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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 PACAB MinutesCity of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 386 CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting March 1, 2006 of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Vice-Chair Karl Van Buskirk. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Board member Long led the pledge of allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Karl Van Buskirk, presiding, D.J. Whitman Jerry Waliezer Andrew Hettinger Ron Long Absent: Deborah Alterman Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Clark Corbridge, City Manager Scott A. Ransom, Harbormaster Judi Sweeney, PACAB Secretary Marsha Vincent, Board Liaison SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation was not present to give a report. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Councilmember Valdatta, EDD Representative questioned the status of on- going lease negotiations with Polar Equipment dba Ocean Beauty saying they want to expand their lease property. He urged the administration to move forward with this lease. Administration's Report: City Manager Corbridge spoke on the following: • Proposed PACAB Resolution (2006-01), he said it is in the clerk's office in the form of an ordinance to be introduced. It then would go to public hearing at the March 13 meeting. He added that if introduced at the March 28 meeting and passed, it would become effective on April 7. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 387 • Regarding the proposed changes in the way boards and commissions operate, Corbridge referred to a February 27, 2006, Memorandum of Recommendations for Boards and Commissions. He said there was an amended Memorandum in progress. He asked that the board read the memorandum in full and reply with comments or questions. He said these were items related to all boards and commissions: Planning and Zoning, PACAB and Historic Preservation Commission. He suggested boards schedule meetings to allow for the greatest possible amount of time between Council and other boards and commission meetings; that agendas are finalized a week before the meeting, that it be made clear that the boards and commission members serve at the pleasure of the Council. Corbridge suggested changing the name of the PACAB to Commerce Advisory Board (CAB); that the board is changed from nine to seven members with four as quorum; give the opportunity for all members of PACAB to resign effective some date certain to be determined by Council. He suggested that two regular meetings are scheduled per month and that a CAB member report at every Council. • Corbridge noted there was information regarding tidal power in the packet. He asked that when someone gets information that it be distributed to all board members so all would be informed. Regarding Port McKenzie, they are aggressively pursuing gravel sales. He noted that because of the ice-freeze up in the Cook Inlet carriers could not access McKenzie. Advantages to having gravel sales promoted out of Seward are apparent such as shorter transportation costs and Seward's big advantage is the ice-free year-round port. Waliezer asked Corbridge to share some items that he had reported to Council at their previous meeting related to the harbor. Corbridge said there were some problems with how deep some pilings were driven. He said the Corps has a finding of No Significant Impact for two different alternatives for the breakwater. One would extend to the west boat harbor and the other would extend easterly. He said that he or the clerk's office has the number to contact for any comment. Long mentioned that not everyone watches the Council meetings on TV and he appreciated the update from Corbridge. Harbormaster Ransom said the 50-ton TraveliftTM has an April 17 delivery date. He said concerning the piling, it was just on the shore side and a little too low when the tide came in so they were raised. Ransom said that we have good feedback from the Corps leaning toward the outside breakwater. CITIZEN COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEM5 NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING: Laura Cloward, Chamber of Commerce Director, handed out two color copies of the Chamber Economic Development packets with inside pouches to add that they were information as needed. Van Buskirk asked if rock sales were promoted in the City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 388 packet. Cloward said it was not in the packet because Seward was not actively pursuing ~ sales of gravel but if we began marketing the sales, they would include it in the packet. She said it would be sent to conference planners, re-location planners and businesses that may want to come to Seward. Cloward said she attended PACOM and noticed quite a few pictures of Port McKenzie with a huge amount of ice in them and then Seward pictures without any ice. Councilmember Valdatta said we have been promoting rock and gravel sales from Seward for years. He said somewhere in the City's archives is a feasibility study from Colorado, that was done when the sawmill was going to be built. He said we already have a good history on hauling rock. Fairbanks is hauling rock to Homer and he said we should be with less transportation cost and better quality of gravel. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (moved by Long/seconded by Waliezer) approval of Agenda and consent agenda as amended. Including December 21, 2005 minutes as written Add under New Business C. Gravel Sales Motion Passed, Unanimous consent Corbridge in answer to Hettinger said that the City has a quarry. He said the city has not been in the business of loading up rock and sending it out but that private r"~ enterprise has done so. The City then receives per ton or per yard fee for gravel and rock. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Goals and Priorities Long with board, approval suggested postponing to the next meeting to give ample time for other items on the agenda. NEW BUSINESS Resolution No. 2006-01, A Resolution of the City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board, Recommending City Council Amend Chapter 2.30, Article 3 of the City Code to Reflect Changes to the Board Size and Purpose (Moved by Long/seconded by Waliezer) and passed by unanimous consent. ALTERNATIVE POWER SOURCES Board discussion included Wind, Coal Gasification and Hydroelectric. Long said this was discussed in an earlier economic meeting today. Hettinger said that if we do it right we could be a test community like the one he grew up in where a computer ~.. company gave every child in school a computer. Van Buskirk said he had talked to City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 389 Bencardino and found that in Alaska, the climate is too cold for hydroelectric power. Waliezer said he has studied all types of alterative power. He thought that if any type of alternative power excelled, it would be top news. Waliezer said the only cost effective power source of course is nuclear power but is not well received. He said there is a coal gasification plant in Healy. Waliezer said whatever is decided, we need to focus on where the funding would come. Galena has taken the leadership with nuclear power and that their physical plant is about the size of two 55-gallon drums. Kevin Clark, Forest Acres, spoke about co-generation, burning off the slag from the process and generating electricity. He said that would attract economic development. He referred to a time when he worked for a co-generation plant that was projected to payoff their overhead of their building in five years. Van Buskirk said the board needed time to absorb all of this information. He asked that this be on the next meeting agenda. Members of the board could accumulate information. Corbridge said the city is using 20,000 gallons or $50,000 worth of fuel per day plus overtime for the operators. He said the electric budget would absorb this part. He said that it should be turned into a natural gas turbine. Corbridge suggested the board study the sources of power, prioritize them and present them to Council as recommendations. Long said maybe by the next meeting we could find out what are limits are with Chugach Electric and "co-generation." Van Buskirk said he found that a ton of coal has the same energy consumption as 42 gallons of fuel. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS Agnes Stowe, On-site Inspector for TNH reported that Lash Construction had shut down December 9 and is waiting for material. All concrete floats have been delivered and installed. Just waiting on the gangway-landing float due March 24. She said the gangway due on April 10 and will be open for public use by the 15`h. The water utility contractor should begin installing the waterline by March 24. Stowe said there was a problem with erosion along the banks in places. She said the City needs to talk with the Corp about placing armor rock. She said that could cause a delay in the uplands work, signage, parking spaces, etc. Ransom said it is documented in letters to the Corps about the north edge of the recently dredged section. He said they armored about half of it, but did not know why they did not continue. They are aware of the problem and are receptive to address with no final answer yet. Long asked if any work would be done on the south harbor. Ransom said yes, they would be ready to go for a RFP for float construction with TNH and for the design of floats M, N, O and P as well as Z float is almost done. Choice right now is deciding on whether what the Corps will be doing with the entrance channel. Mica Van Buskirk urged the board to look for grants for alternative energy sources. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 390 BOARD COMMENTS Whitman said he was pleased to have so many people attend the meeting and thanked everyone for their input. Long said it was nice to see an Alaska Wilderness convention with 300 people in town this week. He complimented the Chamber on their brochure. Long urged everyone to comment on the breakwater design. Hettinger also admired the Chamber brochure. He also urged public comment regarding breakwater design. Ransom mentioned that he had testified on House Bill 478 earlier this day and in support of a 50/50 share of fuel tax as it could be used for much needed deferred maintenance. He said the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Authorities (AAHPA) have taken a collective stance to address the issue of bringing harbors up to Bade. Ransom introduced Marsha Vincent, who recently transferred into the Executive Liaison position and will be assuming the duties of board secretary within the next few months. Van Buskirk thanked Board Secretary Sweeney on the good job she has done. He also commended the Chamber on the great brochure and to the administration for g providing adequate information on alternative energy. r... CITIZENS COMMENTS Mica Van Buskirk said we should be pursuing marine fuel tax rather than it going into the general fund. Councilmember Valdatta spoke regarding Polar Seafood's problems with their city lease at SMIC and urged administration to resolve it so they can move on. He also mentioned that King Cove has water wind generators. Bruce Martin regarding alternative power, said we should start looking for funding sources. He said he has done some research and there are grants available. He will provide the board with some information. ADJOURNMENT at 1:30 p.m. ~~ ~G~~ udi 5w,a~~i~~,+.._ ~' i -+- l ~ ~'~~ OF A~s0~ Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 391 CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting of April 5, 2006, of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:03 p.m. by Chairman Altermatt. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Boazd Member Waliezer led the pledge of allegiance to the flag. SWEARING IN OF NEW BOARD MEMBER Deputy City Clerk Dollerhide administered the oath of office to new board member Bruce Martin and he took part in the meeting thereafter. ROLL CALL There were present: Deborah Altermatt, presiding, Karl Van Buskirk D. J. Whitman Jerry Waliezer Bruce Martin *Ron Long Absent Andrew Hettinger Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Clark Corbridge, City Manager Scott Ransom, Harbormaster Bob Valdatta, Council Liaison Judi Sweeney, PACAB Secretary SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation, 2005 report out. Looks good $12.7 million profit after expenses. Two changes to the board. Edgar left and Bill Noll was appointed best safety year. No serious injuries cost is down. Very concerned a bout safety. In addition, had a good year with passenger transportation and coming to Sewazd. Slight increase in rider ship. Citizen board member is Dorothy Urbach. New signs on the building dedicating it to "DALE R. LINDSEY INTER-MODEL BUILDING." Freight has increased hauling gravel from Anchorage. More work for longshoremen. Navy ship coming .Tune 4. We have a cutter in here. Norseman out on research in Prince City of Seward> Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 392 William Sound. He said the girl's baseball team has been practicing in the building. The Lion's Club has a garage sale this weekend. Valdatta reported that at the EDD meeting, Homer asking for funding of a 470 foot-freight dock. Regarding the EDD building, three-fourths is leased to Biotech in Virginia. He said there is $500,000 in a fund for small businesses to start-up. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Harbormaster Ransom * Progress on the East Harbor Expansion. Ransom said that soon we would be going to bid on adding 100 slips. He said have a letter to the Corps and are in touch with people in DC. He said they admitted that they had a design deficiency, but no money to fix it. He referred to a letter in the packet; Allen Jefferies of Corps, whose studies is not the end. He said the breakwater is 100-foot short. Ransom said we would need $3 million dollars to complete the project and it was up to us to go to DC to get funding. * Denali Commission proposal is at in our Phase 3 of asking for money. We have had help from TNH. Long asked if the breakwater funding was in the proposal and Ransom said no that there is about $8 million for the whole state to divvy up $8 million. $1 million request gives us Phase 1 and 2. Long had done some figuring and thought we would generate around $95-98,000 increase in moorage with the new slips. When asked about the status of the new slips M, N, O, P, Ransom said we are getting the floats built as we speak. Altermatt asked if the timber were more economical and Ransom said both have their good points. He added that the concrete floats have a little higher snow and ice removal maintenance and are more expensive if something happens to them, but are nice and wide, easy to walk on and we are happy with them. In answer to a question, Ransom said we are still scheduled for access to the fill area for 2007. He said when the dredging is complete, and then we could take ownership from the Corps. * 2006 Marine Yellow Pages Ransom reported that we sponsored the cover page of this year's Marine Yellow Pages $2,500. He thanked D.J. [Whitman] for photos, Louis' [Bencardino] photo, Laura [Cloward} for helped. City Manager Clark said Ransom had covered everything and had nothing additional to add. Agnes Stowe, Onsite Inspector for TNH spoke about the new configuration with the extensions of E, F and J Floats adding 32 new slips; a portion of X float was relocated with a new gangway and trestle access; and moved the fuel float to the end of the remaining portion of the old X float (renamed R Float). Work continues on upland improvements, extending utilities on E, F and J Floats, and added fire lines and potable City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 393 water connections on the fuel and X floats. Construction of this phase is expected to conclude in June. Mark Marlow from Seward Co-Generation, LLC. gave a presentation of a proposed coal power plant. He said they had applied to the ARR to lease ground near the rail to be close to the fuel source. Long asked about projecting how many rail cars would be used to make that much energy and Marlow said around 75 carloads per month. Waliezer asked if the numbers were based on one turbine and boiler to make them 92% reliable. When maintenance on the Seward Co-Gen is done, they would buy Chugach Electric's power. Tim McDonald reminded that we are adjoining the Kenai Fjords National Park one of the pristine areas and wondered if it was going to be a smoke stack? Marlow said because coal is solidified petroleum there isn't black smoke. This plant would use a bag house to contain the particulate into several thousand bags, and it is trucked away. Dale Hoogland asked what kind of noise there would be and found that there would be very little noise; and how near to neighborhoods these have been built. Right in the middle of towns like Fairbanks without a problem. It would be financed with private capital. Marlow, in answer to Jeanie Galvano regarding where the bi-product would be trucked said to either Usebeli or to your own dump. Galvano also asked how tall the building would be: 110 feet tall and the around 100 x 100 feet. Tim McDonald asked about waste bi-product. Marlow said it would discharge hot water into the bay. McDonald countered that that would not be acceptable to discharge heated water into the bay, that it would mess up the fisheries and that is a major red flag. Carol Griswold asked for their assurance that it would be environmentally safe. Hoogland asked if there were uses for the bi-product; some build bricks, some build plaster boats. CITIZEN COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING: Valdatta referred to Ransom's report on the harbor security camera system, Ransom explained that it was a project of the Police Department. Tim McDonald said it is a utopian idea. We can not have that many gallons of hot water disposed of in the bay. We have a pristine environment and do not think it would work here as it is and the EPA has to be involved. He requested to be put on Marlow's email list. Dale Hoogland wanted to show support stating that there would have to be some fine- tuning, but he felt it is a great idea. There is a way around the water issue. We need to use the coal that we have available. He questioned the location since in the 1964 earthquake, that was a bad spot and building on solid rock would be better. Marlow said it would be optimal to be near the coal source, but other areas could be explored. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 394 Carl Norman spoke in support of taking a serious look at this proposal. He V... reminded the board to look at the price of heating fuel, we need to do something soon - gas has gone up 30 cents in the last month. We need to look at every available way to obtain cheaper power. Bruce Jaffa spoke in support this type of project. Technological speaking, it is easy to throw barbs, but the industry has moved forward in tremendous leaps and bounds. He said if our desire is to create a minimum amount of impacts, we could do it. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Long/Waliezer) approval of Agenda and consent agenda as amended Including the March 1, 2006 minutes on page nine replacing the word Fairbanks to Girdwood. Motion Passed, Unanimous New businesses shift A, B down to B C and add a discussion of the board of the Co-Generation. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Goals and priorities list Alternative energy to the current projects. NEW BUSINESS Seward Co-Gen Altermatt thanked the public for coming to the meeting. PACAB has been hearing and studying this for over a month. Long said if there is a resolution, to present it in a positive way. The board thanked Mr. Marlow for his time and information. Waliezer, Martin VanBuskirk, Altermatt commented that they were disappointed in the administration's lack of attendance at these meetings regarding energy alternatives. Martin said it appears as if Seward Co-Gen has done their homework. Not too many downsides. Few environmental issues. Martin as far as aesthetics go; you cannot tell they are there. The board asked Marlow if he would attend the April 19 work session. They stressed that key people like the utility engineer, city manager need to be here, remarking that this is the second time they have not shown up. Altermatt said the council has been looking for economic stability. McDonald said his intention was not to condemn nor endorse. He said we all would like some relief on utility costs, but it was too soon to endorse. Ransom reported that regarding the breakwater and the wave action in the harbor, the Corps had admitted to making a mistake, but does not have the $3 million funds to fix the error. Long mentioned the responsibility to vessels or docks being damaged. ~... Ransom said Tryck, Nyman and Hayes Kim Nielsen submitted an excellent letter asking Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 395 for Federal financial help. Floats are designed for one-foot wave, but are getting up to 3 feet. *Board member Long left the meeting at 1:38 p.m. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS North Pacific Fishery Management Council News and notes, March 2006 BOARD COMMENTS Whitman said he was disappointed with administration's lack of concern, except for the Harbormaster Scott. Martin echoed those thoughts and said this is a very important project. VanBuskirk Huge opportunity for Seward. Administration should have been here to support this dialogue. Waliezer appreciate public input from the beginning. Altermatt thanked the public for attending stressing that this is just a discussion and there is a lot more information and public process to see if there is an interest. She welcomed Martin "on board." She applauded having a full board now. We have great support staff and thanked Judi and Scott. Marlow thanked the board for their time. Bruce Jaffa -said Seward is a remarkable town and that every community as it develops, infrastructure is measured. He commented that for an outsider to come to present to Seward an alternative energy source was admirable and cautioned not to barricade the town. Process needs to be public and this is a great place to start. We do need to move forward. Understand that this is just the beginning. McDonald said that although we cannot dismiss the downsides, he could put his own personal objections aside. Terry Doane said he appreciated the enthusiasm and high level of concern. It brings a great opportunity for Seward to be a model as a good example for small communities to work together for alternative power sources. CITIZENS COMMENTS none City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, page 396 ADJOURNMENT at 1:49 p.m. ~c ~~GP~ Judi Sweeney Board Secretary s~`~ rfr~SE ~~~i _ ;~~ ....... Fo: ~~ r . ~ T • M r ~~ SE i®~ r : j ~ • ,_ a ~• ~~ ~ Deborah Altermatt Chair City of Sewarr~ Alaska May 3, 2006 CALL TO ORDER Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 397 The regular May 3, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:04 p.m. by Chair Deborah Altermatt. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Board Member Waliezer led the pledge of allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Deborah Altermatt, presiding, and D.J. Whitman *Karl Van Buskirk Jerry Waliezer Bruce Martin Ron Long Comprising a quorum of the Board; and also present were Scott A. Ransom, Harbormaster Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corp. Rep. Bob Valdatta, Councilmember, EDD Rep. Laura Cloward, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Judi Sweeney, PACAB Secretary Angela Buck, Harbor Office Assistant SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation, reported that SERVS (oil response) has been holding training in the building. He is working on the coal project with Mark Marlow of Seward Co-Gen. He reported that they had quite a few tugs and barges coming in. He said he is working with the City concerning the Navy ship sewage disposal. Bencardino added that the Railroad has had a good time working with people in the City. Altermatt wondered about some Japanese vessels recently ported in Anchorage. Bencardino said the ARR did not know they were coming. He told Whitman that the Navy ship sewage issue was worked out. He reported that the first passenger train is May 13 and then for the first cruise ship on the 21St Laura Cloward, Chamber Executive Director reported on the initiatives drive. She said it is far more than a head tax initiative, that it includes a head tax on cruise ship gambling also and establishes secondary water quality. State chamber wants to know what Seward's stance is on the petroleum tax. She said at the next Borough meeting they are discussing a tourism tax. Cloward also mentioned military appreciation day and the harbor opening weekend and said they would appreciate any assistance. She said City of Seward, Alaska May 3, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 398 regarding the derby booth construction, only one bid was received and she felt it was because construction cost is on the rise. ,,,,, Cloward said that two formal entities have focused on economic development. She felt that paths are crisscrossing or there is no linkage. She said she felt a frustration because the Council had given the Chamber the task of marketing and PACAB was also focused in that direction. She said the Chamber has been waiting for PACAB to take the lead. Alterman said one way is to try to work on guidelines, mutual meetings, etc. Long reminded the board that PACAB's position is a polic~and advisory board. We are moving in the same direction, however, we can only make recommendations. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Harbormaster Ransom thanked the harbor office staff for publishing the newsletter. He informed that the public restrooms are open, there is water on the floats, fish gut barges aze in use and the new TraveliftrM is here. He said Mayor Shafer and Councilmember Dunham went to Juneau to work with our lobbyist on the funding for dock. Ransom introduced Vista Volunteer, Rob Rance. Rance gave a brief summary of how he came to Seward. He had worked with the Americorp Vuta project. He explained that he has an international finance degree. He spent time in the Argentina. commercial '~ Peace Corps, banking; and has been a cowboy and sheepherder. He moved to Asia and started his own Peace Corps and that proved to be a success. He worked with Native Indian tribes in China. He said that he has a wealth of real life problem solving and working with the public and is looking forward to integrating into a "normal society". He said the Council has given him a priority project of assessing strengths and weakness of the community and to determine what direction it should take. Rance will be here one full year. Alterman said that Sewazd has been trying to get a Vista Volunteer for a couple of years and hopes he can help us (PACAB) out. Rance gave his contact numbers and his email address to the board. His phone number is 224-4004 and email address is rrancena,cityofsewazd.net. Valdana said he had attended an alliance meeting in Soldotna regarding the Agrium Project and coal gasification. Ammonia and urea are bi-products and the plants can burn any grade of coal. He said he left a Chamber brochure with Senators Stevens and Murkowski. He suggested giving Chamber brochures out more often to get better exposure of Seward. Harbormaster Ransom explained that the RFP is out for I and T dock and will be opened next week. Alterman wondered about the status of grant money. Ransom explained that there is a Senate bill for funding renovations of the hazbor. Same grant renovation of all of the old floats that never were fixed when the City took over the hazbor from the State. If we were to get some of the $5 million distributed; we would be City of Seward, Alaska May 3, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 399 one of the first. We have a $2 million request for additional funding for I and T dock renovation and new TraveliftTM dock. He said the city is not required to match that money. Waliezer mentioned that he has not seen project pictures other than what the University did for us. Ransom said regazding the condition of the dock, we will re-deck. *Karl Van Buskirk arrived at 12:27 P.M. and took part in the meeting from then on. CITIZENS COMMENTS None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Waliezer/Whitman) approved the consent agenda including the minutes of April 5, 2006 with the addition of a presentation by Kim Nielsen, TNH Engineer, and project update. Motion Passed by Unanimous consent UNFINISHED BUSINESS Goals and Priorities after a quick review of the on-going list, the following changes were made under: Current Projects -Eastward Expansion he said the south floats are in. - Delete 50-ton Travelift (purchased and in place) Waliezer reported on the Highway Improvements 0-8 saying work sessions had been held; that there would be culverts out to Mile 8; they intend to keep the road open at least one way and a bike trail is going all the way to the Bear Lake fire station. Altermatt turned the meeting over to Tryck, Nyman and Hayes, Engineer Kim Nielsen to present her report. Whitman objected and raised a Point of Order to Nielsen giving a PowerPoint presentation saying that the public had not been given proper notice. Ransom explained that this was not anything new, but a regulaz monthly update. Altermatt reminded Whitman that they had just approved the agenda including adding Nielsen's place on it. Nielsen said she wanted to give the new board member a quick update on the "project". She said the construction project had extended E, F and J concrete floats and they are hooked up for water. They moved the fuel float over and installed the new gangway and relocated X float. She said Lash Construction has completed their job. The plumbing, new ladders and fire extinguishers were installed and we aze waiting for the electric pedestals to arrive and will be installed by the end of month. South Harbor would be in the next round of renovations. RFP is out to procure the floats, and then they are reviewed and will be approved by Council at their May 22. The work would be done over the 2006-2007 winter and spring. City ofSeward, Alaska May 3, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 400 Whitman asked what the schedule is for the south upland area. Ransom said we have not been given total clearance from the Corps, but things like bathrooms, picnic ,,,~ tables and a mariner's memorial would be okay. Waliezer said the public should have input on what is going on here to prevent backlash. He said he realized they are an advisory board as Long suggested, but the public should be informed. Altermatt asked Nielsen if she would come back at their June meeting and give her presentation. Valdatta's said that Casey and the City Manager were to set up specs to go over the $10,000 limit for rock sales. He said the quarry is not sorted as the last contractor to haul out of there was supposed to do. No discussion on how much in the kitty from previous rock sales. Following Valdatta's comment that we need to market the rock sales from the City's rock quarry, Altermatt requested the following for the next regular meeting -how much and what grade of rock is in the quarry? -how much is charged and collected in sales? NEW BUSINESS RESOLUTION NO. 2006-02 A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING FURTHER STUDY OF THE SEWARD CO-GEN, LLC ELECTRICAL SERVICE AS A SOURCE OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY FOR THE COMMUNITY OF SEWARD It was moved by Long, seconded by Whitman and passed unanimously to approve Resolution No. 2006-02 with minor changes. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (no action required) North Pacific Fishery Management Council News and Notes, Apri12006, noted. CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Robert Valdatta asked that he be allowed to walk the approved Resolution through to expedite it for the May 8 meeting as a lay down. Laura Cloward suggested PACAB's agenda be put on the Clerk's emailed agendas in order to better inform the public. BOARD COMMENTS The board welcomed the new Vista Volunteer Rob Rance. ~.. Ciry of Seward, Alaska May 3, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 401 -Long commented that the bed .tax, because it was just voted on could not be revisited un61 October 8 at the earliest. Altermatt thanked Mark Marlow for his diligence in attending several meetings in Seward. She said they would pass this to council and asked if he could possibly come back to talk to the City Council. Marlow answered in the affirmative. She said the earliest to place this resolution on the council agenda would be May 22. She reminded everyone that the Seward Harbor Opening weekend is the weekend of the 20 and 21. She said there is also a Military Appreciation day on May 20 with festivities at the Harbor Plaza. Waliezer wondered about the status of Marlow's talks with Chugach Electric Association. Marlow said that Lipscomb and Nordstrom got the board seats they wanted. They had the support of the IBEW. Whitman commented that he is totally against a lay down to the Clerk on this day without public notice. ADJOURNED at 1:20 p.m. Judi Sweeney Board Secretary (City Seal) Deborah Altermatt Chair •.••' p~ SEyy. ,,~ t~ • •••N.•~~ ~ ••A. ,~, ® M 'P~\y,7 Y • RJ..e. +++111...~~~ ~~ S I• ~ ••ba.roi• ~ ••• '••.~ OF Ati~:'o•• irrr City of Seward, Alaska June 7. 2006 CALL TO ORDER Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 402 The regular June 7, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:04 p.m. by Chair Altermatt. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Was led by Board member Martin. ROLL CALL There were present: Deborah Altermatt, presiding, and D. J. Whitman Bruce Martin Jerry Waliezer Ron Long Absent: Karl Van Buskirk Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Scott A. Ransom, Harbormaster Robert Valdatta, Councilmember/KPB/EDD Representative Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative Judi Sweeney, PACAB Secretary SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Louis Bencardino, ARRC Representative reported that business is good and has nearly doubled. He said they are upgrading the tracks from Fairbanks to Seward. The Navy ship U.S.S.Chaffee was in port for the last few days. He said they were happy with their visit to Seward and presented a picture to the American Legion. He thanked the City for providing sewer service to the ship. He mentioned that a special roof coating was applied to the building and has aten-year guarantee. He reported on a meeting with Totem Ocean Trailer Enterprises, (T.O.T.E.). discussing the logistics of loading and unloading freight from barges and ships. He spoke in favor of the Coal-fired generation plant saying that the Railroad would like see a contract signed by the City before they commit to a land lease. They are supportive of the coal plant. .~. City of Seward. Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes June 7, 2006 Volume 3, Page 403 Robert Valdatta, Council representative on EDD, said he did not have anything to report concerning EDD at this time. He said that the fish weir (Cook Inlet Aquaculture) facility had 45,000 red salmon return to date. Harbormaster Ransom reported on the May 24 work session with the full Council, three from the U.S. Army Corps, Kim Nielsen from TNH, Ron Long and three Congressional representatives via telephone. He said it was a very productive session. He said the Corps admitted they made a mistake on the design of the breakwater and they have a willingness to resolve the issue. Ransom said the Corps visited the City's rock quarry and felt it was organized well enough to do the project. Kim Nielsen, TNH Engineer gave a report on the progress of the harbor project. She said the final inspection with Lash Construction is scheduled and the projected closeout should be by the end of the month. She said they are working on float water, sewer and the design of the uplands. CITIZEN'S COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING: NONE APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Long/'Waliezer) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda including the minutes of May 3, 2006. Motion passed by unanimous consent. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Alternative Energy Ransom said there had been a good turnout for the (May 29) work session held with Council. Mark Marlow, Seward Co-Generation suggested that alive-member committee be formed consisting of the following: ane PACAB member, Marlow, Resurrection Bay Conservation group member, a council member and a member of administration. Alterman said she would be giving a presentation to Council per their request for information on other avenues of alternative energy options and asked if anyone from the board had any information they would like to share with her. Long will be the PACAB representative with Waliezer and Martin as alternates. Goals and Priorities - on going list mention that the Corps is about to sign off on the upland. NO CHANGES NEW BUSINESS Seward Economic Development Plan Altermatt explained that this was just an on the agenda for discussion. Long gave an overview of the Seward Economic Development Plan booklet and the figures and charts were taken from the KPB's of the third and fourth quarter of last year showing values rather than permits. He explained that (building) permits are required for things that never used to require permits like inside structural improvements. Fish Head Processing Plant Ransom explained this is a group from Korea that is City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Baard Minutes June 7. 2006 Volume 3, Page 404 interested in buying fish heads. Ransom said he made some phone calls and was waiting for a reply. Modular Housing Martin explained that this group is just inquiring about manufacturing modular homes in Seward. He said they would be meeting with AVTEC on Tuesday, June 13, 2006. The interested party liked how Seward is the railhead, deep-water port and can get material from anywhere to here. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS: NONE BOARD COMMENTS: Following discussion, Waliezer volunteered to give the presentation regarding alternative energy to the Council. CITIZENS COMMENTS: Willard Dunham asked about the plans for the upland area created by the harbor expansion. Harbormaster Ransom said that there was an opinion paper written by City attorney, Brad Meyen with suggestions for the land use of the upland area. Dunham commerited the plan is strictly up to us (Council) and we are not going to rush this plan through. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS: ADJOURNMENT The work session ended at 1:30 p.m. /~ ~ ' Judi Sweeney Board Secretary •..•®~ ~,~`~••i,~ '~'L l eeveveeve_y ~~~~~~ ~ ~ .et. ''?.'. . 11~L`~' t e orate Altermatt Chairman (City Seal) :''' _•-~°- .~ b ~/'eeee ~r ~va~ui~~ eeP"~T'`1~ City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes July S, lOp6 Volume 3 Page 405 CALL TO ORDER The regular July 5, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was adjourned, in the absence of a Quorum, by Chair Altermatt until August 2, 2406. There were present: Deborah Altermatt, presiding, and Jerry Waliezer Ron Long Absent: Karl Van Buskirk D. J. Whitman Bruce Martin Not comprising a Quorum of the Board; and Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative Scott Ransom, Harbor Master Christy Terry, Executive Liaison Adjournment 1~leeting adjaumed at 12:15 'sty Terry Deborah Altermatt Executive Liaison Chairman ~a...a,. (C~tY S~~''QF SEI~r''•o~ q . v• ~ s i ..~4Y~ s ~A .~ ''.ATE OF A`~'.••' t Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes September 6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 406 r.. CALL TO ORDER The regular September 6, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Boazd was called to order at 12:00 pm by Chair Deborah Alterman. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Member Bruce Martin. There were present: Deborah Alterman, presiding, and Karl Van Buskirk Ron Long Bruce Martin Darryl Schaefermeyer (Arrived 12:05) Absent: None. Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Kirsten Vesel, Assistant City Manager Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative i.. Scon Ransom, Harbor Master Christy Terry, Executive Liaison ARRC Representative Louis Bencardino gave an overview of Alaska Railroad activities. He stated Seward doubled their activities from last year. Bencardino informed the Board there were a number of future projects that would benefit the City of Seward. One current important item was Quality Asphalt Paving storing containers in Seward. Bencardino discussed current ARRC property activities. In conclusion, Bencardino disclosed 55 vessels were scheduled to dock in Seward in contrast to the 43 that docked in 2006. In response to Long, Bencardino believed the scheduled dockings were not port of calls. In response to a further question from Long, Bencardino understood ARRC was working to have a solution to the timeliness of the South bound train. Solutions could include adding more tracks for sidings. In response to Schaefermeyer, Bencardino stated: if the natural gas piping was supplied by a foreign company, then it would be transported through Seward; if it was domestically obtained, then Whitter would handle the shipments. In response to further questions from Schaefermeyer, Bencardino noted ARRC could extend the cruise ship dock and/or alter the facility. Bencardino noted not allowing pesticides to clear tracks of vegetation would be a problem for Seward. Schaefenneyer stated it would be virtually impossible for pesticides to contaminate Sewazd's aquifer. He was surprised to see the position the City had taken on this issue. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes September 6.2006 Volume 3, Page 407 Van Buskirk stated his personnel well was less then 100 feet from the railroad tracks. Erchinger believed ARRC would be using a commercial version ofRound-Up. Long shazed last night the Borough Assembly passed a resolution opposing ARRC's permit application to apply pesticides as a track maintenance measure. Long discussed concerns with how the chemicals applied would react when combined, ARRC's apparent avoidance to answering questions directly and the need for chemical removal vs. mechanical or other methods. Long stated virtually all of the communities along the rail-belt had opposed the permit application. 2007/2008 Legislative Boards and Commissions Biennial Operating Budget, Harbor Budget and SMIC Budget- Finance Director Kris Erchinger Finance Director Kris Erchinger gave an overview of the Legislative Boards and Commissions Biennial Operating Budget. She believed that this was the first time these budgets were brought before PACAB prior to submission to Council. Altennatt clarified past PACAB attendees to the Fish Expo had not utilized the traveU subsistence funds, but had traveled representing Seward at their own expense. She stated that PACAB had never asked for special treatment by having a lunch .provided, but wanted the Administration to keep in mind they were the only BoazdlCommission that gave up their lunch hour to meet. In response to Schaefermeyer, Erchinger stated insurance costs were allocated equally to departments based on their expenses. She further clarified that volunteer insurance was included in these allocated costs. Long clarified in the past PACAB had convened at the Harbor Dinner Club, but this created a problem with the public not feeling welcome to attend the meetings unless they purchased lunch. He clarified this precipitated the move to the Council Chambers. Long stated the Board still needed to eat during this time and it also seemed to help the meetings be more productive. In regards to marketing, it would be important to keep in mind PACAB's ability to make recommendations to Council for general fund expenditures. Long noted specific mazke#ing funds went directly to the Chamber as the City's current marketing agent. Altennatt supported the City's membership in the World Trade Center: Finance Director Kris Erchinger gave an overview of the Biennial Operating Budget for the Harbor and SMIC. She included explanation of the actuarial mishaps with the PERS system and the debt incurred.. In response to Long, Erchinger stated the 25% increase in revenue was based on the new slips. Erchinger noted the new bonds saved about $45,000 per yeaz with the favorable interest rates. Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes September 6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 408 r.. Long then confirmed with Erchinger that the passenger transit fee was reflected in the revenue. Long felt the passenger fee revenue would continue to grow 7-8% per year. Long and Erchinger discussed deprecation expenses. In response to Schaefermeyer, Erchinger stated she would have been concerned with the condition of the Harbor Enterprise Fund infrastructure if the new capital assets hadn't recently been added. She noted the need to proactively move forward and not rely on what was accomplished in the past. In response to Schaefermeyer, Harbor Master Ransom stated Seward's fees were within the top five statewide. Van Buskirk discussed per foot moorage compared to the west coast and other harbors in Alaska. Schaefermeyer expressed how important it was to monitor moorage prices when dealing with the budget every year. Erchinger asked PACAB to contact her with further questions. Harbor Master Scott Ransom gave an overview of harbor activities. Executive Liaison Christy Terry asked the Board to pull item 8B. "Discussion and recommendation to Council on Council's approved motion regarding their intent to apply for money to begin an RFP for engineering study for a wave bamer and dock that is ferry capable for the Seward Marine Center." Terry obtained further clarificafion from Mayor Shafer of Council's intent to have PACAB review this issue at a later date. Citizens' comments on any subject except those items scheduled for public hearing. jThose who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak Time is limited to 2 minutes per speaker and 30 minutes total time for this agenda item.] DJ Whitman, 12510 Camelot, urged the Board to consider Seward when examining the Seward Marine Center Dock. He asked the Board to encourage the Seward Marine Center to review their conceptual plan. Whitman stated the University and the City had a great opportunity to work together and make this a positive project, if it was done correctly. Approval of agenda and consent agenda Motion (Long/Schaefermeyer) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion (Long/Schaefermeyer) Remove item 8B from the Agenda City of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes September 6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 409 Long looked forward to having this return to the agenda after the work session on September 20, 2006. At the request of Altertnatt, Teny read the exact motion passed by Council, "Apply for the money needed to begun a RFP for an engineering study for a wave barrier and dock that is ferry capable for the Seward Marine Center (SMC): ' Motion Passed Unanimous Agenda and Consent Agenda Passed Unanimous Executive Liaison Christy Terry read the following item approved on the Consent Agenda: June 7, 2006 regular meeting minutes Goals and Priorities - On-Going The Board Members had no comments on this item, and Altermatt directed staff in the interest of time to place this on October's Agenda. Discussion and direction: 2007/2008 Legislative Boards and Commissions. Biennial Operating Budget, Harbor Budget and SMIC Budget. Altermatt directed staff to place this on the work sessioa following the SMC Dock presentation and place on the October 4te meeting for action. There were no objections from the other Board Members. Discussion and recommendation on request from THE MILEPOST for ad placement. Van Buskirk understood the Chamber of Commerce was tasked by Council to provide marketing and any advertising by the Administration could be redundant. Long stated the City and the Chamber had a contract for a specific number of items and activities. He clarified that the City could not direct the Chamber to spend money on items not agreed upon and he understood the Milepost was not an agreed item. Assistant City Manager ICirsten Vesel confirmed the Chamber of Commerce did not advertise in the Milepost. Alterniatt clarified the Chamber did not feel the Milepost was a good use of funds far-their organization. Long placed a 2/3 page ad in the Milepost and estimated his retum at $15,000 worth of business. City of Seward Alaska September 6, 2006 Part and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 410 Schaefermeyer stated the SeaLife Center also placed an ad with the Milepost. Currently, the SeaLife center was pursuing partnerships with other local businesses to share an ad. Schaefermeyer felt the Milepost was one of the more recognizable Alaska publications for the tourist industry. Vesel understood the Chamber of Commerce was targeting more individualized publications such as brochures and information packets. Altermatt encouraged additional advertising for the City Campgrounds and Harbor. Long stressed the importance of compiling an outstanding ad quickly. He recommended at least the 1/2 page ad. Schaefermeyer encouraged collaboration. Vesel agreed but was concerned with trying to collaborate within the limited timeframe. Altermatt discouraged collaboration with other private businesses and encouraged promoting City services. Van Buskirk found the Milepost was an important adverkising tool for his private business. He was curious to understand the Chamber's reasoning in not placing an ad. Van Buskirk wanted to ,.. insure that the City of Seward had the resources to produce a good ad. He asked the Administration to coordinate resources with the Chamber of Commerce. Port and Commerce Advisory Board, by general consensus, directed the Administration to pursue possible placement of at least the'/: page ad in the Milepost. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required)- Reminder: September 2016 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Work Session presentation by Captain Tom Smith regarding the Seward Marine Center Conceptual Plan for Renovation and Modernization, at noon, City Hall Upstairs Conference Room BOARD COMMENTS Martin reiterated how important the Milepost was to touris#s. He felt it might be a challenge to develop an ad under the current time constraints with the added hurdle of the Chamber Director being out of the country. Schaefermeyer stated he was glad to be on the Board. Van Buskirk thanked the Finance Director for the great packet of information provided for ,. budget discussions. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes September 6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 411 Long welcomed Schaefermeyer to the Board. He stated there would be a South Central Alaska Energy Forum on September 20s' and 21g` in Anchorage. Long encouraged everyone to attend the annual United Way cruise to Fox Island on September 8s'. Altermatt welcomed Schaefermeyer and looked forward to having a full Board Vesel noted Lisa Murkowski's staff would be in Seward on September 9th and would be meeting with the public at Resurrection Art starting at 12:30 pm. She also welcomed Schaefermeyer to the board. 11. CITIZENS' COMMENTS [S minutes per individual -Each individual has ane opportunity to spear] DJ Whitman, 12510 Camelot, noted Seward Ships Drydock had to turn down servicing the MV Chenega because of lack of moorage. ARRC Representative Louis Bencazdino informed the Boazd that the Art Train would be in town from September 20-24 and there would be a music festival at the cruise ship dock. 12. BOARD AND ADMII~IISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMII~NTS-None. Adjournment ing adjourned at 1:30 Christy Terry Executive Liaison [~ ~... F S~ - .,•• (City Seal) .~~`~y O .~X~..... yi;,q~p'. ~ : f ~'!a. ..` ~~~ i _ s • y 1..~~' 1~ u A t -0-~ sE Deborah Altermatt Chairman ~(~y~a~^ l7 P~ '••~rF of a~~ ~. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4, 2006 Volume 3, Page 412 ,,,,~ CALL TO ORDER The regular October 4, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:05 pm by Acting Chair Karl Van Buskirk. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Member Schaefermeyer. There were present: Karl Van Buskirk, presiding, and Mike Banas Bruce Martin Darryl Schaefermeyer Absent: Deborah Altermatt Ron Long Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Bob Valdatta, Council Member ~, Scott Ransom, Harbor Master Kristen Erchinger, Finance Director Christy Terry, Executive Liaison ARRC Representative Louis Bencardino -Not in attendance. KPB/EDD -Council Member Bob Valdatta requested Council's letter issued to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in support of Proposal 6 allowing limited Pollock fishing in a portion of Cook Inlet be given to the Board. He suggested utilizing the training facilities at AVTEC for the crew of the Coast Guard's Jarvis and encouraging the ship to use Seward as a port of call. Administrative Report Scott Ransom - • Ransom stated he would follow up with the Coast Guard. • He noted South Harbor floats were being transported to Seward via North Land and should arrive the week of October 16, 2006. • Bids were in for South Harbor construction of utilities and uplands, and the apparent low bidder was Harris Sand and Gravel. All bids were close and the numbers were what the Administration was expecting. • Bids for the restrooms would be solicited in December. • Ransom clarified South Harbor floats were scheduled to be ready for public use by .. April 15, 2007. Electric and utilities would be completed after this date. • He stated the design contract for the INT dock was proceeding. City of Seward Alaska October 4, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 413 Citizens' comments on any subject except those items scheduled for public hearing. (Those who have signed in will be given the frst opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 2 minutes per speaker and 30 minutes total time for this agenda item.] Valdetta suggested Auction Block should be encouraged to locate their ice house in SMIC. In response to a question from Valdatta, Ransom stated Auction Block's dock use agreement had expired, but they were allowed to schedule use of dock. Approval of agenda and consent agenda Motion (Schaefermeyer/Martin) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Agenda and Consent Agenda Passed Unanimous Executive Liaison Christy Terry read the following item approved on the Consent Agenda: September 6, 20(16 Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board Regular Meeting Minutes Goals and Priorities - On-Going Van Buskirk solicited comments from the Board Members. Schaefermeyer asked for clarification on the purpose of the list and explanation of the projects and priorities. Van Buskirk suggested reviewing the list. UPDATE BOARD WITH STIP PROJECTS Van Buskirk noted the Administration with the knowledge of these projects were not in attendance. EASTWARD EXPANSION Ransom noted the City was on Phase 2 of a three phase plan. He outlined the phases and their status. SMIC NEW COMMERCE Van Buskirk noted AVTEC and the City were working on aspects of the fire training center. Finance Director Kris Erchinger clarified AVTEC had been working on a tease agreement, but now wanted to purchase the property. She noted City Administration was now pursuing an Clty of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4. 2006 Volume 3, Page 414 appraisal of the property to bring this issue before Council. In response to Schaefermeyer, Erchinger thought the parcel AVTEC was interested in was about 1 S acres. DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Schaefermeyer asked for clarification on PACAB's role. Erchinger surmised PACAB would be asked to provide recommendations on Mary Lowell Center direction and marketing. In response to Schaefermeyer, Erchinger noted the management RFP was in the process of being drafted. FISH RESTORATION Schaefermeyer stated the SeaLife Center was expanding their salmon project within the ASLC building. He noted the project would be limited due to amount of fresh water and available pen area. Schaefermeyer stated the goal of the project would be to reach half a million fish a year in order to qualify for a private not-for-profit hatchery permit. He clarified that this project was dependent on funding. Schaefermeyer stated the SeaLife Center foresaw serious fishery problems in the bay and wanted to address the issue before they occurred. He confirmed Van Buskirk's statement that the fresh water supply needed was `raw' and the SeaLife Center could not use domestic water. HARBOR IMPROVEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE Besides all the recent upgrades to the Harbor, Ransom noted the Legislature passed a bill allowing fora 50/SO grant up to S million dollars to help refurbish old floats that were transferred to Cities. He clarified that this was an unfunded item, but it was a fight to get this far. Ransom stated City Council and our City Lobbyists deserved thanks on the funds obtained for Harbor improvements. NORTH DOCK Ransom noted the Corps has established the North Dock as a `Tab D' which confirmed this as a Corps of Engineers' project and estimated the feasibility study at $Z Million dollars. He clarified that the Corps would provide a Million and the City would have to have to provide the other Million with in-kind and actual dollars. Ransom noted the Corps estimated the final project at $9.8 Million. He stated the North Dock was on the City's list of Federal Priorities. Ransom clarified that neither the feasibility study nor the project had been authorized or funded and no signed agreement was in place. In response to Schaefermeyer, Ransom stated the City had pursued the North Dock as a Corps of Engineers' project because of the size of the project and the 80/20 funding available through the Corps. City of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4,1006 Volume 3, Page 415 In response to Van Buskirk, Ransom noted the State could assist with the feasibility study and the wave study. Ransom noted there were conceptual designs completed by the leading firms in the State, but the trade off would be the City of Seward funding the whole project instead of having Federal Assistance. Ransom clarified that the type of barrier and'how much wave action would be acceptable still needed to be established. Board Members updated and clarified language on the On-Going Project List. Shiplift Expansion Ransom noted the Shiplift Expansion was on the federal priority list. He noted the expansion would lengthen the transfer carriage. Alternative Energy Sources Martin noted the language for this item on the On-Going Project List should strike reference to PACAB Resolution 2006-02, since the Coal Plant issue had passed. At Martin's prompting, Schaefermeyer discussed the generator located on Lowell Creek. He noted the generation was never very successful and hadn't been operated in years. Schaefermeyer stated the second benefit was drinking water provided without pumping costs. He explained that the drinking water couldn't be utilized at this point because of Federal Regulations with regards to surface supply of drinking water. Board Members discussed the status of Ocean Renewable Power Company, LLC (ORPC) plans and presentation to PACAB regarding their proposal to utilize tidal energy in Resurrection Bay. Board Members updated and clarified language on the On-Going Project List.. Highway Improvements 0-8 Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Rock Quarry Board Members and Council Member Valdatta discussed the status of the Rock Quarry. Board Members requested Public Works Director WC Casey attend a Regulaz Meeting and provide the Port and Commerce Advisory Board with an update. Erchinger clarified the possible question far PACAB to address was if the quarry should be RFP'ed or reserved for City needs. City of Seward Alaska October 4, 2006 ,,,~, New Five Acre Fill Area Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes volume 3, Page 416 Ransom stated the actual area after the completed final basin survey was 3.5 Acres. He noted the Corps and the City had received basin surveys from Wilder Construction. Ransom stated that both the Corps and Wilder had signed the survey, but a land survey of the area might still be necessary before the City signed and the use of the property was finalized. Ransom stated that according to the City Attorney; parking, a pavilion, ADA fishing pier, and restrooms would all be allowed in this area even with the velocity zone and flood plain issues. Prison Board Members discussed the improbability of the prison being expanded and the State's future plans for the prison to remain a long term maximum security. Erchinger stated the City had received reliable information last year that the Department of Correction's intent was to build the Mat-Su prison with savings generated from closing Spring Creek. She noted the State Legislature might not intend for this to happen, but it was important for Seward to keep close track of this issue. Erchinger felt the facility staffing was done in such a way as to encourage high turnover rates. Board Members discussed the demographics of staff, issues surrounding the hiring process ~ and the amount of overtime staff was asked to work. Erchinger stated the City had discussed options to improve the situation that included advertising positions for the facility in rural Alaska and working with AVTEC to create a correctional officer training program. Board Members updated and clarified language on the On-Going Project List. Harbor Deferred Maintenance Board Members felt this item had been discussed under other current projects. South Harbor Renovations/Improvements Board Members felt this item had been discussed under other current projects. Airport Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Coal Facility Future Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. City of Seward, Alaska October 4, 2006 Marketing Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 417 Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Veneer Plant Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Road to SMIC Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Prison Board Members updated and clarified the On-Going Project List by striking this item. Discussion and recommendations 2007 Legislative Boards and Commfssioos Operating Budget, Harbor Budget and SMIC Budget Van Buskirk stated Ron Long had provided his comments in a lay down for the Board. Finance Director Kris Erchinger stated she would incorporate input provided from this Board at the last meeting into the current proposed budget; meals for the Board Meeting and increased projections for the passenger fee. Erchinger asked the Boazd Members to brainstorm on ideas to alleviate the burden to local taxpayers. She shared options discussed by Couneil, including a potential Seasonal Sales Tax. Martin provided a `tongue-in-cheek' suggestion by outlining a plan to `gouge' tourists by issuing locals a tax exempt cazd. He stated this was not a serious suggestion, but rather an illustration on what a Seasonal Sales Tax was trying to accomplish: Van Buskirk stated the tourists coming to Seward on a low tourist yeaz were in-state visitors. He surmised they would perceive a higher tax in the summer as punitive and decide to visit another town. Erchinger noted administration's struggle with the 2007 proposed budget and noted the Council had many hard decisions ahead of them. She stated it would help if the whole community weighed in on these issues. Erchinger noted a reduction in services or an increase in revenue was needed. In particular interest to this Board, Erchinger explained and discussed the impact of the proposal for the Hazbor and SMIC Funds to retain their lease revenue instead of contributing those funds to the General Fund. Schaefermeyer asked if the proposed Seasonal Sales Tax would solve the budget shortfall, and received an answer in the affirmative from Erchinger. Schaefermeyer stated this hypothesis would work unless there was a substantial tourist industry boycott. Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4, 2006 volume 3, Page 41 ~ ,,,,, In response to Schaefermeyer's suggestion of tax exempting heating fuel purchases, Erchinger clarified the Borough would not allow individual Cities to tax exempt different items. She stated the Borough would allow overall Sales Tax rate differences between districts. Van Buskirk surmised the amount of tax reduction for locals would be negligible, but the ramifications with the drop in tourism would be detrimental to local businesses. Schaefermeyer suggested the City implement a marketing study to understand the outcome of a Seasonal Sales Tax. Erchinger stated serious service cuts, working with the Sales Tax income or other revenue enhancement options were the primary options to balance this year's budget. She clarified not even one year's payment of the PERS debt could be absorbed by the City's budget. In response to Schaefermeyer, Erchinger clarified: if a City refused to pay their portion of the PERS debt, the State would first charge interest; if a City continued to refuse, then the City could file for protection under the Bankruptcy statutes; ultimately the Courts would force a City to raise taxes at the local level to pay the debt. Schaefermeyer noted a majority of summer tourists were in-state visitors and their out-of- state guests. He recognized the need to examine a Seasonal Sales Tax, but questioned if this would solve the problem. Schaefermeyer expressed his desire to provide tax relief to the local citizens, but wasn't sure how this could be best accomplished. Motion (SchaefermeyertBanas) Recommend proposed 2007 Legislative Boards and Commissions, Harbor and SMIC Operating Budgets with the recommendation to reinstate the meal allowance Van Buskirk spoke against including meals in the budget. Martin noted Altermatt's support of the meal allowance. Schaefermeyer stated he was deferring to Altermatt's option when making this motion, but stated he could continue to serve on the Board without a meal provided. Motion Failed Motion (SchaefermeyertBanas) Unanimous Recommend proposed 2007 Legislative Boards and Commissions, Harbor and SMIC Operating Budgets with the recommendation to base the budget on the passenger fee income projection as the average increase of the past five years times $3.50 City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4, 2006 Volume 3, Page 419 Schaefermeyer believed the income projection would not bridge the gap for the Harbor Fund, but would be a substantial step in that direction. He supported this recommendation to Council. Martin, Van Buskirk and Banal spoke in support of the motion. Motion Passed Unanimous Resolution 2006-03 making recommendation to Council regarding the Seward Marine Center Dock. Banal declared a perceived possible conflict of interest since he was employed with the Seward Marine Center, however he clarified he had no financial gain in this matter and would retain employment regardless of the outcome. He confirmed he would be able to vote honestly on this issue. Chair Van Buskirk ruled that no conflict of interest existed and also noted the Part and Commerce Advisory Board was strictly an advisory board. The Board Members concurred with the Chair's ruling. Van Buskirk read the resolution to the Board. Motion (SchaefermeyertBanas) Approve Resolution 2006-03 with "Section 1. The City of Seward supports the Seward Marine Center (SMC) and the Alaska Regional Research Vessel to be homeported at SMC." and, "Section 2. The Board recommends the City not pursue or accept an ownership interest in the dock. The City of Seward should support the University in obtaining funds for the project through advocacy of resolution of support, personal contact/networking, and maintaining established relationships." and, "Section 3. The Board further recommends that the SMC project should not be placed ahead of existing ident~ed projects on the City's State and Federal priorities list " (This motion evolved into this final language during Board discussion and final language was articulated prior to Board vote.) Schaefermeyer spoke in support of the resolution with his suggested recommendations. Martin supported the University building the facility at Seward Marine Center (SMC), but felt the City should not be involved with the project. Ctty of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes October 4, 2006 Volume 3, Page 420 r..~ Schaefermeyer stressed the importance of the vessel to the Community, but had concerns about City involvement with the facility, the current proposed location's upland logistics, the funding status and site feasibility. He noted the City of Seward might be involved with the project because of the current funding structure. Schaefermeyer discussed his preference for this project to be a University project. Erchinger clarified funding was available for the project. She stated the Department of Transportation (DOT) Regional Director had to affirm to the Federal Funding Source,. SAFETEA- LU (Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportatian Equity Act: A Legacy for Users), that the project was being consistently used with the title of the project. Erchinger stressed that Seward continued to intend to have the State Ferry back in Seward. She stated that if DOT accepted the funding as a SAFETEA-LU project they would be required to complete the project or ~y the money back. In response to Schaefenneyer, Erchinger stated it was most likely possible to have the University work directly with DOT: She stated the ownership of the dock could be signed over to the University from the City. Erchinger stated DOT was continuing to verify if this location was feasible. Schaefermeyer stated until the engineering design was completed, no one would be able to say with certainty: that the dock was feasible to build. He stressed his desire that the vessel was located in Seward. Van Buskirk supported the University designing the project without City of Seward interference. Schaefermeyer agreed with Van Buskirk, but questioned if the City could actually step out of the funding aspect of the project. Schaefermeyer was cautious of how PACAB's recommendations would effect the funding for the project. Erchinger surmised the Seward Marine Center (SMC) benefited from having the City involved with the funding source because of the high percentage of overhead the University would require for the project. She then surmised that SMC might have more flexibility if the City operated the dock. Schaefermeyer questioned the value of this resolution prior to the Board reviewing future plans for the facility and having their questions answered. He specifically asked for details on how the funding was progressing. Ransom noted an upcoming Council Work Session addressing this topic. Schaefermeyer reiterated his desire to have this vessel located in Seward because of its addition to the local economy. He felt the Board should advise Council on whom to hire for the r.. project and other details, but questioned the necessity of recommending the issues outlined in the resolution. City of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Mlrtutes October 4, 2006 Volume 3, Page 421 Van Buskirk noted one issue needing to be addressed was the City's role in the project. Schaefermeyer felt this might be conditional on the funding restrictions. He stated the Board could forward their opinion that this project did not make sense for ultimate City ownership and operation. Schaefermeyer stated the City might have to be involved as a conduit for the funding and a facilitator for the project. With assistance from the Board Members, Schaefermeyer clarified his motion language with concurrence of his second. Motion Passed Unanimous Reschedule October 18, 2006 Work Session and set topic for October's Work Session. After Board discussion, the Work Session scheduled for October 18, 2006 was cancelled. Discuss and appoint representative to attend October 24, 2006 Land Use Law Training. After Board discussion, no Board Members were available to attend the October 24, 2006 Land Use Law Training. The Board left the possibility open for a Board Member to attend if their scheduled allowed. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required)- City of Seward 2007 Biennial Budget Calendar BOARD COMMENTS Board Members all eoncurred that this meeting was very productive. Van Buskirk thanked the Board. CITIZENS' COMMENTS [S minutes per individual -Each individual has one opportunity to speak.] BOARD AND ADMII~IISTRATION RESPONSE ~ ~ ~ [Z NS's C N~S- on ~ , ~ ,r,- / .- Christy Te~ .;,®' `" ra " r':,~ °°,~ Executive ~aisoi~" ~ °~ -°- ~~ ~ A M 3 ~ ® i Ta Y ~ i' ~ w . ~e ® s • • ~V • 4 • ~ ~ ~ • ~ (City Seal) '`'~''°`:.'' g ~:•'~ 4 • ' .. ,~''-,'..o `~iil~113iS1~ K~ Buskirk Vice-Chair City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Bourd Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 422 CALL TO ORDER The regular November 1, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 pm by Vice Chair Karl Van Buskirk. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Member Long. There were present: Karl Van Buskirk, presiding, and Theresa Butts Ron Long Darryl Schaefermeyer (12:03) Absent: Deborah Altermatt Bruce Martin Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Kirsten Vesel, Assistant City Manager r.. Louis Beneardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative Scott Ransom, Harbor Master Christy Terry, Executive Liaison Coast Guard Lt. James D. Stoller Ransom introduced the new Mustang Coast Guard Lt. James D. Stoffer. Lt. James Stoller stated he had taken command of the Mustang on August 11, 2006. He noted his 27 years of experience in the Coast Guard. Lt. Stoffer stated the Coast Guard would like their relationship to grown with the City of Seward and they would be maintaining a presence hero. He noted that in 2009 the Mustang would travel to Baltimore to complete a nine month maintenance period. Van Buskirk welcomed Lt. Stoffer and inquired how the City could encourage other Coast Guard Cutters to dock in Seward for repair or staff training opportunities. Lt. Stoffer stated the high endurance Cutters rotated patrols and mainly docked in Kodiak or Dutch Harbor to be close to their primary patrol grounds. He stated the Coast Guard also looked for other ports for recreation and worked with their District Office to, on occasion, visit Seward. Lt. Stoffer clarified that the Coast Guard Buoy tenders porting in Seward was because of their current contracts. .~.. City of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 423 In response to Long, Lt. Stoffer stated the transition to Sectors would be a benefit to their local operation. Alternative Energy Proposal -David Osborn David Osborn reviewed his Waste Vegetable Oil Boiler Proposal. In response to Banas, Osborn stated the transfer station would accept the solids reduced in the process. In response to Busts, Osborn stated the BTUs provided by the waste oil unit was similar to traditional boilers. Osborn stated that local restaurants would be able to provide enough waste oil for a few buildings to be converted. He noted the oil did not produce an unpleasant smell and did not need to be refrigerated. Osborn stated he was looking for financial backing to convert his home to this system to provide results for the City to review for their own conversion needs. He clarified that a complete unit installed would be about $10,000. Long apologized to Mr. Osborn that he was incorrectly informed that the City was looking for projects to fund. He suggested approaching traditional lenders for the start-up costs. Osborn stated he had unsuccessfully seazched for possible grant opportunities and, due to his current start-up business; he would not be able to solely fund an installation of the unit until a later date. Van Buskirk encouraged Osborn to continue to search for grant opportunities, submit a written proposal to the City of Seward, or begin to sell units. He thanked Mr. Osborn for his presentation. ARRC Representative Louis Bencardino Bencazdino stated the ARRC Board meeting would be held on November 17, 2006. He noted north of Port Avenue ARRC had 16 acres recently refurbished and rented. Bencardino listed companies renting land. He noted the Coast Guard Cutter Maple would be at the ARRC dock from January 15, 2006 to February 16, 2006 and the modifications this would entail. Bencardino encouraged Samson Tug and Barge to fuel in Seward because of the high quality of fuel. He stated the ARRC would be upgrading the freight dock. He noted the dock produced double last year's amounts. Bencardino stated Seward was moving forward to be a hub of economic activity in Alaska. He explained the Port City Players were allowed to leave up a majority of their artwork in the wazehouse for the year. Bencardino noted the Arts and Crags show would begin December 1, 2006, but he did not have an update on the possible New Year's Eve party. He stated the Archery Club would begin practice in the building next week. Bencardino discussed the High School baseball and softball teams using the outside parking lot for their spring practices. Bencardino explained Cary of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November I, 2006 ['alume 3, Page 424 Shoreside updates on the dock. He then described debris build up caused by the flooding and how it was removed. In response to Schaefermeyer, Bencardino stated the status of the expansion of the Coal pile area was still unsure. He noted ARRC now owned not only the land, but also the equipment. Bencazdino explained Hundi still held the operating agreement. Bencardino stated he was in support of ARRC's plan to use herbicide on the tracks. Bencardino noted as a citizen of Seward he was also concerned about the City's water supply, but felt these herbicides would not cause any problems. In response to Long, Bencazdino stated the docks stored behind the old Norco building did belong to the City of Seward. Butts thanked ARRC for allowing community events in their facility. Bencazdino stated ARRC was supportive of a positive relationship with the City. Schaefermeyer thanked ARRC for partnering with the SeaLife Center and the Anchorage School District for the SeaTrain. Administrative Report Scott Ransom stated the City had a signed contract with Harris Sand and Gravel and they were present for the off loading of the new floats. Ransom noted that assembly and pile driving would begin in December and uplands work was scheduled to begin before the ground froze. Ransom stated stall options were being offered to holders in the older floats and the schedule was to allow slip holders in the new floats on Apri115, 2007. Ransom welcomed Theresa Butts to PACAB. In response to Schaefermeyer, Ransom stated the Harbor suffered less damage during this flooding event then they had in the past. He stated there was shoreline erosion that was corrected in a timely manner. Ransom thanked ARRC for their assistance with this problem, and for the equipment from Seward Ships Drydock and Suneel. He did clarify there was massive amounts of debris they had to deal with. In response to. Long, Ransom stated the Corps had reviewed the completed survey of the dredged basin. He noted infrastructure was being planned and installed. Ransom stated the City was ready to accept the dredged portion and the dredged fill, but did not feel the breakwater was complete. He stated there was legal clarification needed regarding the land survey and the design deficiency. Butts encouraged Lt. Stoller to approach PACAB if the Coast Guard needed any assistance. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 425 Lt. Stoller thanked Butts for her offer. He stated City Clerk Jean Lewis was very helpful to the Coast Guard during the flooding event and the Coast Guard was also able to provide resources for their families needing assistance. Citizens' comments on any subject except those items scheduled for public hearing. [Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to spear Time is limited to 2 minutes per speaker and 30 minutes total time for this agenda item.J -None. Approval of agenda and consent agenda Motion (Long /Schaefermeyer) Approve the Agenda Agenda Passed Unanimous Consent Goals and Priorities - On-Going Van Buskirk noted this list had a major update at the last meeting. Update Board with STIP Projects Long explained that `STIP' was the State Wide Transportation Improvement Plan. He further explained this list was developed by the State and included a scoring criteria. ,He confirmed the importance of the Board monitoring the City's projects on this list and providing direction. Eastward Expansion Ransom noted the Denali Commission had contributed one million dollars to Z Float Phase 3 and the City was looking at additional dock users. SMIC New Commerce Van Buskirk mentioned the AVTEC Fire Training Center being planned by AVTEC. Downtown Revitalization Long noted the Mary Lowell Center Replat was approved by the Kenai Peninsula Borough Planning Commission. He stated there was a 30 day window for parties to file an appeal of this approval. Schaefermeyer stated there might be a possible land swap developing that would alleviate some of the controversy surrounding the site. Ciry of Sewarr~ Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 426 Fish Restoration Schaefermeyer stated the ASLC Pump House was a total loss due to the October flooding event. He clarified the salmon fry were relocated to the Fort Richardson hatchery. ASLC was in the process of rebuilding and was working toward having the system running by the first part of 2007. North Dock Butts confirmed that the plan was to build a breakwater and fix the dock. She asked if there was a current need for a North Dock. Ransom stated the breakwater was included with the North Dock. Schaefermeyer noted that Ransom had provided him with a cost/benefit analysis that looked promising. He offered to share these documents with Butts and surmised the Corps would not be pursing the project if it wasn't viable. Board Members discussed Kodiak's new travel lift. Banal understood Kodiak would have the travel lift by March 2007. Ransom stated the Department of Coastal Engineers was still working with the Corps and had confirmed $475,000 in the State of Alaska's budget to be applied to the City's one million dollar match of the feasibility study. He noted these were dedicated funds. Ransom asked the State if these funds could pursue alternative methods and was told this money was specifically for the Corps project matching funds. Ransom discussed the financial benefit of this as a Corps project even though the process was slower. He clarified this did not negate the City looking at other options. Long suggested assigning revisit dates to the projects. He noted the Board should review the Capital Requests prior to them being submitted to Council. Long advocated for a Flood Mitigation Project to be incorporated into a Capital Request list. Van Buskirk suggested dividing the items on the list to each Board Member according to their interests, and. then the Board Member's could present the items at a Work Session or Regular Meeting. Board Members discussed the importance of assigning revisit dates to the list, possibly at a work session. Van Buskirk inquired if there were any items the Board felt should be immediately addressed, and received an answer in the negative. ~" NEW BUSINESS- Ciry of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 427 Nominate and appoint Chair and Vice Chair- The nominations for-Chair were opened. Long nominated Deborah Altermatt,as Chair. Deborah Alterman was elected Chair. Unanimous The nominations for Vice Chair were opened. Banes nominated Van Buskirk. Karl Van Buskirk was elected Vice Chair. Unanimous Discuss Alternative Energy Proposal -David Osborn Board Members wished Mr. Osborn good luck with his endeavors. Set Work Session topic forNovember 15, 2006 Long suggested discussing the City's Priority Lists with recommendations to Council and then schedule Mr. Baker's presentation to follow. Long clarified that the Board was not in violation of the Open Meeting's Act if the topics of their Work Sessions were not published. He recognized it was desirable, but not necessary. Van Buskirk stated it was good advertising to provide the Work Session topic. The Board recessed for 5 minutes to obtain the scheduled date of the Priority Lists- going before Council. Board Members discussed the information that the resolutions approving the Priority Lists would be on the Council Mee#ing of November 6, 2006. They noted that any review at this point would be for informational purposes only. Long advocated for Board Members to attend the Council Meeting as private citizens to provide public comment on the issue or provide comments to the Council prior to the meeting. After discussion, the Board chose the next work session topic as "Lowell Creek Hydro Project Presentation by Andy Baker." CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required)- Lowell Creek Hydro Project Proposal Lener Van Buskirk stated he was interested in hearing this proposal. Board discussed former hydro project operated by the hospital. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 428 Schaefermeyer noted there was a study completed on this topic from 1979. He was interested in the updated technology that would possibly allow a hydro project on this creek. Long also expressed interested in this subject. Butts discussed a controlled wave tourism opportunity in this area. Council Letter is support of Pollock Fishery BOARD COMMENTS Butts questioned the Board on the levee on Resurrection River visible from the highway bridges. Long confirmed that typically levees were constructed in this manner and welcomed Board Member Butts. Long brought the Board's attention to the Borough issue of per person per day recreational sales tax rate that would be going into effect. He noted an Ordinance meeting the Public Hearing Requirements would be needed to make any modifications. Long stated any suggestions would be required by November 7s' to meet Assembly deadlines. He explained the tax was patterned after the Hotel per night tax, but there was an element of lack of definition for recreational activities. Butts hoped this tax was implemented in such a way as to provide a competitive edge for the small businesses as opposed to the booking agents. Schaefermeyer requested the Board be provided with copies from the Lowell Creek feasibility study obtained by the City in 1979. Van Buskirk noted the importance of the Goal and Priority list, but was frustrated with hashing over the whole list at each meeting. He suggested each Board Member tackle the items they were interested in and having presentations at Regular Meetings or Work Sessions. Van Buskirk felt this would allow more progress on each item with useful pros and cons for Council. Schaefermeyer questioned what role PACAB played in some of the items on the list. Long felt PACAB's role included informing Council if a project wasn't feasible. Van Buskirk concurred. In response to Butts, he clarified PACAB's recommendations were given to Council via Resolution. Butts suggested tackling 3-4 items off the priority list at each meeting. CITIZENS' COMMENTS [S minutes per individual -Each individual has one opportunity to speak J None. Ctry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes November 1, 2006 Volume 3, Page 429 a,rl BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS- None. Adjournment _. eeting ed at 1:50 `~ . hristy T Karl Van Buskirk Executive Liaison Vice Chair t„~,lileerrr-w ,.,~ C (City Seal) ~; ~~`; '~~r ~,~~~,'"~~~~ . ,, ae • r: «a.s ~ ,. ... . w IIWL ~~: • /~ Y: u , e " Q ° h' . 4f c. `'n : -~r~ : r:e s •. ^;. .nti;~(r~` t ~q*`~;•'~~-,tea' 0i6'~rilllll~ vy4 9 Ciry of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 430 CALL TO ORDER The regular December 6, 2006 meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 pm by Vice Chair Karl Van Buskirk. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG The pledge of allegiance was led by Board Member Martin. There were present: Karl Van Buskirk, presiding, and Mike Banas Theresa Butts Ron Long Bruce Martin Absent: Deborah Altermatt Darryl Schaefermeyer Comprising a quorum of the Board; and Louis Bencardino, Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative Scott Ransom, Harbor Master Christy Terry, Executive Liaison Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) Representative Louis Bencardino Bencardino stated ARRC applied for permits to fill the log pond and extend the freight dock. He shared ARRC was working with Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE) to dock in Seward. Bencardino stated that Hyundai wanted to cease operations at the Coal Facility, but ARRC was in discussions with Usibelli Coal Mine, Inc. to take over that role. Chairman Joe Usibelli would be in Seward next week to meet with Hyundai. In response to Van Buskirk, Bencardino clarified ARRC owned the Coal Facility (building, land, equipment, everything), but ARRC leased out the actual operations. Bencardino stated the Arts and Craft Fair was attended by many locals on Friday night and brought 556 train passengers to Seward on Saturday. He noted due to the icy conditions ARRC was still cleaning up all the sand tracked in by the participants. Bencardino stated the downtown merchants were very happy with the amount of customers who made their way to the shops downtown. He noted this was due, in part, to buses shuttling between the Railroad Warehouse and downtown Seward. Bencardino shared the Economic Development Group's discussion to try to develop other economic activities during the off-season. He stated ARRC had major concerns with running passenger trains to Seward after the Christmas Train, because of the possibility of passengers being injured in an avalanche. Bencardino stated the group discussed possible events in the fall to entice Anchorage citizens to come to Seward on the train twice during the year. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 431 In response to Long, Bencazdino confirmed the TOTE ship was roil on/roll off and required the dock extension. Long explained current Borough discussions regarding development of a Coal Facility in Chulitna verses bazging the coal to the Seward Coal Facility. Long questioned Chulitna's finding that it was more expensive to barge the coal to Seward then to develop a Chulitna Coal Facility. Long suggested Usibelli could take a good look at the financial numbers Bencardino felt it would be a good concept to examine and suggested Long and Usibelli should talk next week. Long confirmed there were many visitors from the Holiday Train stopping by the Renown Tour office looking for downtown Seward. He noted whoever spread the word about downtown Seward did a great job and it was a boon to the downtown merchants. Chamber Director Laura Cloward Cloward stated Chair Altermatt had asked her to come and speak to the Board with the Chamber's perspective of the Port and Commerce Advisory Board's role in economic development for Seward. Cloward stated she became involved because of Administration's invitation to provide input on how to best advise the Council to utilize the Port and Commerce Advisory Board's expertise. Cloward felt some parties saw a lack in overall economic development in non-marine based projects. She surmised some of the confusion stemmed from semantics between `port' and `commerce' in the Board's title and deciphering if these two items were separate or tied together. Cloward noted that a few years ago the Chamber had done away with their Economic Development Committee based on Altermatt's interpretation that the Port and Commerce Advisory Board addressed `Seward commerce' that was not solely limited to `marine based commerce.' She stated the Chamber wanted to act in a support role to PACAB as the City of Sewazd's economic development entity. Clowazd stated her Chamber Board assumed PACAB was providing Council with recommendations dealing with economic development. Cloward noted the contract they held with the City was for marketing both tourism and non-tourism items, and looked to the Board to outline what those non-tourism items should be. She noted non-tourism examples: Long Term Care Facility, Mary Lowell Center, Library Museum, and general real estate development. Cloward reminded PACAB that the Chamber was a membership based organization. She stated the ideal representation of Sewazd's economic development was PACAB because of their status of a public body representing all of Sewazd's citizens. Cloward stated presuming PACAB addressed only marine industries didn't necessitate their review of the business development packet, if PACAB had a broader role, then they would be the driving force in issues such as the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. She questioned who should be driving the Chamber's activities and noted this was an exciting question to pose and have answered. Cloward noted the direction on these items should come from Council, but a recommendation could come from PACAB if they feel there was a gap. She stated from her discussions with Administration they were looking for recommendations and support from PACAB. Cloward noted the Chamber acted as a cheerleader for City directed policies. She wrapped up by clarifying the Chamber was looking for clarification on who from the City would be directing their activities on economic development. City of Seward Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Boord Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 432 ~~ Van Buskirk stated he was an ardent Chamber supporter and noted they had many successes. He agreed with Cloward that the Chamber was a membership organization and as the Director she represented the member's interests. Van Buskirk stated the Chamber should be working on goals to not only benefit businesses, but also the Community. He stated the system seemed to be working, but could work better. Van Buskirk stated that as the Board honed their priority list and solidified how their priorities were addressed, PACAB would become a better sounding board for the community. He stated the Board wasn't specific to marine related issues, but most of the economic issues in Seward tied back to Sewazd's port. Van Buskirk thanked Cloward for her presentation and highlighted the success of the Chamber's fish enhancement program. Long agreed with Van Buskirk's comments. He cited history of the when there was a sepazate Board of Trade and a Port Board that merged to form the Port and Commerce Advisory Board. Long felt there was more to the port then the boat harbor and more to commerce then just the port. He agreed that PACAB should be advising council on non-marine related economic policy items. Long felt PACAB and the Chamber had parallel paths to pursue on economic projects. He clarified: PACAB's role would be looking at policy recommendations to the Council protecting the public interests while at the same time making the project attractive to private businesses; the Chamber's role would be examining if there was general support from the businesses already in the community, while examining the competition aspects; and a third loosely based group would need to examine if there was overall community support. Long stated he didn't view the Chamber and PACAB roles as an `either/or' proposition. He stated PACAB's first .focus should be policy recommendations to Council. Long stated a good example was PACAB's role reviewing and updating the SMIC Development Plan. He noted PACAB would be working with the Planning and Zoning Commission and community organizations. Long clarified there was very little room in a small community for anyone to absolve themselves from any responsibility. He thanked Cloward for attending and also for doing a great job as Chamber Director. Martin supported PACAB as a broad based body for the economic health of the entire community. Butts concurred with Martin and supported a close relationship with the Chamber. She questioned the Board's involvement in current non-mazine based activities. Butts clarified that while she agreed with Martin, she noted there would be a lot of work involved with getting into every economic development issue. Long stated Butts had been involved with the original development with the SMIC plan. He noted in recent years there was a lack of public involvement because of the perspective that there weren't any issues for PACAB to tackle. Long noted there had to be a balance between not addressing any issues and an overabundance of work. He stated PACAB's role was to .make recommendations and Council had to move issues forward from there. r.. Van Buskirk supported Long's statements, but felt recommendations to Council were not as informative as they should have been. He stated recommendations and justifications were needed for City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 433 PACAB to be really helpful to the Council. Van Buskirk noted that the Park Service made one presentation on the Mary Lowell Center to PACAB. Banal understood PACAB's role of making recommendations to Council, but felt it would be beneficial to have Council provide feedback on how the recommendation was used. He stressed the need for communication and Council providing direction. Long felt PACAB was a great benefit to Council by saving them from having to deal. with a bad idea or proposal. He supported using PACAB for that task to allow Council to focus their time and attention on items that made sense. Cloward stated she would share PACAB's comments with the Chamber Board. She proposed the Chamber Board could adopt a resolution that incorporated the comments from today and clarified the Chamber's support of PACAB's roles and responsibilities in the Community. Kenai Peninsula Borough Economic Development District (IQ'BlEDD) -City Councilmember Bob Valdatta Valdatta shared his discussions with Auction Block. He noted Auction Block wanted to expand the Travel Lift proj ect to include additional sheet piling to benefit their operations in Seward. Valdatta. advocated the quarry being designated as an enterprise fund in order to keep better track of our resource. He discussed the importance the Pollock Fishery being supported in Seward and noted the City wrote a letter in support of this fishery. Valdatta stated Jerimiah Campbell was on the Fisheries Board and noted he would contact Campbell to follow the issue. In response to Van Buskirk, Valdatta explained that Kodiak was able to fish outside of Seward and take their catch back to Kodiak. Valdatta noted there was a new manager at Alyeska and suggested the Chamber invite him to Seward to examine our local ski slope possibilities and introduce him to all the activities available in Seward. He shared an article he read in US Business News that stated Coal Gasification created too many greenhouse gases. Valdatta stated the City had been in contact with Alaska Power and Telephone President Bob Grim and that he was willing to provide some direction for the City with proposed hydro projects. He clarified that he was the Council Member suggesting Cargo Fee to mitigate impacts to our local infrastructure. Long noted the KPB/EDD Board met following Thanksgiving and they were working to sell the building and move into a smaller space. He stated there was some concern that one of Seward's seats remained unfilled and stressed the importance of Council filling this seat. Long shared that the Board met one Wednesday per month at 10 or 10:30 am and ended by noon. These meetings could be attended telephonically. Valdatta stated he was on the Board. Valdatta and Long discussed successful projects such as a blueberry business and a shellfish shucking project in Homer. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 volume 3, Page 434 rr~. Public Works Director WC Casey -Quarry Update Casey educated the Board on the location, area, types of rock, history, and other general informational items about the quarry. He noted that the rock was most valuable blasted and sorted and felt the best u~ of this important resource was for municipal projects. Casey clarified the Public Works Department was working with contractors and in-kind credits to sort out the quarry. In response to Board questions, he noted there were other sites for the City to explore as a possible future quarry. Long expressed the gambling aspect of creating an enterprise fund with the quarry. Van Buskirk supported serving the City's best interests by utilizing the quarry far municipal projects. Administrative Report Harbormaster Scott Ransom reported on the following items: • Requests for bids on the restrooms located above the gangway at the new floats would be out this week with the opening scheduled for January 9, 2007. In response to Board ~... Members, Ransom noted the restrooms would be similar to the restrooms in Kawabe Pazk. He noted utilities were included inside the building. • A proposal to the Denali Commission was submitted for a fish cleaning station and upgrade by the northeast ramps. There was already funding in place for paving and a commitment from the State of Alaska to build fish cleaning tables in this area. • Ransom noted requests for bids for sheet pile for the bulls head work and a separate bid for the actual construction and repair/upgrade of the I, T, Travel Lift and Bulkhead dock. He stated Auction Block had been meeting with Administration to propose and construct a cold storage, fish processing facility and bulk head in this area. Ransom stated the City had secured funding to take care of the repairs but did not have adequate funds for the entire area. He stated Auction Block hadn't provided any detailed proposals on what they intend to do, but Administration was still open to them adding their own sheet pile and building their own dock. Ransom stated the City of Seward needed to keep moving forward to meet their deadlines. • Pacific Marine Fish Expo was successful and Ransom thanked the Chamber for all their hard work and excellent job. He stated they had many visitors to the booth interested in Seward. Long stated he had heard many positive responses to having the Seward Harbor Masher attend the Expo. In response to Butts, Ransom stated many locals stopped by the booth to say Seward had well rounded services available in our Harbor and provided positive comments. Ciry of Seward, Alaska December6, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes volume 3, Page 435 Citizens' comments on any subject except those items scheduled for public hearing. [Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 2 minutes per speaker and 30 minutes total time for this agenda item.J -None. Approval of agenda and consent agenda Motion (Long/Martin) Approve the Agenda Agenda and Consent Agenda Passed Unanimous The following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: October 4, 2006 and November I, 2006 Regular Meeting Minutes Goals and Priorities - On-Going By general consensus, the Board postponed this item until the next Regular Meeting in order to have more Board Members present for the discussion. NEW BUSINESS- Cargo Fee Long noted that Council had tasked PACAB with examining this item. Erchinger stated this was proposed by Council during the budget process as a possible revenue source. She noted this item. was one option to address the significant impacts to infrastructure where there weren't commensurate returns. Erchinger stated that a Cargo Fee had many aspects that needed to be addressed. These included: should the Cargo Fee be leveled as a tax or a fee, should the charge be leveled on cargo only or leveled on cargo and passengers. She stated Council hadn't discussed details and had tasked Administration to research how to legally impose taxes or fees. Erchinger noted the City was prohihited to tax ARRC, but could charge a fee. She explained that the City could charge an impact fee whether the passengers/goods were going over a City owned or privately owned dock. She noted Juneau changed a fee that went to waterfront development and into their General Fund. Erchinger understood Council did not want to tax fish because that product was already taxed by the State and these funds were remitted to the City. She stated Administration was investigating various options. Erchinger reminded PACAB that there were substantial impacts to Port Avenue. She noted that the concept of the fee was passed with the budget, but the enactment of the fee would be contingent on an ordinance change. In response to Butts, Erchinger noted the City did not have the actual numbers or types of cargo passing over the docks into Seward. She stated the City could look to other communities to pattern their fee structure. city of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 436 Van Buskirk clarified that the current tariff did not change ARRC, and the Council was looking to expand the tariff. Erchinger noted that legally the City of Seward could charge sales tax to ARRC customers and Army Recreation Camp customers, but these entities were not willing to collect sales tax from their customers. She noted that rather then dealing with the issue in court, the Council wanted to creatively develop a mechanism to offset the unfunded impacts to Seward's infrastructure. Van Buskirk expressed his concerns that ARRC and the cruise lines would chose to leave Seward because of increased fees. In response to Van Buskirk, Erchinger confirmed that ARRC and the Army Recreation Camp had both declined to collect sales tax from their customers. She noted that the Army Recreation Camp did collect the Passenger Fee required in the Harbor because it was a fee instead of a tax. Erchinger stated there were also large non-profits and Government Agencies in Seward impacting infrastructure. Long supported a balance where neither the City nor private enterprise benefited at the expense of the other. He noted this would not be done overnight and would need to have all the details ironed out and included in the tariff. Long asked if we owned the water ships travel through or just the tidelands underneath. Erchinger stated the City owned the water within their City Limits. Long stated in the Maritime Security Act of 2002 a provision was included that could be interpreted to exclude the local government's ability to tax anything moving on navigable waters. He stated if it was a fee to mitigate the impacts on Port Avenue it could be construed as a toll road and the entities could then bypass through the airport or through the DOT dirt road. Long said this could be an attractive alternative to reroute the industrial traffic away from pedestrian centers. He remembered funds given to ARRC and an agreement for ARRC to provide fees from the passengers on the SS Universe. Long stated this ended when the Universe was taken out of commission. He felt a constructive dialogue was possible with the ARRC and the Army Recreation Camp. Erchinger concurred with working together with the organizations in question and having a strong position to avoid conflict. She stated alternatives were being examined and advocated for a fair and equitable resolution. Long suggested requesting Council's consent to review other cooperative mitigation options. Van Buskirk suspended the Hiles to allow Alaska Railroad Corporation Representative Louis Bencardino to address the Board. Bencardino stated this discussion happened at an inopportune time during the Alaska Railroad's negotiations with TOTE. He stated ARRC contributed to the community in a multitude of ways, including functions at the warehouse. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes December6, 2006 Volume 3, Page 437 In response to Van Buskirk, Bencardino stated that fees imposed by Seward would have further ramifications along the railbelt. Long stated benefits to negate the impacts did. not have to have a direct correlation, but could be offset by economic benefits to the community. By general consensus, the Board directed Administration send a memo to Council stating, "PACAB respectfully requests permission to expand their Cargo Fee discussion to include additional and/or other ways to mitigate nontaxable organizations' impacts to the City's infrastructure that are equitable for both the City and the organizations." Set Seward Marine Industrial Center Development Plan Update as Work Session topic for December 20, 2006 Motion (Long/Martin) Set Seward Marine Industrial Center Development Plan Update as Work Session topic for December 20, 2006 Van Buskirk requested that any Board Member's unable to attend email their comments in advance. ... Motion Passed Unanimous CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS. AND REPORTS (No action required)- North Pacific Fishery Management Council Draft Agenda Long stated his best wishes were with Jerimiah Campbell as he dealt with these issues in Dillingham. Van Buskirk noted the loss of the Pollock Fishery was a .loss to Seward's economy. BOARD COMMENTS -None. CITIZENS' COMMENTS [S minutes per individual -Each individual has one opportunity to speal~J None. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS- None. Ransom stated the SMIC Work Session would lay the groundwork for revising the SMIC Development Plan. Long concurred. City of Seward, Alaska Deeember6, 2006 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 3, Page 438 ~ In response to Van Buskirk, Ransom noted he would review significant changes with the Board. Adjournment adjourned at 2:20. Executive (City Seal) ~~'~~°re ~~' ° •.. 1 ~'t;. ,~, w ~ ~*s rs'"~ `~' .~`"~ l~r ~ o~ g tC~ O ~ ` •--ce ~.a•~ ~ s~~ : .~'..y i ca n ~ • ~~ 'A~~J+.~~~lll • d i .ems. • O a~- • • V a ~'~1. +4r'~N~ "'~Ao^v'ae p ,fie 1. ~ r„„~ ~ ,, *~ ° ~ ~•~`` 411 161 ®61d~`Si~ n n ~' K~yl'Van Buskirk Vice Chair