GL: Cooper River Marina Prices

[M S]

Attached is the reponse I recieved from the marina regarding why the prices jumped 50% in a year. 
  Take it for what it is worth, but the third paragraph doesn't explain a 50% jump if these changes have been occuring over a few years and they update prices annually. The Market Survey in the second paragraph, which I translate as checking to see how much can they get away with charging, seems to be the correct answer.
  The second hand information, I have heard, is that it is a very nice well maintained marina and they are certainly not alone in, what I believe, are unreasonable price increases. My goal is not to pick on this particular marina. We've come across many with similar price jumps. I just wonder if the marina industry is killing the proverbial goose that lays the golden egg.
  On a more positive note: We are at Dataw Island Marina for a month. Very nice facilities, friendly helpful staff. It is a bit isolated, but at $10/ft + $40 elec per month, we will be renting a car a few times while we are here.
  Mike & Tammy
  Valhalla II
  *********
  Dear Mr. Scheuer:
  Thank you for email sharing your concerns about the transient rates at the Cooper River Marina. 
  Every spring, Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) conducts a market survey of local marinas.  Based on this survey, staff makes recommendations to the Commission about the fee structure for the Marina.  We believe the current rate structure at the Marina represents a great value when compared to other Marinas in the local market.  
  CCPRC has made a substantial investment in the Marina in the last few years.  We have added new amenities with the addition of transient docks, captains lounge, restrooms and ship store at a cost of approximately 3 million dollars.  Also, the expense of regular maintenance of the current infrastructure has increased significantly over the last couple of years. 
  Since its opening in May of 1995, the Cooper River Marina has never sold fuel. The nearest marina to fuel your vessel is approximately 2.5 miles from the Cooper River Marina at the Charleston Maritime Center.
  Again, we feel that the Marina is an outstanding value for the amenities that we offer and hope your group will continue to enjoy the services that we provide.
  Regards,
  Matthew F. Driscoll, Manager, Cooper River Marina