HomeMy WebLinkAbout06082026 City Council PacketSeward City Council
Agenda Packet
Photo by Kris Peck
Monday, June 8, 2026
City Council Chambers Beginning at 7:00 p.m.
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The City of Seward, Alaska
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers, 410 Adams Street
Mayor Sue McClure
Vice Mayor John Osenga
Council Member Robert Barnwell
Council Member Julie Crites
Council Member Casie Warner
Council Member Lori Draper
Council Member Mike Calhoon
City Manager Kat Sorensen
Deputy City Manager Jason Bickling
City Clerk Kris Peck
City Attorney Sam Severin
Monday, June 8, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS
A. Flag Day Proclamation 4
B. Boat Rescue Life Saving Proclamation for Will Gentry and Nick Spurr .5
C. Historic Preservation Award for Kendra Warlow 6
D. Historic Preservation Award for Michael Burmeister .7
5. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR
PUBLIC HEARING (Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak.
Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item)
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA & CONSENT AGENDA (*Approval of Consent Agenda passes
all items listed. Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a council member
requests an item be moved to New Business)
A. Minutes of Preceding Meetings
1) *Approval of the May 26, 2026 City Council Meeting Minutes 8
B. Introduction of Ordinances — None
C. Resolutions — None
D. Other Items
7. IN -PERSON REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. City Manager Report 14
B. City Clerk Report 28
C. City Attorney Report 29
City Council Meeting Agenda June 8, 2026 1 1 P a g e
D. Other Reports and Announcements — None
E. Presentations — None
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Public hearing comments are limited to five minutes per person. After all speakers
have spoken, a person may speak for a second time for no more than one minute)
A. Ordinances for Enactment
1) Ordinances 2026-005: Amending Seward City Code 2.10.071 Council Packet and
2.10.100 Decorum [Sponsored by the City Clerk] .31
9. UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Ordinances for Introduction — None
B. Resolutions
1) Resolution 2026-054: Authorizing the City Manager to Upgrade the Sewer Line in the
South Harbor Uplands in the Amount of $280,042 and Appropriating Funds 37
2) Resolution 2026-055: Approving Amendment #3 to the Employment Agreement with
the City Clerk and Appropriated Funds [Sponsored by City Clerk] ...47
C. Other New Business
1) Appoint Sue Ward to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term set to
expire May 2029 55
2) Discuss draft ordinance to set a time limit on vehicle engine idling
[Sponsored by Draper] 56
11. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS
A. Upcoming City Council Meetings
1) Regular Meeting on Monday, June 22, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
12. CITIZEN COMMENTS (There is no sign in for this comment period. Time is limited to five
minutes per speaker)
13. COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO CITIZEN
COMMENTS
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION — None
15. ADJOURNMENT
City Council Meeting Agenda June 8, 2026 2 1 P a g e
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Flag Day is celebrated on June 14 in the United States; and
WHEREAS, this commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States which
happened that day by resolution of the second Continental Congress in 1777; and
WHEREAS, in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that
officially established June 14 as Flag Day; and
WHEREAS, in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of
Congress; and
WHEREAS, the week starting June 7th is designated as "National Flag Week"; and
WHEREAS, many citizens have died protecting it; and
WHEREAS, our flag is representative of our independence, our unity as a nation
and has a proud and glorious history.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Sue McClure, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska, do
hereby encourage all citizens of Seward to fly the American Flag with pride in
observance of Flag Day, Sunday, June 14, and show our respect to the flag, our
culture, our nation, and its designers and makers.
Dated this 8th day of June 2026 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Sue McClure, Mayor
LIFE SAVING PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, on Saturday, May 23, 2026, the fishing vessel Orion experienced a
catastrophic accident where the hull breached and capsized; and
WHEREAS, all the passengers on board ended up in the frigid life -threatening
conditions of Resurrection Bay including a two young people on a Make -a -Wish
trip; and
WHEREAS, two charter boat captains William Gentry and Nick Spur heard the
distress call on the radio and provided a rapid response and saved the lives of
everyone in the water.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sue McClure, Mayor of the City of Seward do hereby
proclaim and commend
Will Gentry and Nick Spurr
for their heroic act of service and life-saving response efforts to bring everyone home
alive after what could have easily been a tragedy at sea.
Dated this 8th day of June 2026 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Sue McClure, Mayor
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PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Seward Historic Preservation Award recognizes an individual or
organization whose efforts and contributions help preserve the tangible aspects of Seward's
history and heritage; and
WHEREAS, Kendra signed on to be a volunteer for Alaska State Parks at Caines Head State
Recreation Area last summer and proved to be a "volunteer extraordinaire;" and
WHEREAS, in one summer, Kendra digitized the Seward Museum's collection of Fort
McGilvray's South Beach Sourdough Weekly newsletters from the 1940s, researched the
history of the 250th and 267th Coast Artillery Battalion, and collected historical documents,
maps, photos, letters; and
WHEREAS, Kendra created an interactive and educational map of Fort McGilvray using
declassified maps, WWII photos, newspapers, letters, and recorded interviews; and
WHEREAS, Kendra created a Friends of Caines Head State Park Facebook group, recruited
board members and completed all the daunting paperwork; and
WHEREAS, Kendra presented "The Story of the 267th Coast Artillery Battalion and Fort
McGilvray" as a keynote speaker to the Alaska State Historical Society Conference; and
WHEREAS, Kendra's work culminated in a community celebration of Seward's WWII
History and the legacy of Fort McGilvray featuring guest speakers and 1940s finery; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sue McClure, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska, do hereby
recognize her commitment to preserving Seward's WWII history and the legacy of Fort
McGilvray and do hereby bestow this Historic Preservation Award upon
Kendra Warlow
and thank her for her extraordinary work on behalf of Alaska State Parks, veterans, and the
Seward community.
Dated this 8th day of June 2026 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Sue McClure, Mayor
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Seward Historic Preservation Award recognizes an individual or
organization whose efforts and contributions help preserve the tangible aspects of Seward's
history and heritage; and
WHEREAS, historic Fort McGilvray in Caines Head State Recreation Area served a
significant role in the Seward Harbor Defense Network to protect and defend the strategic
ice -free port of Seward from 1941-1943 during World War II; and
WHEREAS, over the course of several years, Alaska State Parks Technician Michael
Burmeister went above and beyond his job description to tackle the Fort's nomination to the
National Historic Register of Historic Places; and
WHEREAS, Michael coordinated archeological surveys and research, assisted in ground
truthing and surveying the site, drafted the extensive nomination, and shepherded it to
fruition; and
WHEREAS, Michael also assisted Kendra Warlow, 2025 Volunteer in the Park with her
research in the field and the community celebration; and
WHEREAS, without Michael's efforts, the impressive historic site and its remarkable
history might have continued to fade into the past.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sue McClure, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska, do hereby
recognize his commitment to preserving Seward's WWII history and the legacy of Fort
McGilvray and do hereby bestow this Historic Preservation Award upon
Michael Burmeister
and thank him for his outstanding work on the Fort McGilvray Historic District nomination
to the National Register of Historic Places.
Dated this 8th Day of June 2026 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Sue McClure, Mayor
City of Seward, Alaska City Council Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2026 Volume 43, Page
CALL TO ORDER
The Tuesday, May 26, 2026, regular meeting of the Seward City Council was called to order at
7:00 p.m. by Mayor Sue McClure.
OPENING CEREMONY
Chief of Police Louis Tiner led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Sue McClure, presiding, and
John Osenga
Robert Barnwell
Julie Crites
Casie Warner
Lori Draper
Mike Calhoon
comprising a quorum of the Council; and
Kat Sorensen, City Manager
Jason Bickling, Deputy City Manager
Kris Peck, City Clerk
Jodi Kurtz, Deputy City Clerk
Excused — Barnwell
Absent — None
PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS — None
CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED
FOR PUBLIC HEARING
Amanda Sweeting, outside city limits, spoke on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce. She
provided an update on the delays with the new cruise ship dock project and the logistics involved
with transporting passengers. Next, she shared updates on regular Chamber of Commerce events
and activities.
Andy Mezirow, outside city limits, spoke about a marine accident where a charter boat hull
breached and capsized. Thankfully, two charter boat captains, Will Gentry and Nick Spurr,
responded and saved the lives of all the passengers. He hoped these two captains could be
recognized by council for their heroic actions.
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City of Seward, Alaska City Council Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2026 Volume 43, Page
Peter Frank, inside city limits, proposed an ordinance to impose a time limit on vehicles idling
their engines inside city limits. He spoke to the negative and wasteful aspects of engine idling. He
described his experience living next to a mail delivery truck that idled constantly.
Elle Zernia, outside city limits, spoke about the recent Mermaid Festival. It was the coldest festival
yet and she thanked everyone involved, including several City of Seward departments. On another
topic she thanked the local heroes for the boat rescue.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Motion (Osenga/Calhoon) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion Passed Unanimous
The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items:
Approval of May 11, 2026, City Council Meeting Minutes
Introduction of Ordinance 2026-005: Amending Seward City Code 2.10.071 Council Packet and
2.10.100 Decorum [Sponsored by the City Clerk]
No Grounds for protest for the AMCO Beverage Dispensary liquor license renewal for the
Gateway Hotel
No Grounds for protest for the AMCO Restaurant/Eating Place liquor license renewal for
the Highliner Restaurant
IN -PERSON REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS
City Manager Report
City Manager Kat Sorensen recapped her recent trip to Washington, D.C. along with Vice Mayor
Osenga She noted the Coast Guard interactions were really beneficial in regard to Seward being
an ideal home port for ice breakers. She also provided updates on conversations regarding
Seward's Legislative Priorities and the Congressionally Designated Spending List. Sorensen also
provided local updates on a modular pod at the hospital, and announced a need for volunteers for
youth soccer.
Sorensen also updated council on the opioid overdose stations, and noted Executive Assistant
Kristin Wise was presented a Distinguished Service Award for her efforts at a Pathways to
Recovery conference in Anchorage.
McClure thanked Jason Bickling for serving as Acting City Manager while Sorensen was
traveling.
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City of Seward, Alaska
May 26, 2026
City Clerk Report
City Council Meeting Minutes
Volume 43, Page
City Clerk Kris Peck noted the report in the packet was a re -post for the Kenai Peninsula Borough
Planning Commission seeking an applicant for their Seward Seat on the commission.
City Attorney Report — None
Other Reports and Announcements — None
Presentations
Boys & Girls Club Presentation by CEO Shanette Wik
Seward Salmon Partnership with Andy Mezirow and Katie Zernia
PUBLIC HEARINGS — None
NEW BUSINESS
Resolutions
Resolution 2026-053: Authorizing the City Manager to Accept the Proposal from CRW
Engineering for Professional Design, Engineering, and Surveying Necessary to Expand Electrical
and Water in Resurrection, Resurrection South and Iditarod Area Campgrounds in the Amount of
$119,454 Plus 10% Contingency and Appropriating Funds
Motion (Osenga/Calhoon) Approve Resolution 2026-053
Parks & Recreation Director Melanie Hauze explained how this campground utility expansion
has remained on the city's priority list for over a decade. She summarized the scope of what the
proposal included. She also noted the firm costs of the project have not been established, but she
provided a laydown that detailed the project cost in 2021 to be around $400,000. She provided a
summary of the campground season and a revenue forecast of the utility sites.
Sorensen added further details of the estimated project costs which could be in the range of
$600,000 to $800,000. She noted the plans made from this resolution would remain useful, even
if the project gets tabled.
Calhoon noted this project does create its own revenue, but very gradually. He wondered what the
plan was for actually improving this infrastructure. Hauze noted the Capital Improvement Funds
and the paid campground revenue could become an enterprise fund to cover the rest of the project.
Council further discussed the premium camping spots along the waterfront, the long payback
period, and adjusting the camping fees accordingly.
Motion Passed Unanimous
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City of Seward, Alaska City Council Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2026 Volume 43, Page
Other New Business
Discuss any action items based on the work session on the Seward Middle School
Sorensen summarized some options from the work session and was looking for official direction
from council before too much time and effort is invested in the project.
Council directed administration to proceed with a lease agreement with the borough to utilize the
Seward Middle School, as well as bring back a detailed overview of how the city would be using
the building with information on potential revenue and sub -leasing within the building.
Recap of electric utility community engagement effort
Electric Utility Director Brian Hickey provided a slideshow summarizing the community
feedback that had been received with town hall meetings, focus groups, and community surveys.
Hickey was joined by Schawna Thoma of the Northern Compass Group.
Calhoon noted the city kept investing money in the electric utility despite the uncertain future of
the utility. He relayed that the community was a little skeptical on the whole issue of selling the
utility. He was looking for factual numbers and unbiased opinions. He noted each option has pros
and cons and wanted the honest truth of each option.
Hickey said he was very neutral on the topic and was going to present the information as unbiased
as possible. He monitored netbook value of the utility for the city's investments. He recalled his
experience with mergers, assets, and conversions. It was a very important decision for this
community.
Clerk's Note — During the slideshow Council Member Warner had to leave the meeting and did
not return.
Appoint up to four applicants to the Historic Preservation Commission
Peck explained the vacancies on the Commission and noted the Clerk's Office has received no
applications yet. This will result in only three members remaining on the Commission and they
will not be able to meet until they have at least four members.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS
Upcoming City Council Meetings
Regular Meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Other Items
City of Seward Financials Q1 Report
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City of Seward, Alaska City Council Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2026 Volume 43, Page
CITIZEN COMMENTS — None
COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN
COMMENTS
Sorensen noted it was an interesting and engaging meeting.
Calhoon thanked everyone who presented information tonight. He noted the charter boat captains
would be recognized for their heroic actions. He commented on the proposed ordinance for
limiting vehicle idling would be an interesting one. Lastly, Calhoon asked about the Q1 financials
report and sales tax.
Sorensen explained the sales tax numbers and noted the information came in after the packet was
printed. The financials will be re -printed with the new numbers and it looked to be around a 5%
decrease. She would keep it on the radar and report back.
Calhoon continued with a summary of all the activities the American Legion took part in during
the busy month of May. He reminded everyone Flag Day was coming up on June 14 and noted
some flag etiquette to be aware of.
Draper felt a sense of urgency for the fate of the electric utility. She had researched the cruise ship
open loop systems that had been mentioned at recent citizen comments. The vast majority of cruise
ships that visit Seward have internal scrubbers. She was interested in the proposed ordinance on
vehicle idling. Draped expressed interest in having city department heads coming to the meeting
to comment on the quarterly financial statements. Lastly, she noted her distinct honor of being in
charge of the finish line for the Mt. Marathon Race and she was looking for volunteers.
Osenga thanked everyone for presenting good information at meeting. He recapped his trip to
Washington D.C. and gave kudos to the City Manager for doing a wonderful job and perfectly
answering tough questions.
McClure noted she was planning a proclamation for honoring the charter boat captains as well as
Flag Day. She shared her experience at the American Legion Memorial Day Ceremony. McClure
offered a general word of caution that tourists are driving erratically and misbehaving while on
vacation.
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City of Seward, Alaska City Council Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2026 Volume 43, Page
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Annual Evaluation of the City Clerk
Motion (Osenga/Calhoon) Go into Executive Session for the Annual
Evaluation of the City Clerk
Motion Passed Yes: Draper, Calhoon, Crites, Osenga,
McClure
Absent: Barnwell, Warner
City Manager Kat Sorensen joined City Council and the City Clerk for the Executive Session
following a 5-minute recess.
Council went into Executive Session at 8:33 p.m.
Council came out of Executive Session at 8: 55 p.m.
McClure stated that the annual evaluation of the City Clerk had taken place.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:56 p.m.
Kris Peck Sue McClure
City Clerk Mayor
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City Manager Report
Administration
Summer is in full swing, even though the temperatures may not reflect it yet.
Seward welcomed its first cruise ship of the 2026 season, marking the official start of
summer tourism. The new terminal was then celebrated with a grand opening party, a
milestone that reflects significant investment in Seward's visitor infrastructure. The
festivities also included the Royal Caribbean pitch competition, adding an exciting
community element to the kickoff.
We also held our quarterly stakeholder meeting for the EPA Shore Power Grant project over
the past two weeks. The meeting brought together key partners to check in on project
progress, coordinate on upcoming milestones, and align on next steps. More information
about the project is available at sewardshorepower.com.
We put out the RFP for construction for the Harbormaster's office and Uplands
development the first week of June. We will keep you posted as to the progress on that
front.
After some conversations with the attorney and the Clerk, the Forest Acres Afognak
Subdivision waterline that was discussed in the April work session will be coming back to
you as repeal and replace on the original improvement district. We will be starting that
public notification process soon.
Electric Utility — Fourth Town Hall Completed
We wrapped up our fourth town hall in the Seward Energy Futures series. This session
focused on the economic outlook for the various utility ownership and governance options,
with Electric System General Manager Brian Hickey presenting. Community discussion
centered on the question of local control versus a potential sale to an existing Railbelt
cooperative, and participants expressed strong interest in additional opportunities to dig
into the economic analysis. Smaller group sessions are being planned to support that. A
second community survey is also coming soon. For recaps of all four town halls,
presentation materials, and more, visit the Seward Energy Futures page on the city website
at cityofseward.us/departments/electric-department/sewards-energy-future.
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Rural Health Transformation — Next Steps Discussions
Staff continued meetings focused on next steps for the Rural Health Transformation
project funding opportunities. As a reminder, Seward was approved to move forward with
two priority projects: an MRI and an in -home health program. Providence will be taking the
lead on both efforts. Recent meetings have been focused on mapping out the path forward
as those projects advance.
Finance Department
As required by the Seward Municipal Code 6.05.010, the following purchase orders
between $5,000 and $30,000 has been approved by the City Manager since the last council
meeting:
NONE
A reminder that utility services continue to be handled at two separate locations. Electric
accounts are managed at the Annex, and water and sewer accounts are managed at City
Hall, just across the street. Anyone starting, stopping or transferring service will need to
stop by both offices to complete the process. Staff at each location are happy to assist.
Fire Department
Emergency Responses for the Year 2026: 146
Fire and Life Safety Inspections 2026: 216
Fire & Life Safety Code Violations 2026: 84
Building permits YTD: 26 with a valuation of $4,008,592.00
On May 24th we held our Public Safety Ball, Thank you to all who contributed donations and
attended the ball to help raise over $10,000 for area wide Emergency Responder Training.
These funds are used throughout the Eastern Kenai Peninsula Fire and EMS services.
On May 28th we held joint training with Bear Creek Fire Dept. deploying boats and
swimmers for water -related emergencies.
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Police Department
Police Department Statistics YTD*
PATROL
Written Reports: 103
Criminal Charges: 40
Minor Offense Citations: 211
Motor Vehicle Accidents: 11
DISPATCH
Event/Incident/Service Calls: 1540
911 Calls: 195
ANIMAL CONTROL
Complaints: 20
Impounds: 14
Community Assists: 38
Surrenders: 7 Dogs, 22 Cats, 20 Kittens
Visitors: 1265
Trial Adoptions: 5 Cat, 3 Dog, 10 Kittens
Shelter Population: 3 Dog, 22 Cats, 2 Kittens
Sent to Rescue: 2 Cats
DMV
Driver License and Identification Cards: 536
Motor Vehicle Registrations: 805
Boat Registrations: 50
Road Tests: 28
GENERAL INFORMATION
3 Patrol vehicles scheduled for installation of new Axon In -car Camera Systems.
POLICE
Hiring Progress —Accepting applications for Patrol Officer Positions.
2 Applicants in final stage of hiring process.
1 Applicant issued a Conditional Offer of Employment.
Retired Sgt. Patrick Messmer has returned as temporary hire patrol officer to assist during
a time of staffing shortages.
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Firearms Training and Qualification (Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun) completed by Patrol Division
5/18-22/26.
Provided Traffic Control for Exit Glacier Run 5/16/26.
DISPATCH
Hiring Progress
Applicant issued a Conditional Offer of Employment.
SEWARD ANIMAL SHELTER
The next animal clinic is June 15. The SPCA spay/neuter clinic is coming up next Thursday,
May 28, and SOS is offering vouchers for reduced -cost services: $100 for dogs and $75 for
cats. The student reading program continues this Thursday, and this summer the shelter
will partner with the library to keep the program running while school is out.
Looking for a new companion? Romeo is a 16-pound neutered cat who is up to date on
vaccines and ready for a home that can match his energy. Moo is a spayed, vaccinated 40-
pound boxer mix who is a little timid at first but turns into a loyal walking partner. And Hay
is a spayed, vaccinated malamute/husky mix who loves kids and other dogs, has a lot to
say, and is working on her leash skills.
Parks and Recreation
Sports & Recreation:
We kicked off our off -site events with a Tie -Dye party on 5/20 at the Branson pavilion! All
ages showed up and had a blast making old apparel colorful and new, and the sun even
came out!
Our Finding Nemo/JAWS double feature was an absolute success on 5/22, and we almost
maxed out the pool for both movies! We received requests to keep that going and are
finding ways to make the viewing better so that we can host movies at a regular cadence in
the future!
We ended our off -site events with a community yard sale 5/23, and had a variety of vendors
selling outdoor gear, handmade clothing items, home decor, and even farm fresh eggs!
Softball league started
On 5/17 Russ, Ron, and Sean Ulman hosted a pop-up comedy show at Kawabe park in the
rain and had some fellow comics from Homer came down to join in on the fun!
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Community garden built and ready for planting. Plant Positive Gardening was held at the
Forest Acres gardens 5/31 from 10am - 12noon
Teen Rec Room:
The past weeks at the Teen Rec Room have been busy and exciting! In the last two weeks,
we had our Marine Mammal Naturalist program come to an end after an amazing 6 weeks,
we had our end of the school year BBQ and Open House, we got our beautiful garden beds,
and the kids made paracord bracelets and keychains during our art night!
5/18 - 5/22 was the final week of our Jr. Marine Mammal Naturalist program. We walked to
the waterfront to do some shoreside clean-up. It seemed as though the ocean was happy
about this decision as we were greeted by a friendly humpback right off - shore as soon as
we got there. We also have to say a huge thank you to Major Marine Tours for taking us out
on an incredible adventure. Some of our kids had never been on a boat before, and that
experience was truly magical for everyone.
Another development here at the Teen Rec Room has been the end of the school year.
Though it still may not feel like it, summer is theoretically here. At the Rec Room, we know
that school can be hard, and each year is an accomplishment. Because of that, we
decided to celebrate with a BBQ party! We also used this opportunity to open up
enrollment for the rising 6th graders! We've already gotten a wave on new memberships,
and we anticipate that they'll keep rolling in.
One thing we understand, is that a close community is a strong community. We have to
thank the folks on the maintenance team in the Parks and Rec department for building us
some beautiful new garden beds. The Teens are already getting their hands dirty prepping
and planting.
Every day, we find ourselves lost in some sort of arts and crafts project, but once a month,
we like to all learn a new art or craft together. This month, we decided to learn how to make
paracord bracelets and keychains! Who doesn't need some paracord every now and then?
The Teen Rec Room has seen 133 visits, and 143 hours of use over the past two weeks!
Campgrounds:
• Enhanced Boulder Campground with picnic tables and fire rings and are planning to
plant trees near the bike path
• Addressing electrical and plumbing issues at utility sites
• Installed new park sign in Forest Acres
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• Installation of new fan at Branson Pavilion
Park Maintenance:
• Two Lakes Trail Maintenance
• Installation of the Dog Park Fence
• Cleaned layer of black moss off the outdoor basketball court
• Prepping flower gardens. Fertilizing/seeding fields and park spaces
• Hoben Park enhancements —working on the fountain, planting lilacs
• Helped with installation of Community Garden
Admin:
• AVTEC contract discussions
• Coordinated with the Scouts improving the Two Lake Trail.
• Woodlawn Cemetery Improvements
• Working on a Dog Park design
• Disc Golf Course restructure
• Coordinating with CRW Engineering adding more electric/water sites along the
waterfront in Resurrection and Iditarod Campgrounds.
Parking:
• Parking passes are now available at cityofseward.net under Parking
• Daily parking pass expires nightly at 11:59pm
• Parking enforcement is now in effect — September 30
Library & Museum
Library Hours
Monday — Friday: 10:00 AM — 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Museum Hours (May 1 — September 30):
• Tuesday —Friday: 10 AM-6 PM
• Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM
• Sunday: 1 PM-4:30 PM
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Museum Updates:
2 Movies @2 PM - Two Films for One Admission!
Join us every day at 2:00 PM for two fascinating short films highlighting Alaska's history and
culture. Admission: $5
Featured Films:
Waves Over Seward: The 1964 Earthquake (25 minutes)
Experience the story of the devastating 1964 earthquake and tsunami that forever changed
Seward.
Iditarod National Historic Trail (25 minutes)
Discover the rich history and significance of Alaska's famous historic trail.
Come enjoy both films for one admission and learn more about Alaska's remarkable past!
The Seward Museum welcomes Kodiak Maritime Museum's travelling exhibit: "50
Years of Limited Entry: The Closing of Alaska's Salmon Commons"
This new exhibit from Kodiak Maritime Museum examines the origins and effects of the
Limited Entry Program. As much as a social engineering program as a conservation effort,
the story of Limited Entry is both instructive and cautionary. Through the 1960s, the
number of Alaska salmon fishermen rose significantly, while the number fish did not. In
1973, Alaskan voters approved an amendment to Alaska's Constitution to allow the state
to "limit," access to the state's natural resources. The permit system established ended
up transferring millions of dollars of fishing income out of rural Alaska and severed
traditional cultural connections to salmon. To create this exhibit Kodiak Maritime Museum
conducted archival research and interviewed fishermen and fisheries policy makers.
Juneau's Exhibit AK designed the exhibit panels.
The Seward Museum will host this exhibit from June 1 -July 25, 2026.
If there's a subject you'd like to see on display, please reach out to the Library and
Museum —we'd love to make it happen!
Library Updates:
Seward Seed Bank
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We're excited to share that the Seward Community Library & Museum has launched a new
community resource: the Seward Seed Bank, funded by the Seward Community Library
Association (SCLA) and hosted here at the library.
The Seed Bank kale, lettuce, carrots, radishes, chives, nasturtiums, and calendulas seeds,
with more varieties added over time. Community members can stop by the library and pick
up seeds at no cost and access gardening resources as the project expands.
Here is a brief overview from the project proposal:
"The Seward Seed Bank is a project developed and led by the Seward Community Library &
Museum and the Seward Community Library Association (SCLA). The aim of the project is
to encourage residents (year -around and seasonal) to engage in local gardening activities
by providing seeds, workshops, and other types of relevant resources (e.g., supplies,
education, skill -building, etc.) specific to our growing conditions. The project will aim to
meet the needs and abilities of all ages (children and adults) in our community."
Summer Reading Program: May 21 - August 12, 2026
The Seward Community Library & Museum is planting the seeds for a fantastic summer!
Join us for the 2026 Summer Reading Program, Plant a Seed, Read, running from May 21
through August 12.
This year's theme celebrates the journey from farm to table —just as a farm nourishes our
bodies, the library nourishes our minds. Stories help us grow, connect us to our families
and communities, and remind us how ideas take root and flourish. All summer long, the
library becomes our shared community table where we feast on imagination.
Sign up at the front desk or on Beanstack to track your reading, attend weekly events, and
win prizes all summer long (while supplies last). It's a season of growth, curiosity, and
fun...come read with us! Last year our community achieved a record -breaking five months
of continuous reading...let's see if we can beat it this summer!
Sign up at the front desk or with the link below and pick up your free SRP swag bag starting
May 21 st at SCLM: https://sewardcommunitylibrary.beanstack.com/reader365
Summer Reading Program Upcoming Events:
Summer Reading Program: Apron Painting -June 11th 1 PM-2PM @ SCLM Meeting
Room
21
Express your style with a personalized painted apron during this creative community
program. Perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Summer Reading Program: Seward Farmer's Market -June 13t" 10AM-2PM @
Downtown next to Ranting Raven
Visit the Seward Farmer's Market downtown next to Ranting Raven from 10 AM-2 PM and
enjoy fresh local produce, handmade goods, and community vibes all summer long.
Summer Reading Program: JR Ranger Walk - June 17t" 10:30am-12pm @ Exit Glacier
Visitor Center
Join Kenai Fjords National Park rangers for a 90-minute Junior Ranger program at Exit
Glacier. Participants will use the new Junior Ranger Journal to explore the Exit Glacier area
through engaging, hands-on activities. The program is best suited for kids ages 5-12,
though all are welcome. All youth must be accompanied by an adult. Kids will earn a Jr.
Ranger badge and Exit Glacier patch.
Summer Reading Program: Flower Pen & Carrot Clip Creations -June 18" 3pm-4pm @
SCLM Meeting Room
Create two fun, garden-themed crafts as we turn everyday pens into bright flower pens and
clothespins into charming carrot clips. A hands-on program perfect for adding a little
garden flair to your workspace or home.
Summer Reading Program: Escape Rooms -June 24" 4pm-6pm @ SCLM Community
Room
Dive into a world of puzzles and surprises with our Summer Escape Rooms! Kids ages 8-12
can enjoy the Sweets Escape Room, a candy-themed challenge filled with clues and
colorful fun, while teens and adults can test their wits in the Library Escape Room, a
mystery packed with riddles and clever twists. Choose your adventure and see if you can
break out before time runs out.
Summer Reading Program: Imaginative Farm Play -June 27th 1 pm-3pm @ Timberline
Learning Center (321 4th Ave)
Join us on the farm at Timberline Learning Center! Children ages 3-12 will explore what
daily life is like on a farm. Think tending, building and discovering how farm life works. It's a
unique blend of lived experience designed to spark curiosity, responsibility and a love of
learning!
Summer Reading Program: Knife Skills taught by AVTEC culinary instructor Sadie Allen
-June 29' 5PM-7PM @ SCLM Community Room
A hands-on life skills workshop at the library will introduce participants to essential knife
skills for safer, more confident food preparation. Attendees will practice proper techniques
22
in a supportive environment and leave ready to tackle everyday kitchen tasks with ease.
Continued Ongoing Events
o 2 Movies @2 1 Everyday' 2pm
o Lego Lounge 1 Mondays' 3-4pm
o Tech Tutoring !Tuesdays 1 2-4pm
o Play and Chat 1 Thursdays 110:30-11:45am
o Storytime 1 Fridays 1 12:30pm
o Chess 'Tuesdays 112:OOpm-1:OOpm
Summer Reading Program Kickoff
The Summer Reading Program is off to a fantastic start — as of 5/26/26, we already have
131 participants signed up, and together the community has logged an impressive 22,807
minutes of reading. That's almost 16 days of continuous reading! Our Paint a Planter and
Plant a Seed event brought in about 8 kids and 4 adults, and the weekend Seedling Swap
drew around 15 attendees. We had 5 kids and 2 adults join Sean Ulman's Author Talk &
Writing Workshop, and the 1.5 hours flew by. The writing prompts were engaging, the
sharing was heartfelt, and the whole session was simply a lot of fun. It's been a wonderful
kickoff so far, and we're excited to see the momentum continue. The DIY Garden Markers
event was a bright, hands-on success, with 12 enthusiastic participants painting colorful
rock labels for everything from peas and carrots to nasturtiums and kale. The group had a
relaxed, creative energy, and everyone left with personalized markers ready to bring a
splash of color to their summer gardens.
Chamber Seasonal Meet & Greet:
The Seward Chamber's Meet & Greet welcomed nearly 80 seasonal workers for an evening
of networking, resource -sharing, and summer kickoff energy. The library hosted an
outreach table at the event, giving newcomers a chance to discover everything we offer.
Dozens signed up for seasonal library cards, learned about the Summer Reading Program,
and showed enthusiasm for our 2 Movies @ 2 screenings featuring films on the 1964
Earthquake and Tsunami and the Iditarod. It was a lively night full of curiosity and
connection, and a great start to the season in Seward.
Seward Harbor/SMIC
No major incidents have been reported within the Harbor or SMIC.
The Harbor office is now open 7 days a week for the summer.
23
We would like to welcome Melinda Maddox to the department as a Harbor Executive
Assistant. We are excited to have her join us
Status on leases/Permits - AT&T lease renewal —first draft is still under their review; Jag
lease extension is under their review but been moved to an "on hold" status. One other
new lease within SMIC area is being discussed and they are navigating the
permitting/paperwork needed to move forward.
At the time of writing and in between rain and sun AK Built Construction and design was in
the process of finishing the top rail and cable installation on our boardwalk project.
Seasonal water service is now on within the harbor area and ready for use. Please call the
office and let us know of any issues we are unaware of or any concerns within the area.
The Uplands bathroom is now open, and we appreciate everyone and their patience while
we wait for that to thaw out.
North Dock has been active and looks like a very busy summer for that facility. We strongly
encourage any users to call the office before using that facility to avoid any conflicts.
Some vendors made their request 4 to 6 months prior to use.
We saw 50 lifts on the 50-ton Travelift and 16 lifts on the 330-ton Travelift for the month of
April.
Community Development
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 2nd. Three resolutions were
included on the agenda; however, the results were not known at the time this report was
written. Those resolutions were as follows:
Resolution 2026-004 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska,
recommending City Council amend Seward City Code §15.10.226 regarding land uses
allowed for marijuana establishments.
Resolution 2026-005 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska,
adopting the 2026 update to the Planning and Zoning Commission Rules of Procedure.
Resolution 2026-006 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska,
granting a six-month extension of CUP 2025-010 for the construction and operation of a
hotel at 313 and 315 Fourth Avenue.
24
The Commission's next work session will take place Tuesday, June 16th at 6:00 PM in the
City Hall Council Chambers. Two items are currently planned for that agenda:
The City Clerk has requested feedback on proposed Title 2 code updates relating to the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
A review of the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process, including discussion of land uses
currently requiring a CUP.
Staff Activities & Partnerships
The land swap replat was pulled from the Borough Platting Board agenda. Alaska DOT is
requiring vacation of the Seward Highway access point to the private developer's property.
Staff has a meeting scheduled with Alaska DOT to discuss their concerns, as both staff and
the developer would like to see the access point remain. The developer has indicated the
access is important for development of the middle lot in a manner that could help support
financing of the housing project.
Staff attended the monthly Seward Prevention Coalition meeting.
Staff contacted recipients of the Developer Reimbursement Program (DRP) funding to
outline next steps in the process. Each recipient is required to submit a signed DRP
agreement form along with a completed W-9 form.
Staff has been responding to questions regarding the Wayfinding Signage RFP. Proposals
are due Friday, July 10th.
Staff is currently conducting compliance checks on short-term rentals operating within
Seward city limits for the summer season.
Staff attended a public forum facilitated by the new owners of 110 Aialik Street. The
purpose of the meeting was to discuss potential future development plans for the property
and gather public feedback regarding desired uses for the site.
Other
The Kenai Peninsula Borough currently has an opening on the Borough Planning
Commission. Residents interested in serving are encouraged to apply. The Planning
Commission plays an important role in reviewing land use applications, subdivisions, and
zoning matters, and in making recommendations to the Borough Assembly.
25
More information and application materials are available on the Borough's website:
https://www.kpb.us/local-governance-and-permitting/leadership-governance/planning-
commission/planning-commission-application
Public Works
Public Works Projects:
The new Water Storage Tank in Lowell Canyon is proceeding with the contractor.
Excavation has begun and the old tank will come down in the next few weeks.
The SMIC Hypochlorite building addition wall panels were recently installed. We look
forward to completing this project and being in service by mid -July.
Some water meters have been provided to customers and installed as we work on that
grant project.
The new blower motors for the LP lagoon are on site and an RFP for installation will follow
soon. The lagoon disinfection design is underway, and effluent testing is being done to
determine the correct, and the Birch St. Water Main Replacement.
The Elm Street Water Main Replacement Project is scheduled for mid -July. Metco is the
contractor. The public can expect some short detours or stops during the project.
The Street Department's summer duties are ramping up. Street sweeping and cleaning
will lead into painting of curbs and center lines. The never-ending ditch clearing is
achieving better drainage during rainy. We are short one position but looking forward to a
new hire soon. Grading gravel roads is always a challenge, but the street crew has done a
great job throughout the rainy days.
The City Shop is working on some major repairs on loaders and other heavy equipment
along with the preventative maintenance as scheduled and continuing.
The Water -Wastewater Department is busy with the harbor area, port projects at the RR,
and along Port Ave. Multiple other construction activities and locate requests add to the
already busy scheduled testing and job tasks.
The Building Maintenance and Custodians are working very hard to keep these older
buildings fixed up. There are several spots repair for leaks and heating issues. Outside
grounds work is also being done to keep up a good appearance around the building.
26
Electric Department
The Electric Department would like to thank the community members who attended the
Utility Town Hall on May 28 at the Rae Building. During this meeting, we began reviewing
the long-term financial forecasts associated with the utility ownership and governance
options that have been discussed throughout the Town Hall series. The community's
participation and thoughtful questions continue to play an important role in helping shape
the future direction of Seward's electric utility.
As the next step in this process, community surveys will be distributed in June to gather
additional feedback and perspectives. To support an open and transparent decision -
making process, the Electric Department will also be expanding the information available
on the Seward Electric Department webpage. Resources will include white papers, survey
results, the recently submitted FERC preliminary permit application, Town Hall materials,
and other pertinent information for public review.
The Electric Department is also preparing for a significant upgrade to its customer billing
platform, which is scheduled to go live in July. The new system will provide customers with
enhanced online tools, including easier account access, bill payment options, billing
history, energy usage analytics, and real-time consumption information through our
upcoming Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. Customers currently enrolled in
AutoPay will need to re -enroll once the new platform becomes active. Additional
information regarding the transition and customer action items will be included with the
June utility bill and communicated through other public outreach channels.
27
Clerk Report
June 8, 2026
Student Exchange Program with Sister City Obihiro, Japan
This year the Seward Obihiro Students will be starting off their Japan adventure exploring Tokyo
on August 6th and then re -grouping with the Obihiro students on August 9th at Tokyo Haneda
Airport and flying to Obihiro to kick off the fun cultural activities with the Obihiro group and host
families.
Atlin Ryan
Grade: 11th, Junior
Favorite subjects: Culinary Arts, Auto mechanics
Interests: Hiking, working on vehicles and motorcycles
Kirra DesErmia
Grade: 11th, Junior
Favorite subjects: English/Language Arts, Biology,
Chemistry, Art
Interests: Soccer and Volleyball
Chloe Lyons
Grade: 12th, Senior
Favorite subjects: English, Art
Interests: Art
Kaia Gunter
Grade: 11th, Junior
Loves: History and Music
Interests: Sewing,
Soccer, Comics and Music
28
MCS
MUNSON, CACCIOLA & SEVERIN, LLP
June 4, 2026
Seward City Council
City of Seward
PO Box 167
Seward, AK 99664
2026.
Re: May Status Report
This is our status report covering activity on legal matters worked on during May
General Matters:
We advised on an ordinance regarding laydowns and general decorum rules. We assisted on an
agreement to keep the swimming pool operating. We provided the annual audit letter to the
City's auditors.
Electric Utility:
We continue to assist the City and its employees participating in the RTO's
ongoing efforts, including attending meetings of the legal and regulatory group. The RCA
extended its deadline to make a substantive decision on the RTO, which is now expected
to be issued on September 2, 2026.
We continue to help the City in advancing its interest in hydroelectric projects as
a future power source for the City including helping submit the permit application for the
Godwin/4th of July Creek Project to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and
performing legal research on certain financial incentives for the project.
We also have been assisting the City in analyzing the future of the Electric Utility
based on town hall discussions and through conducting follow-up legal research from the
options explored in those meetings, including analyzing potential conflicts of interest and
organizational structures.
Planning:
We provided guidance on the DRP program, including assistance with drafting
new forms to administer the program. We provided guidance on enforcement options
and short-term rental regulatory issues.
29
Personnel:
We continued to advise on confidential personnel questions.
Port and Harbor:
We advised on the Harbormaster's Office project. We provided guidance on
impound options on vessels that have not moved in a while. We also advised the
Harbormaster on dry dock rates at the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC). We also
reviewed a lease for the U.S. Coast Guard at SMIC.
You can expect to receive our next status report in early July.
Sincerely,
MUNSON, CACCIOLA & SEVERIN LLP
Samuel C. Severin
30
ORDINANCE 2026-005
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, AMENDING
SEWARD CITY CODE 2.10.071 COUNCIL
PACKET AND 2.10.100 DECORUM
Documents:
• Agenda Statement
• Ordinance 2026-005
• Attachments: The current posted signage for
meeting decorum in Council Chambers
31
City Council Agenda Statement
Introduction: May 26, 2026
To: City Council
From: City Clerk
Subject: Ordinance 2026-005: Amending Seward City Code 2.10.071 Council
Packet And 2.10.100 Decorum
Background and justification:
Two common items at any given council meetings are proclamations and laydowns. Neither of
these items are addressed or defined in City Code. This ordinance will provide some clarity on
proclamations and laydowns and how they pertain to the council packet in SCC 2.10.071
The current signage in City Council Chambers regarding "Decorum" is not backed up by what
is actually written in City Code 2.10.100 Decorum. This ordinance will incorporate much of the
current signage into the sections in code, as well a remove some dated/questionable policies such
as "deeming people guilty of misdemeanors" for disrupting a meeting. Upon enactment of this
ordinance, the signage in City Council Chambers will be revised and updated accordingly.
There are some other general touch-ups throughout both sections as well such as allowing the
City Clerk to extend the deadline for material submissions in the event of a city holiday or other
circumstances.
✓ Yes
Attorney Signature: /s/S'am S'euerin
Not applicable Comments:
32
Sponsored by: City Clerk
Introduction: Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Public Hearing: TBD
Enacted: TBD
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
ORDINANCE 2026-005
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
AMENDING SEWARD CITY CODE 2.10.071 COUNCIL PACKET AND 2.10.100
DECORUM
WHEREAS, the current Seward City Code 2.10.017 Council Packet does not address or define
proclamations and laydowns, both of which are common items at any given City Council meeting;
and
WHEREAS, the current Seward City Code 2.10.100 Decorum does not match the decorum
signage in council chambers or address the process for receiving written testimony from the public
at a City Council meeting; and
WHEREAS, the 2.10.100 Decorum section contains some questionable enforcement policies such
as "deeming people guilty of misdemeanors" for disrupting a meeting; and
WHEREAS, the City Clerk has discussed this ordinance with the City Manager and the Chief of
Police to incorporate their feedback; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance will provide clarity on laydowns and proclamations as well as general
touch-ups for 2.10.071 Council Packet, as well as an overall update on 2.10.100 Decorum to blend
the current decorum signage in council chambers with what is written in city code.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY OF SEWARD ORDAINS:
Section 1. Seward City Code Title 2 is hereby amended to read as follows with new language
underlined and deleted language is stricken.
2.10.071 Council packet.
A. All reports, ordinances, resolutions, contracts, documents or other matters to be submitted
presented to the council at the regular meeting shall be submitted to the city clerk not later
than 12:00 p.m. on the Tuesday preceding the Monday meeting. The deadline may be
extended at the discretion of the city clerk due to city holidays or other special
circumstances.
B. The city clerk shall prepare the agenda for all matters according to the order of business,
numbering each item consecutively.
C. The agenda will be published on the city website and posted on the four designated bulletin
boards during the week prior to the meeting.
33
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
ORDINANCE 2026-005
Page 2 of 3
D. The agenda packet shall be published on the city website by 5:00 p.m. on the Friday
preceding the council meeting. The packet must also be available in council chambers during
each meeting.
E. Laydowns are legislative documents, reports or presentation materials that are provided in
addition to the council packet to complement or clarify agenda items. These items will be
presented at the meeting and copies will be made available for the public in council
chambers. Laydowns will also be made available thereafter on the city's online document
archive.
F. A proclamation is an official document issued by the Mayor to designate a specific period of
time for the purpose of raising awareness, celebrating historic milestones, or other forms of
congratulations. Proclamations may be requested through the city clerk and the submissions
are subject to final approval from the Mayor.
2.10.100 Decorum.
A. Council members. When the council is in session, council members must preserve order and
decorum and no council member shall, by conversation or otherwise, delay or interrupt the
proceedings or the peace of the council, nor disturb any council member while speaking,
nor refuse to obey the orders of the council or the person presiding. Council cannot answer
questions during public comments. Council members should refrain from making any
derogatory remarks about any member of the public, city staff, or fellow council members.
g. Other persons. Any person making personal, impertinent, threatening or slanderous
remarks, or who shall become boisterous while addressing the council, shall immediately ,
unless permission to continue be granted by a majority vote of the council.
B. General public. All public comments must be made during the designated public comments
period on the agenda. The public must wait to be recognized by the presiding officer and
then approach the microphone. Speakers must state full name and whether they reside
inside or outside the city limits. Speakers shall address council as a body rather than single
out individuals. Everyone in council chambers shall be treated with courtesy and there is no
taunting, threats, or personal insults allowed. The general public must not delay or interrupt
the proceedings or the peace of the council meeting.
C. Written testimony. People are encouraged to submit written reports and documents to the
city clerk and city council via email prior to the meeting. The general public may submit a
written document directly to the city clerk during the citizen comments section of the
council meeting. The city clerk will then scan and distribute the correspondence to city
council members on the next business day. In an effort to reduce paperwork on the dais,
written testimony will not be distributed at the meeting.
34
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
ORDINANCE 2026-005
Pa2e 3 of 3
D.-G. Enforcement.
1. The chief of police shall be ex officio sergeant -at -arms of the council.
2. The chief shall carry out all orders and instructions by the presiding officer for the
purpose of maintaining order and decorum in the council chambers.
3. Any person in the audience who uscs loud, boistcrous or profane language at a council
meeting, or language tending to bring thc council or any council member into
contempt, or any person who persistently interrupts the proceedings of the council or
refuses to keep quiet or take a seat when ordered to do so by the presiding officer, shall
be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor. shall lose their privilege to remain at the meeting.
4. Upon instruction from thc presiding officer, it It shall be the duty of any police officer
present to eject and/or arrest any person deemed threatening or dangerous from the
council chambers., or place thc person under arrest, or both.
Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect ten days upon enactment.
ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA THIS 8th
DAY OF JUNE 2026.
ATTEST:
Kris Peck, City Clerk
Sue McClure, Mayor
35
MEETING DECORUM
FOR CITIZENS
• Wait to be recognized, then
approach the microphone.
• State your full name and whether
you live inside or outside the city.
• Speak to council as a body, not
as individuals.
• Council and staff cannot answer
questions during comments.
• Submit written documents
directly to the sergeant -at -
arms.
-rli cui k, yaw for be,;,vg- h erPi -
Your void MATTE2S!
36
RESOLUTION 2026-054
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO UPGRADE THE SEWER
LINE IN THE SOUTH HARBOR UPLANDS IN THE
AMOUNT OF $280,042 AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS
Documents:
• Agenda Statement
• Resolution 2026-054
• Attachments:
o Sewer Line Graphic
o R&M Quote for Engineering
o R&M Construction Estimate
37
City Council Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: June 8, 2026
To: City Council
Through: Kat Sorensen, City Manager
From: Jason Bickling, Deputy City Manager
Subject: Resolution 2026-054: Authorizing the City Manager to Upgrade the Sewer
Line in the South Harbor Uplands in the Amount of $280,042 and
Appropriating Funds
Background and justification:
As part of the Harbor Uplands Development, it was discovered that the sewer line in place that
goes from the lift station to the main on Fourth Avenue is nonstandard and significantly undersized
(2 inches). This line feeds from the MNOP floats and restrooms to the main system. From mid -
March to the end of April, the uplands restrooms were closed as the sewer line was frozen.
When this was constructed, there was debate on what size of line should be installed. Public Works
recommended a larger line be installed but the cheapest option was chosen.
The line upgrade would be from the lift station near the current restrooms across the parking lot,
running approximately 700 feet. This upgrade is a requirement of the Harbormaster Uplands
project but not part of the project itself as it was assumed that a standard sewer line was in place
at the time of the project estimate.
This upgrade would become part of the development project and be completed as an integral part
of the Uplands construction process. It will be paid for with CPV funds.
Comprehensive and Strategic Plan Consistency Information
This legislation is consistent with (citation listed):
Comprehensive Plan: 3.5.1 Maintain a thriving port of Seward through harbor improvements,
infrastructure expansion, and implementation of management plans
Strategic Plan:
Other:
Certification of Funds
Total amount of funds listed in this legislation:
This legislation (✓):
Creates revenue in the amount of:
Creates expenditure in amount of:
Creates a savings in the amount of:
Has no fiscal impact
Funds are (✓):
X
$ 280,042
$
$ 280,042
$
38
X
Budgeted Line item(s): 11433-0000-8101
Not budgeted
Not applicable
Fund Balance Information
Affected Fund (✓):
General
Boat Harbor
Motor Pool
X
Available Fund Balance
X
w
SMIC Electric Wastewater
Parking Water Healthcare
Other Harbormaster Office
Building Project Fund
Yes Attorney Signature:
Not applicable Comments:
Note: amounts are unaudited
S Intentionally left blank
Finance Director Signature:
Attorney Review
5'41 5/"zoft"
Administration Recommendation
X Adopt Resolution
Other:
39
Sponsored by: Sorensen
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2026-054
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO UPGRADE THE SEWER LINE IN THE
SOUTH HARBOR UPLANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $280,042 AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS
WHEREAS, the City is planning for the construction of the Harbormaster's Office and Uplands
development; and
WHEREAS, it was discovered that the sewer line installed at the time of construction was a non-
standard 2-inch line and significantly undersized for the area; and
WHEREAS, the sewer line froze for approximately 5 weeks this spring; and
WHEREAS, this upgrade would meet the expanding needs of MNOP floats, the new
Harbormaster's Office and the public restrooms.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEWARD, ALASKA:
Section 1. The City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to upgrade the South Harbor
Uplands sewer line as part of the Harbormaster and Uplands Construction Development Project.
Section 2. Funding in the amount of $44,842 for the change order, adding funds to task 2734.38 is
hereby appropriated from the designated Harbormaster Office Building Project Fund 11433-0000-
8101 Infrastructure Expense Account and shall be paid from the revenue bond proceeds.
Section 3. Funding in the amount of $235,200 is hereby appropriated from the designated
Harbormaster Office Building Project Fund 11433-0000-8101 Infrastructure Expense Account and
shall be paid from the revenue bond proceeds.
Section 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA THIS 8th
DAY OF JUNE 2026.
Sue McClure, Mayor
40
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2026-054
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
Kris Peck
City Clerk
41
Sewer Line
wiAl-
r
M
42
R&M CONSULTANTS, INC.
ANCHORAGE I FAIRBANKS I JUNEAU
May 19, 2026
Jason Bickling
Assistant City Manager
City of Seward, Alaska
410 Adams St., City Hall Building
Seward, Alaska 99664
RE: Task Order 38 - Harbormaster Building & South Uplands Sewer Main Replacement - R&M No. 2734.38
Dear Mr. Bickling,
R&M Consultants, Inc. (R&M) is pleased to submit this fee proposal to the City of Seward under our On -Call Engineering
Services contract to provide engineering for the Harbormaster Building & South Uplands Sewer Main Replacement. This
proposed task order is in response to request from you to support the development of the harbormaster building and south
uplands. The 2 inch HDPE force main is inadequate for the proposed use of the site and will redesigned.
R&M Consultants will provide Civil Engineering and Permitting services. Design will include sewer main replacement, cost
estimate and ADEC Permitting.
Deliverables:
a) Construction Documents - Sewer Main Replacement
b) Construction Cost Estimate
c) ADEC Engineering Plan Review & Authority to Construct Application Package
Attached is a proposal cost breakdown for the task to be invoiced on a Time and Expense basis.
Please contact me at dporter@rmconsult.com or 646-9603 if you have questions.
Sincerely,
R&M SO-NSULTANTS, INC.
Donald R Porter, P.E.
Group Manager - Utilities
(K-)9b
(Signature) (Date)
Accepted by the City of Seward
Kat Sorensen, City Manager
Jason Bickling, Deputy City Manager
RMCONSULT.COM 19101 VANGUARD DRID`E, ANCHORAGE, AK 99507 1907.522.1707
A&A 91
1
urd
ive
R&M CONSULTANTS, INC. 2122Font9StreetD#r150'•Farbank9s,AK99701.907452. 270
Engineering Fee Estimate
FIRM: R&M Consultants, Inc. CLIENT:
City of Seward
Project Name: Harbormaster Sewer Main Main Replacement Project No: 2734.38
5/19/2026
Task Department Task Description Labor Expenses
Total Cost
1
Engineering
Civil Design
$ 44,057
$ 785
$ 44,842
$ -
$ -
$ -
$ -
$ -
$ -
Total
$ 44,842
5/19/2026 T038 Harborma44 Sewer Line.xlsx 1 of 1
9101
R & M CONSULTANTS INC
. 212 FrontVanguard treet #150 • Fai banks, AK 99701 • 907.522.1707
2? 270
Engineering Cost Estimate
FIRM:
R&M Consultants, Inc.
CLIENT: City of Seward
Task:
1
Civil Design
Project No: 2734.38 05/19/26
SUB -TASK SUB -TASK DESCRIPTION
1.0 Project / Contract Management
LABOR HOURS PER JOB CLASSIFICATION
Senior Utilities GM Project Staff Enviro
Planner Prof 5 Engineer Engineer Specialist
Prof 2 Prof 3 Eng 3 Prof 3
4 16
2.0 65% Design 8
Cover Sheet, Legend, Index, Notes
Sewer Main P&P (2)
Sewer Lift Station and Details
4 8
16 24
8 16
Cost Estimate
4 8
65% Review Meeting & Review Comments
4 8
3.0 95% Design 4
Update Plans, specs and QA/QC
8 16
4.0 Construction Documents
4
Update Plans, specs and QA/QC
5.0 ADEC Permitting
8 16
Engineers' Letter and ADEC Checklists 8 12 16
Coordination with ADEC, Reviews, ATC Letter
Record Drawings
4 16 8 8
4 8
TOTAL LABOR HOURS 4 36 80 124 24 0 0
LABOR RATES ($/HR)
$152.38 $261.63 $169.63 $129.38 $184.00
LABOR COSTS ($)
$610 $9,419 $13,570 $16,043 $4,416 $0 $0
EXPENSES
DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT
PRICE
PRICE MARKUP
TOTAL
PRICE
ADEC Plan Review (Sewer Main) 1 $ 785.00 $ 785.00 $ - $ 785.00
TOTAL EXPENSES $ 785
SUB -CONTRACTORS
SUB -
TASK
DESCRIPTION FIRM
TOTAL
PRICE
COMMENTS:
1. Sewer main replacement Tract H Seward
Original Townsite Waterfront Park
TOTAL LABOR $ 44,057
TOTAL EXPENSES $ 785
SUBCONTRACTORS $ -
SUBCONTRACTORS MARK-UP
TOTAL SUB- $ TOTAL T&E COST $ 44,842
TO38 Harborma45 Sewer Line.xlsx
1 of 1
Seward Harbormaster Sewer Force Main Replacement Cost Estimate
ITEM WORK DESCRIPTION ESTIMATED UNIT BID TOTAL BID
NO. (UNIT PRICE IN WORDS) UNIT QUANTITY PRICE PRICE
1
Sewer Force Main
Per LF
700
$200
$140,000
2
Sewer Manhole
Per EA
4
$6,500
$26,000
3
Sewer Lift Station
Per EA
1
$30,000
$30,000
Subtotal: $196,000
20% Contingency
$39,200
Total
$235,200
RESOLUTION 2026-055
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, APPROVING
AMENDMENT #3 TO THE EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY CLERK AND
APPROPRIATED FUNDS
Documents:
• Agenda Statement
• Resolution 2026-055
• Attachments:
o Employee Agreement with Amendment #3
o Finance Department Spreadsheet
47
City Council Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: June 8, 2026
To: City Council
From: Kris Peck, City Clerk
Subject: Resolution 2026-055: Approving Amendment #3 to the Employment
Agreement with the City Clerk and Appropriated Funds
Background and justification:
Kris Peck has worked in the City Clerk's office since December 2021. Peck entered into a contract with
the City Council for City Clerk services with a start date of May 23, 2023.
The city clerk does not participate in standard employee step increases or cost of living adjustments
(COLA) as outlined in the Seward City Code, and any increase in pay must be by an amendment to the
employment agreement via council resolution.
The attached resolution would add a built-in 5.5% increase upon each successful annual evaluation. The
5.5% is intended to be comparable to a standard City of Seward annual step increase of 2.5% plus the
3% COLA increase received by city employees. This percentage based increase would keep the city clerk
salary in line with every other city position on the wage scale without drafting new legislation each year.
A 5.5% increase including employer -paid benefits would be $7,346.06 between May 23, 2026 and May
23, 2027.
Certification of Funds
Total amount of funds listed in this legislation: $ $7,346.06
This legislation (✓):
Creates revenue in the amount of:
Creates expenditure in amount of:
Creates a savings in the amount of:
Has no fiscal impact
X
Funds are (✓):
Budgeted Line item(s): 01000-1110-6XXX — various to cover salary and benefits.
X
$ $7,346.06
Not budgeted
Not applicable
Affected Fund (✓):
General
Boat Harbor
Motor Pool
X
SMIC
Parking
Other
Electric
Water
Wastewater
Healthcare
Note: amounts are unaudited
48
Available Unassigned Fund Balance as of 12.31.25 $ 9,578,661
Finance Director Signature:
" 9zzd"te
49
Sponsored by: City Clerk
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2026-055
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
APPROVING AMENDMENT #3 TO THE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE
CITY CLERK AND APPROPRIATED FUNDS
WHEREAS, Kris Peck has been appointed by the Seward City Council as the City Clerk since
May 23, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the City Clerk is an at -will contract employee of the City Council, and as such, does
not participate in standard employee step increases (2.5%) or cost of living adjustments (COLA
increase in 2026 was 3%) as outlined in the Seward City Code; and
WHEREAS, the employment agreement states the City Council agrees to review the City Clerk's
performance and contract annually, and may consider a salary increase or other amendments to
this contract upon favorable review; and
WHEREAS, this amendment #3 seeks to add a built-in 5.5% percentage, comparable to a step
increase and a COLA increase that other city employees receive annually.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEWARD, ALASKA:
Section 1. The Seward City Council hereby approves Amendment # 3 to the City Clerk's
employment agreement to add an annual recurring 5.5% increase as outlined in the attached
contract and retroactive to the employment anniversary date of May 23, 2026.
Section 2. Funding in the amount of $7,346.06 is hereby appropriated from the general Fund
Unassigned Fund Balance account 01000-0000-3400 for salary and benefits to cover the cost for
this position in line item 01000-1110-6XXX.
Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon approval.
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA THIS 8th
DAY OF JUNE 2026.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Sue McClure, Mayor
50
CITY CLERK EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
AMENDMENT #3
This Employment Agreement ("Agreement"), effective as of May 23, 2023, ('Effective Date"), and
amended April 15, 2024, and June 23, 2025, and June 8, 2026 is between the City of Seward, Alaska
("City") and Kris Peck ("City Clerk")
This agreement shall continue indefinitely under the following terms:
1. The City acknowledges that City Clerk is committed to the ideals of the
International Institute of Municipal Clerks ("IIMC"), and both parties mutually
desire that City Clerk be subject to and comply with the IIMC Code of Ethics. The
City agrees that no member of City Council or any employee of the City may give
any order, direction, or make any request that would require the City Clerk to
violate the IIMC Code of Ethics.
2. Professional growth and continuing education and obtaining and maintaining clerk
certifications through training and education, is allowed and encouraged for City
Clerk and the staff of the clerk's office.
3. City Clerk is encouraged to participate in community and civic affairs.
4. Travel by the City Clerk shall be in accordance with City Code 3.60.025.
Reimbursement for expenditures on behalf of the City shall not be paid unless
reimbursement is sought in accordance with standard City procedures, including
receipts, and supporting material.
5. City Clerk shall accrue annual leave and holidays in accordance with Chapter 3.45
and 3.50 of the Seward City Code. City Clerk shall be covered by the standard City
health insurance and retirement plans.
6. The provisions of Title 3 of the Seward City Code shall not apply to this agreement
with the following exceptions, which may be amended from time to time in the
city code:
A. 3.15.100 Annual bonus.
B. 3.15.090. Retirement.
C. 3.15.095. Insurance and medical benefits.
D. 3.35. Employee Development. City Clerk will have collateral
responsibility for employee development within the City Clerk
Department.
E. 3.45. Annual Leave. The City Council will administer Annual Leave
policy for the City Clerk. This includes FMLA (3.45.095) and
bereavement leave (3.45.040 f).
F. 3.50. Holidays.
G. 3.60. Special Provisions.
H. 3.70. Standards Relating to Drugs and Alcohol.
I. 3.75. Standards Relating to Employee Conduct.
J. 3.80. Worker's Compensation.
Seward City Clerk Employment Agreement
Page 1 of 3
51
7. Because of the peculiar nature of the City Clerk position, it is agreed that the City's
business can only succeed if the City Clerk and the City Council enjoy a working
relationship based on mutual respect, trust and positive attitudes. It may, therefore, be
impossible to quantify "poor performance" or "just cause" for termination given these
complexities which often involve personality factors as opposed to legal or contractual
factors. It is therefore the intent of both the City and City Clerk, to provide for termination
by either the City or City Clerk without resort to any determination of cause or any
necessary explanation by the City.
Accordingly, this agreement may be terminated as follows:
A. By City Clerk, for any reason or no stated reason, upon giving sixty (60) days
written notice to the City. Upon receipt of notice, the City may immediately
terminate the relationship, or may require City Clerk to continue for a period
not to exceed sixty (60) days at their regular rate of pay from the date of receipt
of the notice. The City shall make the election promptly and within fourteen (14)
days of the receipt of notice, and the City's failure to make an election shall be
deemed as election to terminate the relationship sixty (60) days from the date of
receipt of the notice. If the relationship is so terminated, the City shall not be
responsible for any severance or termination pay, and City Clerk shall be entitled
to any annual leave balance to the date of termination.
B. By the City Council for any reason or no stated reason upon giving written notice
to City Clerk. The City Council may, at its option, terminate the relationship
immediately and provide City Clerk with ninety (90) days' pay in lieu of notice, or,
the City Council may require City Clerk to continue service at their regular rate of
pay for a period of ninety (90) days. City Clerk shall be entitled to their annual leave
balance at the date of termination.
C. If the City Clerk retires from full-time public service with the City, City Clerk will
provide six (6) months' notice, and the actual retirement date will be mutually
established.
D. The City shall defend, indemnify, and hold the City Clerk harmless for claims
against City Clerk for acts or omissions resulting from their employment by the City
and within the scope of the duties as City Clerk pursuant to Chapter 2.35 of the
Seward City Code.
87 The City Council shall providc thc City Clcrk with an Initial Evaluation, 180 calcndar days
from thc datc of hirc, to rc cvaluatc thc City Clcrk's goals and providc supportivc dircction.
Following this Initial Evaluation, thc City Clcrk's cvaluation will fall in linc with thc regular
Seward City Clerk Employment Agreement
Page 2 of 3
52
8. City Clerk shall be paid at the rate of $100,000 per year. Beginning on the anniversary
date of May 23, 2026 and for each successive year of this agreement, the City Clerk shall receive
a 5.5% increase upon favorable annual review. The City Council agrees to review the City
Clerk's performance and contract annually and may consider a salary increase or other
amendments to this contract. upon favorablc rcvicw. If the review is mixed or negative
the Mayor may send written notification to Human Resources to halt the increase.
9. This agreement is the entire agreement and wherever approval of the City is required,
it is understood that such approval will be by the City Council of the City of Seward.
This agreement supersedes any previous agreement and may be modified only in
writing, signed by each of the parties. This agreement will be interpreted and
enforced in Alaska in accordance with the laws of the State of Alaska and is subject
to all applicable Charter and ordinance provisions of the City of Seward.
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Kris Peck, City Clerk Date
Sue McClure, Mayor Date
Kat Sorensen, City Manager Date
Attest Date
Seward City Clerk Employment Agreement
Page 3 of 3
53
Report provided by Finance Director
City Clerk Compensation Comparison
MI
Assumptions
FY25
Prior Year Salary
$101,044.74
Prior Year Retirement
$8,083.59
Prior Year Taxes
$11,450.24
Proposed Increase %
5.5%
Medical Insurance,Life,WC
$56,177.16
Derived rates
Retirement rate
Taxes rate
Item
Prior Year
Proposed Year
Dollar Change
Salary
$101,044.74
$106,602.20
$5,557.46
Retirement
$8,083.59
$8,528.19
$444.60
Taxes
$11,450.24
$12,794.24
$1,344.00
Other Benefits
$56,177.16
$56,177.16
$0.00
Total salary and employer -paid benefit cost
$176,755.73
$184,101.79
$7,346.06
8.00%
12.00%
54
NAME: (3\.).-
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
APPLICATION FOR THE
SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STREET ADDRESS:I
RECEIVED
MAY 2 9 2026
OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
MAILING ADDRESS:
E-MAIL ADDRESS
HOME TELEPHONE:
LENGTH OF RESIDENCY IN THE SEWARD AREA: yEAC___O-5
PRESENTLY EMPLOYED AS: -11C1
List any special training, education or background such as grant writing, history, architecture, or
archeology, which may help you as a member of the Commission:
Have you ever been involved in any aspect of historic preservation? If so, briefly describe your
inv me
[ OBATlo4 OF- A ( `t- OLT).4)1\11-G--; �---
crTc-4\i-k-E:D" (Pc?Dif, i
-4/
I am specifically interested in serving on the Historic Preservation Commission because:
�- -4tc $N i ce' I �S �{I��T0Q-r MI) i-R--° i 1(-7
Tkl rF�--I-1-t6Thi2-1/ FOTuCZE AF-z4TIplS S
Have you ever served on a similar commission elsewhere Yor No
If so, where? \I\A-r---1 And when? )0' 2-02-
If appointed, are you willing to:
• Do historic research?
• Work on prepar g grant . • i cations?
• ric on I ina hl toric r nominations?
rkshops?
NO
NO
NO
YE NO
202c0
DATE
55
Ordinance Request
Date: Monday, June 8, 2026
From: City Clerk
Through: Council Member Draper
RE: Discuss draft ordinance to set a time limit on vehicle engine idling
BACKGROUND [SSC 2.15]
An ordinance or resolution may be sponsored by the city manager, city clerk, city attorney, one
of the boards or commissions, the mayor or any member of the city council.
No ordinance shall be prepared for presentation to the council unless ordered by the majority
vote of the council or requested by the city manager, or prepared by the city attorney or the city
clerk on their own initiative.
CONSIDERATIONS
From Council Member Draper:
Draper is proposing an ordinance, amending the Seward City Code to regulate prolonged motor
vehicle idling near residential and sensitive land uses while balancing residential livability, public
health, and commercial operations.
See 3-page attachment of draft ordinance
COUNCIL ACTION
With a majority vote, Council can direct appointed officials to draft an ordinance regarding idling
of motor vehicles and have it brought back for introduction and enactment.
56
From Council Member Draper
Agenda Statement
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Council Member Lori Draper
Subject: Ordinance 2026- — Prolonged Vehicle Idling Near Sensitive Areas
The attached ordinance proposes a balanced, complaint -based approach to regulating
prolonged vehicle idling near residential and other sensitive land uses. The proposed
ordinance recognizes Seward's unique role as a working harbor and commercial
community while also addressing quality -of -life concerns that may arise when vehicles
idle for extended periods near homes, schools, daycare facilities, parks, and mixed -use
areas.
The ordinance would prohibit idling for more than fifteen consecutive minutes within 300
feet of sensitive land uses, while providing practical exemptions for emergency vehicles,
freight operations, marine and harbor support activities, utility work, traffic delays,
refrigeration units, and reasonable winter warm-up and defrosting.
Enforcement is proposed as complaint -based, with a written warning for a first offense
and a $300 civil fine for subsequent violations. The intent is to address prolonged
nuisance idling while maintaining reasonable flexibility for legitimate commercial and
operational needs.
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
ORDINANCE 2026-
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska, amending the Seward
City Code to regulate prolonged motor vehicle idling near residential and sensitive land
uses while balancing residential livability, public health, and commercial operations.
WHEREAS Clauses
• WHEREAS, the City of Seward is a working harbor and commercial community in
which reasonable vehicle idling is sometimes necessary for freight, marine support,
utility operations, construction activities, and winter weather conditions;
57
From Council Member Draper
• WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the importance of balancing residential
livability and public health with the practical operational needs of commerce and
transportation;
• WHEREAS, prolonged vehicle idling near residential areas, schools, daycare
facilities, parks, and mixed -use districts may create unnecessary noise, fumes, and
quality -of -life impacts;
• WHEREAS, reasonable limitations on prolonged idling in sensitive areas can reduce
unnecessary noise, fuel waste, and localized emissions while preserving flexibility for
legitimate operational needs; and
• WHEREAS, the City Council finds it appropriate to establish reasonable, complaint -
based limitations on prolonged idling near sensitive land uses while providing
practical exemptions appropriate for Seward's climate and economy.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
ORDAINS THAT:
Section 1. Amendment of Code
Seward City Code Chapter 11 is amended by adding a new section to read substantially
as follows:
11.15.XXX — Prolonged Idling of Motor Vehicles
A. Limitation.
No person shall cause or allow a motor vehicle to idle for more than fifteen (15)
consecutive minutes while parked within three hundred (300) feet of a residential zoning
district, school, daycare facility, park, or mixed -use district.
B. Exceptions.
This section shall not apply to:
1. Emergency vehicles while responding to emergencies or performing official duties;
2. Vehicles stopped in traffic or delayed by conditions beyond the operator's control;
3. Vehicles actively engaged in loading or unloading passengers or freight;
4. Refrigeration units transporting perishable goods;
5. Utility, construction, maintenance, marine -support, or harbor operational vehicles
actively engaged in work -related functions;
6. Vehicles operating power take -off equipment or auxiliary systems necessary to
perform work;
7. Vehicles undergoing mechanical diagnostics, repair, or safety inspection;
8. Vehicle warm-up or defrosting for safety during periods of cold weather reasonably
necessary for safe operation;
9. Vehicles used for temporary shelter during emergencies or hazardous weather
conditions.
58
From Council Member Draper
C. Enforcement.
Enforcement of this section shall be complaint -based and may occur upon peace officer
observation or investigation of a documented complaint establishing reasonable grounds
to believe a violation has occurred.
D. Penalties.
1. First violation: written warning.
2. Second and subsequent violations: civil fine of three hundred dollars ($300.00).
E. Separate Offenses.
Each separate day on which a violation occurs constitutes a separate offense.
F. Prima Facie Evidence.
The fact that a motor vehicle is idling in violation of this section shall constitute prima
facie evidence that the violation was caused or allowed by the registered owner of the
vehicle.
59
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