems. The Martha's Vineyard wouldn't be safe any longer on the Nantucket run. The question is if a some swells hits the bow, how safe is it?
Mr Hanover I am loosing
Doug R OBMr Hanover I am loosing clients and you do not show up - what possible emergency can a ham-and-egg joint have - my clients feed this island - you need to step down and deal with pancakes - shameful. My clients was on the Martha’s Vineyard and he and his family had no air conditioning!! Do your job !
I'm going to start a Tumblr
Paul ChilmarkI'm going to start a Tumblr page of all your comments, this is too good
I hear there was a car
Jimmy MVI hear there was a car accident in Muncie, Indiana. How many clients will this cause you to lose?
Sorry Doug... that’s why I
Jim Coffins Field, EdgartowmSorry Doug... that’s why I have my own plane.
Hey Doug,
Greg OBHey Doug,
Mr. Hanover and SSA is more concerned about keeping the Christmas parties ...
Is Mr. Hanover paid to be a
Lucas EdgartownIs Mr. Hanover paid to be a governor?
I think Mr Hanover is a huge
Gino EdgartownI think Mr Hanover is a huge part of this problem. The arrogance of not attending the meeting speaks volumes. This will effect every man, woman and child and he has an emergency?!!? WHAT emergency- he is hiding something!
I agree and most people I
Charles EdgartownI agree and most people I meet and know all agree that the representation of Mr Hanover or lack there of is a disgrace - what is he doing? His only emergency is his precious parking spot - he should step down and stop this ridiculous charade - we are in crisis and he is worried about omelettes .
Mr. Hanover is not capable of
Hal OBMr. Hanover is not capable of doing this job..... Mr. Davis needs to step up to the plate and stop playing the nice guy... forget about bringing back the Christmas parties... do your job! Run the SSA!!
And please pick up the glass and debris from the bus fire it has been over two weeks...
Our only rep does not attend
Rupert and kevin ChilmarkOur only rep does not attend the single most important meeting of this island - I am sorry - but this is inexcusable and he should be removed. I will never step foot in that restaurant - I mean ever
Hanover has an emergency at
Jason OBHanover has an emergency at Linda Jeans? Does he have a management team? Our "lifeline" SSA is failing us and his priority is his restaurant. He's chosen his priority. Please resign, Mr. Hanover, and let's get someone who doesn't winter off-island and who can attend a monthly meeting. Seriously - why is he our representative???
Please, Mr. Hanover planned
AB OBPlease, Mr. Hanover planned to go. He had a reservation. I don't go to Linda Jeans because I don't go out for breakfast and very rarely lunch. In the late 90's I did have a breakfast and lunch cafe in Vineyard Haven. Occasionally we had serious problems that had to be fixed right away. There are lots of people on Boards of different organizations that work and own their own businesses. In this day and age, we have video, Skype, and many ways to keep on top of things.
He was a hero when he forced the Board of Governors to have the meeting on MV when it was supposed to be on Nantucket. We have no idea what is going on behind the scenes. I'm sure there are many avenues that are being investigated.
I agree. He can’t communicate
Linda KatamaI agree. He can’t communicate to the island at all on the SSA crisis but he can sure as come Monday have is resturant humming like a Swiss watch. He obviously does not see this as an emergency. What Mr Hanover will it take before you see this as a crisis. We have people loosing business and realtors loosing clients and not a peep from Mr Hanover.
Mr Hanover is enough is
Chris and Marty OBMr Hanover is enough is enough. Why the silence? Why ?
I like Mr Hanover I really do
Woody Artist on islandI like Mr Hanover I really do but in my humble opinion this situation is way way over his head. Time for get out of the deep end of the pool. And as an artist I depend on these boats!
“There’s also a lot to be
WashAbhorred Edgartown“There’s also a lot to be said for just getting the project done,” Mr. Sayers said.
Yes, and most of what should be said is that if you're not doing it correctly you should stop. After all the planning they now have doubts about the new terminal? So, they're going to just complete it...and then either live with a mess - or tear it down and start over in a few years? I guess when it's not your money it's easy to do.
How can we have a contract with a company that has to be paid in full whether they do the work properly or not? Does the SSA not have a legal team? Are there no other companies that do that work? Who signed the agreement for the SSA?
The problems at the SSA should be the responsibility of the GM...that's where the buck stops.
#breakupthesteamshipmonopoly
Viewfromtheregion#breakupthesteamshipmonopoly
Mr. Hanover does not attend
WT passenger West TisburyMr. Hanover does not attend SSA meetings in the winter because his business is closed and he heads south. He doesn’t attend meetings in the summer because his business is open and he’s too busy. Meanwhile the dysfunction at the SSA continues unabated. It’s long past time for the County Commissioners to thank him for his service, hand him his lifetime on-site parking pass and appoint a new board of governor rep who actually lives here year-round and will take his lifeline responsibility seriously. Contact the County Commissioners now, demand they take action.
Will HMS be looking at
Jim At largeWill HMS be looking at comments from the public? We probably see more than they ever will.
I know Mr. Hanover. He's the
David Pritchard Oak BluffsI know Mr. Hanover. He's the best and most qualified SSA member we've had in the 31 years I've lived here. So let's not blame him. The underlying problem is the states "low-bid" policy which leads to substandard work on the boats … and substandard boats ever when new.
The policy saves money, but at a terrible cost. Ya' get what ya' pay for (sic)!
We were just out in Seattle..
Lynn Oak BluffsWe were just out in Seattle... they run similar car ferries in and out of the harbor charging $15 for cars! Service is impeccable. Schedules are accommodating over 20 hours per day. Ferries are reliable and serve the needs of the city and community. They even have posted a contingency statement regarding disruptions in service on their website. The SSA needs to create a professional administrative team to take charge and address these inexcusable ongoing issues for the sake of improving service to our wonderful islands
https://santorinidave.com/seattle-bainbridge-ferry
The mean and spiteful, and in
Nelson Sigelman Vineyard HavenThe mean and spiteful, and in some cases ignorant comments, directed at Steamship Authority member Marc Hanover do nothing to advance the legitimate conversation that ought to take place concerning boatline operations now and in the future.
Some commenters appear to be unaware that the Dukes County commissioners appoint the SSA member of the authority (there is no "governor") to a three year term. Mr. Hanover was first appointed in 2004 and continually reappointed with nary a peep. It is an unpaid position. The board members are responsible for setting policy. Management is responsible for running the boatline. The board meets once a month and meetings easily consume much of the day. No doubt a retiree or a wealthy resident not responsible for meeting a weekly payroll would have an easier time of it but in my view a businessman adds some needed perspective to policy making.
However, threatening Mr. Hanover's livelihood (and that of his employees, most of whom are year round ) because you are unhappy with how he carries out his responsibilities is misguided and unfair. Raise your concerns with the county commissioners and when the appointment comes due press for a change.
More importantly, anything we learn from the study now underway will be a short term fix if the authority members and the Island ridership does not press for a service model designed for the future built on a regional transportation network and convenient fast ferry passenger service between Woods Hole and the Vineyard.
Lastly, running a restaurant is no day at the beach. Anyone who has done it as long as Mr. Hanover has on this island deserves some credit.
You may think the truth is
Chuck Oak BluffsYou may think the truth is mean and spiteful. The facts are that Mr. Hanover has missed a number of SSA meetings. The reasons for his absences don't matter. When you accept the role you accept the responsibility. If he has more urgent priorities in his business or personal life that give him conflict to being an SSA board member he should step aside. The SSA is a $100 million operation, and it now has serious operational and credibility issues. The board needs to be engaged with SSA management, not be absent or be a rubber stamp.
I hope whoever comes from
Gail A. Francis Seabeck,WAI hope whoever comes from Seattle can resolve the problems with the SSA. I do not ride the ferry to/from Seattle since retired and we moved to WA because of daughter-after living in MA for 29 years. Know several people who work for Seattle Ferry system and all seem to be happy. Will be on Island next summer and hope all is resolved by then. Been a regular visitor to Island since my youth.
Fred Condon, Edgartown
Fred Condon EdgartownFred Condon, Edgartown
The Amount of money being spent for a "Totally Comprehensive" review seems quite inadequate. Hope that a Minimal SWOT analysis is not the Driver? Perhaps in their wisdom they are trying to save wherever possible because they understand that the Changes that have to be made will be extremely expensive. Is there $ in the budget to fund the Suggested/Required remedies? Curious - Will this "review" include evaluation of Governance? Still can't find the Bios of the Governors? Not sure that any of them have the experience and/or knowledge required to "Govern" a $100,000,000.00 Entity - To have hired a new CEO (from within - an accountant) and not even look to interview external candidates confirms just how insular their thinking is!! Quite concerning- I doubt that they would suggest a review of their Governance - What metrics do they use to evaluate their performance? Are other similar operations visited? What is on their list of "FUTURE" Objectives - not remedial - Where is the VISION to come from - Is there a Strategic Plan? Has it been communicated to the Stakeholders? Think - Totally updated website, ability to buy and use prepaid passenger ticketing, Premium pricing - as airlines, ball parks, etc.
July 22, 2018 - 1:45pm
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