LANGLEY — The ship has already left the dock.

Community Planner Jeff Arango told the council this week it’s too late for city officials to get the Port of South Whidbey to change its plans for the first phase of the makeover of the Langley Marina.

The port has already granted final approval to move forward with its plans, Arango said, and the port officials have also heard that it’s likely they will get permits to start work next year.

The 2012 construction timeline doesn’t give the city time to offer input, Arango said.

Arango said the city should instead work now to forge a long-term partnership on the marina expansion.

Council members agreed, and said they had heard from many in the community after their recent joint session with the port — a meeting where city officials asked the port for a larger, redesigned first phase — who told them to get moving on the current plan.

Councilman Bob Waterman said his opinion had really “turned around,” and he now supported pressing ahead with the port’s current plan.

Others agreed.

“I’ve gotten the same feedback from boaters,” said Councilman Hal Seligson. “It’s pivotal that we show progress.”

“At least it’s a beginning,” added Councilwoman Rene Neff.

Even so, council members said they didn’t want to see a long time pass before additional work could be done at the marina.

“I just don’t want the next step to go away,” Neff said, adding that the city needs to take an active role as the marina makeover continues.

City staff has suggested that the city and port revise the agreement that covers improvements at the small boat harbor. Other recommendations include updating the boat harbor master plan and working on off-site parking for the marina.