HomeMy WebLinkAbout12172025 PACAB Work Session NotesWORK SESSION NOTES Port and Commerce Advisory Board
Called by: Chair Jaffa
Time: 12:00 P.M.
Date: 12/17/2025
Purpose: Comprehensive Plan Survey
Present:
Tony Sieminski, Kristen Wise, Jodi Kurtz
Commission Members Present:
Chair Jaffa, Jesse Groom, Norm Regis, Dwayne
Atwood, Melissa Schutter
Meeting called to order at 12:00
Comprehensive Planning Process
The City is developing its comprehensive plan through an extensive, community -driven process that
emphasizes inclusivity, transparency, and long-term adaptability. Rather than viewing the
comprehensive plan as a static document, the City is treating it as a living framework —one that will be
updated regularly and supported by targeted strategic plans as community needs evolve.
The planning effort relies heavily on in-house drafting, allowing the City to reduce costs while
maintaining close alignment with local priorities. At the same time, the City remains open to utilizing
outside expertise when specialized knowledge is required. Continuous feedback from residents,
businesses, and community organizations plays a central role in shaping the plan.
Community Engagement and Survey Methodology
Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the planning process. Multiple rounds of surveys
were conducted to reach a broad cross-section of the community, including adults, youth, and business
owners. These surveys were supplemented with in -person meetings, workshops, and outreach conducted
in partnership with community organizations to increase participation and accessibility.
While overall participation was strong, the City noted challenges such as survey fatigue and difficulties
engaging certain groups —particularly working business owners with limited time. These challenges
have informed ongoing adjustments to engagement strategies to ensure diverse voices continue to be
represented.
Community Identity and Values
Residents consistently expressed strong appreciation for Seward's sense of community, natural beauty,
and small-town character. Accessibility to outdoor recreation and the surrounding environment is
viewed as a defining feature of the community.
High value is also placed on local events, arts and culture, harbor -related activities, and long-standing
traditions. These elements are seen as essential to maintaining Seward's unique identity and quality of
life, even as the community plans for growth and change.
WORK SESSION NOTES Port and Commerce Advisory Board
Housing and Affordability
Housing emerged as one of the most pressing concerns throughout the engagement process. Community
members emphasized the need for a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes,
apartments, and income -adjusted units.
Key barriers identified include high costs, limited supply, and zoning restrictions. There is a recognized
tension between preserving the character associated with single-family neighborhoods and
accommodating the need for additional multi -family housing to support workforce retention and future
growth.
Economic Development
Participants called for a stronger focus on Seward's core economic engines, including the port, harbor,
and major employers, as well as efforts to diversify beyond tourism. There is broad support for policies
and programs that encourage small business development, industry recruitment, and the creation of year-
round employment opportunities.
Local employers identified housing availability, workforce constraints, and regulatory challenges as
significant barriers to growth. Addressing these issues is viewed as critical to long-term economic
sustainability.
Amenities, Quality of Life, and Infrastructure
Community members expressed a desire for additional amenities that enhance quality of life, such as a
movie theater, ice rink, youth -focused activities, and a community center. Transportation and parking
were also recurring topics, with calls for improved sidewalks, expanded bike paths, and parking policies
that balance visitor needs with resident access.
There is strong consensus around the importance of balancing growth with the preservation of
environmental resources and maintaining public access to recreation and open spaces.
Public Services and Education
Residents voiced a strong desire for improved healthcare services, including the need for an animal
hospital. Education quality and support for families were also highlighted, with discussions around
public school improvement, resources for homeschool families, and the ongoing challenge of attracting
and retaining teachers.
These services are seen as foundational to sustaining a healthy, family -friendly, year-round community.
WORK SESSION NOTES Port and Commerce Advisory Board
Governance, Participation, and Communication
Many residents reported uncertainty about how to engage in city decision -making, indicating a need for
clearer education around participation opportunities. Improving transparency, accessibility, and
communication emerged as a priority.
Community members expressed interest in enhanced outreach through email, social media, newsletters,
and other platforms to stay informed and involved in local governance.
Key Takeaways
• The comprehensive planning process is highly participatory, community -driven, and ongoing.
• Economic sustainability depends on supporting major local industries while diversifying
employment opportunities.
• Adequate, affordable, and diverse housing is essential to maintaining a stable workforce and
year-round population.
• Seward's strong sense of community, connection to nature, and local traditions are core values
residents want to preserve while planning for the future.
• Increased focus on youth and family amenities, healthcare, and education is needed.
• Clearer communication and easier access to participation will help better align decision -making
with community priorities.
• Infrastructure improvements —such as sidewalks, bike paths, parking management, and public
amenities —are widely viewed as priorities.
• The City values the cost savings and community investment of in-house planning, while
remaining open to expert support when appropriate.
Meeting ajouned at 1:34