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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01152025 PACAB MinutesCity of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Meeting Minutes January 15, 2025 Volume 4, Page 173 CALL TO ORDER The January 15, 2025, regular meeting of the Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chair Bruce Jaffa. OPENING CEREMONY Chair Bruce Jaffa led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Bruce Jaffa, presiding, and Benjamin Smith Dwayne Atwood Melissa Schutter Norm Regis Jesse-Greeffi comprising a quorum of the board; and Tony Sieminski, Harbormaster Kris Peck, City Clerk Jodi Kurtz, Deputy City Clerk Ashleigh Lipsey, Executive Assistant Excused — Groom Absent — None Vacant - One CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT — None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Motion (Regis/Atwood) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed Unanimous The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items: Approve December 4, 2024, Port and Commerce Advisory Board Meeting Minutes SPECIAL ORDERS, REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Meeting Minutes January 15, 2025 Volume 4, Page 174 City Administration Report Executive Assistant Ashleigh Lipsey provided several updates, including a split in utility billing to improve transparency and understanding of the electric and water charges. She also announced that Deputy Fire Chief Kate McCoy was honored with the 2024 Akerley Fire Service Leadership Award. Lipsey provided further updates on the Teen Rec Room, Community Development Surveys, and the library digital literacy workshops. Harbormaster Report Harbormaster Tony Sieminski provided an update on a request for proposals (RFP) for the land appraisals of 45 city lots. He spoke on the preparations for a fully funded dock project expected in the coming year. He also addressed social media rumors regarding the Lowell Creek tunnel project and said there were no updates to the plan. Other Reports and Announcements Alaska Railroad Report Seward Port Manager Dwayne Atwood referred to his written report in packet. He provided updates on the next major shipment of steel pipes which would total over 3,300 tons. He addressed the recent storms and said repairs had been underway on the east side of the freight dock. He also addressed the freight dock plans and upgrades. Lastly, he said the broader issue of rising sea level remains uncertain. Chamber of Commerce Report Chamber of Commerce President Melissa Schutter said public feedback had underscored the need for improved communication which led to the all -new Chamber e-newsletter. She announced that the State of Alaska Chamber of Commerce annual report will be presented on January 30, 2025 at the Breeze Inn. Schutter also discussed the annual budget allocation, the Small Business Advisory Salary, and a work session to finalize the chamber contract with the City of Seward. Presentations Alaska Railroad and The Seward Company (Port of Tomorrow) Dock Projects presented by Christy Terry from the Alaska Railroad, and Mickey Richardson from The Seward Company. NEW BUSINESS Other New Business Select PACAB Chair for 2025 Regis nominated Bruce Jaffa as Chair for 2025. There were no other nominations. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Meeting Minutes January 15, 2025 Volume 4, Page 175 Motion Select Bruce Jaffa as Chair for 2025 Motion Passed Unanimous Nominate and Select PACAB Vice Chair for 2025 Jaffa nominated Ben Smith as Vice Chair for 2025. There were no other nominations. Motion Select Ben Smith as Vice Chair for 2025 Motion Passed Unanimous INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS Reminder of Meetings - Regular Meeting on February 5, 2025 CITIZEN COMMENTS — None BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS Lipsey thanked the presenters and reminded everyone about the Polar Bear Jump this Saturday! She said Sports and Recreation had revived the Polar Bear Carnival which would be held at AVTEC. There will be games and goodies, so be sure to check it out! Sieminski echoed the appreciation for the presentation and looked forward to the progress being made on the dock project. He also encouraged everyone to attend the Polar Bear Jump this Saturday and join in the festivities and emphasized it would be a lot: of fun! 4 Regis spoke about the Port Avenue project and its upgrades, highlighting the community's involvement in identifying areas where people could seek shelter from the rain. A recurring concern has been ensuring sidewalks on both sides of the street. Atwood thanked Chair Jaffa and Vice Chair Smith for taking on the responsibility and their efforts were greatly appreciated. He said the Seward Company presentation was excellent, and even though he was familiar with the content, there was always something new to learn. Atwood was excited to revisit the topic of pedestrian improvements along Port Avenue. He stated it was encouraging to see progress in addressing these issues and he appreciated everyone's participation. Schutter thanked the presenters noted how their visits often align with Seward's beautiful weather. She also expressed gratitude for Lipsey's reminder about the Polar Bear Jump. She thanked Chair Jaffa and Vice Chair Smith for their continued leadership. She encouraged everyone to sign up for the Chamber of Commerce newsletter for valuable updates. Lastly, she hoped for a good turnout at the upcoming Chamber of Commerce meeting at the Breeze Inn. City of Seward, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Meeting Minutes January 15, 2025 Volume 4, Page 176 Smith thanked the Port of Tomorrow and Alaska Railroad for their detailed presentation. He commended the city's response during Sunday's windstorm and praised the electric crew and contractors for their efforts to fix the extensive damage. Their work underscores the challenges of maintaining electricity in this region and deserves deep appreciation. He noted the separation of utility bills as a reflection of these critical services. Lastly, Smith was honored to continue as Vice Chair of PACAB. Chair Jaffa thanked the board for selecting him as Chair again. He echoed Board Member Smith's praise for the electric crew and their efforts. He also appreciated the effective public communication during the windstorm such as updates and photos on Facebook. Jaffa extended his appreciation to include public works, the railroad, dock crews, police, fire departments, and others whose dedication ensures public services run smoothly. He also commended the Seward Company for their transparent and community -focused approach to a major project. Jaffa also addressed how a strong education system benefits children and strengthens communities. He encouraged everyone to work together to ensure that future generations have the tools needed to thrive. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:13 p.m. dfia Jo el urtz D- , ty City Clerk Bruce Jaffa Chair 1 1