Buena Vista County

Marina

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Buena Vista County Conservation Board Seeks Proposals for Casino Bay Marina Commercial Opportunity

STORM LAKE, Iowa — The Buena Vista County Conservation Board (BVCCB) is seeking proposals from qualified individuals, businesses, organizations, and development teams interested in leasing and operating all or portions of the Casino Bay Marina facilities in Storm Lake. Proposals will be accepted through 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Located at 207 West Marina Road on the southwest shore of Storm Lake, Casino Bay Marina is a publicly owned waterfront recreation facility serving seasonal boat slip renters, anglers, boaters, local residents, and visitors to the Storm Lake area.

Following the transfer of ownership of the marina property from the State of Iowa to Buena Vista County, the Conservation Board has been evaluating long-term options for the facility. As part of that process, the Board is inviting the private sector to bring forward business concepts that could enhance the marina while preserving its role as a public recreation destination.

The Board is open to a variety of compatible commercial and recreational concepts. Potential uses could include food and beverage service, marina retail, bait and tackle, boat or paddlecraft rentals, marine repair and services, outdoor recreation businesses, event or meeting space, tourism-related businesses, or other concepts appropriate for the waterfront location.

Proposers may express interest in leasing the entire marina facility or specific buildings, spaces, or operational areas. The Board is also interested in proposals that include private investment and improvements to the property.

Site Visit

A site visit for prospective proposers will be held Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Casino Bay Marina, 207 West Marina Road, Storm Lake. Interested parties will have an opportunity to view the facilities and become familiar with the property before submitting a proposal.

Proposals will be evaluated based on the overall quality and feasibility of the business concept, experience and qualifications, financial capability, public benefit, proposed lease terms and financial return to Buena Vista County, and proposed investment in the property. Selection will not be based solely on the amount of rent proposed.

Following review of written proposals, the highest-ranked proposers may be invited to participate in interviews with the Conservation Board or its designated committee. Any final lease terms will be subject to negotiation and approval by the Buena Vista County Conservation Board.

Site Visit: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Proposal Submission Deadline: Friday, October 2, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

The complete Request for Proposals, including property information, proposal requirements, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions, is available from the Buena Vista County Conservation Board and at www.bvcountyparks.com.

Interested parties may contact:

Buena Vista County Conservation Board
Attn: Executive Director
377 440th Street
Peterson, Iowa 51047
712-295-7985
marina@bvcountyparks.com

About Casino Bay Marina

Casino Bay Marina is located on the southwest shoreline of Storm Lake and provides public access to one of northwest Iowa's premier recreational lakes. The property includes marina buildings, seasonal boat slips, public boat launch facilities, courtesy docks, parking, public restrooms, shoreline access, outdoor areas, and other infrastructure supporting boating, fishing, recreation, and tourism