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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02262018 City Council Laydowns / QO 2- la BERING SEA LaedrArk., FISHERMEN'S PP' __ ASSOCIATION Alaska Ocean Cluster Initiative Alaska Ocean Cluster Initiative(AOCI)—Inspired by success in other parts of the world, Bering Sea Fishermen's Association(BSFA)launched the AOCI to promote and enhance maritime industry growth and prosperity in Alaska. Modeled after experiences in Iceland, Ireland, Norway,and Canada, the cluster concept involves a coalition of private,public and academic stakeholders forming around a base industry and,in the process,supporting both the industry and each other through economic transactions and circulated assets. The goal is to grow Alaska's blue economy by: • Increasing opportunities for innovation Alaska's • Increasing opportunities for entrepreneurship Ocean Sectors • Increasing awareness of the blue economy • Increasing collaboration between businesses, government,universities and non-profits • Strengthening links with other Arctic nations The AOCI's mission is to grow Alaska's maritime or`blue' economy through innovation,entrepreneurship and collaboration.The AOCI will provide opportunities for people to connect and create value for Alaska. It will be a physical and virtual hub providing resources and opportunities to engage in Alaska's blue economy.The AOCI will create a positive long-term economic impact for Alaska through a variety of integrated programs that foster blue innovation and blue growth. Current programs and programs under development: • Ocean Tuesday,a weekly statewide video conference presentation of a blue economy topic. • Ocean Technology Innovation Sprint(OTIS),an innovation bootcamp based on the Google Ventures Sprint process.www.otis.blue • The Blue Frontier,a monthly newsletter of Alaska's ocean innovation news and events. • Ocean Mentor Network,experienced professionals who offer guidance to entrepreneurs. • The Blue Pipeline,an ocean business incubator. • Alaska Ocean Task Force,a concept modeled on the Mississippi Ocean Task Force. Contact-Joel Cladouhos, Director of the Alaska Ocean Cluster,an initiative within the Bering Sea Fishermen's Association,joel@alaskaoceancluster.com/907-244-2123.www.oceantuesday.com Bering Sea Fishermen's Association(BSFA)—Established in 1979 to give subsistence and commercial fishermen a voice in the sustainability and development of Bering Sea and western Alaska fishery resources,BSFA played a significant role in the establishment of the Community Development Quota Program(CDQ),the creation of the Alaska Board of Fisheries Regional Advisory Committees,and founded various fisheries research and coordination programs.www.bsfaak.org /aaz2 L-/4/°1ALd Mayor's trip report Juneau 2018 I attended the Alaska Conference of Mayors and the Alaska Municipal League Winter Legislative Conference. The Conference of Mayors was in the morning of Wednesday the 21st and started with a presentation by Mayor Karl Kassel from North Star Borough. His presentation was on "The State's impact on Future Municipal Financial Models". It focused on what the loss of State revenue sharing would have on North Star Borough budget. They put together their income and expenditures to show how much they depend on those funds. The Borough is required to decrease property tax if they increase fees or initiate new ones. They wanted to show how deferred maintenance on their facilities are and will affect their budget. They held public meetings to inform the public on the issues the Borough is facing on their facilities. After identifying the facilities they gave the options of (1) demolish the facility and end the program(s), (2) renovate the facility to correct problems and bring into compliance with codes, (3) build a new facility with new code requirements and a life span of 50 years. Most of the facilities are forty plus years now and any option would have to bring the expected life span to fifty years. They are calling this project "Sandbox" and you can look it up on the North Star Borough's website under Sandbox 2.0. I suggest we consider doing a similar exercise with our own facilities. We had a discussion on a school head tax. Some areas of the State are for this, mainly Anchorage, Mat-Su and Fairbanks. Smaller communities are not sold on the idea. I was informed there was a a head tax about forty years ago and I asked how it paid for education in the communities. I didn't get an answer, it appeared no one there was involved in government at the time. So others asked if it would be better for the locals to do the head tax instead of the State doing it. The Fairbanks people shot this down because of their local requirement to reduce property tax, they would never realize any increase of revenue to correct issues. I think there is a bill in the House to to consider a head tax. Wednesday afternoon was spent with our lobbyist, Kent Dawson and his staff. I was impressed on the number of issues he had been tracking that have or may have an impact on Seward. He accompanied Mr. Hunt, Mr Long and myself to meet with our legislative representatives to discuss various items concerning Seward. After these meetings, I went to see some Legislators that represented Seward in the past and those I personally knew. I only got to see one at that time and he asked me if I knew of his bill which proposes changes to Title 42. I did not, so he gave me a quick rundown on it's purpose. More study is needed on this, to see if there would be any negative impacts to Seward. Mr. Long and I attended a reception at the Governor's House. It was impressive on the history there and to talk to the Governor and the First Lady on items other than political ones. The group was introduced to three young ladies that were following the Governor around to see what he does and learn about government operations first hand. Mr Long and I met up with Mr. Hunt, Mr Dawson and his wife for dinner and to discuss the day's events and what was on the next day's schedule. Senator Micciche and his wife joined us later in the evening. On Thursday we had a presentation on the Alaska Marine Highway by Robert Venables. The presentation covered current status, needs and the value of system was to the State. A briefing on smaller bills in the Legislature was given by AML lobbyists Ray Gillespie and Dianne Blume, this I thought was very useful. Mr. Hunt, Mr. Long, Mr Dawson and myself met with Commissioner Mike Navarre to discuss items the State is working on that could have an impact on Seward. We also touched on issues Seward has that involves the State. When we returned to the Conference, Congressman Don Young was finishing his address to the group. So I only got to say hello to him. In the afternoon we had a presentation on the Foraker Group by Laurie Wolf, President and CEO. Then Senator Murkowski gave a speech on federal issues and answered questions from the floor. A reception was held at 5:30 for the group and Legislators and their staff were invited. This is where I got to talk to the Legislators I did not see on Wednesday and introduced to others I hadn't met before. Overall, the trip was very educational and productive. I seen how Seward benefits from the services of Mr. Dawson's firm, the importance of tracking bills introduced and having an Administration that presents Seward in a positive and professional manner. I was also a little embarrassed by being asked about things happening in Seward, it appeared more a distraction than a productive inquiry. Several of the communities had two or three Council members at this conference. I know going into the Legislators office they can be quite small so a large number of people is cumbersome. Than being said I feel we should send the newest member with the Mayor just for the education and I request Council consider this for 2019 and beyond. /8D2 . 6 G yddaw glis-frtrzief self" Please return completed application to: /40 ����_ �� City Clerk PO Box 167 7 ,; Q 410 Adams St V- Seward,AK 99664 '`v 907)224-4046 • � _ P' Fax(907)224-4038 "1(.,AS� clerkCcity.ofseward_nct APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE PERSONNEL APPEAL BOARD All information provided in this application is public information pursuant to the provisions of the Alaska Public Records Statutes Title 40,Chapter 25. The Personnel Appeal Board serves as a neutral body to hear and render decisions on appeals submitted by any regular employee relative to disciplinary action,demotion,suspension,dismissal,interpretation,or alleged violation of the Personnel Rules and Regulations,and to certify its findings and decision,which final determination shall be subject to judicial review as may be allowed by law. A list of not less than seven applicants shall be maintained by the city clerk.Applicants must be able to be fair and impartial,at least 21 years of age,have no criminal record,no current employment with the city,and are required to be a current resident for at least one year in the Seward,Bear Creek,or Lowell Point precincts. Because vacancies may arise,all applications are kept on file for three years.Applicants may apply for additional terms. Personnel Appeal Board meetings are called as needed.Any given Personnel Appeal Board is composed of three members selected from the pool of approved applicants.Members are expected to attend all meetings of the board unless otherwise excused,and serve staggered terms of 3 years.Members are volunteers and do not receive any compensation. If you are interested in serving on the Personnel Appeal Board,submit this required completed application at any time to the city clerk.Interviews with the city clerk are scheduled after receipt of application.To inquire about current openings or for additional information,please contact the city clerk. Name: Physical Address: Mailing Address: E-mail Address(s): Phone: Cell Phone: Are you able to be fair and impartial at the personnel appeal hearing? Yes No Are you at least 21 years of age? Yes No Do you have a criminal record? Yes No Have you had prior employment with the city? Yes No Do you have current paid employment with the city? Yes No Are you a current resident of either the Seward,Lowell Point or Bear Creek voting precincts? Yes No Are you willing and able to attend all board meetings? Yes No Does any potential conflict of interest exist which may interfere or inhibit you to carry out the duties of a Personnel Appeal Board member? Yes No (If Yes,please explain.) What experience do you have regarding escalated employment relations issues? 1 What experience or skills would you bring to the Personnel Appeal Board that pertains to adjudicating a dispute between employees and employers? What is your interest in serving on the Personnel Appeal Board? Have you ever served on an arbitration or similar appeal panel? Please describe. What is your work experience(or submit a resume)? Please provide any additional information you feel would be useful to the city clerk in considering your application.Please use additional sheets as necessary.A cover letter and/or resume may also be submitted with the application. By signing this application,I hereby affirm that I am aware of the requirements for the position and certify that I meet those requirements. Applicant printed name: Applicant Signature: Date: City Clerk:Please notify applicant of status after submission of application and interview. Applicant interviewed date: Applicant approved: Yes No If approved,applicant term of service: From ,20 to ,20 Modified from: http:i/www.pflugervilletx.gov/home/showdocument?id=12 http://www.mesaaz.gov/city-hall/adv isory-boards-committees/personnel-appeals-board https://wwwsurpriseaz.gov/2314./Personnel-Appeals-Board hups://www.cdaid.org/198/committees/personnel-appsals-board 2/7/18 Carol Griswold 2 161111 r5W-P.td 3 Please return completed form to: f"4 o' Spit, City Clerk 41% PO Box 167 410 Adams St Seward.AK 99664 907)224-4046 -4411. 4te.TAO' City of Seward, Alaska 360-degree Review: Evaluation of Supervisor Effectiveness In keeping with the City of Seward's goal to continuously improve, we are asking for your candid feedback on the performance of your supervisor this past year. A summary of all feedback received by the city clerk will be prepared for each individual supervisor so that he or she can use the feedback to learn and develop. Your individual feedback will be averaged into all the responses received in order to protect your anonymity and ensure that the results are completely confidential. The city clerk will also prepare an overall summary to assess areas for additional city-provided training. Thank you for your contribution to this very important process. Name of Supervisor: Completed by (optional): _ Date: Instructions: Using the following rating scale, please circle the number in the following survey that best reflects your rating of your supervisor's performance during the past year. Rating Scale 1=Unacceptable 2=Needs improvement 3=Meets standard 4=Exceeds standard 5=Outstanding 6= Have not experienced or observed 1 (City of Seward 360-degree Review: Evaluation of Supervisor Effectiveness) Valuing Behaviors Seeks input from all team members 1 2 3 4 5 6 Measures results instead of individual styles 1 2 3 4 5 6 Maintains a balance between "people" issues and "business" issues 1 2 3 4 5 6 Shows genuine concern for team members 1 2 3 4 5 6 Keeps the focus on fixing problems rather than finding someone to blame 123456 Treats people fairly, without showing favoritism 1 2 3 4 5 6 Cares about me 123456 Protects confidentiality 1 2 3 4 5 6 Recognizes and rewards my individual contributions in a manner meaningful to me 123456 Interdependence Behaviors Supports a team environment by recognizing and rewarding collaboration, cooperation and activities contributing to others' success 1 2 3 4 5 6 Recognizes and rewards team-supportive actions and behaviors 1 2 3 4 5 6 Recognizes and supports the work of other departments 1 2 3 4 5 6 Doesn't criticize those who are not present 1 2 3 4 5 6 Considers the impact of actions and decisions on other departments before implementing 1 2 3 4 5 6 Communication Behaviors Encourages others to express different ideas and perspectives 1 2 3 4 5 6 Is open to other perspectives and is willing to change his/her position when presented with compelling information 1 2 3 4 5 6 Open to negative and/or constructive feedback 1 2 3 4 5 6 Keeps me informed on status of my work and updates in the organization 123456 Gives open and constructive feedback 1 2 3 4 5 6 2 (City of Seward 360-degree Review: Evaluation of Supervisor Effectiveness) Effectively deals with conflict 1 2 3 4 5 6 Lets me know how I am doing 1 23456 Involves me in decision-making when appropriate 1 2 3 4 5 6 Sets a clear direction for our department 1 2 3 4 5 6 Valuing Diversity Behaviors Ensures that department activities are inclusive by verifying scheduling needs 123456 Seeks input/feedback from diverse individuals and groups, including internal/external customers 1 2 3 4 5 6 Treats everyone with respect and fairness 1 2 3 4 5 6 Leadership Behaviors Encourages and embraces change by challenging status quo 1 2 3 4 5 6 Provides cross-functional development opportunities for team members 123456 Encourages and supports my involvement in training and development activities and events 123456 Encourages and supports my involvement in community activities and events 123456 Encourages and supports my involvement in company activities and events 123456 Actions and behaviors are consistent with words 1 2 3 4 5 6 Is trustworthy 123456 Is a role model for continuous improvement 1 2 3 4 5 6 Uses a coaching management style, rather than an authoritarian boss management style 1 2 3 4 5 6 Supports me, helps me achieve results 1 2 3 4 5 6 Supports a customer service approach for both internal and external customers 123456 3 (City of Seward 360-degree Review: Evaluation of Supervisor Effectiveness) Deals with issues that need to be addressed 1 2 3 4 5 6 Provides a clear sense of purpose and direction, roles and responsibilities, for me individually and for our group team members 1 2 3 4 5 6 General Feedback Optional: Type or print your answers, add additional pages if needed. Please be as specific as possible by including examples. What activities, behavior, feedback or coaching would you like your supervisor to stop doing? Please explain. List and briefly describe examples of the behavior, activities, feedback or coaching your supervisor has provided that makes your job and work environment more enjoyable and meaningful to you. Please provide comments that you feel will be meaningful for your supervisor to sustain or improve his or her effectiveness, https://«-ww.shrm.org/resourcesandtooi s/tools-incl-samples/hr- forms/pages/cros 002077.aspx 4 1o ? ( d604A4 fp/1;1\1D M n.S3 `f Please return completed form to: I' o City Clerk 4 �:14 PO Box 167 t 410 Adams St ��Giii A Seward,AK 99664 907)224-4046 City of Seward, Alaska Termination: Exit Interview Questionnaire The City of Seward appreciates your taking about 8-10 minutes to answer the following questions as honestly as possible. Your individual responses are treated as confidential,and will not become part of your personnel file. Responses are optional.We believe that the information is of vital importance and will assist in analyzing our employee retention and turnover. Thank you for your cooperation! Name Employment Date Department Termination Date Position Supervisor 1. Reason(s) for Leaving (mark as many reasons as apply) [] Type of Work [] Quality of Supervision [] Compensation [] Work Conditions [] Lack of Recognition [] Family Circumstances [] City of Seward Culture [] Career Advancement Opportunity [] Moving from Area [] Health Reasons 1 (City of Seward Termination Exit Interview Questions continued) 2. Before making your decision to leave, did you investigate other options that would enable you to stay? [ ] Yes [ ] No If"yes",describe: 3.What did you think of your supervision in regard to the following? Almost Sometimes Never Comments always Demonstrated fair and equal treatment Provided recognition on the job Developed cooperation and teamwork Encouraged/listened to suggestions Resolved complaints and problems Followed policies and practices 4. How would you rate the following in relation to your job? Excellent Good Fair Poor Comments Cooperation within your department Cooperation with other departments Communications in your department Communications within the City as a whole Communications between you and your supervisor Morale in your department 2 (City of Seward Termination Exit Interview Questions continued) Job Satisfaction Training you received Growth Potential 5.Was your workload usually: [ ] Too great [ ] Varied,but all right [ ] About right [ ] Too light 6. How did you feel about your salary and the employee benefits? Excellent Good Fair Poor Comments Base Salary Medical Plan Dental Plan Vision Plan Retirement Plan Annual Leave program Wellness Plan Other 7.Are there any other benefits you feel should have been offered? [ ] Yes [ ] No If"Yes",what? 8.Any other comments on benefits? 3 (City of Seward Termination Exit Interview Questions continued) 9. How frequently did you get performance feedback? 10.What were your feelings about the performance review process? 11. How frequently did you have discussions with your supervisor about your career goals? 12.What did you like most about your job and/or working for the City? 13.What did you like least about your job and/or working for the City? 14.What does your new job offer that your job with the City does not? 15.Why is the new job/company better? 16. Do you have any suggestions for improvement? Have you raised them in the past? 17.Would you recommend the City to a friend as a place to work? [ ] Yes,without reservations [ 1 Yes,with reservations [ ) No 18.Additional comments about your job or the City of Seward https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/tools-and samples/hrforms/pages/termination exitinterviewquestionnaire.aspx 02/06/18 Carol Griswold 4 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA 14 salt. Organizational Chart CITIZENS OF SEWARD x _ MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL BOARDS AND CITY CLERK = CITY ATTORNEY CITY MANAGER COMMISSIONS Historic Preservation Commission Planning and Zoning Commission Port and Commerce Advisory Board ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER HUMAN RESOURCES PUBLIC SAFETY PUBLIC WORKS HARBOR AND SMIC ELECTRIC UTILITY FINANCE COMMUNITY Shop DEVELOPMENT Streets Water and Sewer IPARKS AND RECREATION COMMUNITY c: -:::.: * POLICE FIRE Sports and Recreation LIBRARY 8c MUSEUM I Teen Youth Center �,s- N JAIL Teen Rec Room BUILDING Campgrounds DMV INSPECTION Parks and Cemeteries Parking ANIMAL CONTROL cam. L --C Carol Griswold 2/13/18 /g0g)(72 2017 Projects and Accomplishments Secured $5.9 million in SMIC project funding and prevented it from being swept up by the Alaska Legislature. The result for SMIC: - 300+ feet of new floats - a 10 ton crane - Provided the widening of 330 ton Travelift - Provided the widening of the Travelift dock - Adding new and necessary security fence around the North Dock. Breakwater Project completed Closely coordinated with Alaskaman Extreme Triathlon Producer to bring the event to Seward and convinced a TV production crew to document the 1st Annual Event from Seward to Girdwood. Great Race success and they are coming back in 2018 Army Corps of Engineer's Lowell Tunnel Alternative Study is progressing well. D.C.: Work continues regarding WRDA language to prevent the Corps from turning over ownership and O&M of tunnel to the city. Lobbied for continued funding for Lowell Tunnel Repair Project—additional funding awarded State agreed to pay 100% (Approximately$400K) of design and engineering for replacement of South Boat Launch(No city match for D&E) A creative approach allowed us to proceed in clearing the Air Force Recreation property by getting an estimate in advance for demolition and removal, thereby freeing up the A.F. to issue a check to the city much more quickly. The long needed city-wide paving project was completed in one summer Despite hiccups by the contractor, three conduit(one for emergency) were buried nearly 30' under lagoon. Wi-Fi along beach campgrounds was a success and appreciated by all. Work continues with Graphite 1. If located here, it would mean a hundred year round high- paying jobs Housing construction continues all over town. Interest in Seward continues to be high. We added auto-flush toilet mechanisms in city hall The City re-zoned lots to 3,000 sq. ft. in relation to request for a more affordable housing solution (current micro-housing issue with P&Z resolution) The CHC purchased land next door to their facility. City funding Facility Expansion Fund in Budget having added contributions 2016, 2017 and budgeted for 2018 and 2019 Worked with D.C. lobbyist and lobbied Delegation for continued funding of CHCs Approved Budget includes money for minor roof repairs (city hall), boilers (annex), flood mitigation(TYC) Already working to homeport an ice breaker in Seward as the Defense Act Bill was passed by Congress and the president has signed Revising/updating city policies: Some are more than fifteen years old. We are installing electric data loggers in some of our facilities to identify use, waste, and cost saving opportunities. These loggers will also help identify poorly functioning equipment and notify us when issues arise Regularly appear on the local radio show Managed the Lowell Pt. Road Storm Damage Declaration and worked with the Kenai Borough Mayor, the Kenai Emergency Manager, NOAA-National Weather Service, Alaska DNR, Channel and Channel 2, to raise awareness and have it quickly placed on Governor Walker's desk. Governor Walker has sent the request to President Trump. Boards - Committees — Memberships — Civic Activities Serve as Vice-chair of Eastern Peninsula Highway Emergency Service Area Board through 2020 Continue to serve on the SeaLife Center's Board of Directors Serve as representative of Alaska Municipal Manager's Association to AML (seat on board) and to the ICMA/NW ICMA Region. Continue to serve on CHC Coordinating Committee Active with World Trade Center, Anchorage Active with Resource Development Council Seward Chamber of Commerce Volunteer for various events during the year Record Grant and Appropriation Funding in Four Years 2013 $27,551,440 2014 $20,980,939 2015 $18,320,212 2016 $22,234,457 Totaling $89,087,048 Goals Develop a public-private partnership to bring a coordinator and business incubator to Seward Refurbish Lowell Canyon water tank Anticipating two Coast Guard Sentinel Cutters will call Seward home (up to 110 full-time personnel). Work continues on this homeport project Working on Public-Private Partnership in an effort to be awarded a FAA UAV- ROV Economic Development/Public Safety Program for Seward Develop an answer(s) for housing the Fire Department's Quint on this side of the bay Audit vacation rentals and B&Bs for proper safety and utility billing Implement a new"City of Seward Gold Star" Lodging Program that recognizes owners/managers who have proper safety inspections performed and licensing is in place Examine utilizing the Chugach funds to improve South Uplands infrastructure in anticipation of growth A.F. Camp property development 1SO224 Report to COUNCIL February 26, 2018 Lia }el4wYt� Seward Chamber of Commerce, CVB ✓ Cindy Clock • The SMIC Re-Launch will be held on April 20 & 21, directly after SERVs Spill Drill. The goal being to spread the news statewide (and to Seattle/Tacoma) that the breakwater is finished and SMIC is open for business. Chamber staff is working in partnership with the SMIC group and PACAB to pull this off. Seward "Second Saturday" continues on March 10th &April 14th cr Rotary Conference May 18 — 20, coinciding with Seward Harbor Opening Weekend &the Mermaid Festival cr Seward was included in Northwest Trave/& Life magazine's "52 Getaways" issue in January 2018 and is one of their 2018 Top Travel Picks. They featured the Gray Whale migration © E.52 GETAWAys, N .9e-S> 2018 �0), O O y x z c406, �y �7 cr AK Small Business Development Center Report features The Painted Whale and Resurrect Art Coffee House • Tracy Meyer of North Pacific Expeditions called to say their small luxury yacht will begin tours in 2019. Whittier to Seward and Seward to Homer. They hope to be here this summer for recon and will stop by to see me as they want their passengers to know all about Seward. • Alyssa Rodrigues Development Manager, Alaska Department of Commerce Community & Economic Development Division of Economic Development "One of our Statewide Economic Development Strategy goals is to bring urban entrepreneurism tools to Rural Alaska. We're working with the Center for Economic Development on this goal and I'm really excited about this opportunity." I'll be part of the next teleconference conversation on March 5th concerning possible local workshops • Jen & I met with the City Manager, Bryan Zak, SBDC &Joel Claudouhos of Alaska Ocean Cluster Initiative (please see attachment) about the Blue Economy and what it could mean for Seward. This fall we'll transition from the Energy Fair to an OTIS — Ocean Technology Innovation Sprint - which is an elite program based on the Google Ventures Sprint process that engages designers, engineers, marketers, finance and startup enthusiasts, who form interdisciplinary teams and experience the excitement of ideation and innovation to solve big challenges in Alaska's blue economy - the sustainable and impactful development of our vast ocean resources. No experience needed, just a passion and willingness to share ideas. Bryan is promoting a Business Advisor for Seward, focusing on helping all entrepreneurs, not just those in the Blue Pipeline. This would involve a public/private funding mechanism. At this time Mr. Zak has sent out a tentative funding collaboration idea as well as a job description for review. We're continuing to grow our audiences through social media. Kudos to our Communications Manager, Jen Leahy! Just in the past month, our Facebook posts reached nearly 150,000 people and we added 750 new page followers. Our relatively new Instagram account is growing steadily and is another great channel for inspiring more adventure travelers to visit Seward. On Facebook, our best performing content is a mix of relevant messages (a post-earthquake message + photo reached nearly 63,000 people and was shared 545 times), engaging videos (our summer tourism video was viewed 25,000 times), and stunning images (a recent photo of the Seward boat harbor reached 45,500 people as was shared 475 times). The incredible reach of these posts was completely organic (aka free). This is a great example of how effective social media can be when delivering high-quality content. So please be sure to "like" and "share" Along these same lines, we're working on delivering more engaging content on Seward.com in the form of blog posts. Our weekly "member spotlights" have been well received, as has our co-op marketing in support of Seward Second Saturdays. We're seeing a bump in traffic to the site because of new content. Jen continues to provide targeted support to the Seward Business Network around marketing strategy and graphic design. We recently responded to a press inquiry from National Fisherman to highlight Seward. We continue to work with Harbor staff to help support & organize the Harbormaster's conference Oct 8 — 12 We'll begin promoting the Pioneers of Alaska conference (also in Oct) as well as working with Dawn Campbell to include business promotion opportunities Plans underway for a Rockwell Kent anniversary celebration in Seward 2018 — 2020 Next chamber lunch is March 9th when Summer Lazenby, Executive Director of Kenai Peninsula Tourism Marketing Council (KPTMC) Taste of the Kenai will be at the Soldotna Sports Center on March 24th That same weekend Kris & Shelly will represent us at the Denver Adventure &Travel Show /8 ° Zl° City Council Notes, February 26, 2018 dorw►2 � Jonas Salk, the American researcher who developed one of the firstsuccessfuldreams Chr ��� lives in dreams and imagination and in the courage of those who dare to make d emst ainto once said: "Hope ms into reality." He was a dreamer- he dreamed of a better world, and I would like to suggest that what we here in Seward is not the "vendetta" as some are claiming but rather are the dreams ofsee born. There is a dream of a Seward that is a compassionate place to live. happening abetter Seward being treated with respect, not disgust. Where there is compassion for one another rather than anger Where citizens and employees get Where you can express an idea or thought or opinion without fear of retaliation or name-calling place where people work together to create a beautiful community, nota or judgment. n bullying; a leaders appear to some to bully the citizens and the employees and show favoriace tismrto th e the government or city family, etc. e elite, friends, When you are a part of the government (as in working for the City), it means you are in public as if this government here has forgotten what the definition of p is back to service. Itseems reference to "the culture" that I made at the last meeting. I suggestreachingout to theis. This resources es uomes beckha y have available to you as a government agency for a refresher course fpr everyone on whatources that be i public service. A refresher course on anger management and bullying in the workplace uit means good t . -be too. As far as I understand it, if taxpayer dollars fund your government then basically the Acitize sr bosses when it comes right down to it. Yet, the prevailing attitude towards the citizenshipandd e allp youre I and others have observed is that we are all bothersome and wrong. "We just don't like heemloyet that blank: answer, action, decision, etc. The citizens and employees appear to serveCity's"at the will of City Hall in the all. I made some phone calls to try to identify some resources as far as the classes I've suggested, gotten any answers. I suspect AML may have some suggestions; I assume you can contact them. TIhere not yet been multiple suggestions for an independent investigation. I hope you will also consider e have that. moving forward with Some townsfolk claim there is a conspiracy being acted out. What if they are right, but they h all wrong?What if the plot is to shine a light on what the problems are that have created thisave the motive climate within the City? disharmonious What if, like the Salk quote, what we're seeing is the courage of those who dare to make dreg harmonious Seward into reality? ms of a Is it painful, yes; all change is painful, isn't it? We humans like comfort. But we get lazy when comfortable. If you think about it, most inventions come from some form of discomfort. we are Isn't that a good thing even though it appears so painful? People are trying to understand Citizens. Taxpayers. Don't they have a right to know? I see courage in action in pursuit of dream,has of happened. pursuit of a vendetta. If you see a vendetta, or conspiracy, ask yourself: to what do you conspire? ho whom do you have a vendetta? p for theor This a time for hope and change; change for the betterment of all, that's what I see and that's what possible if you open your hearts to the possibility that there is a middle ground upon which we can I believe is all agree.