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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 PACAB Minutes '1nrl I, , City of Seward, Alaska January 8, 1997 Port and Commerce AdvisOIY Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 207 CALL TO ORDER The January 8. 1997 regular meeting of the Seward. Port and Commerce Advisory Rnard was called to order at 12:01 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Willard Dunham Dean Kasischk~ Sharon Anderson Richard Goshorn James Pruitt comprising a quorum of the Board; and Michael Yanez, Deputy City Manager Louis Bencardino, Mayor, KPB/EDD Foster Singleton, Harhormast~r Barhara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathleen Cline, Seward Chamher of Commerce Margaret Anderson, Vice Mayor Marianna Keit, Councilmembcr. LIO ABSENT were: David Fairchild (excused) Jack Goodwill (excused) Doug Lechner (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urhach - ARRlCBC. None (excused). Louis Bencardino - KPB/EDD. Bencaruino briefed the board on recent conversalions with EDD Executive Director Stan Steadman. Steadman had expressed his condolences for Alyeska Alloys' J.~\.:islon not to locate its iron carbide plant in Seward. Steadman also declared his commitment to help secure funds for the future operation of the local shellfish hatch~ry in light of the State's decision to withdraw such operating support. Dunham and Anderson introduced discussiun about a market analysis on lands within the Burough done several years ago, and Bencanlino stated that he would follow up on till: matt~r. Administration Report. Yanez commented on the disclosure by AlYl:ska Alloys not to locate in Seward. He recounted sentiment'" expressed by City Manager Garzini that 208 City of Seward, Alaska January 8, 1997 Port und Commerce Adl'iwry Boord Minutes Volume 1, Page 208 AIyeska Alloys' decision was probably the result of pressure exerted by local environmental advocates disturhed about the construction of a natural gas pipeline. Board discussion followed. Yanez alsll disclosed his decision to accept the position of eity manager of Nomc, Alaska, effective Fl,,;bruary 10, J 997, and he commended the City's various boards and commissions on the progressive changes made in the community since he arrived in 1988. Welsh noted that John Burns, ARRC, would be addressing the City Council at their next scheduled meeting. She also reminded the Board of the upcoming Polar Bear J umpoff Festival. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING MARIANNA KEIL. 1701 Chiswell, reported that the State Legislative Information Office was open. She also briefed the Board on her ret:ent conversation with Jerry George, Project Manager, Alaska DOTIPF, regarding the proposed road to Whittier. BOB VALDA'ITA, 528 Fifth Avenue, queried as to who was awarded the bid to refurbish ARRC railroad cars. Pruitt respond<.:d by stating that, although the request for hids had heen examined by Seward Ship's Drydock, the ARRC had solicited hids from contractors with specific exp~rtise in various trades for work on <:I very small number of rail cars. APPROVAL m' AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Dunham/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda MOTION (Kasischke/Dunham) Amend agenda by adding item (B) to Unfinished Business-Personal Property Tax Exemption on Buats, and item to New Business-Sale of Alaska Railroad. Motion Passed. Unanimous UNFINISHED BUSINESS Gravel Export. Long reported on recl;;nt responses to efforts to market Seward gravel. Pruitt commented on the need to find markets in the continental United States for back-hauling gravel. Personal Property Tax Exemption on Boats. Kasischke introduced discussion on the City's non-relinquishment of the personal property tax on vessels from outside of the Borough drydocked in Seward for maintenance. Singleton was asked to obtain information relative to revenues lost/gained over the tax issue, and inclusion of the topk was suggested for the Board's next meeting agenda. ')"" City of Seward, Alaska January 8, 1907 Purl and Commerce AdvisOlY Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 209 NEW BUSINESS New Agenda Format. Dunham suggested that a list be incorporated into the agenda packet for each meeting showing pending topics of discussion and the current status of each item. MOTION (Dunham/Pruitt) Amend agenda format by adding list of pending action items including status reports and time frames, when pussible. Motion Passed. Unanimous. AMHS Advisory Board. Long recommended and the Board agreed that action regarding the AMHS Advisory Board be postponed until further information is received [rom ADOT/PF through the Mayor. Letter of Support to KPB/EDD. Anderson proposed sending a thank-you letter to the Kenai Peninsula Burough/Economic Development District for its assistance in helping Seward become a top contender for the Alyeska Alloys plant and tu encourage the EDD to continue marketing the Peninsula's communities with impartiality. There was no objection from the Board. Industrial Right-of-Way. Dunham introduced discussion regarding the immediate need to establish an industrial right-of-way corridor in order to enhance marketahility and to attract new businesses to the area. MOTION (Dunham/Anderson) Send a memo of support to the City Manager encouraging him to move forward in securing the establishment of an industrial corridor. Motion Passed. Without objection Sale of Alaska Railroad. Commerce recently adopted a Railroad. Dunham disclosed that the Alaska State Chamber of resolution concerning the possible sale of the Alaska MOTION (DunhamlPruittl Send a memo to the City Council expressing the Board~s concern regarding the proposed sale of the Alaska Railroad and to advise the Council to take whatever steps it deems necessary to elIect the immediate halt of the sale. Motion Passed. Without ohjection 210 City of Seward, Alaska January 8, /997 Port and Commerce Adviwny Hoard Minutes Volume I, Page 210 BOARD COMMENTS PRUITt' queried about the City's port city relationship with Kushiro, Japan, and Welsh replied that more information would be availahle at the next Board meeting. PRUITI also reported on his Ie.cent visit to Kdchikan and his research regarding repair work on the AMHS vessels. ANDERSON commended Dunham for introducing the action item list into the Board's agenda format to help keep the body fm;used, productive, and on track. She encouraged the Board to assume a more assertive and proactive role with items of concern and follow up. She strongly urged the Board, and the community as a whole, to stand up and prevent any special interest group from debilitating the economic viability of Seward. LONG concurred by stating that prospective investors should be shown that Seward is a balanced community. He also said that he and Goodwill were reviewing the FY.95 Chugach National Forest Evaluation Report amI would disclose their findings when complete. On a final nute. hc congratulated Yanez on his promotion to Nome. DUNHAM suggested writing a letter of support commending local Forest Ranger Duane Harp for his efforts; LONG replied that he had written such a letter and would supply the Board with a copy for its review if de.sired. DUNHAM also queried as to the status of the compktiun Llate of the Bird Creek to Girdwoud section of the Seward Highway, and boardmembers mentioned that the link was expected to be completed this year. CITIZENS' COMMENTS KATHY CLINE, 405 Fourth Avenue, noted the Seward Chamber's upcoming events and expressed her desire on behalf of the local chapter to attend the Board's work sessiun regarding the proposed sale of the Alaska Railroad. She also announced the formation of a "harhor husiness assOi.:iation" comprised of harbor area business peopk to med weekly on Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. at the Chamber office. The group would fOffimlate and present a list of priorities to the City Council for its review. BOB V ALDATTA, 520 Fifth Avenue, queried as to how the brochures were being distributed. Welsh stated that the brochures had been forwarded to various entities as well as to whomever requested them, and a database was being created of the redpients for future reference. Chairman Lon2 rescheduled the January 22, 1997 work session to Monday, January 20, 1997 to allow more boardmembers and the city mana~er to attend. The main topic for the work session would be the proposed sale of the Alaska Railroad. There was no objection from the Board. ~]] City of Seward, Alaska January 8, 1997 Pan and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, PaRe 211 ADJOURNMENT Th~ meeting was adjourned at 1:37 p.m. fruvnd -- / ------ : '.'.' ~..;Xt?~ (City SoaI) h .' .,,' . .' :>' r', .- , " "' .. ~ - :; ~:' ... '~ w . ~ .. ~ .." to -;.; ,;~. ,,' ',', " Ron Long Chairman '" .~ <i , " '..,-. - ,,"~ elf)' of Sewanl, Ala~ka Febntaf}' 12, 1997 Pan and Commerce Advisory Buard Minutes Volume 1, Page 2lJ CALL TO ORDER The February 12, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commoree Advisory Board was called to ordor al12:02 p,m. by Chairman Ron Long, ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, amI David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Duug Lechner Sharon Anderson J aek Goodwill Dean Kasischke comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager I..ollis Bem:anlino, Mayor, KPB/EDD Foster Singleton, Ilarbunnastcr Barhara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathleen Cline, Soward Chamber of Commerce Marianna Keil, Council member, LIO ABSENT were: 212 City of Seward, Alaska February 12, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minult's Volume 1. Page 212 Willard Dunham (excused) James Pruitt (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urhach - ARRlCBC. None (excnsed). Louis Bencardino . KPB/EDD. Bencardino distributed a memo from Stan Steadman disclosing the purpose of the meeting's featured presentation. Ray RaLonde, Aquaculture Spt:cialist, UAA/Marine Advisory Program, provided a slide show presentatiun of the Mariculture Technical Center and Shellfish Hatchery. The presentation was a comprehensive overview of the proje.ct including the history and purpose of the facility, a projection of when the facility would be completed and operational, a description of the infrastructure and activities carried on, and its impact to tht: community, region and shellfish industl)' statewide. The prest:ntatiun, including comments by Mark Bradley of the Alaska Shellfish Gruwt:rs Associ{ltion and Ken Blatchford of the Qutekcak Native Tribe, was followt:d by Board discussion, and the Board was impressed with the scope and future goals uf the MTC/Shellfish Hatchel)'. Garzini encouraged a strong working relationship bt:tween thc shellfish facility, Alaska SeaLife Center, and the City and suggested that tht: MTC/Shellfish Hatchel)' offer tours for visitors to Seward. Administration Report. Garzini reported that Afognak Logging, Seward Forest Products, and the City had met recently and reached initial terms of agreement regarding the Council-approved sale of the sawmill site. He summarized his ongoing dforts to establish an industrial corridor and to initiate natural gas st:rvice to St:ward. He discussed the status of the Alaska Railroad Dock improvement plan and predicted that a final design would 1Soon bc released by the project's engineers. He disclosed that tht: City would be working with Christopher Gates in preparing a marketing prospectus on Seward's gravel. He also briefly discussed expansion of the prisc!J. and urged participation in the upcoming puhlic meeting discus1Sing DOT/PF's plans for Mile 1-3 of the Seward Highway. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Bob Valdatta, 520 Fifth Avenue, stated that area gravel should he marketed on the internet through the Alaska World Trade Center. He also reported that the fisheries' ohserver program was back in operation. Theresa Butts, Star Lane #3, noted an article in the Maritime Reporter regarding the Ketchikan shipyard. Sht: also bridly di1':icussed the status of Quality Marine's proposal to U1St: tht: Syncrulift's fourth rail. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA 21;] City of Seward, Alaska FebrnulY 12, 1997 Port (ind Commerce Adl,jSOfY Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 213 MOTION (Kasischke/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Personal Property Tax Exemption on Boats. Long thanked Singleton for the information provided in the meeting packet. He ask~d Singleton to provide further data on actual tax uullars the City had collected on boats drydocked for repairs to form a basis in determining what vessels may have chosen not to come to Seward because of the tax. Sale of Alaska Railroad. Long not~u the City Counc1"~ recent response forwarded to the Alaska Railroad regarding its proposed sale. NEW BUSINESS None. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD COMMENTS ANDERSON commended the City fur its active promotion of research and education in the local community. Chainnan LONG confirmed the work session for February 26, 1997. The main topic would be the On-going Project List/Strategic Plan. There was no objection from the Board. cmZENS' COMMENTS THERESA BUTTS, Star Lane #3, cxpr~titied h~r concerns regarding the city and borough personal propeIty tax on vessels drydocked for repairs. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS Tn response to Butts' commenb, Garzini stated his plan to keep the local mill rate low while working to ensure that the high quality/competitive cost of local services is maintained. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 p.m. ~-- ...- Ron Long Cha.i-.cman (City Seal) . . " ., " , -'I,: 214 City (~r Seward, Alaska March 12, 1997 Port arul Commerce Advisory Bomd Minutes Vulume /, Page 214 CALL TO ORDER Th~ March 12, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:02 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present Ron Long, presiding, and Willard Dunham Richard Goshorn Sharon Anderson David Fairchild comprising a quorum 01' the Board; and Rick Giffonl, Finance Director Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CBC Representative Barhara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Communily Marketing Margaret Anderson, Vice Mayor Marianna Keil. Councilmembcr. LlO Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of Commerce ABSENT were: Doug Lechner (excused) Jack Goodwill (excused) Dean Ka"iischke (excused) James Pruitt (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRICRC. Urbach expressed appreciation on behalf of the ARRC for the City's support of House/Senate Bill 55/42. She distributed train schedules for the 1997 summer season and reported that rail st-rvicl: to/from Seward was scheduled to begin in less than two months. She added that the depots in Fairbanks and Seward were a high priority for the railroad as both depots were scheduled to be moved this year. THE FOLLOWING IJNFlNISHED BUSINESS ITEM WAS TAKEN OUT OF ORDER \\lITH NO OBJECII0N FROM THE BOARD: Personal Property Tax on Vessels. Jerry Hobart, KPB Assessor, distributed copies of the borough's position on personal property tax situs, as well as a copy of the ordinance allowing vessels under certain conditions to be excluded [rom the tax. A question and answer period ensued. The Board expressed thanks to Bohart for representing the borough at the meeting. 0"! t.:, "- .''-. ~-' Ci~y of Seward, Alaska March 12, 1997 Port and Commerce Adl'i.\'of}' Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 215 The consensus of the Board was to await the results of various tax issues currently pending before the horough assembly before taking any further action, Louis Rencardino - KPB/EDD. In Bencardino's absence, Dunham reported on the Volcano Resource Center project proposed to bc built in Anchor Point. Administration Report. Welsh reminded the Board of the upcoming mel:ting with Kumin Associates regarding the proposed harbor boardwalk design. She also encouraged boardmembers who wished to submit comments to the Alaska Department of Transportation on its plan for improvements to Mile 0-3 of the Seward Highway to obtain the forms from her. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Hob Valdatta, 520 Fifth Avenue, spoke in support of building a breakwater at the Seward Marine Industrial Center to reduce the significant negative effects of large ocean swells at the docks. Theresa Butts, Star Lane #3, asked the Board for any information known about military funding that would be availahle to improve the "lJuality of life", and more specifically, the marinc facilities used by military personnel in Seward. Anderson responded by stating that military funus designated to improve the "quality of life" for personnel is primarily spent on housing and is very difficult to obtain for marine facilities. However, she stated that a more approachable source of funding for projects like access roads, etc. may be sought through military departments such as the Army's Engineering Distril:l. Anderson further encouraged the community to show a wann welcome to the various U.S. and Canadian troops in Seward while participating in military exercises here untillhe end of the month, Margaret Anderson distributed a report and briefed the Board on her recent trip to Washington DC with Garzini to address the federal legislative priorities adopted re.(.;ently by the City Council. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGI1NDA MOTION (Anderson/Fairchild) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Personal Property Tax on Vessels. (Taken out of order; see Page 2/4-) NEW BUSINESS None. BOARD DISCUSSION 216 City of Seward. Alaska March 12, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minu.tes Volume 1, Page 216 ANDERSON requested further updates on variuus items on the on-going project list, and Welsh, Singleton and Long responded. Sht: also IL:commended that the Board follow-up on the status of coal-related issues. DUNHAM reported that he had contacted CongrL:ssman Young's office regarding the 1997 schedule for the UAF's research vessel, Alpha Helix. He sought the Board's const:ol to continue his efforts to get more projects assigned to the vessel, and the Board had no objection. He recommended that the Board urge ADOT to accelerate improvements to Mile 0-8 on the Seward Highway. He also expressed concern regarding the fact that the fish processing plant located in tht: harbor had he en idle all winter. FAIRCHILD requested a copy of the final design of the ARRC dock expansion proposal. LONG reported that he had recently read a notice published hy the Joint Pipeline Agency and suggested that the Board contact the agency regarding permitting procedures rt:l}uirt:u fO! a ga.<.;]ine to be brought to Seward. He also informed the Board of a teleconference occurring immediately following the meeting at the Legislative Information Office regarding prison bills. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Jerry Hobart suggested that the community urge the State Division of Aviation to change its current method of leasing land at the airport. Theresa Butts, Star Lane #3, questioned Singleton about harh01workers working at the old dinic site. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS Welsh notified the Board of her e-mail address and that efforts were heing made to put together an Internet home page for Seward. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:17 p.m. / arbara.T. Hit er ral)d;"':",,;~ .." .. -.' Board Secretary . ~ .;;:''' ,.' (.' , '., ,", ., <,. .' - . - . ~ C': - : " . -;. ". '<' 'i) ".~, "':": (.. :~ '.""'" " r", '''/<'",; ....,1' ;":;'. " ~'I ->.: (..Jr' /,'<.: III .' 'U~~~..!,'J Ron Long Chainnan (City Seal) t L <11'7 L.. " City of Seward, Alaska April 9, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Vulume 7, Page 217 CALL TO ORDER The April 9, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was canceled due to a lack of quomm. All items of business were postponed until the May 14, 1997. ~ /~;--:z ~ Ron Long Chairman arhara J. Hil e rand Board Secretary , (City Seal) ," , ,. ,. ., '. , . . ~~ . . ,,,> Pori and Cummerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 217 City vf Seward, Alas/w May 14, 1997 CALL TO ORDER The May 14, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Camme,rce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by Chainnan Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron T..ong, pn:siding, and David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Willard Dnnham Jal.:k Goodwill The following Boardrnembers arrived after the roll call: Dean Kasisehke J ames Pruitt Doug Lechner comprising a quorum of the Board; and Tylan Schrock, Assistant to the City Manager Lonis Bencardino, Mayor, KPB/EDD Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CBC Representative Stn Clark, City Conneilmember 218 City of Seward, Alaska May ]4, 1997 Port and Commerce Adl'iwJrY Hoard Minutes Volume 1, Page 21R Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing ABSENT was: Sharon Anderson (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARR/CBC. Urbach reported on the Alaska Railroad's increased seasonal activities to/from Seward and Whittier. She also noted that 10hn Burns was nu longer with the Alaska Railroad Corporation, having accepku a position with another firm. Louis Bencardinu ~ KPBJEDD. Bencardino reported on the RDD's recent efforts to fill the vacancy left by famler Executive Director Stan Steadman. Administration Report. Welsh introduced the newly appointed assistant to the city manager, Tylan Schrock. Alaska Interstate Gas Company. T ,ong informed the Board that Frank Avozac would not be present at the meeting to represent Ala~i<.a Interstate Gas Company. Hilderbrand conveyed Avozac', comment by phone lhal "if ENSTAR builds a $31 million pipeline, (AlG) cannot see huw it could be justified." Dunham suggested that an open invitation he extt:nded to Avozac to attend any future meeting, and the Board was in general agreement. Dunham also suggested that correspondence be sent from the Board indicating to the Administration that the time was right to get a pipeline corridor set aside along the new highway that was being stllveyed and laid out behind Cooper Landing. The Board had nu objection. Future Shipping in Alaska. Long reported that SeaLand was now the only American flag intL:rnational box carrier. He encouraged the community to find ways to promote more port activity in the future. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Bob Valdatta, 520 Fifth Avenue, stated that the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) was louking toward restricting commercial and sport fishermen's disposal of bycatch into Prince William Sound and Gulf of Alaska waters, possibly within two years. Copies of NPFMC's May -I, -1997 newsletter was distributed to the Board, and Hilderbrand was directed by Lmg to order a subscription of the newsletter for each member. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischke/Dunhaml Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda 219 City of Seward, Alaska May 14, 1997 Pnrt and Commerce AdvisOlY Board Minuies Volume t, Page 219 Motion Passed. Unanimous. Dunham requested that the minut~s for the March 12, 1997 meeting be amended to reflect that he asked the Board to consider writing a Jetter to Congressman Don Young to express its concern over the large amount of downtime of the Alpha Helix. The Board approved the correction, and Long assigned to Dunllam the task of drafting the Jetter to Y Dung. NEW BUSINESS Halibut Fishery Management. Dunham introduced the discussion of proposed sportfishing (charterboat) managt:lm:nt and regulation. MOTION (DunhamlPruitt) Research proposed management of recreational halibut fishery to formulate position prior tu North Pacific Fishery Management Council's meeting in September, ]997. Motion Passed. Unanimous Local Fisheries. The Board discussed local fish processing operations and the possihility of encouraging them to operate on a more continuous basis through the winter months. Dunham also expressed concern that the local National Marine Fisheries office, as well as the Fish and Wildli1e Protection branch of 1ht,; Alaska Department of Public Safety, now have only temporary-duty personnel in Seward. Long volunteered to write letters to these two agencies to urge them to keep permanent enforcement personnel in Seward, and the Board had no objection. Y ochon/Seward Student Exchan2e. MOTION (Pruitt/Lechner) Each Boardmember should individually solicit approximately $200.00 in donations, for a total Board fundraising effort of $2,000, to help fund airfare for five SIIS students to represent Seward in Yochon, Korea. Motion Passed. Without objection Cooper Lake Hydroelectric Dam. Dunham noted the recent filing by Chugach Electric to renew thdr fifty-year permit for the hydroelectric dam at Cooper Lake and to add twelve feet to the dam in order to increase its power generation capacity and efficiency. Dunham em:ouragcd the City to get involved at the outset uf this project and to support th~ reissuance of the pennit. lIe :suggested that Long write a letter of support on behalf of the Board with an offer uf assistance to Chuga<:h Electric; the Board had no objection. 220 Cll)' of Seward, Alaska May 14, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 220 CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS On-Going Project List. Pruitt discussed efforts to establish the Alaska Marine Highway Authority to oversee the operation and mainLt:nam:e of the state ferry system. Pruitt expressed concern for equal representation between the Gulf Region and Southeast Alaska in all decisions concerning the ferries. It was suggested that this item be added to the project list. Fairchild reporled new commerce 011 the Alaska Railroad dock in the form of barges that would be loading rock off the dock throughout the summer. He also noted the various improvements that had recently been made to the dock. Dunham stated his objection to the City giving away tidelands to private enterprise, and he encouraged tht: City to develop a policy concerning the future use and developmt:nt of the tidelands. Long implied that it may be prudent to revi~it the entire SMJC Plan with an eye on the tidelands. Dunham also updated the Board on the University of Alaska Institute of Marine Science's need for support to maintain their oceanographic research vessels. The failure of the Spring Creek Prison expansion project was also discussed. Housing Analysis. The City's building code was disl:ussed as well as the Planning and Zoning Commission's plan to clarify its policies. Pruitt inquired about the City's plans to sell city-owned lease sites. BOARD COMMENTS FAIRCHILD brided the Board on the upcoming arrival of the Sun Princess, the first cruise ship of the regular season. He also praised Smoke 'N Alaska for the luncheon they prepared for the meeting. LONG qut:ried Singleton about the status of the old fuel float; Singleton reported that it would he used as an additional transient moorage area. WNG also thanked Blaine Bardarson for his many years of service on the Planning and 7 sming Commission. CITIZENS' COMMENTS BOB V ALDATTA, 520 Fifth Avenue, urged the City to put more mont:y into marketing thc community. ADJOURNMENT '~m,:'., - ~:."~" '" ":;~4 arbara J. Hild rb !1nti .' Ron Long Board Secretary";:' 0" Chairman " " ~~ Q; L (City Seal) '~' ~ ,)""'" \:" (' >. ~ 4 ,. , .' ""..' .'~ ,/' ~ ~~'ll <.: Ur h',.'. i",,~U;:"'~~1, ')')1 ,~~, Ciry of Seward, Alaska June 11, 1997 Port and C()mmcrcc Advis01}' Board Minutes Volume ], Page 221 CALL TO ORDER The June 11, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Buaru was canceled by Chairman Ron Long. There was no objection from the Board. All items of business were postponed until the July 9, 1997 me,eting. arhara J. Hit erb amI Buard Secretary ~v ---- ~- / Ron Long Chairman (City Seal) <- v .' ,- , City of Seward, Alaska July 9, 1997 Porl and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 221 CALL TO ORDER Thc July 9, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:02 p.m. by Chairman Ron Lung. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischkc Sharon Andersun Richard Goshorn The following Boardrnernhers arrived after the roll call: Doug Lechner David Fairchild Willard Dunham James Pruitt comprising a quorum of the Board; and Tylan Schrock, Assistant to the City Manager Scott Ransom, Deputy Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARRlCBC Representative Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of Commerce SPECIAL REPORTS 222 City of Seward, Alu.\ka July 51. 1997 Port and Commerce Ad",isury Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 222 Dorothy Urbach - ARRICBC. Urbach reminded the Board of the meeting of the Alaska Railroad Corporation Board to be hdd in Seward on July 17 and urged Boardmembers to present their concerns. The Board discussed the progress of the Seward depot relocation project and noted that passenger numbers appeared to be up this year. Urbach also expressed thanks to the Chamber of Commerce and the City Public Works Division for thdr good work during and after tl:c Fourth of July celebration. Louis Bencardino - KPB/EDD. (excused) Administration Report. Welsh reported that the recruitment process for the position of city manager had begun. In response to questions from the Board, Ransom reported that the tug Daring, which had recently been beached near the Seward Marine Industrial Center, would probably stay where it was until a high enough tide would enable it to be floated off the beach, perhaps in late October. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Cline reported that Seward's 1997 Fourth of July celebration attracted an estimated 35,000 tourists, making it one of the most successful Fourth's ever. The Board commented that the new public address system was a significant improvement, and Dunham thanked the Chamber for including the national anthem/pledge of allegiance in the program schedule. Cline also briefed the Board on preparations already undenvay for the Silver Salmon Derby in August. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Dunham/Andersun) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. UnaUllnous. UNFfNISHED BUSINESS Cooper Lake Hydroelectric Dam. The Board authorized the sending of a ktter tu Chugach Electric Association expressing its support for Chugach Electric's efforts to renew its fifty-year permit for the hydroelectric dam at Cooper Lake and to add twelve feet to the dam. Dunham also encouraged personal follow-up on the matter. NEW BUSINESS Trade Show Report. Long commented briefly on the Construction Technology '97 trade show Welsh and he attended recently in Philadelphia. 'l"') -,..1"..,- City of Sewurd, Alu..I{a .T u~v 9, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume J, Page 223 CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS On-Going Pr~ject List. In oruer to handle the Board's on-going projects with dispatch and to gain a consensus of the Board's priurities, Long asked each Boardmcmber to select and indicate his/her five top ranked topics from the list in the order of each item's perceived importance. Long compiled the ballots as follows: Priority 1. a. Highway Improvements; and b. Harbor (tie) Railroad Dock (and related issues) Seward Marine Industrial Center Flood Control Utility Corridor Priority 2. Priority 3. Priority 4. Priority 5. During an in-depth discussion of the list, various comments were made. Anderson recommended that the Board maintain its focus on port-related issues, which were vital to the community's year-round economy. Dunham stressed the importance of urging ADOT to put the improvements to Seward Highway Mile 0-8 on a faster track, and Schrock interjected that state personnel reported n:cently having had already received pressure from the City in this regard. Dunham further suggeskd that essential data could be gathered by installing mechanical traffic counters at three locations (Mile 8, Nash Road, and the Lagoon) to identify year-round traffic patterns. Goshorn thanked the City for modifying the harhor moorage fees, making them more equitable for all boats. The Board concurred that the most important railroad dock-related issue was the access road and improvements to it. Goodwill recommended that the City remind ARRC of its obligation to pay baek the money it borrowed for the dredging work done in 1995. The Board also discussed the marine fuel tax issue, generally supporting the dedication/appropriation of the tax revenues to the state's harbors without a tax increase. Annual Report. Long sought comments from the Board to incorporate in his annual report to the City Council. Anderson suggested that the Council be briefed on the on-going project list with the top five priorities as set by the Board. She also expressed thanks in advance to the Council for passing all port-related issues on to the Board for their review and comment. Fairchild suggested that the Cuuncil be shown what projects the Board has completed, such as the Y oehon fundraising effort, marketing brochure, establishmcnt of a GPS approach at the airport, and effOlis to establish an industrial corridor. Pruitt requested that the Council be madc awar~ of the City's immediate struggle to compete against Ketchikan for the award of repair contral:ts on the state's ferries. BOARD COMMENTS 224 City of Seward, Alaska July 9, 1997 Port and Commerce Adl'isory Board Mmutes Volume !, Page 124 PRUIIT recommended that the City look at providing local commercial users with a special utility rate structure to allow those commercial entities the ability to compete for repair contracts on a more level playing Held with other (state-subsidized) facilities. For example, a more competitive electrical rate would help enhance the incentive package necessary to keep the AMHS' Tustumcna and Bartlett in Seward for their repair and overhaul work. LECHNER commented that he felt that the ARRC had not been responsive to the needs of the City. He also stressed the importance for correctional facility expansion efforts in Seward. DUNHAM asked for information un "federal AlP entitlement funds" that possibly might be availablt: for airport improvements. He also noted that the newly-constructed shellfish hatl:ht:-ry building was not yet operating, stating that the Alaska Department of Fish and Gamt: needed a governmental entity to act as a l'pass_through" before the Qutekcak Native Tribe could receive state funds to operate the facility. DUNHAM suggested that the City step in to help get the shellfish hatchery up and running. SCHROCK responded that he was already drafting correspondence to ADFG informing them of the City's on-going interest in the facility, offering the City's support in getting the facility operational without, however, incurring financial risk for the City, The Board was in general agreement with this position. DUNHAM again stressed the net.::d to have enforcement personnel on permanent duty in Seward to handle fish and wildlife matters. GOSHORN commented on the need to decrease the allowed limit of halibut taken by spurt fishennen in Resurrection Bay. ANDERSON complimented the operators of the new fuel dock, as well as the Seward Harbor in general. She alsu stated that Resurrection Bay was preferred as a port of entry for military vessels when compared tu other ports where ships must make special accommodations for the intake of silty water. LONG stressed that the top-five priority list was not intended to exclude any topic from the Board's attention, but simply to arrange them for expeditious action by the Board. He also confirmed the next scheduled wurk session for July 23, 1997, ADJOURNMENT The me~ting was adjourn~d at 1:52 p.m. (City Seal) . .... "" :" " ?"., '" . ~; G ~ .. . (., 0 -. . p . ~, cl'; , '~', , ~~4 Chairman .-' "~ ~ '~';~J: "", ., O?I- .~;.,-- '- ' CIty of Seward, Alaska August 13, 1997 Port and Commerce Adl'isorv Board Minutes Volurnl' 1, Page 225 CALL TO ORDER The August 13, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:01 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Richard Goshorn James Pruitt J .ck Goodwill Doug Lechner comprising a quonlm of the Board; and Tylan Schrock, Assistant to the City Manager Foster Singleton, I-Iarbormaster Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing ABSENT were: Sharon Anderson Willard Dunham David Fairchild (excused) (excused) ( excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRJCBC. None (excused) Louis Bencardino - KPB/EDD. None (excusl;d) Administration Report. Welsh updated the Board on several subjects, induding the state lobbyist's upcoming visit, status on the recruitment for various open positions in city administration, upcoming City Council vacancies, Chamher of Commerce events, and the hospital board meeting. Schrock briefed the Board on the City's negotiations with Qutekcak Native Tribe and Alaska Department of Fish and Game regarding its future role in the operation of the shellfish hatcherylmariculture center. Singleton gave an update on the Harhor's planned float rehabilitation of E- and G-Floats, new leases of the boardwalk sites and sewer installation to the sites. APPROVAL O~' AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Lechner/Goodwill) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda 226 City of Seward, Aluska August 13, 1997 Port and Commerr.e Adl,ismy Bourd Minutes Volume 1, Page 226 Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Halibut Fisherv Manae:ement. Chairman Long opened the tloar for comments from the public, amI the following persons responded: Marie Wagner, Charter Boat Association (eBA), stated that the eBA in general was opposed to regulating sport/charter fishing through an IFQ system and supported moving the commercial halibut boats farther out to fish. In response to an inquiry regarding log keeping as a first step toward regulation, Wagner slated that the eBA would probably not be opposed to reasonable logkeeping if it served to preserve the fishery. Melody Jordan, Seward Fisheries, stressed that it was important for Seward that fish caught and landed here were processed here. She predicted that sport commercial fishermen would eventually receive a share of the overall qu';,)ta according to area. She suggested that (1) a size limit/restriction be imposed on halibut taken by sport commercial fishermen; and (2) a valid way of reporting landings be established. She further stated that Seward was second only to Kodiak in Alaska in the amount of halihut landed. She indicated that there was evidence that the resource wa<; very healthy, bUl it must be accounted for at all levels. For the Board's information, she added that the January meeting of the International Pacific Halibut Commission would be held nexl year in Anchorage. Dean Reddington, local sportfishcrman, felt that the resoun:e was no lancer plentiful in this area and that he did not support allocating sport commercial fishermen a portion of the quota. He did support the establishment of a minimum (and perhaps maximum) size limit on halibut taken. John Tulin, Sahalee of Alaska, concurred with the establishme,nt of a size limit on sport- caught halibut and suggested that charter boats be required to keep a groundfish log for a couple of years to determine the number/size of fish taken. Board discussion followed the puhlic comments. MOTION (Lechner/Goodwill) Send a letter to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council recommending the Board's position on halibut fishery management for charter and sport fishers; namely (1) that a minimum size limit be imposed on fish landed; and (2) that record~keeping and reporting of halibut landings be required in order to formulate a basis for mana~ement. Motion Passed. Unanimous. ')'.,.7 ......:-1, City of Seward, Alaska August 13, 1997 Pori find Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 227 NEW BUSINESS Election of Chairman. Ron Long was nominated by GoodwillfLechner. Long, being the sole nominee, was elected Chairman. Election of Vice Chairman. JatUL:S Pruitt was nominated by GoodwillfLechner. Pruitt being the sole nominee, was elected Vice Chairman. Eastward Harbor Expansion Timeline. Singleton reviewed the efforts made so far to make the harbor expansion a reality, and Schrock noted that he would be attending an Alaska LL:gislature Deferred Maintenance Task Force meeting to take place within the month in Kenai to present Seward Harbor's needs to the group. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS On-Going Project List. Welsh updated the Board regarding various items on the lisl. BOARD COMMENTS PRUITT, in reference to the Alaska Marine Highway System, reported that contracts for work 011 all of the state feTries except two (Tustumcna and Bartlett) were being negotiated with the shipyard in Ketchikan exclusively, Contracts on the two local ferries would be negotiated witb Seward am] Kelchikan. LECHNER inquired as to whether there had been any action on repairing the road to the railroad Jock. GOODWILL commented that he felt that Port Avenue WiUi the worst road in the city, and if re.pairs were not fOlthcoming, caution signs should be installed to warn users of the hazards, LONG infonned the Board that ht: expected to be out of town for at least two weeks and, if the Board had no objection, he suggested canceling the next scheduled work session. The Board had no objection. ADJOURNMENT The meeling was adjourned at 1:3U p.m. fv.^L, _ (ill~ ~d~q..~~":,:,~,, _ Board Sccn:tary ..~:"<:~-"". . ,., .'. ~... , :}'~. .. '. ' :,., ," (City Seal) ;~" " ~ " i,. ,0' .' .' , ."'," //72~ Ron DJng Chairman t)t)f"\ City uf Seward, Alaska September 10, 1997 Port ami Commerce Ad~'isOlY Board Minutes Volume J, Page 229 CALL TO ORDER The September 10, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:02 p.m. hy Vice-Chairman James Pruitt. ROLL CALL There were present: James Pruitt, presiding, and J aok Goodwill Dean Kasisch ke Sharon Anderson Richard Goshorn Doug Lechner The following Boardmember arrived after the roll call: Willard Dunham comprising a qnorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Louis Bencardino, Mayor, KPB/EDD TyIan Schrock, Assistant to the City Manager Foster Singleton, Harhormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CBC Representative Marianna Keil, Councilmember. LIO Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of Commerce ABSENT were: Ron Long David Fairchild (excused) (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARR/CBC. Urbach updated the Board on the Alaska Railroad's schedule as they cml their season of passenger rail service to Seward. She also mentioned that although passenger numbers were down this year, tbe Railroad expected higher numbers next year when the Alaska SeaLife Center would open. Garzini further commented on his recent talks with ARRC's Bill Sheffield and Dave Eagle regarding various railroad issues in Seward. He stated that city administration would be presenting his vision for the railroad dock and harbor arca in a "waterfront master plan" to ARRC senior staff in the near future and would later brief the Board on that presentation. In addition, Garzini strongly urged the City, if funding for the railroad dock expansion project 230 Cay of Seward, Alaska September 10, IV()7 Port and Commerce Advisory Bourd Minutes Volume 1, Page 230 became a reality and if the local commercial fishing industry remained strong, to include accommodations to attract container carriers in its long-range plans for the port. Louis Bencardino - KPH/EDD. Bencardino reported on the status of EDD's search for a new director and the construction of their incubator building. Administration Report. Garzini requested ihat a discussion of a floating dock that Kenai Fjords Tours, Ltd. proposed to build at the Alaska SeaLife Center be placed on the agenda under New Business. Vice Chairman Pruitt had no objection. Garzini presented a letter to the Board that he sent 10 the city manager of Ketchikan regarding the suhsidization of electric rates to commercial users. In the letter, he sought a statement from the City of Ketchikan thal it would discontinue the practice of subsidizing electric rates for local commercial users or the City of Seward would be forced to take legislative or legal action against Ketchikan. Garzini stated that a response from Ketchikan should be expected within thirly days. Pruitt further commented on the negotiation process with the Alaska Marine Highway System for this year's ferry contracts and that Seward Ship's Drydoek was the low bidder for the Tustumena contract. Schrock reported tllat he was expecting to receive a draft of the operating agreement for the mariculture center from Alaska Department of Fish & Game soon. Dunham encouraged the City to expedite the completion of IH.:gotiations so as not to miss another spat season. Schrock also reported on the Army Corps of Engineers' progress in surveying the tidelands for the harbor's propost:d eastward expansion. Garzini added that the City should, concurrently with the expansion plans, also consider the possibility of using dredge spoils to add valuable uplands to the waterfront area. Garzini introduced David Cowen, chief executive of Winchest!:r, England, who was visiting Garzini and had attended various meetings and functions in the community and region. Cowen commented on the differences between civic government in the United States and the United Kingdom, and he expressed his appreciation for being able to observe how civic business was handled in Seward. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Cline expressed appreciation for help received during the Silver Salmon Derby held in August, and she emphasized the success of the event this year. She also updated the Board on upcoming Chamber of Commerce happenings both on the local and state level. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischke/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS nl)l l..~<")~ City of Seward, Alaska September 10, ]1)97 Pon and Commerce Ad~'isory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 231 Halihut Fishery Management. Dunham stressed the importance of the decisions made by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council at their upcoming meeting to Seward's sportfishing industry. He encuuraged thc Board to keep a watchful eye on these issues. NEW BUSINESS Aoating Dock Proiect-Alaska SeaLife Center. Garzini briefed the Board on the proposal by Kenai Fjords Tours, Ltd. (KFf) to build a floating dock at the Alaska SeaLife Center for loading/offloading pa<;sengers to visit the Center and downtown district. TIle proposal was for KFf to build the dock on a tidelands lease with the City. The dock, as proposed, would be in seLVice by April 1, 1998. The terms and conditions of the proposal wcre also discussed. The Board generally expressed support for the concept. MOTION (Dunham/Lechner) Approve, and encourage the City Council to support, the floating dock project at the Alaska Sea Life Center proposed by Kenai Fjords Tours, Ltd. to be constructed under the terms and conditions as proposed. Motion Passed, Without Objection. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS On-Goine Proiect List. Regarding traffic, Dunham stressed the need to gather data of actual traffic patterns on the Seward Highway year-round. Pruitt requested an update on the proposed community center, and Garzini briefed the Board on the project to date. BOARD COMMENTS GOSHORN reported a problem occurring recently when a seaplane departed the small boat harbor during a time of increased traffic in the entrance channel. He suggested that city administration ask the Federal Aviation Administration to take the Seward Small Boat Harbor off the navigational charts for floating aircraft and to direct them lu Bear Lake. SINGLETON reported that such a rcquest had been made to the FAA once before, and GARZINI stated that city administration would again request that, from June 1 through September 30, all floating air traffic be dirt:ctl:l! by FAA navigational charts to use Bear Lake instead of the Seward Small Boat Harbor for landings/take-offs. GOSHORN also inquired abuut increasing demands for power in the community and the ability of the utility to provide sufficient eleclridty. GARZINI reported that a new power purchase agreement bdween the City and Chugach Electric would he presented to the Council in tht: near future. GOSHORN asked if the City would consider expanding the electrical system on the floats in the small boat harbor, and GARZINI answered that enhancing the utilities in the harbor would bc a major component in the harbor expansion plan. He stated that Dave Calvert would also bc askl:d to respond to this question. 232 City (Jf Seward, Alaska September 10, 1997 Pnrt and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, PUKe 232 LECHNER expressed his support for tho proposed floating dock at the ASC and for looking for ways to attract large fish proc.l:ssing companies to locate in the cummunity. GARZINI promised to provide the Board with a copy of a letter he recently wrote encouraging Tyson Seafoods to expand their operations to Seward. KASISCHKE also voiced his support for the naaling dock project. He reminded the Board of the problems that still existed with the North Dock. GOODWILL noted that the North Dock's recent users left the facility in poor shape when they left. DUNHAM stated his cuncern over the bad condiliull of the access roads going into the northeast harbor parking lot and the walerfront campgrounds. SINGLETON assun:d the Board that City crews were grading the northeast harbor lot [rt:qucntly and that a drainage system would be installed in the area by the end of the month. DUNHAM also inquirt:d about the status of the proposed prison t:xpansion, and GARZINI stated that future expansion of the local correctional facility, in his opinion, lookt:d likely. PRUITI' inquired about tht: Cily's acquiring ownership of the small boat harbor, and CARZINI stated thal his plan for the dedication/appropriation of the marine fuel tax to fund dderred maintenance and transfer of ownership of the state harbors would be number three in the City's kgislative program at the state level when presented to the Council. PRUIIT also commented on the amount of landscaping in the parking lol for thc ASC in light of the apparenl shortage of parking spaces in the area. GARZINI indicated that the meeting was his last as city manager, and he expressi;:.d his appreciation for the Board's work. The Hoard in i.UIll expressed Lhanks for Garzini's input and dedicaliun to the Board and the communily. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:36 p.m. " ~ &dI mes PruiLl Vice-Chairman arbara J. IIild rbr d Board Secretary ~.," ;.')"'1:..., .,,~. ,-.:: ,,~," ,~.'" "'\ 0' U,,,. ,.'. . .",'>...." ,.".... (Crty Seal) :;"" U..../."l,'.:;~.:.:. :: ." r'" "" ... : ,,,.,. ' . .. . - . :: 0: " "" : ~.,i - . 0;;. " 0;. ('"'" /. ~" l,"', '.: '~., ",...r',.,", , 2;?3 City nf Seward, Alaska October 8, lY97 Pnrt and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 233 CALL TO ORDER The Octoher 8, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was canceled due to the lack of a quorum. All items of business were postponed until the November 12, 1997 meeting. /~ '::;;z~ Chairman arbara J. Hild rb !lI1d Board Secreta'l.c' ',., ~, ~ ' ~. (City Seal) ;:.. ,." ". ....", ~, !i)( ...., ~, ~.. ~,', . ""'" -::.wV~ ,','.i' Ciiy of Seward, Ala:.1Ca November 12, 19Y7 , , , . " ;',~ ," ,~,:, Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 233 CALL TO ORDER The November 12, 1997 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was calkd to order at 12:00 noon by Chairman Ron Lung. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Sharon Anderson Jack Goodwill Doug Lcchn(,,;r The following Boardmembers arrived after the roll call: Dean Kasischke Janws Pruitt comprising a quorum of the Board; and Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Barhara Hilderhrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Nathan Off, Councilmcmbcr Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of Commerce 234 City of Seward, Alaska N(JI'ember 12, 1997 Pori u.rul Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1. Page 234 ABSENT was: Willard Dunham (Excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARR/CBC. None (Excused) Boh Satin. KPB/EDD. None (Excused) Administration Report. Yvette \Velsh updated the Board on various subjects including the status of the City's recruitment for the positions of city manager and harbormaster. The Board was reminded that the acting city manager and assistant, mayor. and many of the councilmembers were prest:ntly away attending the Alaska Municipal League conference in Ketchikan. Harbmmastef Foster Singleton briefed the Board on current on-going Harbor projects and stated that he did not anticipate starting any new ones before his retirement in Del:ember. He brought the Board up to datc on the marine fuel tax issue; i.e. the City's efforts to gct legislation passed in the statc assembly providing for the appropriation! dedication of the state's marine fuel tax for deferred maintenam.:e needs in Alaskan harbors. Anderson and Lechner inquired whether the prcjlosed legislation would include an increase to the marint: fud tax, and Singleton replied that a two- to three-cent increase had been discussed due to the fact that revenues from the existing five-cent tax were already appropriated to other programs. A brief Board discussion on various Harbor projects followed. Long inquired whether then~ was an alternate plan of action set with regard to the blocked railroad dock expansion. Welsh replied that TyIan Schrock would probably have a report when ht: r<.;turned from the AML conference. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING KATHY CLINE. Seward Chambt:r of Commerce, reported on the status of the proposed multi-agency building as the funding for the project, as originally proposed. had been recently vetoed at the federal level. She stated that a economic feasibility and marketing research study would be completed by late April 1998. She answered various 4uestions from the Board and suggested that a presentation of the multi-agency building project be given to the Board at their January meeting to clarify the scope ofthe project for the Board's benefit. Cline also briefed the Board on upcoming Chamber of Commerce events. BRAD SNOWDEN, commented on the Alaska Railroad dock expansion project, the funding for which was recently vetoed by President Clinton, and queried whether an /.'")0- ..).,j City of Seward, Alaska November 12, 1997 Port and Commerce Adl'isory Buard Minute.\' Volume 1, Page 235 alternate site for a deepwater dock could be explored, namely at the end of Adams Street. Various Boardmembc.rs remarked that that option had been hrought before the Board and investigated in depth when the railroad dOl;k project was determined to be the most economically viable. However, the Board encouraged Snowden to pursue are-investigation of alternate sites, if he wished. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischke/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda The following items were added as New Business items to the regular meeting agenda: (C) Kenai River Protection Plan (Lechner): (D) Proposed Changes in the Regulations of the Alaska Department of Revenue (Anderson); (E) Floating Dock at the Alaska SeaLife Center (Pruitt): and (F) Board Meeting Schedule and Time (Long). VOTE ON MOTION TO APPROVE AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Kenai River Protection Plan. Lechner introduced discussion about a plan, announced at a recent meeting of the Kenai Peninsula Borough's Kenai River Management Advisory Council where Alaska State Parks personnel proposed to extcnd protection of the Kenai River bank to include Kenai Lakc. City Controller I(ris Erchinger, who attended that meeting, was asked to give a report of the meeting to the Board. She stated that most of thc meeting partidpants appeared to support harsh restrictions, and eventually a ban, un personal watercraft from the Kenai Lake and Trail Lakes area. If these initial measures passed the Borough Assembly, there would probably be future effurts to prohibit all motorized watercraft from these waterways, as well as snow machines in the winter. Chairman Long asked that a copy of the Kenai River Protection Plan be obtained for the Board's review and comment, and Welsh stated that she would get it. Proposed Changes in the Re~lations of the Alaska Department of Revenue. Anderson reported that the Alaska Department of Revenue, in contrast to existing federal regulations, had introduced a new tax to be kvied on any foreign-flag ship, aircraft or vessel doing business in the State of Alaska. She stressed that this tax would have the potential of nl;gatively impacting commerce in all ports and rail centers in Alaska and would eventually trickk down tu all Alaskans through lower returns on local goods and selVices. She noted that a hearing date on thc matter had been set fur a date in two weeks, and, in the interest of time, Chairman Long appointed Lechner, Kasischke and Pruitt to discuss the matter with City Councilmembers and to draft a response for Council's consideration at their next meeting. 23'" ,. l) City of Seward, Ala\'ku. Nuvember 12, N97 Purl and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1. Pal{c 236 Floating Dock at Alaska SeaLife Center. Pruitt expressed various concerns with the concept of the !loating dock as proposed by Kenai Fjords Tours (KFT). Singleton explained the purpose, concept, structure, and environment for placement of the structure as proposed thus far. Anderson expressed suppurt fur the concept and proposed design, noting that it was the cruise ship industry that was driving the idea, and she predicted that it would benefit downtown businesses, hldp alleviate downtown traffic problems, and promote commercial tourism in Seward. Other Boardrnernbers expressed their views, and Long suggested that Boardmt:mbers attend and participate in the Ci'1' Council's work session, when scheduled, tu address the subject. Board Meeting Schedule and Time. Long upened discussion on whether the Buard meetings might be better attended if hellI during the evening. The general (,;'unsensus of the Board was to leave the meetings' schedule unchanged. CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS Noted, BOARD COMMENTS KASISCHKE nuted that the floats in the harbor appeared to be in very bad condition. He queried Singleton as to why there seemed to be a slow-down in rehabilitation projects around the harbor with funds already cl.rmarked in the budget for harbor repairs. Singleton replied that most uf the funds in the Major Maintenance, Repair and Replacement Fund fur the current fiscal year went to pay for Army Corps of Engineers studies performed in anticipation of the proposed eastward harbor expansion. LECHNER reported that Tyson Seafoods had announced their choice to locate their operations in Kodiak but noted that other similar opportunities for commercial development still exist for Seward. }'AIRCHILD queried Welsh on the status of the development of an Internet home page for Seward, and she answered that she and Tylan Schrock, Assistant to the City Manager, had currently put the project on hold, FAIRCHILD also thanked Harbormaster Singleton for his involvement with the Board. GOSHORN questioned Singleton regarding the involvement of the Harbor Enterprise Fund with the pending lawsuit involving the Seward Forest Products site. He also initiated a hrief discussion of the Harbor's electric system and boardwalk sewer line installation. PRUIlT reported that he would be attending Fish Expo later in the month. LONG displayed various informative documents obtained from the Kenai Peninsula Borough Economic Development District regarding commercial situations and industry prospects in the Borough. He urged Boardmembers to obtain copies for their own review. cmZENS' COMMENTS '1':Jf'7 -..', Cay of Seward, Alaska Novemher J2, J997 Port and Commf:'Tce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1. Page 237 KATHY CLINE noted that the State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) was available for public review, and she urged the Board to take a look at it. She noted that the Plan included the City's purchase of two buses intended for public transportation. Chainnan Long canceled the next scheduled work session due to the Thanksgiving holiday. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:40 p.m.. ____~-/ p arbara J. Hilder rallli"'; .. :on(t:~d---r ,-'",,' ~', '\ Board Secretary :,::.~"...,-' ".' Chairman ~ 1;..",.",,' ~ , S r .., ~ =- 0! " . ,;. '1.. ~ 'o,,'~, ~\~.",."., : 0' ~ , , ....~ 4.): "~ City of Seward, Alaska -"t,(,": ~.;l : .'-- "," December 10, 1997 "'n~~ (City Seal) Port and Commerce AdVISOry Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 237 CALL TO ORDER The December 10, 1997 regular meeting of the Sl:ward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon hy Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron T .ong, presiding, and Ril:hard Goshorn Doug Lechner Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischke comprising a quomm of the Board; and Tylan Schtock, Assistant to the (Acting) City Manager Bob Satin, Mayor, KPB/EDD Foster M. Singleton, Harbormaster Scott A. Ransom, Deputy Harbonnaster Dorothy Urbach, ARRlCBC Representative Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary 238 City (~r Seward, Alaska December 10, 1997 Port and Commerce Advisory Bourd Minutl!s Volume 1, Page 238 Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of Commerce Marianna Kei1, Legislative Inforoation Officer ABSENT were: James Pmitt Sharon Anderson Willard Dunham David Fairchild (excused) (excused) (excused) (excused) SPECIAL REPORTS Uorothy Urhach - ARRICBC. Urbach reported that 1997 was a successful year for the Alaska Railroau. She stated that various special events wuuld take place in Seward during 1998 with regard to ARRC's 75th Annive;sary, including the opening of the relocated Seward depot. She promised to provide details, dates, and times to the Board as she re<.:eived them. Bob Satin. KPB/EDD. Satin reported that he would be meeting with Governor Bill Sheffield to discuss various proposed projects relative to the ARRC's operations in Seward. He also explained to the Board the function of the Kenai Peninsula Borough Economic Development District. Administration Report. Yvette Welsh updak-u the Board on the status of the City's attempts to recruit a city manager. She also gave a progress report on the harbormastcr recruitment. Tylan Schrock briefed the Board on vJ.rious matters, including the review of the State Transportation Improvement Plan (copy of excerpt provided) and the notable omission of the ARRC (AMES) dock expansion project, North Dock extension, and North Forest Acres Road from the Plan. He also commented on the shellfish hatchery contract, the proposed floating dock at the Alaska ScaLife Center, and the City's position with regard to essential air service to Seward. Foster Singleton, in his last address to the Board before his retirement as harboffilaster, stated that he had enjoyed working with the Board through the years and that Scott Ransom had been appointed to seTVe as acting harbonnaster until a new harbormaster was appointed. CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Kathy Cline commented on the Chamber of Commerce's support of Era Aviation to provide essential air service to Seward, and she updated the Board on upcoming Chamher ')Q-Q ~:..:v.... City (If Sewald, Alaska December 10, 1997 PorI and Commerce AdvisOlY B{)urd Minutes Volume 1, Page 230 meetings and events. She also requested that a presentation of the multi-agency building project be put on the agenda for the JanuaT)' meeting. Bob Satin reported that the Heritage Group planned to huld a town meeting in Seward n:garding the future of the PtTmanent Fund, and he promised to inform the Board of the date and time when such a meeting was scheduled. Marianna Keil reported that the local Legislative Infonnation Office would soon be open for the upcoming legislative session, and she promised to keep the Board apprised of issues of interest as details became available. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischke/Goodwill) Approve the Ag~nda and Consll'nt A2enda Motion Passed. Unanimous. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Letter of Congratulations and Invitation to Debbie Sed2ewick. This item was added to the agenda but taken out of order. (Set: Page 21+0 at *.) CORRESPONDENCE, INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS With rderence to Senator Turgerson's letter to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council regarding its regulatory amendment on the halihut charterboat recreational harvest, Long noted that the Senator's position was oppusite to thc opinion reached by the Board earlier. Schrock presented a brief recap of the World Trade Center's annual conference that he had recently aw.:nded and distributed a writlt:n summary [or the Board's review. BOARD COMMENTS GOODWILL inquired about the status of Afognak's purchase of the sawmill site, and Schrock responded that tht: matter was pending the outcome of related litigation. LECHNER distributeu fur the Board's review a summary of a development project proposed by Passage Canal Development LLC lo the City of Whittier as "an alternative to the Seward destination." He encouraged the Board. to support keeping the vision for growth and dl,,;velopment of the port of Seward alive through the changes in administration. He also noted that a coal test shipment would be leaving for Magadan, Russia shortly. ')"V' 4.l _,,-, City of Seward, Alaska December 10, lYC)7 Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 240 GOSHORN commented on various harbor~area matters, induding the presence of coal dust, snow berms in harhor parking lots, and sanding procedures in the lots. Singleton responded by outlining the Harbor and City Shop's procedure for plowing and sanding. KASISCIIKE thanked Singleton for his work with the Board, as weU as his many years of service as harbormaster for the City of Seward, and he wished him well. LONG commented on hearing Scnator Prank Murkowski's report of his recent trip to China and noted the apparent future possibilities of exporting Alaskan oil and coal to that country. He also commented on the recent proposal made by Tim McDonald to the City Council to purchase the North Dock, and Schrock responded that any such proposal would he t:xaminetl and ultimately brought before thc Board for review. *The following item was taken out of order. MOTION (Lechner/Goshorn) Encourage the City CounciJ to send a letter of congratulations to Debbie Sedgewick, rect"nt appointee as Cuwmissioner of the State Department of Commerce & Economic Development, and to im'ite her tv speak to a joint meeting of the City Council and Chamber of Commerce. Motion Passed. Unanimous. LONG canceled the work session scheduled for December 24 due to the holiday. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 pm. (City Seal) Barbara J. i derbrand j!""" Board Secretary '," ." ,<4~' ".t ,.~, ' ". .,:......\,'...;.,."'!.." ;.~ "-,. - " ~ . ... .",. ~ . "" : :'.': 0; , ... . ~,~', - , - . - ". ~ f)"''''# ,. ~u,....v.," _. ~. r,_.,' , "~""1/"'- .'....,.", ," , /':. -"';f'''''' -., ....'f. r\~'-". i.e;Un~il~/'" ~RO~) Chairman