The Horizon's Edge casino boat operation will pay less than it did last year to rent a city pier during the winter and early spring months when it suspends operations.

The Economic Development and Industrial Corporation will allow the firm to pay $21,000 in 2006 and 2007 to EDIC for use of the city pier. Horizons paid $45,000 this year to dock its casino boat at the pier.

It also paid $45,000 to Walsh Deep Sea Fishing, the local firm holding the primary lease with EDIC for use of the pier. Horizons will continue to pay Walsh $45,000 for the next two years, but the reduced municipal payment reflects Horizons' decision not to operate between November and May.

EDIC Director Peter DeVeau said the lease reduction acknowledges the impact weather has on Horizons' operations. The 186-foot Horizon's Edge sails daily at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Gambling is restricted to international waters and Horizon's Edge covers the 14-mile route to the high seas in an hour.

"Their business has not increased over the last couple of years; it's been down in many cases due to the weather," DeVeau said.

EDIC's board of directors has also adjusted Horizon's lease to require the firm to pay $60,000 to Walsh and $60,000 to EDIC in 2007 through 2009. DeVeau said Horizons and Walsh Deep Sea Fishing represent "the best use" of the pier.

"If it wasn't for Horizons Edge, there might not be anybody down there. It's an attraction to Lynn for people outside of Lynn, much like the North Shore Spirit," DeVeau said.

Horizons employs 80 seasonal workers, most of them from Lynn, and purchases supplies and services from Lynn firms.

The $10 million casino boat carries 599 passengers and crew. Its casino features 180 slot machines, nine Blackjack tables as well as Roulette, Let It Ride and Caribbean Stud Poker.

It also has a 140-seat restaurant and warm-weather entertainment on its upper deck.