Port San Luis Harbor District is seeking proposals for a business location on the historic Harford Pier because Pete’s Pierside Café and Fish Market’s long-term lease is up.

Governments are required to go through a competitive bid process when leases are available.

“We are putting the taxpayer dollars to work to get the best deal we can,” said Julie van Hoff, business manager for the Port San Luis Harbor District.

Courtney Carden, co-owner of Pete’s, said that she is submitting an application to stay in the location. Pete’s, a casual, open-air seafood restaurant known for its fresh crab as well as shrimp enchiladas, opened on the pier in 2000. Carden took over the lease in 2005.

She expects stiff competition during the bidding process, but believes her cafe and its more than 20 employees are a good fit.

The Port San Luis Harbor District is funded by a combination of property taxes and income generated from the use of its facilities.

Harbor manager Steve McGrath said, “We are looking for a business that will take advantage of this unique site on a working, historic pier.”

The deadline for proposals is Oct. 12, and more information can be found on the district’s website at www.portsanluis.com on the bids and proposals/ request for proposals page.