FHA President Peter Miller recently forwarded the following letter to dock reps to share with their neighbors. Just in case you haven’t seen it, here’s the full text:
To the FHA Community,
Though I’ve had close friends here for decades, I’ve only been a houseboat resident on Main Dock for two and a half years—which means I’m still a newcomer. So, even though there were no other contenders, I was a bit surprised to be elected FHA president last January. I said yes because this community is rare, remarkable, and something many people spend their whole lives searching for.
As my first year as president wraps up, here’s a quick look at what we’ve done—and what’s floating our way next.
AB754: Our Big Win
The FHA spent 18 months negotiating an agreement with the marina owners on rent control—an agreement that 93% of our community supported in last summer’s poll. Assemblymember Damon Connolly introduced the bill, and this fall it officially became law as AB754.
The results are already showing up in your wallet. When inflation is low (as it was this year), the allowable annual increase is only 3%, instead of 5%. That means a $1,500 monthly dock fee will go up about $360 less next year—and if inflation stays low, $720 less the following year. The law also reins in random fees, offers better protections when inflation is high, and extends rent control all the way to 2038. Not bad for a year’s work.
A Better Relationship with the Marinas
Before negotiations, we were navigating choppy waters—mistrust, curtailed services, surprise fees. Now? Things are calmer, more cooperative, and much more productive. This will matter greatly as issues arise in the years ahead.
Community Events: The Good, the Bad, and the Canceled
We held our annual meeting at the Bay Model in the spring—morning meeting, luncheon, walkable venue, good turnout. A win.
Day in the Park… well, that one sank before it sailed. Between limited funds and too few volunteers, we had to cancel—but we’re adjusting plans so we can bring it back strong this coming May.
What’s Coming Up
- Annual Meeting: Again at the Bay Model this February. Stay tuned for details.
- Revamped Houseboat Tours: Sharing our history and magic with visitors and augmenting the FHA’s income.
- Day in the Park, Take Two: A May celebration rooted in our origins—artists, musicians, cooks, and the incredible talent of this community.
- Treasurer needed: The FHA needs a new treasurer to maintain our accounts and serve on the board and executive committee. This can be a volunteer or paid position. (Huge thanks to our previous treasurer Linda Futrell for her service!)
- Community building: If you have an idea for organizing an event, hosting a dinner or other kind of gathering please contact Vice-President, Alex Shoer with your ideas.
We Need You (Yes, You!)
To keep the FHA afloat—literally and figuratively—we need your time, energy, and support. Please consider:
- Serving as a dock rep or alternate
- Volunteering at the Annual Meeting or Day in the Park
- Being a host or docent for the houseboat tours
- Becoming a member, or renewing if you already are one
If you’re unsure how to pitch in, email me—we’ll find something fun, useful, and perfectly suited to your bandwidth.
And finally, please consider a year-end gift to the FHA. Since AB754 is already saving many of us money, passing a little of that savings forward will help us continue representing and supporting this unique place we all call home.
Warm holiday wishes to you and your family,
Peter Miller
President, Floating Homes Association
peter.morris.miller@gmail.com