When Tom and Karen Wootton turned over the keys to the Buncombe Creek Marina to their children in January 2021, it looked as though a second generation of Woottons would be carrying on the family legacy that started back in 1988. However, as of this last October, the BuncombeCreekMarinahas new owners without a family connection to the Woottons.
These new owners are no strangers to the area as they own property right next to the marina. Chris and Marilynn Anderson, owners of Perry Park, will be taking on the Buncombe Creek Marina.
Knowing the rich and long history of the property, they have big plans for the maria. Keeping up with annual traditions is one thing that will not change, as they hosted the Christmas Light Up the Marina on December 2. There was a raffle for marina branded items, hot chocolate, hot dogs, and a bonfire for s’mores.
Plans to take over the marina began last summer but the deal was not finalized and announceduntillateOctober. Since taking over the marina, there have been a few needed changes to the property.
The store was given a much needed facelift to bring it up to date and more modern. Al Mickler, the new manager of the marina, has worked for the Anderson family for 18 years in an oil and gas industry business that the family owns. He said the change of career was a welcomed change.
“I Love it,” Mickler said about the switch in careers. “Change of life for me, more of a blessing.” Lisa Crawford, long time resident in the area and manager at Perry Park, said she is excited about the new ownership.
“This change will be good forthecommunity,”Crawford said. “The Andersons have put in a lot of work to bring the marina back to what it was before the tornado.”