The Langley City Council was asked to support the proposed South Whidbey Marina at its meeting Wednesday, and city officials agreed to help promote the $8.2 million makeover.

“The Port of South Whidbey’s spokeswoman Maureen Cooke asked us for a written statement expressing our support and we all agreed,” said Langley Councilman Bob Waterman.

Waterman said Councilwoman Rene Neff noted that the current marina had only a 10- to 15-year life span and it was important to support the port and get the project up and running.

He added that the council clearly is in favor of the economic development aspects of the marina and understands the port’s need for a positive campaign.

A property tax increase to pay for the marina project will be on the Nov. 4 ballot. The port is asking South Whidbey voters for an increase of 9 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value to pay for the initial phase of the project.

The port takes control of the city’s small boat harbor in January.