HomeMy WebLinkAbout09172014 Historic Preservation Packet Seward Historic Preservation Commission
Agenda Packet
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Regular Meeting
September 17, 2014
City Council Chambers 6:30 p.m.
The City of Seward,Alaska
OF Stitt
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
September 17, 2014 6:00 p.m. Council Chambers
Linda Lasota 1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair
Term Expires May, 2015 2. OPENING CEREMONY
John French
A. Pledge of Allegiance
Vice Chair
3. ROLL CALL
Term Expires May, 2017
Catherine Hedman 4• SPECIAL REPORTS
Commissioner A. City Administration Report
Term Expires May, 2016 B. Welcome Commissioner Roach'
Wadeen Hepworth 5. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE
Commissioner ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING [Those who
Term Expires May, 2017 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
Laura Erickson agenda item.]
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2017
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Wolfgang Kurtz [Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by
Commissioner asterisk (*). Consent Agenda items are not considered separately
Term Expires May, 2016 unless a council member so requests. In the event of such a request,
the item is returned to the Regular Agenda]
Sandie Roach'
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2015
James Hunt
City Manager
Valarie Kingsland
Library Museum
Director
Heather McClain
Library Museum
Staff
City of Seward, Alaska Council Agenda
September 17, 2014 Page 1
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS -None
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Review Final Draft of Historic Preservation Plan .Pg. 3
9. NEW BUSINESS
A. Other New Business Items
*1. Approve the April 16, 2014 and August 27, 2014 Regular Meeting MinutesPg. 65
2. Discuss and give direction to create a support resolution for the care and
maintenance of Founders Memorial.
10. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No Action Required)
A. Grant Amendment allowing submission of Historic Preservation Plan in draft
form................................................................................................ P .
Pg. 72
11. COUNCIL COMMENTS
12. CITIZENS' COMMENTS
13. COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
City of Seward, Alaska Council Agenda
September 17, 2014 Page 2
Brenda Ballou
From: Sierra Fletcher <sierra @nukaresearch.corn>
Sent: Tuesday, September 16, 2014 10:35 AM
To: Valarie Kingsland
Cc: Michelle Prior; Rachel James; Brenda Ballou;Johanna Kinney
Subject: Re: Mail Delivery Failure
Hi Valarie -
Michelle is out at a meeting today and I'm on a call but wanted to jump in.
As there were many great substantive comments to incorporate (into the 9.12 draft) and discuss (as indicated in
the document Michelle sent yesterday), we generally find it is much better to do a final edit once bigger issues
have been addressed. So, we'd assumed that the Commission would be discussing the 9.12 version and that we'd
be ready to incorporate further substantive changes based on their discussion, then do a final edit and it can be
sent back round for review.
Does that make sense? Apologies if there has been any miscommunication - and I'm glad to give you a call
when I get off this meeting(just waiting for it to start now - shouldn't be more than an hour).
Also, can you confirm the time for tomorrow's Commission meeting? We're glad to use the Nuka call line that
Tim provided if you can dial into it from the room.
Thank you!
Sierra
On Sep 16, 2014, at 2:26 PM, Valarie Kingsland<vkingsland@cityofseward.net>wrote:
Hello Michelle,
I did receive the meeting guidance doc, but have not received an updated 9.15.2014 draft plan, which I thought
was going to be emailed to me on Monday morning so I might pass it on to the commissioners. It was my
understanding that we would receive an updated document that included comments prior to the meeting
tomorrow. The most current document I am aware of is the 9.12.14 draft plan on the site, which I believed
needed editing.
Please feel free to call me for any further clarification.
Regards,
Valarie
From: Michelle Prior [michelleprior@nukaresearch.com]
Sent: Tuesday, September 16, 2014 9:11 AM
To: Valarie Kingsland; Rachel James
Cc: Sierra Fletcher
Subject: Mail Delivery Failure
1
Hi Valarie,
Overnight, I received notifications of mail delivery failure after sending the meeting guidance document. Did
you receive my email without the attachment, or did it not come at all? I am trying to figure out what the
problem is.
However, the document was posted on the project website to ensure your ability to access it.
Thank you,
Michelle
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Spam: http://canit.cityofseward.net/canit/b.php?i=01 MPREc7r&m=a162b09cc88c&c=s
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Forget vote: http://canit.cityofseward.net/canit/b.php?i=01 MPREc7r&m=a162b09cc88c&c=f
END-ANTISPAM-VOTING-LINKS
Sierra Fletcher
Senior Project Manager
Nuka Research and Planning Group
Portland, ME
+1 (207) 841-0604 cell
+1 (240) 394-4855 fax
sierra@nukaresearch.com
Website: nukaresearch.com
! ► • _
PfSEAAC. P_ANC ft GROUP,U .
NOTE: This message was trained as non-spam. If this is wrong, please correct the training as soon
as possible.
Spam
Not spam
Forget previous vote
2
2
Brenda Ballou
From: Valarie Kingsland
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2014 12:48 PM
To: Erickson, Laura (SHPC); French,John (SPHC); Hepworth, Wadeen (SHPC); Kurtz,
Wolfgang V. (SPHC); Lasota, Linda (SHPC); Sandie Roach' (SHPC) (sandie @seward.net)
Cc: Heather McClain; Brenda Ballou;Johanna Kinney
Subject: FW: SHPP Second Draft for Review Pt. 1
Attachments: 140912 SewardHPP_DraftII.docx; 140912 SewardHPP_DraftII.pdf; 140911
SHPPCommentsbyEmail.pdf
Hello,
Here are the Draft Plan documents that will be included in the agenda packet.
According to Sierra of NUKA Research: "Please use that version she [Michelle] provided for the meeting. We'd
like to do a thorough style/grammar edit following the meeting and any additional changes as well, but we can
discuss incorporation of changes and final review at the meeting."
Valarie
From: Michelle Prior [mailto:michelleprior@nukaresearch.com]
Sent: Friday, September 12, 2014 3:54 PM
To: Valarie Kingsland; Rachel James
Cc: Tim Robertson; Sierra Fletcher
Subject: SHPP Second Draft for Review Pt. 1
Hi Valarie,
Given your concern over the Commissioners having enough time to review the plan before the meeting on Wednesday,I have
attached the second draft for their review.I hope this is helpful and allows the Commissioners to review over the weekend.This draft
includes all general comments and text edits that we were sent.We are aware this second draft needs a hard grammar and formatting
edit,but were not able to do so by today. Additionally,we plan to amass all comments that warrant review from the Commission and
other points to consider during Wednesday's meeting,which we will send along on Monday. These largely center on a need to
increase the Action Items and strengthen the draft as a planning document overall.
Additionally,I have sent along the entire collection of comments received,which have also been posted to the project website per
your and Rachel's request. Comments received via email are attached and those received as PDFs will be sent along in a second email.
We assume that we will participate in Wednesday's meeting by teleconference as we have done previously,but please confirm the
timing and dial-in information. We'd also be willing to have a prep call with you as offered earlier if that will help us make the most
out of the Wednesday meeting.
Please let us know if there is anything else we can do in the meantime.Otherwise,we will be in touch with the additional points for
the Commissioners to consider on Monday.
Best,
Michelle
BEGIN-ANTISPAM-VOTING-LINKS
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Brenda Ballou
From: Valarie Kingsland
Sent: Saturday, September 13, 2014 5:48 PM
To: Erickson, Laura (SHPC); French,John (SPHC); Hepworth,Wadeen (SHPC); Kurtz,
Wolfgang V. (SPHC); Lasota, Linda (SHPC); Sandie Roach' (SHPC) (sandie @seward.net)
Cc: Heather McClain; Brenda Ballou;Johanna Kinney
Subject: internal project website
Hello Commissioners,
Here is the information to access the internal project website for the current CLG project with NUKA. Click on "Project
Documents"to view the most current documents,which includes the most currently available version of the draft plan
as well as comments.
http://shpp.nukaresearch.com
username:SewardHPP
password: Benson
I'll let you know when the agenda packet is available.
Valarie
Valarie Kingsland, Library Museum Director
Seward Community Library& Museum
PO Box 2389 Seward,AK 99664
907.224.4008
1
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2014
Historic Preservation Plan
Seward Historic Preservation Cominission
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Developed by Nuka Research and Planning Group,LLC
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
RESEARCH PLANNING GROUP,LLC.
P.O. Box 175
Seldovia,Alaska 99663
tel 907.234.7821
fax 240.394.4855
contact @nukaresearch.com
Front cover photo credit: Alaska's Digital Archives,
http://vilda.alaska.edu/cdm/search/searchterm/Seward/order/nosort
2
Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
City of Seward
City Council
(Name) (Name)
(Name) (Name)
Seward Historic Preservation Commissioners
John French (Name)
Linda Lasota (Name)
Wadeen Hepworth (Name)
Seward Community Library and Museum
Valarie Kingsland, Director
Rachel James, Program Coordinator
Community Development Department
(Name)
Contracted Assistance by:
Nuka Research and Planning Group, LLC.
Funded by:
The Alaska Office of History and Archeology
Recommended by:
Seward Historic Preservation Commission Resolution TBD
Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution TBD
Adopted by:
Seward City Council Resolution TBD
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
Table of Contents
TABLEOF CONTENTS...........................................................................o
1. INTRODUCTION
2. SCOPE AND PURPOSE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLANNING 7
2.1 AUTHORITIES 7
2.2 SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION 8
2.3 PURPOSE OF THE PLAN 8
3. THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 9
3.1 DEFINING HISTORIC PRESERVATION 9
3.2 GOALS FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION 10
3.3 PRESERVATION PLANNING IN SEWARD ...................................................................... ... 10
4. PLAN DEVELOPMENT METHOD a PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 12
4.1 PUBLIC FORUM 12
4.2 PUBLIC SURVEY 12
5. COMMUNITY HISTORY AND CHARACTER 12
5.1 PHYSICAL SETTING 13
5.2. EARLY NATIVE INFLUENCE 14
5.3 RUSSIAN AND EARLY AMERICAN ACTIVITIES 14
5.4 TOWN PLANNING 15
5.5 GROWTH OF SEWARD BETWEEN WORLD WAR II AND 1964 15
5.6 THE RESURRECTION OF SEWARD FOLLOWING 1964 EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI................... 16
5.6 ECONOMIC HIGHLIGHTS 17
5.7 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS Et DISASTERS 18
6. COMMUNITY RESOURCES 20
6.1 LOCAL HISTORIC AND CULTURAL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 20
6.2 INFORMATION MANAGEMENT 22
7. PRESERVATION OPPORTUNITIES It CHALLENGES 22
7.1 OPPORTUNITIES........... ...........................................................< 22
7.2 CHALLENGES 23
8. AGENDA FOR FUTURE ACTION 24
8.1 IMMEDIATE ACTION .............................................................................................. 24
8.2 LONG-TERM AMBITIONS.......................................................................................... 24
8.3 TIMELINE FOR NEXT PLAN REVISION ............................................................................ 25
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
9. CONCLUSIC° ...............................................................<...... .....,.,...... 25
10. REFERENCES .................................................................................................. 26
11. APPENDICES................................................................... ............................... 28
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
1 . Introduction
In 1995,the City of Seward became a Certified Local Government under the National Historic
Preservation Act as administered by the Alaska Office of History and Archeology.As a requirement of this
program,the city established,by Ordinance XX-YYYY,the Seward Historic Preservation Commission.As
a required part of its responsibilities,the Commission developed the first Seward Historic Preservation
Plan,which was adopted by Seward City Council Resolution 96-133.This 2014 Plan is the first major
review of the original 1996 Plan.The State Guidelines for the Alaska Certified Local Government Historic
Preservation Program are included in this plan as Appendix A.The State Guidelines mandate that the
updated plan is compatible with the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan. •
The Seward Historic Preservation Commission initiated the review and revision of the 1996 historic
preservation plan,after consultation with the City Council,to reflect the changes in the community and
refocus and reenergize community historic preservation activities.The Commission aims to use this plan as
a guide for their continued advocacy for historic and cultural preservation awareness and action in the City
of Seward.
This plan update was conducted under a Federal Historic Preservation Fund matching grant.This grant is
administered by the Alaska Office of History and Archeology and intended for communities with Certified
Local Government status.
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Seward Community Library Association
Figure 1. A successful hunt, 1911. Photo owned by Seward
Community Library Association.
6
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
2. Scope and Purpose of Historic Preservation Planning
This section outlines the origin of the Seward Historic Preservation Commission and its role in the City of
Seward.
2.1 Authorities
As required by CLG status,the Seward Historic Preservation Plan (SHPP)must be compatible with the
Alaska Historic Preservation Plan. In keeping with this mandate, the SHPP seeks to work within the six
goals framed by"Saving Our Past:Alaska's Historic Preservation Plan,2011-2017".
1. Foster respect and understanding of Alaska's archaeological and historic resources and promote a
preservation ethic.
2. .Continue existing partnerships and seek new ones to expand and strengthen the historic
preservation community.
3. Expand efforts to identify,study,designate,interpret,and protect or treat significant
archaeological and historic resources.
4. Encourage consideration of archaeological and historic resources in the planning and decision-
making processes of the public and private sectors.
.5. Promote historic preservation as an economic development tool and provide incentives to
encourage it.
6. Encourage appropriate treatment of historic resources.
Furthermore,since the State and National Historic Preservation Acts focus on sites eligible for listing on
the National Register of Historic Places,the four criteria for the National Register have also been
considered.These include buildings and sites:
1. That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns
of our history; or
•
2. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past;or
3. ° That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type,period,or method of construction,or that
represent the work of a master,or that possess high artistic values,or that represent a significant
• and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction;or•
4. That have yielded, or may be likely to yield,information important in prehistory or history.
Since the City of Seward may wish to enact its own criteria for designation of local historic places or
districts or recommend such Borough or State designation, these criteria serve as guidelines only.
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Nan
2.2 Seward Historic Preservation Commission
In a manner consistent with its mandates as a CLG,the City of Seward established the Seward Historic
Preservation Commission in 1992 with the following duties and responsibilities.
• Surveying and taking inventory of community historic resources,
• Review proposed nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and Seward Register of
Historic Places,
• Provide advice and information regarding the identification and protection of local historic and
archeological resources,
• Support the enforcement of state and local historic preservation laws,
• Review and make recommendations concerning local projects,
• Develop a local historic preservation plan,and
• Periodically update the City Council on historic preservation issues for Seward.
The Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC)was founded to advise and counsel the City of
Seward on historic preservation issues. Other boards and commissions that serve in similar capacities
include the Planning&Zoning Commission and the Port&Commerce Advisory Board (City of Seward,
2014a).
2.3 Purpose of the Plan
In the 1990 Seward Comprehensive Plan,the residents of Seward identified the people,Seward's natural
beauty,and its small town nature as the elements they cherished most in their community.The original
Historic Preservation Plan was developed in 1996 to ensure that these characteristics of the community
were preserved and enhanced for.all to enjoy.
The current plan is intended to refocus the community of Seward and the Commission on preservation
issues in a time when teclunology and modern development have become strong forces even in remote and
previously largely independent communities.The process of developing the plan has required extensive
discussion among the Commission,and engagement with the public through an online survey and public
forum. By continuing to serve as an advisory role to local government and advocate for a historic
conscience,the Commission can revive its goal of incorporating resources into current and projected growth
patterns. Seasonal residents,an influx of tourism,and economic trends that affected local businesses are all
elements that have impacted the community and culture of the 2,7001 resident town since the development
of the original preservation plan.The figure 2,700 for resident population includes the residents of the City
along with the residents of the Spring Creek Correctional Center;without the prison,the resident figure
stands at 2,200 citizens.The outlying Bear Creek and Lowell Point have 2,000 residents on their own.
Communities evolve over time and Seward is no different.The Commission seeks to retain the sense of
place that enticed current residents,and others throughout Seward's long history, to make Seward home.
According to the 201(1ITS census:http://\v w.sewau-d.coin/wp-r onteut'upl oadsiCe nsus-BureauDLC_1(1_1)1'_1)PDPI.pdf
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
Upon approval of this plan in September 2014,it will be incorporated into the Seward Comprehensive Plan
and continue to represent the mindfulness of preservation goals and considerations into city planning.
3. The Historic Preservation Plan
This section identifies the meaning of historic preservation and,more specifically, the role historic
preservation has played in Seward thus far. It also outlines the overarching goals of the Seward Historic
Preservation Commission as redefined through the historic preservation plan update process.
3. 1 Defining Historic Preservation
The introduction of the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan addresses historic preservation as follows:
Alaska's historic preservation community seeks to record and interpret human history through
the physical evidence ofthe past This is accomplished through a variety of activities. One is to
preserve the sites,structures,buildings and objects-the real estate-ofthe past Another is
through the acquisition and preservation ofa record ofthe past that encompasses programs in
oral history and moving images along with books, documents,and photographs. Yet another
activity is to enhance knowledge ofthe past through research,ranging from archaeological
excavations to archival investigations,and appreciation ofthe past through interpretation and
education. These written, oral,and material records of times past are public wealth. With care
and attention,Alaska's heritage can promote the general welfare of all ofthe state's people.
The historic preservation movement came to prominence in the United States in the 1960s and has since
been used to revitalize communities by bringing in tourism and economic success through community
investment(Briney, 2014).The SHPC recognizes success in other prominent American cities and towns'in
reconciling old and new while creating a unified vision for their city.
There are many reasons why communities seek to preserve elements of their past despite the inevitable
changes that the future brings. Economically,the preservation of downtown and historic areas increases foot
traffic and tourism,which enhances the patronage of local businesses.Also,potential tax breaks on historic
properties can be sought through federal, state, or local regulation. Preserving traditions and landmarks
creates a unique sense of place that encourages community building and allows all residents, old,new,or
seasonal, to engage locally and create a connection with their surroundings. In saving relics of the past,
communities can also ensure that future generations will have an understanding of their local legacy and
unique foundation. Benefits to preservation are numerous and have.the potential to complement a wide
range of resident and business interests in a community.
One attendee at the SHPC Public Forum in April 21)1 l_described the evolution of Sacramento,California as a cite that locused on
developing for the future by capitalizing on their past. During the 1970s.the capitol city of CalilOrnia debated whether they should build a nett
capitol building after crowding and neglect had deteriorated the present building.Given the historic and architectural sigitilic ine.of the
building„the decision was made to restore it. Essentially,a new building was created in the interior of the original shell of the Capitol building
and was able to maintain the tile,woodwork,and overall historic integrity while inspiring curer projects that would contribute to revitalization a
staid and rapidly deteriorating community(Anonymous. 1982).
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
3.2 Goals for Historic Preservation
The primary goals for the 2014 Historic Preservation Plan,as defined by the SHPC,are as follows:
1. Encourage community engagement in preservation and community appreciation for Seward's
history.
2. Focus on preserving Seward's history while also reconciling the SHPC's mission with other
organizations working towards similar goals.
3. Promote preservation in key areas through designation and promotion of historic Districts.
4. Clarify and affirm the advisory role of the Commission in preservation throughout City of Seward.
5. Encourage adoption of local,borough,or state historic preservation incentives.
3.3 Preservation Planning in Seward
It is evident through the SHPC's hard work initiating a preservation plan update and local interest generated
during the community survey that preservation is important to many in the Seward community. Some
considered historic preservation important because it enhances the character of the community they are
currently living in and others sought to preserve for the next generation. Physical preservation,maintaining
traditions,and retaining an intangible"sense of place"were identified as being important to the citizens of
Seward. Communities that prioritize historic preservation create a linkage with the past that draws people in,
and given Seward's unique location and accessibility it is one of the few Alaskan communities with potential
to achieve this. During the process of updating the existing historic preservation plan, the SHPC reevaluated
its existing goals for the plan's ultimate purpose in contemporary Seward.
3.3.1 Historic Districts
In 1984,a member of the City Council championed for the designation of historic districts after attempting
to remodel a historic building,then the Brosius Noon Building and now the Seaview Plaza building,with
the intent of taking advantage of state and federal historic preservation grants. Unfortunately,the party
altered the building so much that it was no longer eligible for historic preservation consideration.As a result
of this incident,a City Council resolution established the Downtown and Jesse Lee Home historic districts.
In 1988,the Downtown District was expanded to encompass more area.The effort to create historic
districts stemmed from individuals'efforts to have local properties added to the National Register of
Historic Places. Ordinance No. 95-10, provided historic preservation with its own chapter under Title
15, Planning and Land Use Regulations of the Seward City Code. This chapter includes provisions for
a local historic register,criteria,involvement of the Historic Preservation Commission,and establishes
historic district overlays. All historic districts are classified as Overlay District H-Historic District on the
city's official zoning maps.
According to the Seward Zoning Code,a historic district is defined as:
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
`An area containing buildings or places in which historic events occurred or having special public
value because of notable architectural or other features relating to cultural or artistic heritage of the
community ofsuch significance to warrant conservation and preservation."
It should be noted that these overlay districts are not accompanied by additional protective zoning
requirements.Alaska is a state that does not consider historic preservation concerns as grounds for
establishing an official zoning district, therefore,using districts to encourage preservation may have varying
degrees of effectiveness and be more divisive for the community than productive.
3.3.2 Role of SHPC in Land Use and Preservation Coordination
Article 2.30.400 of the City Code establishing a Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC) directs
the commission to:
act in advisory role to other officials and departments of local government regarding identification
and protection of local historic and archaeological resources(2.30.425,A.4)and review local projects
and recommendations about the effect on properties identified in the local historic preservation
inventory,
Issues and concerns regarding preservation can be presented to the Commission by private owners,via
administrative reports, or through the public sector. Involvement in public works depends on public
vigilance and cooperation from city staff. Federally funded projects that fall under Section 106 review are
required to be approved by the Commission,which have included the Alaska SeaLife Center, Seward
Highway Project, and military camps.
3.3.3 Advisory Role for Local Government
Through administrative reports and citizen participation, the SHPC provides the historic and cultural
preservation connection to the City of Seward Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.The
SHPC can review and recommend projects and can attend Planning and Zoning or City Council meetings
to highlight preservation concerns in an advisory capacity.
Seward Community Library Seward Common im
Ml' raryAmoktloa
Figure 2. Dog Team on Fourth Avenue, 1910. Photo owned Figure 3. Bank of Seward, 1910. Photo owned
by Seward Community Library and Museum. by Seward Community Library and Museum.
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
4. Plan Development Method Et Public Involvement
In 2013,the standing Library Museum Director applied for a grant from the Alaska Department of Natural
Resources' Office of History and Archeology to acquire funding for a plan update.This funding, as
described in the Scope of Work from the grant application,was for a consulting firm to perform the bulk of
the revisions (see Appendix A). Nuka Research and Planning Group,LLC (Nuka Research),headquartered
in Seldovia,Alaska,was awarded the contract.The project began with an initial teleconference in October
2013 to review the project and expectations for the updated historic preservation plan. From this meeting it
was discerned that the concept of what people value and what people remember about their
community is central to the Commission's vision of their updated plan.
Nuka Research presented an outline of the revised plan to this Commission on June 2014 and delivered a
draft version in early August.The SHPC reviewed the document internally,before it went to a public
comment period until mid-September 2014. Once approved,the document was finalized and adopted into
the local Seward Comprehensive Plan.
4.1 Public Forum
Throughout the course of the project,a series of teleconference meetings were conducted to discuss plan
goals,public input gathering process, outline structure,and section-specific editing efforts by the
Commission. Representatives from Nuka Research visited Seward in April 2014 to facilitate their public
forum,which was a gathering of Commissioners and concerned citizens that had been organized by the
SHPC. Prior to this meeting, Commissioners visited the local high school and the senior center to discuss
the preservation plan update and invite anyone interested to attend the meeting. On April 22,a productive
session was held at the Seward Library and Museum during which Nuka Research took down Seward
citizens' plans and visions of the type of community they would like to build businesses,raise children,and
leave behind for others to fall in love with,as so many of them had (Appendix D).The information
gathered from the public forum has been incorporated throughout this plan.
4.2 Public Survey
The Commissioners reviewed a draft survey prepared by Nuka Research and submitted their comments.
After being reviewed by the liaison from the City of Seward and the Library Director,the survey was
officially released on April 14, 2014 and closed for public comment on May 15, 2014 (see Appendix B).A
Google Table was created to collect online feedback,which could be shared through a link or accessed
directly using the address: sewardsurvey.nukaresearch.com. The survey was also made available in hard
copy at the Seward Library and distributed in to the local senior center. In total, 22 survey responses were
received,which was considered sufficient by the project organizers.The results of this survey were
incorporated into the subsequent sections of this plan(see Appendix C).
5. Community History and Character
A contextual history of Seward's physical setting,modern settlement,and other historical and cultural
elements that contributed to the community's evolution is necessary to augment the importance of
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preservation efforts. The following is not a comprehensive history of the City of Seward,but rather
highlights of its ancient history into the modern era.
5.1 Physical Setting
Resurrection Bay is located on the heavily glaciated southern coast of Alaska's Kenai Peninsula. It is located
on a break between the very large Harding Icefield to the west and the smaller Sargent Icefield to the east.
Together these icefields have played a dominant role in shaping the area's geology,which in turn has also
shaped its history.
The Harding Icefield,which stretched almost from Resurrection Bay to Kachemak Bay,feeds the Kenai
Peninsula's two largest lakes,Tustumena and Skilak,from valley glaciers with the same names.To the
south,it feeds the many tidewater and valley glaciers,which make up what became Kenai Fjords National
Park.These glaciers are a principle factor in supporting the abundant marine mammal populations of the
area. Kenai Fjords National Park has become a focal point of the growing ecotourism industry out of
Seward.
The mountains and glaciers have created what have been described as a"stern and rock-bound coast"
which has very few streams or lakes long enough to support large populations of salmon of other
anadromous fish.Although they are hidden beneath the waves, the Alaska Stream and the Alaska Coastal
Current bring abundant deep ocean nutrients to the continental shelf of the northern Gulf of Alaska.These
nutrients feed plankton blooms,which in turn feed the thriving marine fisheries found in Portlock Bank
and other locations off the Kenai Peninsula coast.These support the plentiful halibut fishery,which has
become an important part of Seward's commercial fishing industry.
'5 � r4 i 'a Gam„;;?
'*tt+", . ,a illy.�,N'u...'f. iK r t F .
Seward Community Library Association
Figure 4. Overhead View of Seward and Resurrection Bay, 1906.
Photo owned by Seward Community Library Collection.
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5.2. Early Native Influence
There is physical evidence of human use of marine resources along the Kenai Peninsula coast at least 3,000
years ago. Recent genetic and paleo-botany studies suggest there may have been coastal"Eskimo-Aleut"
migrations along this coast starting as far as 17,000 years ago.
Outside of Seward in Kenai Fjords National Park, archaeological investigations in the last decade have
documented many temporary and year round settlements attributed to the Unegkurmiut(Crowell). Fredrica
de Laguna reports oral history as identifying three villages in the Seward area;two in Resurrection Bay and
one in Day Harbor. Most settlements were abandoned by the 1880 census,with the exception of a
community named Yalik,thought to have inhabited Yalik Bay,south of Seward,although recent evidence
suggested they settled in Aialik Bay. By 1890 however,the entire area that makes up Kenai Fjords National
Park today was abandoned according to Alaska Commercial Company records and the 1890 census (Barry,
1986). Sites of previous indigenous camps and settlements continued to be uncovered into the 20th century
(USDI Park Service, 1995). Recent evidence indicates that most of the sites studied had been in use for at
least 800 years (Cook&Norris).
The need for protection from the influx of Russian fur traders,the concomitant small pox epidemic of
1830s,and the influenza epidemic of the 1880s resulted in the decimation and consolidation of many
villages.This left many of the smaller villages along exposed parts of the coast vacant. In 1853 Frank Lowell
and his Native wife Mary moved to site near the head of Resurrection Bay. By the time the Santa Anna and
the Ballaine brothers landed in 1903,Frank Lowell's wife Mary and their two daughters were the only two
Alaska Natives recorded living on Resurrection Bay.
5.3 Russian and Early American Activities
The Russians arrived in Alaska with the intent to explore and establish claims to the land through
permanent settlements. In 1792,Grigor Shelikhov hired Alexander Baranov to be the Alaska manager of
the Shelikhov-Golikov Company,later the Russian American Company,to build new ships for the colony.
Baranov arrived in"Voskrensenskaya Gavan",or Resurrection Bay,in 1793.The Russian fort and shipyard
was built within what is now the original townsite of Seward.Although the site has not been definitively
identified,it is though to be within a few blocks of Railroad and Third Ave (USDOI-NPS).The first ship,
The Phoenix,was built and launched in 1794 (Barry, 1986).
•
At least in part because the gap between the Harding and Sargent Icefields provided relatively clear access
into the interior,without having to cross a glacier,the head of Resurrection Bay became a favorite access
point for surveys into the interior. After gold was discovered in the Sunrise/Hope District in 1895,a rough
trail was established from Resurrection Bay to the district to avoid the long distances and treacherous tides
going up Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm. The southern reaches of this trail would later become the start of
the Iditarod Trail.These beginnings prompted a significant survey expedition in 1898-1899 which would
help define Seward's future. Maps developed from these surveys influenced the development of the
railroad route from Resurrection Bay to the head of the Turnagain Arm and also the world-famous Iditarod
Trail.These reports also purported agricultural and mining opportunities,which further spurred the
development of a railroad into the Seward area(Barry, 1986).
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5.4 Town Planning
The town of Seward was officially founded on August 28, 1903 when the Ballaine brothers,founders of the
Alaska Central Railway,arrived with their landing party.The first attempt to make Seward a city was during
an election in May 1911,but the vote failed to get two-thirds majority required. The city incorporation
passed in May 1912 with 160 votes for and 31 against(Barry, 1986).
Seward's layout was determined in a survey created by C.M.Anderson,a civil engineer,who was signed on
by Frank Ballaine for his brother John Ballaine,principal founder of the Alaska Central Railway.The plan
incorporated city blocks divided by wide streets and bisected by alleyways.The original townsite went from •
the waterfront to seven lots beyond Monroe Street and from First Avenue at the foot of Mount Marathon
and Bear Mountain along to the waterfront.There were 40 blocks and 1211 lots in total,with some placed
along the shorelines itself. Each lot was 30'wide and 100'long.The street at the most southern point of town
was named Railway Avenue and the other east-west streets were named for the first Presidents:Washington,
Adams,Jefferson,Madison,and Monroe. The north-south avenues were numerically named: First,Second,
Third,Fourth,Fifth,Sixth,and Seventh,later renamed Ballaine Boulevard.The streets were public,
although Frank Ballaine reserved the right to construct and operate railways,telegraph and telephone lines,
gas and water mains, and tunnels or other evacuations.The final plat was recorded on June 7, 1905 (Barry
1986).
At the time of this plat development,some earlier residents were already living in Seward and thriving.
Millionaires Row sprung up along Third Avenue and the large homes were occupied by Alaskan Central
Railway officials by 1905.These buildings,which are still standing today,include: Ballaine House,Hale
House, Cameron House,Holland House,Winter House, Stewart House,and Williams House.The
smaller homes on Second Avenue that were inhabited by many early settlers were destroyed by the 1964
Good Friday Earthquake.
The meticulous town planning from Seward's earliest days remains evident into the 21°century.The
centralized downtown is very unique to Alaska and more closely resembles turn-of-the-century towns in the
Lower 48,making historic preservation efforts in Seward absolutely crucial for maintaining its unique
features. Most citizens cite this central-focus of their city as one of the most attractive aspects of their
community,to the point of convincing some people to choose Seward as a place to live as opposed to other
Alaska cities and towns.
5.5 Growth of Seward between World War II and 1964
After the headquarters of the Alaska Railroad,created through a merger with the Alaska Northern Railway
after being purchased by the federal government,moved to Anchorage in 1917, Seward experienced
difficult economic times.The start of American involvement in World War II in 1941 brought revival to
Seward as thousands of army personnel flooded into Fort Raymond,just outside the city limits. Military
fortifications and infrastructure as well as ammunition depots were rapidly established. Quonset huts and
wooden barracks were built to replace tents as housing. In 1944,as the war in the Aleutians wound down,
Fort Raymond was surpluses and transferred to the City of Seward. Many of its structures were abandoned.
•
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Some were converted into homes and still occupied today,while others were purchased and moved
throughout the city for a variety of uses.These structures still exist in Seward today and have been noted as
worthy of more local preservation attention.
The period after the war was marked by steady growth of Seward.The area on the east side of Fourth Ave
which was destroyed by the fires was rebuilt.These buildings need further evaluation regarding their historic
importance.
This was a period of growth and diversification of commercial fisheries in Seward.
5.6 The Resurrection of Seward following 1964 Earthquake and Tsunami
The 1964 Good Friday Earthquake and subsequent tsunami changed Seward forever.Although this period
is from fifty years ago to more recent times, it is the basis upon which Seward's recent history is being built.
Seward's industrial waterfront was decimated.What were docks and industrial waterfront is now the
Waterfront Park which houses both camping and day-use facilities.
In large part due to its position as the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad, Seward was the leading
freight port in south central Alaska. By the time port facilities had been rebuilt,the Port of Anchorage had
become the principle freight destination.The coal terminal and large cruise ship dock have become major
parts of the Alaska Railroad's business in Seward.
The establishment of Kenai Fjords National Park,Caines Head State Recreation Area,and three units of
the State Marine Parks in Resurrection Bay have helped provide increased awareness and some protection
for Fort McGilvery and other World War II sites at Caines Head.They have also increased the heritage
and eco-tourism opportunities in the Seward area.
Starting with in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami with the establishment of the Seward Marine
Center (SMC) as a marine research station for the UAF-Institute of Marine Science (now the UAF-School
of Fisheries and Marine Sciences),the establishment of the Alaska Vocational and Technical Center
(AVTEC),now the Alaska Institute of Technology,the construction of the Alaska SeaLife Center,and the
Alutiiq Pride Shellfish Hatchery, Seward has become a center for marine research and higher education.
SMC has served as the homeport for NSF/UNOLS research vessels RV Acona, RV Alpha Helix,and the
new RV Sikuliaq.
The City of Seward's land allotment withdrawal of the Fourth of July/Spring Creek area and the
establishment of the Seward Marine Industrial Complex (SMIC) allowed the development of the shipyard
and the space for the Spring Creek Correctional Center.
The establishment of the 200-mile Fisheries Conservation Zone by the Magnusson Act(now the
Magnusson-Stevens Act) and the concomitant"rationalization" of federally managed fisheries led to
Individual Fishing Quotas (IFQ) and Community Development Quotas (CDQ).The IFQs for halibut and
black cod got rid of the madhouse "derby"fisheries and have facilitated Seward's return to its national
preeminence as a halibut port.The CDQ program facilitated the entry of groups of western Alaska villages,
such as Coastal Villages Development Corporation to develop a presence in the Gulf of Alaska and Bering
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Sea white fish industry. In turn the possible interest of Coastal Villages in homeporting their fleet in Seward
has stimulated development of larger vessel port facilities at SMIC.
The popularity of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby since the mid-1950s is indicative of the growing
importance of sports fishing(both charter and individual) to the growth of Seward's tourist economy.
This Historic Preservation Plan seeks to not only facilitate the preservation of Seward's past history but to
also lay the groundwork to preserve the historic legacy of more recent events.
5.6 Economic Highlights
5.6.1 Industry
Seward began as a railway town.As the only ice-free port on the railway,it became a hub for transshipment
of freight into the interior. In 1910,the rudimentary trail into the gold fields on the Kenai Peninsula was
upgraded and extended as a mail and freight route to the gold fields in the Iditarod District, and later to
Nome.This is the historic Iditarod Trail,which still starts in Seward and is on the National Register
The establishment of the Alaskan Central Railway was the reason the City of Seward bloomed into
existence. Seward's role as a logistics hub has defined the town throughout its history,ebbing and flowing
with the economic times.The Alaska Railroad Depot,built in 1917,was moved from what is now Adams
Street and Ballaine Boulevard to its present location on Railway Avenue after the Lowell Creek Flooding in
1917. It was used as a depot until the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake destroyed the railroad.The depot was
added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
Seward has a long history as a fishing community. However,the natures of the predominant fisheries-based
industries have changed over time.Almost from the time Seward was founded,salteries were built in
various parts of the Bay.The first successful processing plant was built by the San Juan Fishing and Canning
Company. Officials from that company arrived in Seward in November 1916;construction of a cannery and
cold storage plant,located at the foot of Jefferson Street,began in January 1917. They canned salmon and
eventually shrimp,in addition to freezing halibut,salmon,black cod,and red snapper. Despite slowdowns
for the two World Wars,this plant continued processing until its demise in 1964.
•
Halibut,sablefish,and salmon are the most important species for commercial fisheries and presently there
is a diverse commercial fishing fleet present in Seward comprised of long-liners, purse-seiners, and gill-
.
netters.The Seward Small Boat Harbor,which was established in 1964,has recently added new floats,
ramps,and fish cleaning stations that have improved the existing facilities for maximum access (Seward
Small Boat Harbor, 2014). Charter boats are numerous in Seward and tourist and recreational outlets have.
built up along the waterfront on Fourth Avenue. Halibut and salmon fishing are the most popular for sports
fishing.
5.6.2 Tourism
Visitors from all over the world have long been an important part of Seward's economy. Starting with the
gold rush,prospectors came through Seward's ice free port before setting off by horse,dogsled,or foot.
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Located along the waterfront is Mile 0 of the Iditarod National Historic Trail System,marked today with a
tripod sign. Nearby stands the impressive bronze statue of William H. Seward, dedicated during the Trail
Blazers Iditarod Trail Centennial,which was celebrated in 2008. Both evoke memory of when Seward was
the starting point of a transport route into more remote Alaskan communities via dog sled and by foot.
The establishment of Kenai Fjords National Monument by President Jimmy Carter in 1978 marked the
start of contemporary tourism in Seward.Ini 1980,the site was expanded into a national park and receives
thousands of visitors each year in addition to engaging with the wider world daily through social media and
television programming(USDI Park Service, 2014). Opportunities for sport fishing and outdoor recreation
attract tourists to the area,in addition to the crowds of people coming aboard cruise ships to this once
remote valley each year.This activity is largely centered along the waterfront on Fourth Avenue,outside of
the original town site.The Alaska SeaLife Center,Alaska's only public aquarium and ocean wildlife rescue
center located at Mile 0 of the Seward Highway was completed in 1998.The surrounding areas of Seward
offer multiple opportunities for hiking,biking,rafting,and wildlife viewing,complemented by great
restaurants and lodging facilities.
5.6.3 Education
Critical to Seward's culture and economy are its educational institutions,both the public school system and
the facilities for higher learning. (Need more information/POC).
• Local Public Schools (William H. Seward Elementary School, Seward Middle School,&Seward
High School)
• The Alaska Vocational and Teclunical Center,or AVTEC,offers a wide variety of courses,
including(culinary,marine,firefighting, diesel mechanics,large equipment, Information
Technology...). In addition to being a resource for job training,the AVTEC also provides jobs for
the community by employing course instructors and a variety of personnel for diverse staffing roles.
• The University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences,Seward Marine
Center,is an invaluable resource for the local community by providing professors and graduate
students research facilities necessary to conduct important fisheries and crab development studies.
5.7 Significant Events £t Disasters
5.7.1 Lowell Creek Flooding
In 1917,the Lowell Creek flooded when heavy rains and wind plagued Seward.The creek washed out
everything that is along the current Jefferson Street,including bridges,trees,railroad tracks, houses,and the
school house.Additionally,it washed out a large part of Second Avenue and the downtown.The flooding
left the city without light,telephones,power,or running water.Another flood in 1918 damaged the local
Seward General Hospital (Barry, 1993).The Army Corps of Engineers built the Lowell Creek Diversion
Tunnel in 1939 to divert the creek in the event of another flood.This tunnel is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places and is located at the intersection of Railway Avenue and Lowell Point Road.
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5.7.2 Fire of 1941
In 1941,a fire burned 19 businesses from the east side of Fourth Avenue to the corner of Fourth and
Railway and over to the Seward Hotel on Fifth Avenue.The Army provided tents and care for those left
homeless. In 1942,there was another fire at the present day Seward Brewing Company on Fourth Avenue
at the corner of Fourth and Washington Street. More than 100 people were left homeless.
5.7.3 Good Friday Earthquake, 1964
The earthquake and the tsunamis followed gutted the industrial center of Seward.The San Juan,Army,and
railroad docks were destroyed,in addition to the tracks leading to the dock,the oil tank farms,fish
processors,warehouses,and the small boat harbor.The ruined waterfront inhibited Seward as a port to rail
community and the rerouting measures that resulted hurt the local economy.
The City of Seward commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 1964 earthquake on March 27, 2014. A
community remembrance event was held at the Seward Community Library and Museum highlighting
personal stories accompanied by a short film.Additionally,the museum offered free admission to view the
updated '64 Earthquake Exhibit. Every summer in Seward,the Good Friday Earthquake film can be viewed
at the Seward Community Library and Museum.
5.6.4 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, 1989
The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill was a massive environmental disaster to the waters and beaches of Kenai Fjords
National Park,which affected all communities in the area whether or not oil had washed up on their shores.
The City of Seward was not directly oiled,although large parts of the nearby Kenai Fjords National Park
were oiled and detectable"lingering oil"still remains. Like most communities, some people in Seward
fared well and others suffered economic and emotional hardship. Approximately 500 people were
employed in the clean up efforts,though not all were Seward residents. Fishermen chartered boats to assist
in the on-water oil collection and were also compensated for their losses. Others who did not have spill
response contracts suffered,changing the lives of families.The City of Seward suffered approximately$1M
dollars in taxes after it accepted single billing for services from Veco.
Money from oil spill litigation settlements that followed was used to fund the Alaska SeaLife Center and the
Allutiiq Pride Shellfish Hatchery.The settlement between the State of Alaska,the federal government,and
Exxon Shipping was made before claims went to litigation.The resulting"consent decree"only covered
injury to the natural resources for which the two governments are stewards.The settlement had two parts: a
$100M criminal settlement,which was spilt evenly between the State and US governments,and a$900M in
civil penalties spread out in payments over 10 years. The Alaska SeaLife Center received$12M from the
criminal settlement as appropriated by the Alaska Legislature.These funds were designated specifically for
public education and tourism use.The State and Federal Trustee Council later voted to allocate an
additional$25M to improvements on the research infrastructure of the SeaLife Center project. Funding for
the Allutiiq Pride Shellfish Hatchery came directly from the State and Federal Trustee Council with the
intent to help restore intertidal shellfish injured by the oil spill. Most recently, Seward has received funds for
a vessel wash-down pad at the Seward Marine Industrial Center.
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6. Community Resources
This section describes the key local historic and cultural preservation resources and information management
methodology in Seward.
•
6. 1 Local Historic and Cultural Clubs and Organizations
Given the depth of the historical and cultural resources in the Resurrection Bay area, multiple organizations
have focused on preserving different pieces,resulting in a rich cultural scene and multiple outlets to utilize
for community improvement efforts.The Commission, as official liaison of the City of Seward, has
observed that certain projects have duplicated others' efforts or come close.To avoid wasting resources and
in an effort to create a unified vision for the community,the Commission seeks to stimulate communication
amongst these different groups to create a unified vision for Seward.
6.1.1 Seward Community Library Association
Established in the early 1930s,the Seward Community Library Association served as a repository and
curate for all historic and culturally significant items that would belong in a museum.When the
Resurrection Bay Historical Society was founded in 1962,the Library Association partnered with the
Historical Society to raise funds and advocate for construction of the present day Seward Community
Library and Museum,a partnership of the two. Currently, the Library Association retains ownership and
responsibility for an extensive art collection,the historic Sylvia Sexton photograph collection, as well as
many artifacts that are on loan to the Seward Community Library and Museum.
6.1.2 Resurrection Bay Historical Society
The Resurrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS) was founded in 1962,when a group of local citizens
interested in preserving Seward's history got together,later becoming an official society in 1964. After
amassing a large collection of Alaska native artifacts, the group created the Seward Community Library and
Museum in conjunction with the Seward Community Library Association in the basement of City Hall in
1966. In 2003, RBHS declared support for the building of a new Seward Community Library and Museum
facility and were active in the 2013 dedication. Along with the shared use of the building, it was agreed that
the city would assume operations of the Seward Community Library and Museum with RBHS in a strong
support role (Resurrection).
Resurrection Bay Historical Society Mission:
1) To collect, preserve and make accessible to the public materials that help establish and illustrate the
history of the Seward area,
2) To stimulate interest and disseminate information about the history of the Seward area, and
3) To encourage the preservation of historical buildings, structures and sites in the Seward area.
6.1.3 Seward Community Library and Museum
Opened in January 2013, the Seward Community Library and Museum is a public library, historical
museum,archive and community center that serves the City of Seward and the surrounding area.Their
archives and historical artifacts are maintained through a partnership with the Resurrection Bay Historical
Society.The museum, which is located on the first floor, currently has 5,000 objects,photographs,and
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archives. Their mission is to document and interpret the diverse history of Seward rY o ewarand the Resurrection
Bay area (City of Seward, 2014b).
6.1.4 Pioneers of Alaska Fraternity
The Pioneers of Alaska Fraternity is an organization dedicated to"the need of helping each other survive"
in the brutal elements of the Northern Territory. Founded in 1908, their mission is to provide food,
medical care,legal assistance,recreational opportunities,and social interaction in what can be a harsh and
isolating place to make a living.Traditionally in areas that did not have established forms of government,
organizations like these also maintained civic order - essentially government, a court system,and basic
education.Today,the Pioneers serve as advocates for various statewide issues,such as transportation
infrastructure,education,medical care,and the older Alaskan population. Seward is home to Men's Igloo
No. 9 and Women's Igloo No. 9 (Pioneers).
6.1.5 Iditarod Trail Blazers, Seward Chapter.
The Seward Iditarod Trail Blazers were founded in 1982 as an organization dedicated to projects including
trail routing, construction,and maintenance of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. One of their major
accomplishments was redirecting a portion of the trail that had been disrupted by the Alaska Railroad and
Seward Highway in collaboration with the City of Seward,US Bureau of Land Management, and the US
Forest Service (Trail Groups,n.d.).
Iditarod Trail Blazers Mission:
1)To promote the establishment of a connected trail from Seward to Nome,
2)To support historical societies and government agencies in the establishment,maintenance and
preservation of historic sites,cabins and other objects related to the Iditarod National Historic Trail System,
3)To oversee the location,construction and maintenance of the Iditarod Trail segment from Seward to
Crow Pass,and
4)To hold regular meetings and other activities for the recreation, instruction and education of the
members,as well as the general public.
6.1.6 Qutekcak Native Tribe
The Qutekcak Native Tribe is an organization that welcomes all Alaska native peoples in the Seward area
and beyond into the Eastern Kenai Peninsula to come together for cultural activities and educational and
support programs.As a group made of people from multiple native groups,the Qutekcak do not have
federal recognition and thus do not have access to programs and services,but work with other groups and
are advocating for recognition.The Qutekcak Native Tribe encourages the passing down of native Alaskan
culture and traditions through dance,song, language,food,and athletics,aiming to make the younger
generations proud of their heritage and to foster a lasting,vibrant native community in the Resurrection Bay
Area(Qutekcak, 2014).
6.1.7 Kenai Fjords National Park
(Need to add information. Shannon Kovac mentioned as contact.)
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6.1.8 Caines Head State Recreation Area, Alaska Department of Natural Resources
These are the people who manage Fort McGilvery and by default other World War II vintage sites on
Resurrection Bay. (Need to add information/POC).
6.1.9 American Legion
(Need to add information/POC.)
6.2 Information Management
6.2.1 City Files
The files of the City of Seward include a wealth of information on Seward's history, including past council
minutes,resolutions,ordinances, and tax assessor records maintained by the City Clerk.The Community
Development Department serves in a support role to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and thus has
historic maps, plans, and documents and knowledge on historic preservation parameters. Additionally, they
maintain the community's cemetery records,including City, Legion, Pioneers, Masons,Elks, Legion,Jesse
Lee, and Woodlawn.
6.2.2 District Court
The District Court maintains documents for land transactions and death records, as well as researching
mining claims and titles on property ownership.
6.2.3 Seward Community Library and Museum
The library maintains the largest collection of archival material, housing and displaying collections on loan
from the old library, Resurrection Bay Historical Society,and Seward Community Library Association.The
large and varied collections include photographs, documents, art, newspapers, film, and Alaskana
publications.
7. Preservation Opportunities Et Challenges
This section identifies the challenges facing the City of Seward in their efforts to enhance historic and
preservation awareness and action,while also highlighting opportunities that have been identified to
enhance preservation efforts or capitalize on existing resources.
7.1 Opportunities
Despite challenges facing the Seward community, there are lots of opportunities to capitalize on local
resources to create preservation opportunities.The SHPC Commissioners and local citizens involved have
highlighted positive suggestions for ways to capitalize on local resources in enhancing local preservation
interest and action. Suggestions of untapped opportunities in Seward included:
• Educate citizens on historic preservation so they understand how preservation can benefit them and
their community
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• Explore ways to protect historic resources through laws or other protective mechanisms
• Historic sites should all be developed and labeled
• Continue involving people within the community and outside the immediate town,as SHPC
membership and Port and Commerce Board membership is not limited to city residents
• Involve educational resources,including public schools, University of Alaska Fairbanks School of
Fisheries and Ocean Sciences,and Alaska Vocational and Technical Center
• Enhance heritage tourism opportunities
• Better utilize available tax incentives
• Develop a sense of history among the populous by maintaining local traditions and explaining their
origin
7.2 Challenges
The development of the original Historic Preservation Plan in 1996 was spurred by an increasingly fragile
downtown area,which those assembled during this plan update work session in April agreed was still fragile.
As a dynamic community with strong fishing,outdoor recreational, and tourism industries and a
combination of lifelong citizens and entranced newcomers, Seward is a place that can bring out different
points of view,particularly it comes to defining and preserving local character and historical resources.
However,no single organization can or should be able to affect all of the happenings in Seward.The
Commission seeks to focus on what they can change and positively impact.
The following are challenges that have been identified during this plan rewrite process,but not necessarily
have an immediately obvious solution. Considering them and starting a dialogue for what can be done in the
future is the Commission's intent. Recent challenges to Seward's local cultural and historic vitality included:
• Limited affordable housing in core downtown
o Concern-Resulting v decreased full-time residency and civic engagement
• Numerous properties purchased by out-of-town or state buyers or used by residents and non-
residents for rental purposes,discouraging year-round residents to move in
o Concern-Although summer residents are vital,houses are empty most of the year and
there are fewer people in school and involved in town affairs.
• Absence of local education on Seward's history or what historic preservation means
•
o Concern-Promotes ambivalence and lack of commitment from citizens to participate
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• Lack of monetary funding from local government and/or disagreements over how existing funds
should be allocated
o Concern-Preservation is not always economically feasible for the average citizen
• Local government expresses little interest and provides minimal support for preservation efforts
amongst many competing priorities
o Concern -Inadequate staff to support the Seward Historic Preservation Commission,
resulting in a loss of focus (purpose)for the organization and inadequate funding and
visible (verbal)support- which is ofno financial cost-for the Seward Community Library
and Museum
o Concern -Inadequate city management to work with SHPC and no co-meetings with
Planning and Zoning Commission
• Conflict between economic and industrial development and preservation
o Concern -Need to expand economically to maintain the community and historic
preservation should help and not hinder
• Deterioration of historic resources
o Concern - Old buildings are being neglected and then taken down
8. Agenda for Future Action
8. 1 Immediate Action
After identifying what challenges and opportunities are incorporated into Seward's historic preservation
effort,the Commission seeks to achieve the following as immediate action steps.
• Focus goals on issues the Commission can influence and make change
• Working with City Planning and Zoning highlight historic preservation incentives
• Seek consensus from the City about a vision for Seward to avoid past controversies and strengthen
their advising role
• Creating a voluntary design guide to unify the town while being mindful of private property
• Coordinate an annual or biannual meeting of preservation entities in town to discuss ideas and
ongoing projects in order to not duplicate efforts and encourage collaboration
• Consider other towns as models if they have executed local regeneration with success
• Identify economic benefits of historic preservation
• Highlight all aspects of Seward's history
8.2 Long-term Ambitions
In addition to immediate goals for the Seward community, other themes emerged throughout the plan
update process that can be incorporated into a long-term plan for historic preservation, as well as the
24
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
Seward Historic Preservation. As an organization,the SHPC wants to further their mission while also
becoming a more vibrant organization.They serve a unique role as liaison for the local government of
Seward and have the ability to advise local government on preservation issues. Long-term ambitions
include:
• Encourage mindfulness of modernization while preserving local character
• Educate local people about preservation in order to engage them in preservation efforts
• Resume stronger role of being a government entity and advisor
• Maintain the integrity and authenticity of historic districts while avoiding limitations that segregate
areas of the community
• Plan to engage modem technologyto identify and promote local historic sites
8.3 Timeline For Next Plan Revision
The original plan states that a review of the standing plan shall take place annually. This review would
involve a work session to review the plan,assess progress on meeting established goals, and focus on
developing an annual work plan. The Seward Historic Preservation Commission as it stands in 2014 seeks
to update the plan every five years,which will ensure that the Commission is focused on its mission and
achieving the goals it has set.
9. Conclusion
Seward is a dynamic community that has evolved greatly over time,whether examining it from a glacial age,
pre-inhabitation perspective,while embracing the industrial age during the turn of the century, or most
recently during its evolution driven by an influx of recreational tourists. This plan, and the shared effort that
it represents in fostering a vision for the future,is simply one effort to preserve the historic and cultural
elements defining this unique community and its people.
25
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
10. References
Alaska Department of Natural Resources Office of History&Archeology. Local government preservation
programs. Retrieved from http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/oha/grant/akclg.htm
Alaska Digital Archives. (2014). Retrieved from http://vilda.alaska.edu/cdm/index
"Alaska earthquake 50th anniversary commemoration." (2014, March 19). Seward City News. Retrieved
from http://sewardcitynews.com/2014/03/alaska-earthquake-50th-anniversary-commemoration/
Anonymous. (1982). California State capitol restoration project.WAAC Newsletter Vol. 4 No. 1.
htt.p://cool.conservation-us.org/waac/wn/w n04/wn04-1/Wu04-101.htm1
Barry, Mary J. (1993). Seward Alaska,A History of the Gateway City.Vol. II, 1914 to 1922 The Railroad
Construction Years. Anchorage,Alaska: MJB Barry.
Barry,MaryJ. (1986). Seward Alaska,A History of the Gateway City,Vol I, Prehistory to 1914. Anchorage,
Alaska: MJP Barry.
Briney,A. (2014). Historic preservation:An overview of historic preservation and its importance to urban
planning. About.com. Retrieved from
lit.tp://geography.aoutcom/od/urbaneconomie geograplw/a/historicpreserv.htin
City of Seward. (2014a).Historic Preservation Commission. Retrieved from
http://www.cityofseward.us/index.aspx?NID=863
City of Seward. (2014b). Seward Community Library and Museum. Retrieved from
littp://www.citvofsc wai-d.us/index.aspx'nid=379
Cook&Norris. (Need more information).
Crowell,A. &Mann, D. (1998). Archeology and Coastal Dynamics of Kenai Fjords National Park,Alaska.
Anchorage,Alaska: National Park Service.
Pioneers of Alaska. (2014). Igloo History. Retrieved from
http://www.pioneersofalaska.org/igloo_history.html.
Qutekcak Native Tribe. (2014). Long history of independence and desire. Retrieved
from littn://www.SeWarclakitatives.coml;thout/
Resurrection Bay Historical Society. General Information. Retrieved from
littp://www.resbayhistorical.org/general-information/
Seward Historic Preservation Commission. Official Seward Historic Preservation Commission website.
Retrieved from http://www.cityofseward.net/hpc/seward_history/index.html
Seward Small Boat Harbor. (2014). Discover Alaska's Marine Adventure Capital. Retrieved from
http://www.cityofseward.net/harbor/
26
at
Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
Trail Groups in the Kenai Peninsula.(No date). Iditarod Trail Blazers, Seward Chapter. Retrieved from
http://www2.borough.kenai.ak.us/plaiiingdept/trail%20commission/trailgroups/iditaxod.htm
USDI Park Service, Kenai Fjords National Park,Alaska. (2014). News. Retrieved from
http://www.iips.gov/kefj/parknews/index.htm
USDI Park Service, Denver Service Center. (1995). Kenai Fjords National Park,Alaska, Front Country
Development Concept Plan, Environmental Assessment.
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Seward Historic Preservation Commission - 2014 Historic Preservation Plan
11 , Appendices
Appendix A. State Guidelines for the Alaska Certified Local Government
Historic Preservation Program
Appendix B. Certified Local Government Grant Scope of Work
Appendix C. Seward Community Survey
Appendix D. Results of 2014 Survey
Appendix E. Summary of Seward Public Forum (April 2014)
Appendix F. Contact Information for Local Historic and Cultural Preservation
Organizations
Appendix G. List of Places on National Historic Register in Seward
Appendix H. List of Historic Register of Seward Houses and Sites
Appendix 1. 1975 List of Historical Inventory Sites
28
33
Compiled Comments Submitted by Email for Draft Seward Historic
Preservation Plan
Submitted by: Dot Bardarson
Date: August 25, 2014
Some comments about the Seward Historic Preservation Commission
August 25, 2014 from Dot Bardarson
When I am a visitor in another town, the thing that speaks to me is its character.
Seward is a blue collar town and proud of it. We have a history that was not really
that far behind us when you think of the East Coast. That means we are blessed with
photographs of our heritage.
We could easily lose our character in the wake of technology and modern
architecture. It is thrilling to see what the Darlings did with Brown and Hawkins to
maintain character without sacrificing modern conveniences. I am so happy that the
city allowed them to replace the overhang on the sidewalk.
I can't believe that anyone could find fault with this historic approach. Surely it's
good for business.
And then there is the Orlander building. (At least, I think that is its name) If our
quest is to enhance our historic downtown, can't we do something about this
building? The architecture is there. It appears to be sound. Are there any funds the
city could come up with to just re-surface the front, for starters. Who is the owner?
Thanks for all the work that has been done so far. It's impressive.
Dot
Submitted by: John French
Date: August 27, 2014
The attachment is my comments on the first four sections of the DRAFT Seward
Historic Preservation Plan.
Sorry they are not complete yet but I paused to work on documenting the economic
benefits of historic preservation.
Cover:Ultimately the plan is for the City of Seward. The cover should say that rather
than Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC).
Other Front materials: There needs to be an approvals page similar to the 1996 plan
which includes space for the number and date of the SHPC Resolution
recommending plan approval, review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, and
the Resolution number and date for City Council adoption.
2a
Inroduction: Add as new first paragraph:
In 1995(?)the City of Seward became a Certified Local Government
under the National Historic Preservation Act as administered by the
Alaska Office of History and Archeology. As a requirement of this
Program the City established,by Ordinance XX-YYYY, the Seward
Historic Preservation Commission. As a required part of its
responsibilities the Commission developed the first Seward Historic
Preservation Plan, which was adopted by Seward City Council
Resolution 96-133. This 2014 Plan is the first major review and
revision of the 1996 Plan. The "State Guidelines" for the Alaska
Certified Local Government Historic Preservation Program are attached to
this Plan as Appendix 1. Those State Guidelines mandate that this
new Plan is to be compatible with the Alaska Historic Preservation
Plan.
Revise the existing first paragraph as follows:
The Seward Historic Preservation Commission initiated the update
review and revision of their 1996 historic preservation plan, after
consultation with the City Council, to reflect the changes in their
community and refocus : - . . ' . - . . : and
reenergize community historic preservation activities. The
Commission aims to use this plan as a guide for their continued
advocacy for historic and cultural preservation awareness and action in
the City of Seward. and to revive their advising role for the local
government.
Keep the existing second paragraph as a new third paragraph.
Replace Figure 1 with a picture with is not all white males. One of the Lowell
family with their cabin would be good.
Add as Appendix 1: "State Guidelines" for the Alaska Certified Local
Government Historic Preservation Program.
Section 2: Retitle this Section "Scope and Purpose of Historic Preservation
Planning".
Add: 2.1 Authorities
As required by CLG status The Seward Historic Preservation Plan(SHPP)
must be "compatible" with the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan. In keeping
with this mandate the SHPP seeks to work within the six goals framed by
"Saving Our Past: Alaska's Historic Preservation Plan, 2011-2017".
35
1. Foster respect and understanding of Alaska's archaeological and
historic resources and promote a preservation ethic.
2. Continue existing partnerships and seek new ones to expand and
strengthen the historic preservation community.
3. Expand efforts to identify, study, designate, interpret, and protect or
treat significant archaeological and historic resources.
4. Encourage consideration of archaeological and historic resources in
the planning and decision making processes of the public and private
sectors.
5. Promote historic preservation as an economic development tool and
provide incentives to encourage it.
6. Encourage appropriate treatment of historic resources.
Furthermore, since the State and National Historic Preservation Acts focus on
sites eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, the four
the scope of the four "Criteria" for that listing are also considered:
A. That are associated with events that have made a significant
contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or
B. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
C. That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or
method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that
possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and
distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual
distinction; or
D. That have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in
prehistory or history.
Since the City of Seward may wish to enact its own criteria for designation of
local historic places or districts; or recommend such Borough or State
designation, these guidelines only.
2.2 Seward Historic Preservation Commission
In a manner consistent with its mandates as a CLG the City of Seward
established the Seward Historic Preservation Commission with the following
duties and responsibilities:
1. Surveying and taking inventory of community historic
resources
2. Review proposed nominations to the National Register of
Historic Places
3. Provide advice and information regarding the identification and
protection of local historic and archeological resources
4. Support the enforcement of state and local historic preservation
laws
3Co
5. Review and make recommendations about local projects
6. Develop a local historic preservation plan
7. Periodically update the City Council on historic preservation
issues, when requested.
Keep: The Seward Historic Preservation Commission(SHPC)was founded
to advise and counsel the City of Seward on historic preservation issues.
Other boards and commissions that serve in similar capacities include the
Planning& Zoning Commission and the Port& Commerce Advisory Board
(City of Seward, 2014a).
Delete: Section 2.2
Rename: Section 3: 3. The Historic Preservation Plan
Keep: This section identifies the meaning of historic preservation and, more
specifically, the role historic preservation has played in Seward thus far. It
also outlines the overarching goals of the Seward Historic Preservation
Commission as redefined through the historic preservation plan update
process.
3.1 Defining Historic Preservation
The Introduction of the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan addresses historic
preservation as follows:
Alaska's historic preservation community seeks to record and interpret human
history through the physical evidence of the past. This is accomplished through
a variety of activities. One is to preserve the sites, structures, buildings and
objects—the real estate--of the past. Another is the acquisition and preservation
of a record of the past that encompasses programs in oral history and moving
images along with books, documents, and photographs. Yet another activity is
to enhance knowledge of the past through research, ranging from archaeological
excavations to archival investigations, and appreciation of the past through
interpretation and education. These written, oral, and material records of times
past are public wealth. With care and attention,Alaska's heritage can promote
the general welfare of all of the state's people.
There are many reasons why communities seek to preserve elements of their
past despite the inevitable changes that the future brings. Economically, the
preservation of downtown areas increases foot traffic and tourism, which
enhances the patronage of local businesses. Also, potential tax breaks on
historic properties can be sought through federal, state, or local regulation.
Preserving traditions and landmarks creates a unique sense of place that
encourages community building and allows all residents- old, new, or
seasonal-to engage locally and create a connection with their surroundings.
In saving relics of the past, communities can also ensure that future
generations will have an understanding of their local legacy and unique
foundation. Benefits to preservation are numerous and have the potential to
benefit a wide range of resident and business interests in a community.
Move: Section 3.3 to become Section 3.2
Keep but Renumber Section 3.2
Keep Section 4
Comments and suggested changes on Section 5 through the end will be
forthcoming, except for the following specific comment:
I don't think we should use Dan Seavy's quote, "I came, I saw, I likes, I
stayed". I have a great deal of respect for Dan, and I do not think he had any
ill intent. However I am reasonably certain that he knew he was paraphrasing
Julius Ceasar's famous statement, "Veni, vidi, vici(I came, I saw, I
conquered)" regarding his successful Roman conquest of non-Roman Gaul
(France). The fact is that this is the justification used by many European
colonial powers to seize other Peoples lands as their colonies in the eighteenth
and nineteenth centuries. It is of historic importance because it was followed
by so many. However, endorse it by paraphrasing it.
Submitted by: Mark Luttrell
Date: September 1, 2014
Hi everyone at the Seward Historic Planning Commission:
Thanks for advancing this plan so far. I'm sure it is time consuming.
I've read it over and have a few suggestions, nothing major, more just updating some
existing text.
"Seward is set on the mouth of Resurrection Bay, which is an ice-free port. This
location has contributed significantly to the community's history and character and
continues to draw people into the fold. The glacier that carved out the area where
Seward is now situated is some of the best evidence of Pleistocene glacial activity.
Essentially the entire area has been marked with by a glacial touch (Testarmata,
1988).
Prehistorically and in early historic times, the area was populated by Unixkugmiut
settlements (Barry, 1986). Most settlements were abandoned by the 1880 census,
except a community named Yalik in Yalik Bay, south of Seward, which was
abandoned by 1890 (Barry, 1986). Sites of previous indigenous camps and
settlements have continued to be uncovered into the 20th century (USDI Park
3?).
Service, 1995)."
The area suggested by the SHPC paragraph has to date yielded no archaeological
confirmation of occupation, though a 1850 map drawn by Russian cartographer
puts a native village a near the present location of
the Alaska SeaLife Center. But further out into the nearby area of Day Harbor to
Gore Point, there are several archaeological sites that can may be reasonably
affiliated with the Unegkurmiut. Archaeological investigation within Kenai Fjord
National Park boundaries in the last decade have revealed many temporary and year-
round encampments. Alaska Commercial Company records and the 1890 census
reveal that no formal settlements existed in the Park after 1890. Also, archeological
evidence suggests that the reported village in Yalik Bay was actually in Aialik Bay
(an interesting story).
I would suggest that this introductory paragraph be rewritten to encapsulate more
recent information. I know it has to be short, but how about something like:
"Resurrection Bay was likely occupied prehistorically though no
conclusive archaeological evidence exists. Outside of Seward in Kenai Fjords
National Park, archaeological investigations in the last decade have documented
many temporary and year-round settlements attributed to the Unegkurmiut
(see reference and note below). Alaska Commercial Company and census records
suggest native abandonment of the area after 1890."
Reference
Archaeology and Cultural Dynamics of Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska.
Crowell, Aron L. and Daniel H. Mann
Note
The spelling of Unegkurmiut is tricky but this is the most agreed upon.
6.1.2 Resurrection Bay Historical Society
The Resurrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS)was founded in 1962, when a group
of local citizens interested in preserving Seward's history got together, later becoming
an official society in 1964. After amassing a large collection of Alaska Native
artifacts, the group created the Seward Museum in the basement of City Hall in 1966.
In 2003, RBHS declared supported for the building of a new Community Library
Museum and were active in the 2013 dedication. Along with the shared use of the
building, it was agreed that the city would assume operations of the Seward Museum
with RBHS as a heavily supporting role (Resurrection).
Though I volunteer at the museum, I don't have much institutional knowledge of the
history of RBHS but Colleen Kelly could enhance this paragraph.
The term "Seward Museum" should be replaced with
"Seward Community Library and Museum" when referring to the infrastructure of
the library/museum and "Resurrection Bay Historical Society" when referring to the
collection of museum objects.
I like the sentiment of preservation expressed in section 7.2. I wish there was an
ordinance similar to NHPA section 106 requiring archaeological/historic clearance
before ground and existing building disturbance could occur.
• Coordinate an annual or bi-annual meeting of all preservation entities in town to
discuss ideas and ongoing projects in order to not duplicate efforts and
encourage collaboration I like that idea.
Submitted by: Douglas Stephens
Date: September 2, 2014
Please find the Alaska Railroad Corporation's comments on the Draft 2014 Seward
Historic Preservation Plan attached to this message.
SEE PDF FILE
Submitted by: Kerry Martin
Date: September 4, 2014
I told myself not to get involved in this plan, but after reading it I felt compelled to
comment. My background includes having been the Community Development
Director for Seward for 18 years. I was responsible for 2 comprehensive plans as
well as the current Historic Preservation Plan and the Cemetery Management Plan.
It was through my initiative that the city applied for and became a CLG, and I
staffed the Historic Preservation Commission for many years.
These are my thoughts. They do not include the need to really edit spelling and
grammar.
Page 4, Figure 1. Photo owned by the Seward Community Library Association, not
the Library Museum.
Page 5, Section 2.2, 2nd paragraph: Population of Seward should be explained.
There are three populations. The City with the prison population 2,700; the City w/
prisoners excluded, 2,200 and the outlying Bear Creek and Lowell Point about 2,000.
2-kv
Note: Historic Preservation Commissioners are not restricted to only city residents.
Page 7, Section 3.2.1, 1st paragraph: Actually, the designation of historic districts
was championed by a member of the City Council who was remodeling an historic
building(what was then the Brosius Noon Building, now the Seaview Plaza
building), with the hopes of taking advantage of state and federal historic
preservation grants. Unfortunately that party altered the building so much that it
was no longer eligible for historic preservation consideration.
Page 8, Figures 2 and 3 at bottom of the page: labels are misleading-the photos
identify whose collection the photos are from. Stating that they are owned by the
Seward Community Library&Museum is incorrect.
Page 9, Section 4.0, 1st paragraph: Official title of the Director is Library Museum
Director
Page 10, Section 5.1, 1st paragraph: Seward is located at the "head" of Resurrection
Bay. The "mouth" of the bay is where is meets the open ocean.
Page 10, Figure 4. Again, the photo is from the Seward Community Library
Collection and is not owned by the Seward Community Library &Museum.
Page 11, Section 5.3, 2nd paragraph -To the best of my knowledge there is no
Harborview Apts building on 3rd Ave. Where is it located?
Page 12, Section 5.4.2, 2nd paragraph. The statement that the SeaLife Center is only
one of two buildings constructed after the 1964 earthquake patently incorrect. Did
no one tell you that City Hall, the University, the Alaska Vocational Technical
Center, all three schools, numerous apartments, the National Park Service, the
Alaska Railroad Dock, Icicle Seafoods, etc. etc. were all built after the earthquake.
Page 13, Section 5.6.2 - without doing some research, I find it hard to believe that
450 people lived on one side of the street in downtown Seward.
Page 14, Section 6.1: There is no mention of the Seward Community Library
Association. They retain ownership and responsibility for an extensive art collection,
the historic Sylvia Sexton photograph collection as well as many artifacts that are on
loan to the museum. The Library was established in the early 1930's and basically
served as a repository of historic items that would normally have been in a museum.
The Historic Society/museum was not established until 1962. The Library
Association was a partner with the Historic Society in raising funds and shepherding
the construction of the new Library Museum Building.
Page 15, Section 6.1.4, 1st paragraph. The Trail Blazers have collaborated with the
City of Seward and the US Forest Service (not the Park Service).
yt
Page 15, Section 6.2.1. The Community Development Office also maintains
community cemetery records (City, Legion, Pioneers, Masons, Elks, Legion, Jesse
Lee, Woodlawn)
Page 15, Section 6.2.2. There is no longer a Land Recorder's Office in Seward. All
the land records were removed from the court quite a few years ago to a separate
office in Seward, and were subsequently relocated to Juneau.
Page 16, Section 6.2.3. The Library Museum houses collections that include those of
the old library, the Historic Society and the Community Library Association.
Page 16, Section 7.1 . Someone must have had a long memory. The current
elementary and high school were moved in late 1960's and 1970's respectively. Even
the old HS was not in what would be defined as the downtown area.
Page 16, Section 7.1 Property tax rates in the downtown area are no different from
the rest of the city. Property tax values are based on fair market value, in accordance
with State statutes. Yes, there are many houses being acquired by out of town /state
buyers who use them for week end / summer get aways. Also many others are
being used by both residents and non-residents for seasonal nightly lodging
businesses.
Page 16, Section 7.1. Designated "historic districts" have never had any regulations
that specified what a property owner could or could not do. The districts were put in
place to allow property owners to take advantage of state and federal grant/tax
benefits if they chose to pursue them
Page 17, Section 7.1 -I have to agree to some extent on the remainder of these
challenges
Page 17, Section 7.1 . Concern that the cemetery is deteriorating is crap. It has been
improving for many years.
Page 17. Section 7.2 . A Local Register of historic places was created back in the
mid 1990's. No one has lifted a finger to encourage or designate any new additions
in the last 14 years since I retired. There is still a supply of brass plaques available.
Page 17, Section 7.2. People outside the city are involved. Both the Historic
Preservation Commission and the Port and.Commerce Board membership is not
limited to city residents. Also many businesses in town are owned and operated by
people residing outside the city limits.
Page 17, Section 7.2. A book on Seward history has been written. Mary Berry's 3
volume set. You even cited it in this plan.
Page 18, Section 8.1: in the early 1980's the city contracted with Hyett-Palma, a
planning team very involved in the Main Street Program. Through them a
downtown Seward Enhancement Association was created to work on downtown
enhancement and redevelopment - Unfortunately, when the City was no longer able
to fund their consultation, the Association fell apart.
Page 18, Section 8.1: Not to say it would or would not be accepted now, but there
was a movement to create design guidelines for the downtown in the 1980's. It was
an overwhelming failure.
Page 19, Section 9: Dan Seavey has been a resident since before the 1964
Earthquake, substantially more that 30 years.
Submitted by: Lee Poleske
Date: September 5, 2014
SEE PDF FILE
Submitted by: Brenda Ballou
Date: September 5, 2014
SEE PDF FILE
Submitted by: Wadeen Hepworth
Date: September 5, 2014
A few things I'd like to see in the plan:
History
# 1 —include info about the Lowell family —fascinating stuff especially with areas
and mountains named after them—did you know three mountains are named after
the wife and daughters?.
#2—make the history section become more alive—it reads like a dull school report—
we need info that excites people into caring about preserving the history. I found the
1995 plan's history excellent and made me want to preserve Seward's history
therefore I applied to be on SHPC. This plan's history is dry as is the whole plan.
Goals and Objectives:
The goals are vague—I was hopping for something more specific and concrete to
work with. I see this section needing much work—the 1995 plan had an Agenda for
Future Action that was excellent. My thought is that is what a plan is, list a goal and
�3
the steps you are going to use to accomplish that goal. What are the steps or
objectives needed to obtain communication engagement in this plan?
Economic Highlights
5.4.1 Industry
There is nothing about the three lost canneries—I've often wondered why the
piling near the RV parking and the 1995 plan told me there were 3 canneries there—
we need to make sure people know about them.
5.4.2 Tourism
Give us numbers and $ -how many tourist visit each year—what is the
economics benefit of their visits to the city in $ -how has this increased since the
1995 report—give us statistics
This plan should say how many jobs and how much revenue the various industries
bring to the city
Significant Events and Disasters and Community Resources
This was easy stuff to gather even if a person lived in another part of the world and
took up too much space at the expense of more history. Goals/objectives and
economic numbers.
I'm sorry but I call this plan "fluff'and was more than disappointing to me, it has no
life and reads like a school report.
Submitted by: John French
Date: September 5, 2014
Comments on draft 2014 Seward Historic Preservation Plan
John S. French, Vice-Chair Seward Historic Preservation Commission
FINAL
Suggested new language is highlighted. Comments are in Bold italics
Cover:Ultimately the plan is for the City of Seward. The cover should say that rather than
Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC).
Other Front materials: There needs to be an approvals page similar to the 1996 plan
which includes space for the number and date of the SHPC Resolution recommending plan
approval, review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Resolution number
and date for City Council adoption.
Introduction: Add as new first paragraph:
l4L
In 1995(?)the City of Seward became a Certified Local Government
under the National Historic Preservation Act as administered by the
Alaska Office of History and Archeology. As a requirement of this
Seward
Program the City established,by Ordinance XX-YYYY, the
Historic Preservation Commission. As a required part of its
responsibilities the Commission developed the first Seward Historic
Preservation Plan,which was adopted by Seward City Council
Resolution 96-133. This 2014 Plan is the first major review and
revision of the 1996 Plan.The "State Guidelines" for the Alaska
Certified Local Government Historic Preservation Program are attached to
this Plan as Appendix 1. Those State Guidelines mandate that this
new Plan is to be compatible with the Alaska Historic Preservation
Plan.
Revise the existing first paragraph as follows:
The Seward Historic Preservation Commission initiated the Update
review and revision of their 1996 historic preservation plan, after
consultation with the City Council, to reflect the changes in their- and
community and refocus : - - - = :• - • •= - ' = - : '
reenergize community historic preservation activities. The
Commission aims to use this plan as a guide for their continued
advocacy for historic and cultural preservation awareness and action in•
the City of Seward. . - - - • - - - • : • -: : •
goverfirfient.
Keep the existing second paragraph as a new third paragraph.
Replace Figure 1 with a picture with is not all white males. One of the Lowell
family with their cabin would be good.
Add as Appendix 1: "State Guidelines" for the Alaska Certified Local
Government Historic Preservation Program.
Section 2: Retitle this Section "Scope and Purpose of Historic Preservation
Planning".
Add: 2.1 Authorities
As required by CLG status The Seward Historic Preservation Plan(SHPP)
must be "compatible" with the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan. In keeping
with this mandate the SHPP seeks to work within the six goals framed by
"Saving Our Past: Alaska's Historic Preservation Plan, 2011-2017".
7. Foster respect and understanding of Alaska's archaeological and
historic resources and promote a preservation ethic.
x-15
8. Continue existing partnerships and seek new ones to expand and
strengthen the historic preservation community.
9. Expand efforts to identify, study, designate, interpret, and protect or
treat significant archaeological and historic resources.
10.Encourage consideration of archaeological and historic resources in
the planning and decision making processes of the public and private
sectors.
11.Promote historic preservation as an economic development tool and
provide incentives to encourage it.
12.Encourage appropriate treatment of historic resources.
Furthermore, since the State and National Historic Preservation Acts focus on
sites eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, the four
the scope of the four "Criteria" for that listing are also considered:
E. That are associated with events that have made a significant
contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or
F. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
G. That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or
method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that
possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and
distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual
distinction; or
H. That have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in
prehistory or history.
Since the City of Seward may wish to enact its own criteria for designation of
local historic places or districts; or recommend such Borough or State
designation, these guidelines only.
2.2 Seward Historic Preservation Commission
In a manner consistent with its mandates as a CLG the City of Seward
established the Seward Historic Preservation Commission with the following
duties and responsibilities:
8. Surveying and taking inventory of community historic
resources
9. Review proposed nominations to the National Register of
Historic Places
10.Provide advice and information regarding the identification and
protection of local historic and archeological resources
11. Support the enforcement of state and local historic preservation
laws
12. Review and make recommendations about local projects
13. Develop a local historic preservation plan
14.Periodically update the City Council on historic preservation
issues, when requested.
Keep: The Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC)was founded
to advise and counsel the City of Seward on historic preservation issues.
Other boards and commissions that serve in similar capacities include the
Planning& Zoning Commission and the Port& Commerce Advisory Board
(City of Seward, 2014a).
Delete: Section 2.2
Rename: Section 3: 3. The Historic Preservation Plan
Keep: This section identifies the meaning of historic preservation and, more
specifically, the role historic preservation has played in Seward thus far. It
also outlines the overarching goals of the Seward Historic Preservation
Commission as redefined through the historic preservation plan update
process.
3.1 Defining Historic Preservation
The Introduction of the Alaska Historic Preservation Plan addresses historic
preservation as follows:
Alaska's historic preservation community seeks to record and interpret human
history through the physical evidence of the past. This is accomplished through
a variety of activities. One is to preserve the sites, structures, buildings and
objects the real estate--of the past. Another is the acquisition and preservation
of a record of the past that encompasses programs in oral history and moving
images along with books, documents, and photographs. Yet another activity is
to enhance knowledge of the past through research, ranging from archaeological
excavations to archival investigations, and appreciation of the past through
interpretation and education. These written, oral, and material records of times
past are public wealth. With care and attention,Alaska's heritage can promote
the general welfare of all of the state's people.
There are many reasons why communities seek to preserve elements of their
past despite the inevitable changes that the future brings. Economically, the
preservation of downtown areas increases foot traffic and tourism, which
enhances the patronage of local businesses. Also, potential tax breaks on
historic properties can be sought through federal, state, or local regulation.
Preserving traditions and landmarks creates a unique sense of place that
encourages community building and allows all residents- old, new, or
seasonal-to engage locally and create a connection with their surroundings.
In saving relics of the past, communities can also ensure that future
generations will have an understanding of their local legacy and unique
1
foundation. Benefits to preservation are numerous and have the potential to
benefit a wide range of resident and business interests in a community.
Move: Section 3.3 to become Section 3.2
Keep but Renumber Section 3.2
Keep Section 4
Section 5: General comment; this section lays the context and creates the
tone for the strategy presented in later sections. As written the tone suggests
that the only important history of the Seward/Resurrection Bay region
occurred after the landing of the Santa Anna in 1903. Part of this may be
because of the misguided concept in Section 3.1 that you need physical things
to preserve to have "historical preservation".
The SHPC website, especially the "History" has not been revised in quite
some time. It should NOT be referenced as a "comprehensive history".
Section 5.1: Physical Setting
Resurrection Bay is located on the heavily glaciated southern coast of
Alaska's Kenai Peninsula. It is located on a break between the very large
Harding Icefield to the west, and the smaller Sargent Icefield to the east.
Together these icefields have played a dominant role in shaping the area's
geology, which in turn has shaped its history.
The Harding Icefield, which stretches almost from Resurrection Bay to
Kachemak Bay, feeds the Kenai Peninsula's two largest lakes, Tustumena and
Skilak, from valley glaciers with the same names. To the south it feeds the
many tidewater and valley glaciers which make up what became Kenai Fjords
National Park. These glaciers are a principle factor in supporting the
abundant marine mammal populations of the area. Kenai Fjords National
Park has become a focal point for the growing "ecotourism" industry out of
Seward.
The mountains and glaciers have created what Cook and Norris describe as a
"stern and rock-bound coast" which has very few streams or lakes long
enough to support large populations of salmon or other anadromous fish.
Although they are hidden beneath the waves, the Alaska Stream and the
Alaska Coastal Current bring abundant deep ocean nutrients onto the
continental shelf of the northern Gulf of Alaska. These nutrients feed
abundant plankton blooms which in turn feed the abundant marine fisheries
found at Portlock Bank and other locations off the Kenai Peninsula coast.
These support the abundant halibut fishery which became an important part
of Seward's commercial fishing industry.
4$
Section 5.2: Early Native Influence
There is physical evidence of human use of marine resources along the Kenai
Peninsula coast at least 3,000 years ago. Recent genetic and paleo-botany
studies suggest there may have been coastal "Eskimo-Aleut" coastal
migrations along this coast starting as much as 17,000 years ago.
Prehistorically and in early historic times, the area was populated by
Unixkugmiut settlements (Barry, 1986). Fredrica de Laguna reports oral
history as identifying three villages in the Seward area; two in Resurrection
Bay and one in Day Harbor. Most settlements were abandoned by the 1880
census, except a community named Yalik in Yalik Bay, south of Seward,
which was abandoned by 1890 (Barry, 1986). Sites of previous indigenous
camps and settlements have continued to be uncovered into the 20th century
(USDI Park Service, 1995). Recent evidence indicates that most of the sites
studied had been use at least 800 years (Cook&Norris).
The need for protection from the influx of Russian fur traders, the
concomitant small pox epidemic of 1830s, and the influenza epidemic of the
1880s resulted in the decimation and consolidation of many villages. This left
many of the smaller villages along exposed parts of the coast vacant. In 1853
Frank Lowell and his Native wife Mary moved to site near the head of
Resurrection Bay. By the time the Santa Anna and the Ballaine brothers
landed in 1903, Frank Lowell's wife Mary and their two daughters were the
only two Alaska Natives recorded living on Resurrection Bay.
Section 5.3. Russian and Early American Activities
The Russians arrived in Alaska with the intent to explore and establish claims
to the land through permanent settlements. In 1792, Grigor Shelikov, a
Siberian merchant who had built the first Russian settlement on Kodiak, hired
Alexander Baranov to build new ships for the colony. Baranov arrived in
"Voskrensenskaya Gavan", or Resurrection Bay, in 1793. The Russian fort
and shipyard was built within what is now the original townsite of Seward.
Although the site has not been definitively identified, it is though to be within
a few blocks of Railroad and Third Ave(USDOI-NPS)The first ship, The
Phoenix, was built and launched in 1794 (Barry, 1986).
At least in part because the gap between the Harding and Sargent Icefields
provided relatively clear access into the interior, without having to cross a
glacier, the head of Resurrection Bay became a favorite access point for
surveys into the interior. After gold was discovered in the Sunrise/Hope
District in 1895, a rough trail was established from Resurrection Bay to the
district to avoid the long distances and treacherous tides going up Cook Inlet
and Turnagain Arm. The southern reaches of this trail would later become the
start of the Iditarod Trail. These beginnings prompted a significant survey
expedition in 1898-1899 which would help define Seward's future. Maps
developed from these surveys influenced the development of the railroad
L‘q
route from Resurrection Bay to the head of the Turnagain Arm and also the
world-famous Iditarod Trail. These reports also purported agricultural and
mining opportunities, which further spurred the development of a railroad
into the Seward area(Barry, 1986).
5.4. Founding of Seward and Town Planning(renumbered and retitled
from 5.3)
This section should start with the last paragraph of the previous section:
The town of Seward was officially founded on August 28, 1903 when the
Ballaine brothers, founders of the Alaska Central Railway, arrived with their
landing party. The first attempt to make Seward a city was during an election
in May 1911, but the vote failed to get two-thirds majority required. The city
incorporation passed in May 1912 with 160 votes for and 31 against(Barry,
1986).
Continue with the rest of current section 5.3. This subsection can stand as is for
this draft. However. It focuses almost exclusively on pre-World War II
buildings. Significant construction has taken place in the period following the
Fourth Avenue fires and the 1964 earthquake and tsunami.
5.5. Growth of Seward between World War II and 1964(added section)
Section 5.6.3 should be moved to here:
After the headquarters of the Alaska Railroad, which had been created
through a merger with the Alaska Northern Railway after it was purchased by
the federal government, moved to Anchorage in 1917, Seward experiences
difficult economic times. The start of American involvement in World War II
in 1941 brought revival to Seward as thousands of army personnel flooded
into Fort Raymond,just outside the city limits. Military fortifications and
infrastructure, such as an airplane runway, were established. Quonset huts
and wooden barracks were built to replace tents as housing. In 1944, as the
war in the Aleutians wound down, the-war-ended Fort Raymond was
surpluses and transferred to the City of Seward. Many of its structures were
abandoned. Some were converted into homes and still occupied today, while
others were purchased and moved throughout the city for a variety of uses.
These structures still exist in Seward today and have been noted as worthy of
more local preservation attention.
The period after the war was marked by steady growth of Seward. The area
on the east side of Fourth Ave which was destroyed by the fires was rebuilt.
These buildings need further evaluation regarding their historic importance.
This was a period of growth and diversification of commercial fisheries in
Seward.
SO
5.6. Resurrection of Seward following 1964 Earthquake and Tsunami (added
section)
The earthquake and tsunami changed Seward forever. Although this period is
from fifty years ago to more recent times, it is the basis upon which Seward's
recent history is being built. Seward's industrial waterfront was decimated.
What were docks and industrial waterfront is now the Waterfront Park which
houses both camping and day-use facilities.
In large part due to its position as the southern terminus of the Alaska
Railroad, Seward was the leading freight port in south central Alaska. By the
time port facilities had been rebuilt, the Port of Anchorage had become the
principle freight destination. The coal terminal and large cruise ship dock
have become major parts of the Alaska Railroad's business in Seward.
The establishment of Kenai Fjords National Park, Caines Head State
Recreation Area, and three units of the State Marine Parks in Resurrection
Bay have helped provide increased awareness and some protection for Fort
McGilvery and other World War II sites at Caines Head. They have also
increased the heritage and eco-tourism opportunities in the Seward area.
Starting with in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami with the
establishment of the Seward Marine Center(SMC) as a marine research
station for the UAF-Institute of Marine Science(now the UAF-School of
Fisheries and Marine Sciences), the establishment of the Alaska Vocational
and Technical Center(AVTEC), now the Alaska Institute of Technology, the
construction of the Alaska SeaLife Center, and the Alutiiq Pride Shellfish
Hatchery, Seward has become a center for marine research and higher
education. SMC has served as the homeport for NSF/UNOLS research
vessels RV Acona, RV Alpha Helix, and the new RV Sikuliaq.
The City of Seward's land allotment withdrawal of the Fourth of July/Spring
Creek area and the establishment of the Seward Marine Industrial Complex
(SMIC) allowed the development of the shipyard and the space for the Spring
Creek Correctional Center.
The establishment of the 200-mile Fisheries Conservation Zone by the
Magnusson Act(now the Magnusson-Stevens Act) and the concomitant
"rationalization" of federally managed fisheries led to Individual Fishing
Quotas(IFQ) and Community Development Quotas(CDQ). The IFQs for
halibut and black cod got rid of the madhouse "derby" fisheries and have
facilitated Seward's return to its national preeminence as a halibut port. The
CDQ program facilitated the entry of groups of western Alaska villages, such
as Coastal Villages Development Corporation to develop a presence in the
Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea white fish industry. In turn the possible interest
of Coastal Villages in homeporting their fleet in Seward has stimulated
development of larger vessel port facilities at SMIC.
The popularity of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby since the mid-1950s is
indicative of the growing importance of sports fishing(both charter and
individual)to the growth of Seward's tourist economy.
This Historic Preservation Plan seeks to not only facilitate the preservation of
Seward's past history but to also lay the ground work to preserve the historic
legacy of more recent events.
5.6 Economic Highlights (renumbered from 5.4)
5.6.1 Industry
Seward began as a railway town. As the only ice-free port on the railway, it
became a hub for transshipment of freight into the interior. In 1910, the
rudimentary trail into the gold fields on the Kenai Peninsula was upgraded
and extended as a mail and freight route to the gold fields in the Iditarod
District, and later to Nome. This is the historic Iditarod Trail which still starts
in Seward and is on the National Register.
The establishment of the Alaskan Central Railway was the reason the City of
Seward came into existence. Seward's role as a logistics hub and rail has
defined the town throughout its history, ebbing and flowing with the
economic times. The Alaska Railroad Depot, built in 1917, was moved from
what is now Adams Street and Ballaine Boulevard to its present location on
Railway Avenue after the Lowell Creek Flooding in 1917. It was used as a
depot until the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake destroyed the railroad. The
depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The
Alaska Central Railroad Tunnel No. 1 is located north of Seward and is also
listed on the National Register.
Seward has a long history as a fishing community. However, the natures of the
predominant fisheries-based industries have changed over time. Almost from the
time Seward was founded, salteries were built in various parts of the Bay. The first
successful processing plant was built by the San Juan Fishing and Packing Company.
Officials from that company arrived in Seward in November 1916; construction of a
cannery and cold storage plant, located at the foot of Jefferson Street, began in
January 1917. They canned salmon and froze halibut, salmon, black cod and red
snapper. Despite slowdowns for the two World Wars, this plant continued
processing until its demise in 1964. At that time it was also processing shrimp.
. .. - •. - _ . _ _ . - •-: . -_ - - - _ . - _ _ - . Chartered
fishing boats are numerous in Seward and facilities congregate along the
waterfront on Fourth Avenue. Halibut and salmon fishing is the most popular
with a diverse commercial fishing fleet made up of long-liners, purse-seiners,
v2
and gill-netters at the ready. The Seward Small Boat Harbor, which was
established in 1964, has recently added new floats, ramps, and fish cleaning
stations that have improved the existing facilities for maximum access
(Seward Small Boat Harbor, 2014).
5.6.2 Tourism(renumbered)
Visitors from away have long been an important part of Seward's economy.
Starting with the gold rush, prospectors would come through Seward's ice
free port before setting off by horse, dogsled, or foot. Mile 0 of the Iditarod
National Historic Trail System is located by the waterfront, marked today
with an informational sign, and evokes memory of when this was a transport
route into more remote Alaskan communities via dog sled.
The establishment of Kenai Fjords National Monument by President Jimmy
Carter in 1978 marked the start of contemporary tourism in Seward. In 1980,
the site was expanded into a national park and receives thousands of visitors
each year in addition to engaging with the wider world daily through social
media and television programming(USDI Park Service, 2014). Fishing boats,
charter boats, buses, and most notably cruise ships all attract tourists to the
area and bring crowds of people to this once remote valley each year. This
activity is largely centered along an increasingly expanding boat harbor
waterfront on Fourth Avenue, outside of the original town site. The Alaska
SeaLife Center, a marine research and visitor center on Third Avenue, was
. - -. •- ••: . - - - - - --- -•- - . . - - •
Earthquake.
I'm not sure where this statement came from but it is not accurate. The first part up
to "completed in 1998"is but the rest is wrong. Even if you only count construction
along the waterfront, the shellfish hatchery the three SMC buildings, two
waterfront park pavilions, and all the "uplands"buildings around the "new"
small boat harbor were built since the earthquake.
5.7 Significant Events and Disasters (renumber)
5.7.1 (Renumber and keep)
5.7.2 (renumber and keep)
53.3 Delete (this material was moved to 5.5)
5.7.3 (Renumber and keep)
5.7.4 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, 1989(Renumber)
This section needs a serious rewrite and should probably be deleted from this draft.
Like most communities in the oil spill-affected area some people fared well and
made lots of money while others suffered economic and emotional hardship. The
City of Seward was not directly oiled but neither was the City of Cordova. Large
parts of Kenai Fjords National Park were oiled, and detectable "lingering oil"
remains. Commercial fishermen and charter boat operators who did not have spill
response contracts suffered. Those who did made out like bandits. The City of
Seward itself suffered about a million dollars in taxes after it was hoodwinked into
accepting a single billing for services from Veco.
If we are going to mention the SeaLife Center and the Alutiiq Pride Shellfish
Hatchery, which we should, we need to get the funding straight. Technically the
settlement between the State of Alaska, the Federal Government and Exxon
Shipping was before claims went to litigation. The resulting "consent decree"only
covered injury to the natural resources for which the two governments are stewards.
The settlement has two parts a$100M criminal settlement which was split evenly
between the State and US governments, and$900M in civil penalties spread out in
payments over 10 years. The project that became the Alaska SeaLife Center
received$12Mfrom the criminal settlement as appropriated by the Alaska
Legislature. These funds were designated for public education and tourism uses.
The State/Federal Trustee Council controls disbursement of the civil settlement
funds. The Trustee Council voted to allocate$25M to improvements in the research
infrastructure of the SeaLife Center project. The funding for the shellfish hatchery
was more straight forward. It all came from the Trustee Council and was justified
as helping restore intertidal shellfish injured by the spill
Thus Seward got construction funds for two new facilities, and recently has
received funds for a vessel wash-down pad at SMIC. So I guess we should not
complain too much.
Section 6, Community Resources
6.1.6 Kenai Fjords National Park(Add)
We'll have to get the official section name and description from Shannon Kovac
6.1.7. Caines Head State Recreation Area, ADNR(Add)
These are the folks manage Fort McGilvery and by default other WWII vintage
sites on Resurrection Bay
7. Preservation Opportunities & Challenges
Switch Challenges& Opportunities to start with the positive.
7.1 Opportunities
Delete the last two bullets.
5�
Change the sixth bullet to "Enhance heritage tourism opportunities"
Add bullet "Better utilize available tax incentives"
7.2 Challenges
I don't think the high school location is much of a concern any more so delete bullet
one.
Bullet two should read "limited affordable housing in core downtown"
Bullet three: delete. I have never heard this concern.
8. Agenda for Future Action
This is an important section but I really feel the next stage of revisions needs more
discussion by the whole Commission than has taken place.Keep as is for now.Plan
revisions should be every five years.
9. Conclusion (delete)
I don't think we should use Dan Seavy's quote, "I came,I saw, I likes, I stayed". I
have a great deal of respect for Dan, and I do not think he had any ill intent.
However I am reasonably certain that he knew he was paraphrasing Julius
Caesar's famous statement, "Veni, vidi, vici(I came, I saw,I conquered)"
regarding his successful Roman conquest of non-Roman Gaul(France). The fact is
that this is the justification used by many European colonial powers to seize other
Peoples lands as their colonies in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It is of
historic importance because it was followed by so many. However, endorse it by
paraphrasing it.
Submitted by: Linda Lasota
Date: September 6, 2014
SEE PDF FILE
Submitted by: Carol Griswold
Date: August 16, 2014; Received September 10, 2014
Sorry, I could only get to page 12. I was very disappointed in the quality of the
writing and lack of accurate information.
p5
2.2 "...and it's small town nature..." Change "it's" to "its".
5�
p7
3.2.1 Will there be a nice map of the Downtown and Jesse Lee Home historic
districts? That would be an informative inclusion to the appendix.
p 10
5. the SHPC website is woefully incomplete and does not have "a comprehensive
history of the City of Seward."
p9
4 "To initiate the plan update, the current Library Director..."
Patty Linville retired. Change to "in (year)the library director"
4.1 "After this meeting..." What meeting?
p 10
"The Russians arrived in Alaska with the intent to explore and establish claims to the
land through permanent settlements." Please check this information. I agree with
exploration, but exploitation of the natural resources (fur, gold, coal) and trade was
the intent, not permanent settlements.
"Several expeditions..." this and "A particularly significant expedition took place in
1898-1899..." implies Russian expedition surveys, which is not accurate.
5.1
"Essentially the entire area has been marked with by a glacial touch."
delete either "with" or "by"
5.1 "...settlements have continued to be uncovered into the 20th century."
The 20th century is over. Should either read 218`century, or delete the "have".
p11
5.3 ...C.M. Anderson, a civil engineer, who had been signed on"
change "had been" to "was"
5.3 ...The original townsite...and from First Avenue... into the sea."
"into the sea" should be to the waterfront. The townsite did not go into the sea, did
it?
"In time, Millionaires Row sprung..." Delete "In time".
Where is Williams House? Harborview Apartments is not part of Millionaires Row,
as implied.
p 12
5.4.1 ..."and rail has defined the town..." Should that be "the railroad"?
5Cc)
"Chartered fishing boats..." should be "Charter boats..."
"Chartered fishing boats...and facilities congregate along the waterfront on Fourth
Avenue." This does not make any sense. What facilities congregate along the
waterfront?
"Halibut and salmon fishing is the most popular with a diverse commercial fishing
fleet..."
Halibut and salmon are the most popular with sports fishing, not commercial fishing.
Halibut, sablefish, and salmon are the most important species for commercial
fisheries.
Separate sports fishing from commercial fishing. Delete "at the ready."
5.4.2
"Visitors from away..." of course visitors are "from away." Delete "from away."
Change "...prospectors would come..." to "...prospectors came..."
"an information sign, and evokes memory of when this was a transport route..."
There is no information sign,just the tripod and Mile 0 sign. How does this marker
"evoke memory"?Delete. No mention of the bronze statue on the Alaska Sealife
Center grounds: Trail Blazers Iditarod Trail Centennial 1908-2008 Mile 0. This
should be included.
"Fishing boats, charter boats, buses, and most notably cruise ships all attract tourists
to the area..." This does not make sense. None of these attract tourists. They and the
train bring tourists if that is what is meant instead of"attract."
"This activity is largely centered along an increasingly expanding boat harbor
waterfront..." The cruise ships are not anywhere near the boat harbor. What does
this mean? The boat harbor waterfront is not expanding.
"The Alaska Sealife Center, a marine research center and visitor center on Third
Avenue..." is not located on Third Avenue but at 301 Railway Avenue.
According to their website, they are located at Mile 0 of the Seward Highway. As per
their website, instead of"a marine research center and visitor center" use "Alaska's
only public aquarium and ocean wildlife rescue center."
"... and one of only two buildings constructed after the 1964 Earthquake." What
does this mean? Countless buildings have been constructed after the 1964
Earthquake.
5.6.1
"The creek washed out everything that is along Jefferson Street..." The flood also
washed out a large part of Second Avenue and downtown.
"...Seward Brewing Company on Fourth Avenue to the corner of Fourth and
Washington Street." The Seward Brewing Company IS on the corner of Fourth and
Washington. Small fire?
End of editing patience.
Brenda Ballou
From: Valarie Kingsland
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2014 4:04 PM
To: Erickson, Laura (SHPC); French,John (SPHC); Hepworth, Wadeen (SHPC); Kurtz,
Wolfgang V. (SPHC); Lasota, Linda (SHPC); Sandie Roach' (SHPC) (sandie @seward.net)
Cc: Heather McClain;Johanna Kinney; Brenda Ballou
Subject: FW: SHPC Meeting Document
Attachments: 140915 MTGGuidanceDoc.pdf
Commissioners,
See attached document for the outstanding comments for the first draft plan, with a table of potential action items via
N U KA.
Best,
Valarie
Original Message
From: Michelle Prior [mailto:michelleprior @nukaresearch.com]
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2014 2:44 PM
To:Valarie Kingsland; Rachel James
Cc:Tim Robertson; Sierra Fletcher
Subject:SHPC Meeting Document
Hello Valarie,
Attached is the document containing the outstanding comments from the Commissioner and public's review of the first
draft plan. It also contains a table highlighting potential Action Items we plan to discuss with the Commissioners about
incorporating into the final plan during the meeting. Please feel free to circulate the document, or we will retain it as a
tool for ourselves.
Additionally, I have posted the document on the project website. Please let me know if we can do anything further
before the meeting on Wednesday.
Best,
Michelle
BEGIN-ANTIS PAM-VOTING-LINKS
Teach Can't if this mail (ID 01MPyldiM) is spam:
Spam: http://canit.cityofseward.net/canit/b.php?i=01MPyldiM&m=9eb4af9a9bf5&c=s
1
cvct
Consensus and/or Information Needed From SHPC
SECTION & COMMENT FOLLOW UP
(Approvals Page) 4 "Needs to be an Need information 4 What names or
approvals page similar to the 1996 information is missing?
plan..."
(All Photos) "Photos identify whose Need information 4 We got all of the
collection the photos are from. Stating photos from the Alaska Digital Archives
they are owned by the Seward website,which does state they are from
Community Library and Museum is SCLM's "Collection"
incorrect."
Would modifying the photo captions to
"Seward Community Library and
Museum Collection"instead of
"Owned by Seward Community Library
and Museum"be a solution?
Is there a certain set of photos that the
SHPC prefers are used?
(Figure 1 Photo) Request for picture of Need information 4 Where can we
"Lowell family with their cabin" locate this picture?
(Section 5) "Community History and Need consensus 4 Conflicting
Character" Section satisfaction. Does the new version satisfy
the Commission as a brief,but accurate
and dynamic,history?
(Section 5.1/5.2) Cook&Norris citation Need information 4 What document is
being referred to as the Cook and Norris
citation?Submitted by IF
(Section 5.2) - One set of comments said Need consensus-) Does the second
there was no archeological confirmation draft reflect the correct information?
of occupation in the immediate Seward
town area,but there has been
confirmation of inhabitation in areas
from Day Harbor to Gore Point and also
Kenai Fjords National Park.
(Section 5.3) Russian inhabitation Need consensus 4 Did the Russians
arrive for exploitation of resources, or to
make settlements?
(Section 5.4) Some conflicting comments Need consensus3 Does the Williams
over historic buildings Millionaire's Row House exist on Millionaires Row?
(Section 5.4/5.5) "Include info about the Need information -4 Where can we
Lowell family..." locate this information?
(Section 5.6.2) "Give us numbers and $ - Need information 4 Where can we
how many tourists visit each year-what locate this information?
is the economic benefit of their visits to
cot
the city in $- how has this increased
since the 1996 report-give us
statistics."
(Section 5.6.2) "This plan should say Need information 4 Where can we
how many jobs and how much revenue locate this information?
the various industries bring to the city."
(Section 5.6.3) Suggestion to add all Need information 4 What schools
educational facilities to "Economic make up the public school system?Are
Highlights"Section the initial descriptions for AVTEC and
UAF School of Fisheries accurate? Is
there anything specific the SHPC would
like to highlight?
(Section 5.7.4) Exxon Valdez history Need consensus 4 Does this section
portray Seward's connection with Exxon
Valdez accurately?
(Section 6.1.2) Suggestion to reach out to Need information 4 What is Colleen
Colleen Kelly for more information on Kelly's contact information?
RBHS
(Section 6.1.2) Location of original Need information 4 How can we
Seward Museum in City Hall in 1966 was contact Brenda, or where else can we
mentioned in Brenda Ballou's comments, locate this information?
but the scan was cut off.
(Section 6.1.6) Suggested to reach out to Need information 4 What is Shannon
Shannon Kovac for information on Kenai Kovac's contact information?
Fjords National Park
(Section 6.1.8) Caines Head State Need information 4 Is there anything
Recreation Area specific SHPC would like to mention, or a
POC?
(Section 6.1.9)American Legion Need information 4 Is there anything
specific SHPC would like to mention, or a
POC?
(Section 6.2.2) "No Land Recorder's Need consensus 4 Is this information
Office anymore" accurate in the second draft?
(Appendix) Request for State Guidelines Need consensus 4 Located the
for the Alaska Certified Local document online,it's 21 pages.
Government Historic Preservation
Program Should we only include the
"Requirements"for becoming a CLG as
an Appendix, or the entire document? _
(Appendix) - Does a map of the Need informations Do updated maps
Downtown and Jesse Lee Historic exist? Or a preferred map? If so,where
districts exist for an Appendix? can we locate them?
Cot
Substantive Comments3 Potential Action Items for SHPC to Consider
COMMENT POTENTIAL CONSIDERATIONS
"The goals are vague-I was hoping for
something more specific and concrete to How can we expand the"Agenda for
work with"; "What are the steps or Future Action"(Section 8)in the
objectives needed to obtain updated document to make this a
communication engagement in this working plan?
plan?"
"Thrilling to see what the Darlings did
with Brown and Hawkins to maintain Action Item: Can an Action Item come
character without sacrificing modern from this feedback?
conveniences."
Perhaps an example of successful
"Can't believe anyone would find fault preservation and local
with this historic approach. Surely it's educational/awareness tool.
good for business."
Orlander Building was pointed out as a
historic building in distress
Action Item: Can an Action Item come
"Are there any funds the City could come from this feedback?
up with to even resurface the front,for
starters?Who owns this building?"
"I like the sentiment of preservation
expressed in (Section 7.1). I wish there
was an ordinance similar to NHPA
Section 106 requiring
archeological/historic clearance before Action Item: Can an Action Item come
ground and existing building from this feedback?
disturbance can occur."
Lines up with, "Explore ways to protect
NHPA Section 106: historic resources through laws or other
Section 106 of the National Historic
protective mechanisms"from
Preservation Act of 1966(NHPA)requires "Opportunities"(Section 7.1).
Federal agencies to take into account the
effects of their undertakings on historic
properties, and afford the Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation a reasonable
opportunity to comment.
"Designated"historic districts' have
never had any regulations that specified Action Item: Can an Action Item come
what a property owner could or could from this feedback?
not do.The districts were put in place to
allow property owners to take advantage Potential information to be shared with
of their state and federal grant/tax the public so those living and working in
Co-5
benefits if they chose to pursue them" the Downtown or Jesse Lee Historic
Districts know what is available to them.
"A local register of historic places was
created back in the and-1990s (and there Action Item: Can an Action Item come
have been no recent additions).There is from this feedback?
still a supply of brass plaques available."
"In the early 1980s,the City contracted
with Hyett-Palma,a planning team very
involved with the Main Street Program Action Item: Can an Action Item come
(developed by National Trust for from this feedback?
Historic Preservation). Through them,a
downtown Seward Enhancement Is this an experience people want to learn
Association was created to work on from and not follow suit, or can it be done
downtown enhancement and again successfully?
redevelopment. Unfortunately,when the
City was no longer able to fund their
consultation,the Association fell apart."
(In response to Section 8.1) "There
was a movement to create design Action Item: Can an Action Item come
guidelines for the downtown in the from this feedback?
1980s...it was an overwhelming failure."
Is this an experience people want to learn
from and not follow suit, or can it be done
again successfully?
"Summarize and write the plan and
submit our comments to each other, Action Item: Should this be
would be helpful and on right track. memorialized in the updated plan to
Perhaps for next grant." advise those during the next revision?
"The 1995 plan had an `Agenda for
Future Action'that was excellent"
Action Item:Are there any long-term
goals from the previous plan that should
be carried over into new plan, or goals
that haven't been realized? Can the
previous plan inform the new plan in any
way?
CoLk
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
April 16, 2014 Volume, Page
Call to Order
The April 16, 2014 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to
order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Linda Lasota.
Opening Ceremony
Commissioner French led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
Roll Call
There were present:
Linda Lasota presiding, and
John French Catherine Hedman
Sarah Fink
comprising a quorum of the Commissi, and s> �
Patricia Linville, Library Museum Director
Tim Morrow, Library Museum Staff �b�r =`
Vacancy- Three y # 4 y
•
Absent-None
Special Reports �
3
City Administration Report,Library Museum Director Patricia Linville said the Historic
Preservation Commission was scheduled to deliver a quarterly report to the City Council at the May
12, 2014 meeting. Linville requested that the commission focus on having work sessions monthly
and hold meetings quarterly because the staff at the library museum was having difficulty managing
the administration for the commission.
In response to Lasota,Linville said the focus of the commission's May 21,2014 would be to
outline the future direction of the commission.
Other Reports, Announcements and Presentations -None
Citizens' comments on agenda items not scheduled for public hearing and other items not
included on the agenda.
Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion (French/Fink) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
April 16, 2014 Volume, Page
Lasota added Approve Draft 2014-2015 Annual Priorities and Approve 2014 Historic
Preservation Month Proclamation to the consent agenda.
Motion Passed Unanimous
The Commission approved the February 19, 2014 and March 31, 2014 Regular Meeting Minutes.
Public Hearings -None
Unfinished Business -None
New Business
Plan Implementation of Historic Plan Revision Public Outreach Strategy
Linville would meet with Tim Robinson to develop the fireside chat program,and would take care of
refreshments.
Approve 2014-2015 Annual Priorities Resolution
Motion (Fink/Hedman) Approve 2014-2015 Annual Priorities
Resolution
Motion Passed Unanimous
Informational Items and Reports (No action required)
Updated Draft of Annual Priorities List
Historic Preservation Annual Schedule
Draft 2014-2015 Annual Priorities Resolution
Draft 2014 Historic Preservation Month Proclamation
Open Meetings Act Clarification Letter from City Clerk
City Clerk Opinion on Clarification of the Annual Priorities List Language
Commission Comments
French thanked Commissioners Fink and Hedman for their service to the commission.
Fink said she would attend the May 21, 2014 work session.
C,CQ
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
April 16, 2014 Volume, Page
Hedman said she had enjoyed her time on the commission. She would like to see the
commission develop so that it had a greater impact on the community in preserving and promoting
Seward.
Lasota said she may travel to Marionette, Wisconsin for the R/V Sikuliak and may miss the
May meeting. She thanked everyone for their service and efforts.
Linville said she would contact the Parks and Recreation Department to coordinate installing
flowers in the planters at Hoeben Park.
Citizens' Comments - None
Commission & Administration Response to Citizens' Comments-None
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Brenda J. Ballou, CMC Linda Lasota, Chair
ATTEST:
Johanna Kinney, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
(91
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
August 27, 2014 Volume, Page
Call to Order
The August 27,2014 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to
order at 6:08 p.m. by Chair Linda Lasota.
Opening Ceremony
Commissioner French led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
Roll Call
7P.A.170
f
There were present:
Linda Lasota presiding, and
John French Wadeen Hepworth
Laura Erickson(arrived at 6:25 p.m.) Wolfgang Kurtz
comprising a quorum of the Commission; an
Valarie Kingsland, Library Museum Director
Rachel James, Program Coordinator
Jim Hunt, City Manager
Brenda Ballou, Deputy City Clerk
Vacancy - One
Absent- Hedman
Special Reports
City Administration Report, Library Museum Director Valarie Kingsland said tomorrow
would be Founders Day and there would be a celebration at the library for the public. The new
Collections Coordinator would start next week. Kingsland would attend the Museums Alaska
Conference in Seward from October 1-4, 2014 with the new Collections Coordinator. Kingsland
reported that Parks and Recreation Director Karin Sturdy asked whose responsibility it was to
maintain the plaque at the Founders Memorial; City Manager Jim Hunt added that Dan Seavey had
recently asked the city to reaffirm its commitment to the care and maintenance of the Founders
Memorial.
French reported that the Parks and Recreation Department had declined to maintain the
Hoeben Park planters;Hunt said the city would take care of the planters if French would send him a
written request to that effect.
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
August 27, 2014 Volume, Page
New Commissioner Welcome
Wolfgang Kurtz said he was interested in Seward's history and was active throughout the
community. He saw opportunities for public education,and the restoration and preservation of many
locations. He wanted to help raise awareness and felt like he had a good handle on what Seward's
historical assets were.
Wadeen Hepworth said it was an honor to be a commissioner and was excited to be
involved. She wanted to make a difference and have a part in identifying important places.
Other Reports, Announcements and Presentations None
Citizens' comments on agenda items not scheduled for public hearing and other items not
included on the agenda. -None
Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion (French/Kurtz) Approve the Agenda
Lasota moved Unfinished Business to follow Informational Items and Reports.
French added Item B to Informational Items and Reports for the Alaska Museums Conference.
There were no consent agenda items.
Motion Passed Unanimous
Laura Erickson said she was happy to be on the commission.
Public Hearings -None
New Business
Historic Preservation Award
The commission directed administration to advertise for nominations in the local newspapers
with a deadline of Tuesday, September 30, 2014. Further, administration was asked to check the
plaque for this award and determine if a new one needed to be ordered. Nominations would then
appear on the October 15, 2014 Historic Preservation Commission agenda for consideration.
Informational Items and Reports (No action required)
2014 Founders Day Proclamation
Alaska Museums Conference
c0q
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
August 27, 2014 Volume, Page
Unfinished Business
Historic Preservation Plan Project Update
Hunt said this plan was funded some years ago with approximately $13,000 in Certified
Local Government (CLG) grant money and there was nothing outlined in the city's budget for
repaying the grant in the event that the deadline for submission was not met. He reminded the
commission that the plan was a living document and the commission could continue to work on the
plan and develop it.His recommendation was that the commission approve the plan and submit it for
the September 22, 2014 City Council meeting in order to satisfy the grant requirements.
French said he believed that Juneau had received three separate CLG grants over the course
of three years and were able to piggyback them,which essentially resulted in providing them with an
extension period. The public comment period on the plan was open until September 5, 2014 and
French didn't believe that allowed the commission enough time to digest the feedback and
incorporate any necessary changes.
Hunt suggested the commission submit the plan in its draft form; even in its current draft
form,submitting the plan to the City Council for approval was both adequate and appropriate.Hunt
and Program Coordinator Rachel James agreed that the commission could finalize the draft form
of the plan at the HP meeting on September 17,2014 meeting,and then submit the plan for review at
the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on October 7, 2014, and for review at the City
Council meeting on October 13,2014. James said her understanding of the grant requirements was
that no grant money could be spent after September 30, 2014 and materials would have to be
submitted by mid-October.
Hepworth supported the idea of submitting the plan in draft form to the City Council for
approval with the understanding that all public and commissioner comments would be considered.
Lasota was in favor of putting forward the draft plan forward to the Planning and Zoning
Commission and then City Council for approval as suggested. She added that in order to apply for a
new CLG grant to further the work on the plan, the commission would have to complete the
application by October 6, 2014.
The commission scheduled a work session to follow the regular HP meeting on September 17,
2014 to discuss applying for a new CLG grant to continue refining the Historic Preservation
Commission plan.
The commission scheduled a meeting on September 23,2014 to turn in the current CLG grant
to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
Commission Comments
French said the laydowns he provided tonight related to strengthening the Historic
Preservation Commission plan.
—10
City of Seward,Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
August 27, 2014 Volume, Page
James said Appendix A of the grant agreement gave the direction that the Historic
Preservation Commission must submit a draft of the plan to Planning and Zoning Commission,but
not to City Council for approval. She felt that was an oversight and recommended that the
commission follow through with their intention to submit the plan to City Council on October 13,
2014.
Citizens' Comments - None
Commission & Administration Response to Citizens' Comments -None
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
Brenda J. Ballou, CMC Linda Lasota, Chair
ATTEST:
Johanna Kinney, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
'�1 1
Historic Preservation Fund
State-Local Agreement for Certified Local Government
CFDA # 15.904 HPF Project# 13596
This grant agreement is between the State of Alaska, by and through the State Historic
Preservation Officer for purposes of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended,
(P.L. 96-515)HEREAFTER,THE STATE, and,
City of Seward EIN 92-6000086 HEREAFTER, THE GRANTEE
Box 167 Seward, AK 99664
Article 1. Grant Title: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
Article 2. Appendices: Appendices referred to in this agreement and attached to it are
considered part of it.
Article 3. Performance of Services
3.1 Appendix A sets forth the Scope of Work to be performed by the Grantee.
3.2 Appendix B sets forth the project budget.
3.3 Appendix C sets forth the project progress and final reports which must be
supplied to the State, and special conditions of the grant.
3.4 Appendix D sets forth the financial reports that must be supplied to the State,
the payment schedule for the disbursement of funds to the Grantee, and
audit requirements.
3.5 Appendix E sets forth required amendment procedures.
3.6 Appendix F: Assurances Non-Construction Programs; Certifications
Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters; Lower
Tier Covered Transactions;Drug-Free Workplace; Lobbying; Statement of
Willingness to Comply with Requirements of Federal Grant, and other applicable
Federal or State statutes, and the requirements of the National Park Service
governing the performance of services under this grant.
3.7 Appendix G: Project proposal as submitted by the Grantee is made a`°part of this
agreement by this reference.
Article 4. Period of Performance: The period of performance of the grant agreement begins
and ends September 30,2014 .
There can be no time extensions.
Article 5. Consideration
5.1 The estimated total cost of the project is$ 13,420
The Federal share of the project is $ 8,052
The estimated non-federal share of the project is $ 5,368
5.2 In full consideration of the Grantee's performance under this grant agreement,
the State shall apply to the National Park Service for sixty percent(60%)
of the estimated total cost of the project or sixty percent(60%)of the
actual total cost of the project, whichever is less, in accordance with
Appendix B and Appendix D of this agreement.
5.3 An administrative surcharge,which may fluctuate, but will not exceed 10%
of the total direct costs, shall be assessed and retained by the State.
5.4 Twenty percent(20%)of the total payment to Grantee may be withheld
until final products and completion reports have been submitted and approved.
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 1
5.5 When billing the State,the Grantee shall refer to the HPF Project Number and send the
billing to: State of Alaska
Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Office of History and Archaeology
550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1310
Anchorage,AK 99501
FOR DNR USE ONLY
Grantee Information and Signature Grant Tracking Data
Sponsor Name: Individual or Entity AWD
City of Seward LOC
Signature Date UWA
GRT
Name and Title: Type or Print Authority
State of Alaska Information and Signature ; Source RD
Department of Natural Resources Encumbrance No.
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Financial Coding
Office of History and Archaeology Vendor No.
Signature Date Project Name: Seward Historic
Preservation Plan Revision
Name and Title: Type or Print Grant Purpose: Planning
Judith E.Bittner, State Historic Preservation Officer
NOTARY STATEMENT
This certifies that on the day , 2013, before me a Notary
Public in and for the State of Alaska, duly commissioned and sworn,personally appeared
who executed and acknowledged this
instrument on behalf of the
The said , after being duly sworn according to
law, stated under oath that he/she is the
and that he/she executed and acknowledged the same freely and voluntarily as the free and
voluntary act and deed on behalf of the
WITNESS my hand and official seal the day and year in this certificate first above written.
Signature: Notary Public
My commission expires
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 2
Appendix A: Scope of Work
Project Timeline&Deliverables
HPF Project Name: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
HPF Project Number: 13596 Grantee Initials
Grant Period: to September 30,2014 Federal Share: $ 8,052
Recipient will review and revise the Historic Preservation Plan for the City of Seward(COS). The
project will include public meetings and a survey to get input from residents. The final plan will include
goals, objectives, and activities to guide the community's historic preservation efforts for at least three
years. The recipient and contractor should review the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Preservation Planning(www.nps.gov/history/local-law/arch_stnds.1.htm) and.
Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning.
Timeline Project Deliverables
Oct,Jan,Apr,Jul Submit to the Office of History and Archaeology(OHA)a quarterly
progress report describing project activities during the preceding three
months, referencing benchmarks in this scope of work.
Aug—Sept 2013 Contract with a consultant(s)qualified and experienced with planning to
work with the Seward Historic Preservation Commission(SHPC)to
determine a process to get widespread public input and to revise/write a
historic preservation plan. Submit a copy of the contractor's resume
to the OHA for review and approval before executing contract.
Oct—Dec 2013 Conduct public meetings to talk about historic preservation in Seward
and solicit public input through an on-line survey. Submit with the
quarterly report a list of groups/organizations personally contacted
to participate in the meetings and survey.
Jan-Feb 2014 Analyze public input; discuss and determine historic preservation goals,
objectives, and activities for the plan;revise/write historic preservation
plan.
March 2014 Submit draft plan to the OHA,the COS, and the SHPC members for 30-
day review and comment.
April—September 2014 Consider all review comments and revise material as appropriate. Hold
public meetings to report on findings and recommendations and submit
plan to the COS Planning and Zoning Commission.
September 30,2014 Submit final products to OHA:
1) 2 printed copies and 1 electronic version of the Seward Historic
Preservation Plan.
2) Narrative report describing project activities (who,what,where,
when,why), including summaries of public meetings and review
comments and schedule to get plan adopted by COS
3) Minutes of SHPC meetings showing its awareness and participation
in the project.
4) Final billing with backup financial documentation.
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 3
Appendix B: Budget
HPF Project Name: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
HPF Project Number: 13596
COST CATEGORIES:
Personal Services* 4,000.00
Travel/Per Diem 500.00
Materials/Supplies 200.00
Contractual 7,500.00
Other 0.00
Total Direct Costs 12,200.00
x 10% State Admin Surcharge 1,220.00
Total Project Costs 13,420.00
40% Grantee Match 5,368.00
60%Federal Share 8,052.00
Minus the surcharge - 1,220.00
Maximum Reimbursement to Grantee 6,832.00
* Services shall be valued at the employee's regular rate of pay provided these services are for the same
skill for which the employee is normally paid. If the services are not for the same skill for which the
employee is normally paid,the person must be professionally skilled in the work being performed. When
this is the case,the wage rate used will be consistent with those paid for similar work in the labor market
in which the grantee competes.
If a volunteer performs services outside his profession or trade,volunteer time must be valued at the
Federal minimum wage rate unless a higher rate can be documented as applicable and is approved by the
State Historic Preservation Office.
In no case may an employee or consultant service be charged at a rate of more than $89.41 per hour to the
grant. If employee or consultant services exceed this rate, only the amount up to and including$89.41
may be charged to the Historic Preservation Fund grant or used as matching expenses.
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 4
Appendix C: Special Conditions
HPF Project Name: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
HPF Project Number: 13596
1. Progress reports detailing project activity to date will be due quarterly and a final narrative report
is due October 31,2014, or until financial reports and final products as identified in Appendix
A: Scope of Work are submitted to and accepted by the State Historic Preservation Officer. The
final narrative report is distinct from the final products. The report details the methodology,
activities, and timeline over the life of the grant.
2. All project products must comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines
for History and Archaeology. The final products must describe how the work complied.
3. All publications using information gathered under this grant must acknowledge support by the
National Park Service and the Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Office of
History and Archaeology in the following manner:
The research for this publication has been financed in part with Federal funds from the
National Park Service, Department of the Interior, and through the assistance of the State of
Alaska Office of History and Archaeology, Department of Natural Resources. However, the
contents and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the
Department of the Interior or the Department of Natural Resources, nor does the mention of
trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation by the
Department of the Interior or the Department of Natural Resources.
4. Appendix D: Reporting Requirements,Payment Schedule and Audit Requirements; Appendix E:
Amendment Procedures; Appendix F: Assurances and Certifications; and Appendix G: Project
Proposal as submitted by Grantee are made a part of this Agreement by reference.
5. In addition to the terms described in this Grant Agreement, all federal requirements governing
grants(Office of Management and Budget Circulars A-87 or A-122,A-102 or A-110, and A-128
are applicable. See the circulars online: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars.
6. This Grant Agreement provides for the voluntary and involuntary suspension or termination of
said Agreement consistent with all Federal requirements governing grants.
7. If applicable, a 10-year protective covenant must be attached to the deed and a copy must be
supplied to the Alaska Office of History and Archaeology. The covenant will apply when there
is a change in ownership; it will be enforceable by Alaska law, and will be monitored by the
Alaska Office of History and Archaeology. The covenant is effective upon execution of the
document, and must be recorded prior to the disbursement of HPF funds. After HPF funds have
been disbursed,they cannot be repaid to avoid the deed restriction.
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 5
Appendix D: Financial Reporting Requirements,
Payment Schedule and Audit Requirements
HPF Project Name: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
HPF Project Number: 13596
Section I: Financial Reporting Requirements
Financial progress shall be monitored by the State. Project billings may be submitted as often as
quarterly. Each billing request must be accompanied by a narrative progress report for the corresponding
period.
A careful financial accounting of the grant project will be maintained by the Grantee, copies of which
must be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office to document reimbursement requests. Failure
by the Grantee to provide adequate financial reports or required documentation will provide cause for
withholding reimbursement.
Appendix A of this agreement describes eligible activities for the project. Use the Scope of Work as a
basis for reporting. The following items must be included with all requests for reimbursement:
A. A signed, completed Summary of Documentation form accompanied by source documentation for
federal and nonfederal costs must be submitted to request financial reimbursement and to
document matching share. Source documentation consists of paid bills, payrolls, invoices with
canceled check copies,receipts of payment by vendor or contractor, donated labor, equipment or
materials forms signed by person donating and a supervisor, or a detailed listing of persons
donating time with dates, names,work performed, etc.
B. Where required,justification for charges should accompany the invoices. For example, payment
of salaries should be supported by time sheets and justification of rate of pay. Rental equipment
may be supported by time or use statements with appraisal letter. Where work has been done
under contract, include a copy of the contract with statement for choice of contractor and fee for
consultant service.
Section II: Payment Schedule
Payment requests will be processed by the State Historic Preservation Office on a quarterly basis. To
meet federal billing deadlines,the grantee's reimbursement requests must reach this office by July 31,
October 31,January 31, and April 30. Reimbursement will be forwarded to the grantee approximately
thirty(30)days following the quarterly deadline dates. Quarterly payments will not be made without
acceptable narrative progress reports for the corresponding period. (Section I above.) An administrative
surcharge,which may fluctuate, shall be applied to all reimbursements and be retained by the State in
accord with Article 5.3 of this Grant Agreement.
Payments are made on a cost reimbursement basis. Twenty percent(20%) of the total payment to
Grantee may be withheld as a retainer until completion of the project and acceptance of the final project
documentation by the State Historic Preservation Office. Final reimbursement will be made upon receipt
of acceptable final products, acceptable performance and completion reports, financial reports,
expenditure documentation, and any special conditions of the grant.
Grantee must notify the Office of History and Archaeology at least three(3) months prior to the
project completion date if anticipating any unexpended funds.
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 6
Section III: Final Narrative Report
The final narrative report will describe the work(by whom, when,what)accomplished with this grant.
All items in Appendix A: Scope of Work must be addressed in the final narrative report. This report must
also include information on how the local historic preservation commission was kept advised of the
project.
Section IV: Audit Requirements
Grantee must make all records relevant to this grant available for audit for a period of three (3)years after
the term of the project.
In addition, governmental entities are required to comply with the State of Alaska, Single Audit
Regulations 2 AAC 45.010 and the Federal Single Audit Act of 1984 P.L. 98-502.
Appendix E: Amendment Procedures
Any amendment of the project work, budget or time period,problems or adverse conditions must
immediately be brought to the attention of the State Historic Preservation Office, in writing. It may be
necessary to receive prior National Park Service approval before the changes may take place. The Office
of History and Archaeology will notify the grant recipient in writing when the approval has been obtained
in the form of an amendment to the grant award. Failure to obtain such approval prior to implementation
of changes will jeopardize reimbursement.
Appendix F: Assurances,Certifications,and Other
Enclosed are the following documents. Please complete and return as part of this grant agreement.
Assurances: Non-Construction Programs
_ Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters,
Drug-Free Workplace Requirements and Lobbying
_ Statement of Willingness to Comply with Requirements of Federal Grant
n/a Section 106 Consultation
n/a Covenant: Example
-l8
Rev:Apr 2013 State-Local Agreement: HPF Certified Local Government Page 7
State of Alaska
Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Office of History and Archaeology
AMENDMENT 1
This memorandum of agreement is between the State of Alaska, Department of Natural
Resources Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, hereafter, the State, and the
City of Seward (Grantee).
Grantee's Contact: Rachel James. Program Coordinator
E-mail and Telephone: riams(a)cityofseward.net 907.224-4010
Date: September 4, 2014 Amendment Number: 9
Project/Grant Number: 13596
Project Name: Seward Historic Preservation Plan Revision
The Memorandum of Agreement between the State and the Institute of the North
for the above-referenced grant project is amended as follows:
The grant scope is amended to allow for submission of a draft historic preservation
plan, rather than a final plan.
All other provisions of the original Memorandum of Agreement for this grant project remain the same.
SIGNATURE BLOCK
Grantee: City of Seward
Signature:
-.� Date:
Print or Type Name and Title: James Hunt, City Manager
State of Alaska: Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation, Office of History &Archaeology
Signature: Date:
Print or Type Name and Title: Judith E. Bittner, State Historic Preservation Officer
September 2 014 September 2014 October 2014
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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Sep 1 2 3 4 5
8:00am Finance;Accuf
6:00pm P&Z and Flooc
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7:00pm CC Mtg 5:00pm Flood Risk Infc 12:00pm Seward Rec Cc
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5:30pm CC WS;Review 6:30pm HP Meeting
7:00pm CC Mtg
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a
v
Nanci Richey 1 9/12/2014 9:21 AM
October 2 014 October 2014 November 2014
SuMo TuWe Th Fr Sa o TuWe Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 1
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Sep 29 30 Oct 1 2 3
12:00pm PACAB Mtg
U
O
rn
N
Q
v
6 7 8 9 10
7:00pm P&Z Mtg
U
O
13 14 15 16 17
6:00pm CC WS 12:00pm PACAB Work S
7:00pm CC Mtg 6:30pm HP Mtg
m
U
0
20 21 22 23 24
6:00pm P&Z WS
N
O
N
U
O
27 28 29 30 31
5:30pm CC WS; Altern
7:00pm CC Mtg
m
N
U
0
Nanci Richey 1 9/12/2014 9:21 AM