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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05082017 City Council PacketSeward City Council Agenda Packet thealaskalife ,.. Seward, Nebraska I>i.. MOTO p I "aril May 8, 2017 City Council Chambers Beginning at 7:00 p.m. 1963 1965 2005 The City of Seward, Alaska CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA �-- �. 1 1111 i {Please silence all cellular phones during the meeting} May 8, 2017 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers Jean Bardarson 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Term Expires 2017 3. ROLL CALL 4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT Marianna Keil THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Vice Mayor [Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to Term Expires 2018 speak. Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.] Ristine Casagranda 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Council Member [Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated Term Expires 2018 by asterisk (*). Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a council member so requests. In the event of such a request, the David Squires item is returned to the Regular Agenda] Council Member 6. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Term Expires 2017 A. Proclamations and Awards Sue McClure Council Member 1. National Historic Preservation Month ..........................Pg. 3 Term Expires 2017 2. Harbor Opening, Blessing of the Fleet & Mermaid Festival............................................................................ Pg. 4 Deborah Altermatt 3. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run Day ... Pg. 5 Council Member 4. Peace Officers Memorial Day & National Police WeekPg. 6 Term Expires 2017 5. National Corrections Officers Week..............................Pg. 7 Erik Slater B. Borough Assembly Report Council Member C. City Manager Report...........................................................Pg. 8 Term Expires 2018 D. City Attorney Report E. Other Reports and Presentations James Hunt City Manager 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS Johanna Kinney A. Other Public Hearing Items — Resolution for Introduction City Clerk 1. Resolution 2017-028, Adopting And Recommending The Will Earnhart Kenai Peninsula Borough Approve Volumes I And II Of City Attorney The Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan To Include The Land Use Plan Map. (Clerk's Note: first of two public hearings, intended to come for an additional public hearing and adoption at the May 22, 2017 meeting) ................ Pg. 24 City of Seward, Alaska Council Agenda May 8, 2017 Page I 8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None 9. NEW BUSINESS A. Ordinances for Introduction * 1. Ordinance 2017-002, Amending Portions Of Seward City Code § 15.10.220 Development Requirements Table — Notes; To Extend The Maximum 26 Foot Building Height Area To Include The South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront ParkReplat.......................................................................................................... Pg. 95 B. Other New Business Items * 1. Approval of the April 10, 2017 and April 24, 2017 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes....................................................................................................... Pg. 106 2. Discussion Of Historic Preservation Commission Resolution 2017-001. (Requesting That The City Council Reinforce The Commission's Pursuit Of Preservation Opportunities Regarding City Owned Fort Raymond Properties And Assets.) ... Pg. 120 *3. Modify the May 22, 2017 Work Session to Discuss Housing by changing the start time to 5:00 p.m. and the location to the Community Room at the library. 10. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No Action Required) A. On -going City Project and Goal List...................................................................Pg. 123 II. COUNCIL COMMENTS 12. CITIZEN COMMENTS 13. COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS 14. ADJOURNMENT City of Seward, Alaska Council Agenda May 8, 2017 Page 2 PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, historic preservation is an effective tool for managing growth and sustainable development, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability; and WHEREAS, historic preservation is relevant for communities across the nation, both urban and rural, and for Americans of all ages, all walks of life, and all ethnic backgrounds; and WHEREAS, it is important to celebrate the role of history in our lives and the contributions made by dedicated individuals in helping to preserve the tangible aspects of the heritage that has shaped us as a people; and WHEREAS, over the course of the past year the Seward Historic Preservation Commission has initiated and contributed to local historic preservation activities and projects such as the Seward Preservation Plan, nomination of Historical Preservation awards, nomination of structures to the Seward Local Register and Historic Properties Inventory List, and continual public outreach. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jean Bardarson, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska do hereby recognize May, 2017 as National Historic Preservation Month and am pleased to announce the theme is called "Saving Place Matters" which is co -sponsored by the Seward Historic Preservation Commission and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and I call upon the people throughout our community to recognize and participate in this special observance. Dated this Stn Day of May, 2017 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Bardarson, Mayor PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, since the 1980s, Seward's traditional Harbor Opening has kicked off the boating season on the third weekend in May each year; and WHEREAS, on Saturday, May 20, 2017 there will be a full day of activities scheduled to honor and celebrate this longstanding tradition that includes: ❖ Sailor's Breakfast at Sailing, Inc. at 8:30 a.m. followed by ❖ Sailor's Swap Meet at Sailing, Inc. at 10:00 a.m., sponsored by Kenai Fjords Yacht Club with proceeds to benefit the Seward Mariners' Memorial ❖ Mermaid Festival from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on South Harbor Street featuring kids' activities, vendors, live music, and a beer garden ❖ Military Appreciation hot dog bar-b-que at the Harbor Plaza at 11:00 a.m. ❖ Seward Mariners' Memorial Plaque Installation Service at 3:30 p.m. at the Mariners' Memorial ❖ Blessing of the Fleet at 4:00 p.m. at the Mariners' Memorial ❖ Boat Parade from the Harbor entrance to the Alaska SeaLife Center and back starting at 4:30 p.m. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jean Bardarson, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska do hereby proclaim the weekend of May 20, 2017 as HARBOR OPENING & BLESSING OF THE FLEET and invite all citizens to join in celebrating this important part Seward's rich nautical history. Dated this 81h day of May, 2017 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Bardarson, Mayor PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, each year Law Enforcement officers join together with citizens and athletes to run the Special Olympics torch throughout the country; and WHEREAS, hundreds of thousands of Law Enforcement officers give their time to protect our communities every day; and WHEREAS, hundreds of thousands of athletes participate in Special Olympics activities annually; and WHEREAS, only the efforts of countless volunteers make Special Olympics possible; and WHEREAS, on May 20, 2017 Law Enforcement officers and athletes will carry the Special Olympics torch during the annual Torch Run and send it on its way to open the Special Olympics Games; and WHEREAS, at this year's games, many of our area's finest young people and adults will be competing in a variety of sports, enjoying athletic competition, and learning the importance of "doing one's best" in the spirit of sportsmanship, and WHEREAS, the Seward Police Department and Special Olympics are organizing the Torch Run in conjunction with the Terry Pollard Memorial Exit Glacier Run organized by Seward Parks and Recreation starting at 10:00 a.m. on May 20, 2017 at the Resurrection Roadhouse. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jean Bardarson, Mayor of the City of Seward, Alaska do hereby proclaim May 20, 2017 as SPECIAL OLYMPICS LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN DAY and encourage all citizens to participate either by running or by pledging a participant. The City Council acknowledges the hard work of the event organizers and congratulates the athletes on their accomplishments. Dated this 81h Day of May, 2017 L A S R(,FID�xF Q rly' THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean 8ardarson, Mayor PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week during which May 14th falls as National Police Week; and WHEREAS, the first full week in May is recognized as National Correctional Officers Week to celebrate and recognize the vital public service of correctional personnel; and WHEREAS, the members of law enforcement throughout the City of Seward play an essential role in safeguarding our community and building a stronger, safer future for Alaska; and WHEREAS, it is important that our citizens recognize and appreciate the duties, hazards, and sacrifices of law enforcement personnel; and WHEREAS, members of our law enforcement agencies honor their duty to serve people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting citizens against violence, disorder and deception, and by protecting the weak against oppression; and WHEREAS, we pay tribute to the 135 federal, state and local law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2016; already in 2017, 38 law enforcement officers have fallen in the line of duty; and WHEREAS, we honor the memories and sacrifices of these fallen officers, and pay homage to their Legacy and devotion to duty. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jean Sardarson, Mayor of Seward, Alaska, do hereby encourage all citizens to acknowledge and participate in Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, 2017, and recognize the week of May 14-20, 2017 as National Police Weep. Dated. this 8th Day of May, 2017 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Sardarson, Mayor PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, in 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation creating National Correctional Officers Week which dedicated the first full week in May to recognize and honor the vital public service performed by correctional personnel; and WHEREAS, historically, correctional officers have been viewed as "guards" and have often not received the recognition from the public they deserve; and WHEREAS, over the years, the duties of these officers have become increasingly complex and demanding, often requiring them to take on the additional roles of custodian, supervisor, and counselor simultaneously; and WHEREAS, correctional officers put their health, safety and lives on the line every day to safeguard our community and build a stronger, safer future for Alaska; and WHEREAS, the professionalism, dedication, and courage exhibited by correctional officers deserves our upmost respect. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jean Bardarson, Mayor of Seward, Alaska, thank our Corrections Officers for their sacrifice and professionalism and do hereby proclaim the first week in May to be National Correctional Officers Week. Dated this 8th day of May, 2017 THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Bardarson, Mayor CITY OF SEWARD P.O. Box 167 Seward, AK 99664 MANAGER'S REPORT April 14, 2017 through April 28, 2017 Jim Hunt, City Manager Telephone (907) 224-4047 Facsimile (907) 224-4038 The following purchase orders for between $10,000 and $50,000 have been approved by the City Manager since the last council meeting: 4/26 Electric Potelcom 25KV UG Primary Wire $21,375.00 ADMINISTRATION • SMIC weekly teleconference • R & M teleconference • iSolved & Insurance Brokers of Alaska Compliance teleconference • Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) Community Advisory Council teleconference • APUTT teleconference • Department Head meetings • Travel to DC HARBOR • We had meetings with Hamilton Construction and R&M for the Breakwater project on 4/27/17 and 5/4/17. • Base and core rock are complete, the entire footprint of the breakwater is in place, and they are continuing to place primary A and B rock. • Barges are still going back and forth to Kodiak for more Armor rock. • The harbor has hired a new Harbor worker II. • The Harbor has started the process to hire one new office staff. • The boat lift schedules for both sides of the bay have increased. • The Harbor has updated its security plan with the US Coast Guard. • The water has been turned on in the Harbor. • The South Launch ramp repairs have been made and have opened up for the season. ELECTRIC • The electric crew is gearing up, starting May 1st, for our large construction jobs to include, finishing Snow River, undergrounding the Lagoon, and a large commercial service for the Rail Road. Our first underground insulation was installed on 4/27 for a customer. • We are in the process of hiring an intern for the summer to record the electrical infrastructure into the GIS and help around the department in preparation for retirement. • We are researching all possible options to minimize the outage time for the undergrounding of the lagoon • Staff is working with Public Works on the roads project to install underground conduit for future build before roads are paved. PUBLIC WORKS • Spring is here and all of us in the Public Works Department are very busy. We have many projects coming up and plenty of our normal springtime duties to complete. • New employee training is ongoing as well as cross training in all departments. • The water crews are still dealing with some frozen lines and getting the water turned back on for customers arriving back in town. Normal sampling of water and sewer are taken as required then turned in to the lab. • We are patching potholes using some cold mix. Street sweepers are out and picking up our winter sand from the roads. The light rain is helping our efforts by keeping the dust to a minimum. • Our paving project is moving ahead. KNM Construction has been here in town to work out details and do a ride around with us to assess the additional work we need done. • Snow tire swaps are going well and almost complete. Thanks for everyone's cooperation and patience. • Routine maintenance by the custodians always underway as well as extra help from our PW crew on larger issues. • The elevator contract is awarding and the contractor is ordering the modernization package. LIBRARY & MUSEUM • March 2017 Statistics-10717 Front Door Counter; 204 Museum Admission; 24 Programs; 3757 Joint Library Catalog Circulation; 609 Seward Joint Library Catalog Users; 717 Alaska Digital Library Circulation; 9 Passport Applications; 3 Notaries; 181 Room Uses; 10 Proctored Exams; 957 Public Computer Sessions • Fire Lake Elementary in Eagle River visited the Library Museum and 51 students and 10 adults watched the Iditarod movie and completed the Museum scavenger hunt on April 19. • We had a blast April 14th and 15th celebrating springtime with a Museum Drop -in Craft. 15 people made tissue paper sun catchers around the Museum kitchen table. • The Seward PTA presented a Caribbean Music and Dance Workshop on April 24th and a Spanish Musical Story Time called "The Tree and the Donkey Who Loved to Sing" on April 25th, with Spanish Musical group, Cascada de Flores. The "Tree and the Donkey Who Loved to Sing" is a bilingual story time featuring songs, ancient musical instruments, poly -rhythms, and sweet characters of Mexican music and dance. Over 30 people attended each event. • We welcomed Public Health Nurse, Amanda McKinley, to present a Story Time Friday, April 21st about disaster planning and preparedness. We discussed earthquake safety and read Molly and the Earthquake. • The Annual Summer Reading Program theme this year is BUILD A BETTER WORLD. We are excited to announce the Summer Reading Program Kick -Off Party on Saturday, May 27th, at 1:OOPM. Stop by for food, fun, and the register for the Summer Reading Program. • Summer hours will occur May 15 - September 17 as follows: o Library Summer Hours ■ Mon: loam - 6pm ■ Tues, Wed, Thurs: loam - 8pm ■ Fri, Sat: loam - 6pm ■ Closed Sunday o Museum Summer Hours ■ Tues-Sat: loam - 5pm ■ Sunday: 1pm - 5pm (Thanks to RBHS volunteers!) ■ Closed Monday ■ $4 Admission for ages 13+ • The Movie@2 program will continue this summer with the 24 minute Iditarod National Historic Trail: A History movie showing daily in the Community Room at 2pm, May 15 - September 17. Suggested donation for admission is $2.00. Thank you to the Iditarod Historic Trail Alliance for permission to show this movie! • The Library Museum Team is busy getting ready for another summertime season, updating our website, drafting informational resources and handouts, polishing up our policies, and preparing our spaces for the influx of visitors and seasonal workers that Seward experiences each year. FINANCE • The finance department completed the sale of $3 million in general obligation bonds for this summer's road improvement project and the City has completed refinancing all of its existing debt at historically low interest rates over the past two years, substantially lowering overall borrowing costs. • The department bids a fond farewell to our payroll technician Kelley Sefton. Kelley has been a great asset for the department, and we wish her every success as she relocates to Anchorage to begin a new job there. • The department expects to complete a first draft of the comprehensive Annual Financial Report in the coming week as we received the State's pension data in the past few days. This will allow us to near completion of the annual 2016 audit. PARKS AND RECREATION • TelAlaska Spring Classic Adult Invitational Volleyball Tournament was held Sat, Apr 29. 16 teams competed in this 15th annual invitational adult co-ed tournament, a new record. • Pink Cheeks Triathlon was held Sat, May 6th with over 200 participants. • Super Saturday Cleanup -Pick up bags at the AVTEC gym. Sat, May 13th from loam to 4pm. After the long winter season, everyone is invited to help clean up our town before the upcoming summer season! Prizes will be awarded to those who pick up the most trash. 6pm SPRD will host a free BBQ and awards ceremony at the Branson Pavilion for all participants. • Terry's Tires Bike Rodeo- will be held at City Hall Sat, May 13th from loam to high noon. This is a free event for ages 11 and under. Helmet Junction (Sponsored by Shoreside Petroleum), chuck wagon (sponsored by the Seward Police Department), obstacle course, prizes and a free t- shirt to the 1st 75 participants. • Terry Pollard Memorial Exit Glacier 5K / 10K Run Sat, May 20 registration now open. Go online to www.runsi ng com open to all ages. • Challenger British Soccer Camp June 19th — 23rd Online Registration Now Open Challenger British Soccer Camp is planned for June 19 — 23rd at the Elementary Soccer Field. Free jersey if registered by 5/5 www.challen ersports.com; dleemin ,challengersports.com ; call Austin at 224-4054 or email aledfordgcityofseward. net • Teen & Youth Center Summer Camp Registration is building. We are expecting a full day camp this summer. • We are condensing Middle School and High School Drop in Program this summer again with the Teen Rec Room hosting the drop in hours for both groups. • TYC will be losing our last program aide on May loth. Leaving Josie and a trainee Jasmine as the only staff until summer staff begins May 18th, and 30th. The rest of the Sports and Rec team will assist as needed and available. • TYC Staff is seeking grant opportunities to pay for summer trips and adventure for Day Camp Adventure Camp and the TRR. • TYC will have the Dunk Tank operating at the Mermaid Festival TYC Saturday May 20th with the help of the SVFD and volunteers. The proceeds from this days' activities will go toward TRR summer program fees. • Terry's Tire Bike Rodeo is on track and moving forward. The award for the winning shirt design will be given May 12th at the Seward Elementary School. The Elementary School has the bags for Super Saturday clean up May 13th • The Teen Rec Room -Easter week at the Rec Room included activities such as coloring eggs, stuff eggs and the Teen Easter Egg Hunt which was well attended on Saturday April 15th with 21 teens represented. Over 20 kids participated in the Egg Hunt, the bon -fire and s'mores. • The Teen Council had its annual awards ceremony Tue, April 18th with 10 kids in attendance. Three Teen Council members are graduating from High School this year, each have put in more than 500 volunteer hours during their 8 years of service to the Teen Council and will be receiving the Adelmann Appreciation Award. All three seniors shared experiences during their time on Teen Council and passed on words of wisdom to the others. • The Teen Council members volunteered for the Easter Egg Hunt at the SeaLife Center and will be volunteering for the following activities in the month of May; Pink Cheeks Triathlon, Super Saturday, Bike Rodeo and the Exit Glacier Race. • In the process of planning camp outings for the summer with the teens. • Campgrounds & Park Maintenance Staff is working to get campgrounds and parks ready for the summer. We have opened all of our restrooms and shower house as well as full service campsites and dump station. Thanks to Public Works for their help in getting water service turned on and restrooms opened. We successfully removed the Little League backstop and are working to get a replacement to Seward as soon as possible. Boardwalk repairs are underway; we hope to get it reopened by May 22nd. We have new partitions for the shower house en -route to Seward; we are looking forward to getting those installed before June 1st • The campgrounds experienced a record setting March with a 125% increase in revenue and 42% increase in camper nights as compared to 2016. ADMINISTRATIVE CHECKLIST FOR RELEASE OF DOCUMENTS REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 0 INVITATION TO BID ❑ Releasing Department: Public Works Project: Lowell Canyon Water Tank Refurbishment Project Description; The City of Seward's existing 400,000 gallon and 200,000 gallon water storage tanks at Lowell Canyon were inspected and evaluated in 2011. Areas of the coating on the 400,000 gallon tank were found to be in poor condition and it was recommended that the interior and exterior of the tank be recoated. The 200,000 gallon tank was recommended to be taken out of service. The City desires to contract with an engineering firm to prepare plans, specifications, and contract documents to bid the refurbishment of the 400,000 gallon tank and demolition of the 200,000 gallon tank. The work will include assisting the City with the preparation of any permit applications necessary for construction. Refurbishing the 400,000 gallon tank will include work to sandblast and recoat the tank, and remove and replace the exterior tank insulation with new insulation. It will also include minor weld repairs, replacement of isolation valves, and a seismic review of the foundation anchorage. Anticipated release date and due date: 4/24/2017 Scoring Criteria: Submittals will be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria with a maximum possible of 100 points: • Project Understanding = 10 Points • Methodology and Approach = 20 Points • Project Team = 30 Points • Relevant Project Experience = 20 Points • Contractor Location = 5 Points • Clarity of Proposal = 15 Points Per Seward City Code 6.10.310 (b) the scoring criteria above will be reported to council in the next City Manager's Report to Council. Has this RFP, TTB or any sample contracts attached Have the documents had an insurance review? had an attorney's review? YES Please include any unusual particulars in the Project Description. Are you recommending that the City utilize alternate procurement procedures for the above referenced project? If so, explain how this will best serve the needs of the City and accomplish the objectives of Seward City Code, Title 6 Purchasing, Contracts and Professional Services. Dept Head, Title, Name Approved: Date Jim Hunt, City Manager Date CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR REFURBISHING THE LOWELL CANYON WATER STORAGE TANKS 1 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS March 13, 2017 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA Submittals will be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria with a maximum possible of 100 points: • Project Understanding = 10 Points • Methodology and Approach = 20 Points • Project Team = 30 Points • Relevant Project Experience = 20 Points • Contractor Location = 5 Points • Clarity of Proposal = 15 Points Qualitative Rating Factor Proposers will be ranked using the following qualitative rating factors for each RFP criterion: 1.0 Outstanding 0.8 Excellent 0.6 Good 0.4 Fair 0.2 Poor 0.0 Unsatisfactory The rating factor for each criterion category will be multiplied against the points available to determine the total points for that category. Evaluation of the proposals will be performed by a committee of individuals representing the City of Seward. The committee will rank the proposals as submitted. The City reserves the right to reject all proposals. Proposer(s) must be a responsible proposer in accordance with Seward City Code Title 6. The proposals shall remain open and valid for 30 days. All proposals submitted become property of the City of Seward. No late submissions will be accepted. The City of Seward reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to reject any proposal, waive formalities or irregularities, if it is in the best interest of the City of Seward. There is no provision for a bid protest or challenge to the RFP review committee's scoring. The proposer with the highest total combined score may be invited to enter into final negotiations with the City of Seward for the purpose of the contract award. A City of Seward Business License and current Kenai Peninsula Borough Tax Compliance form will be required prior to contract award. City of Seward Issues Memo May 2-3, 2017 Attendees: Jean Bardarson, Mayor Marianna Keil, Vice Mayor Jim Hunt, City Manager Ron Long, Assistant City Manager Terry Federer, AVTEC Brad Gilman, Washington Representative (cell: 703 577 2187) CJ Zane, Washington Representative (cell: 202 431 2239) Lowell Creek Flood Diversion System The Lowell Creek Flood Diversion System (comprised of a tunnel, dam, intake and outlet structures, and a stilling basin) was designed and built by the Army Corps in 1940 to divert the creek to an outfall in Resurrection Bay to prevent flooding of Seward. The system, however, has been badly damaged as a result of frequent flooding over the last fifteen years, and more recently the Corps has identified design faults that did not anticipate different potential failure modes. For instance, a significant blockage caused by the collapse or obstruction of the tunnel structure would create an overtopping, diverting high velocity floodwaters and debris towards many residences and the Seward Hospital, all with little or no warning. The Army Corps transferred responsibility to maintain the system to the City of Seward in 1945. The City does not have the financial capability to maintain and repair this aging system, especially given the damage from recent flooding. The Congress provided emergency funds to engage in emergency repairs in 1969, 1988, 1989 and 2001. Congress also appropriated $90,000 for operation and maintenance in 2006, and $2.3 million for tunnel repairs in Fiscal Year 2016. Section 5032 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007, Public Law 110-114, transferred the "long term" maintenance responsibility back to the Army Corps for a period of fifteen years. The Act directs the Army Corps to conduct a study to determine whether an alternative method of flood diversion is feasible. The City has had a number of discussions with the Corps about a maintenance program and the structure of the study. The flood of 2012 provided a stark demonstration of the importance of the diversion system. Over 100,000 cubic yards of gravel had to be removed to re -open the bridge and repair the lift station. The amount actually disgorged into Resurrection Bay was not measurable. If the feasibility study concludes that the existing tunnel is the preferred diversion method, then eventually the wear -and -tear on the tunnel and dam will require major repairs. The City does not have the financial capability to bear the costs of rebuild or replacement. The Congress included the following report language in the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act — "Lowell Creek Tunnel, Alaska= Currently, there are problems with the existing Lowell Creek Tunnel. The Corps is encouraged to include in future budget requests a study for an alternative method of flood diversion for Lowell Canyon. The Water Resources Development Act of 2007 transferred responsibility for long-term maintenance and repair to the Corps until a new alternative was built, or for 15 years, whichever is earlier. The Corps has not progressed towards developing an alternative, and the City of Seward cannot afford the estimated $1,500,000 per year in operation and maintenance costs of the tunnel." The City of Seward has set aside $900,000 for the non-federal cost share of a study to investigate alternative flood diversion systems. Governor Bill Walker also included $300,000 in the State's Capital Budget in 2016 to assist in the cost share. The Army Corps has scoped the study and the investigation is underway. The FY 2017 President's Budget Request proposes $500,000 to continue the Alternatives study. This funding is likely to be available once the Corps issues its Fiscal Year 2017 Work Plan. The City is impressed with the pace and focus of the Alaska District on this project. The development and construction of a new alternative diversion system will likely take ten years or more. In order to avoid undue hardship on the City of Seward, the Corps needs to maintain responsibility of its infrastructure until a fully engineered, structurally viable and economically feasible alternative is identified. The Senate version of last year's WRDA bill would have extended the Corps O&M responsibility for an additional fifteen years. This provision was dropped in conference due to House opposition that the provision constituted an "earmark". Seward intends to submit the legislation to the Army Corps as part of the Section 7001 process when the Federal Register notice comes out in May. Once included in the 2018 Army Corps 7001 report submitted to Congress, the legislative proposal should no longer be considered an earmark. The City is recommending that the Alaska Delegation seek to extend Section 5032 O&M transfer authority in the next WRDA bill until a viable alternative is constructed and operational. Homeportin2 the Fast Response Cutters The Coast Guard is in the middle of a substantial reorganization of its operations in the State. The agency intends to retire all seven 110' Island Class Cutters currently deployed in Alaska by 2022-23. The Island Class Cutters are homeported in Seward, Homer, Valdez, Ketchikan (2), Juneau, and Petersburg. The seven Island Class Cutters are being replaced by six 154' Fast Response Cutters ("FRC" ). The first FRC has been commissioned and has replaced one of the Island Class Cutters stationed in Ketchikan. The Coast Guard has informed congressional staff that the agency wants to homeport the FRCS in pairs as a method of saving costs on required shore side logistics and support. If this occurs, the homeports for the FRCS will drop from six to three communities. The City met with the Coast Guard Commandant last summer in Seward, and has answered some questions posed by the agency's scout team. The City provided a design concept showing two FRCS at berths in the boat harbor with plenty of depth, turning basin, and a straight line out of the breakwater from the berths. There is also City -owned land adjacent to the Coast Guard's current facility which can be used for expansion in two directions. Seward believes that the community should rate highly as a homeport for two FRCS. In addition to the available harbor infrastructure, the community is on the road system, easily accessible within two hours from the Anchorage International Airport. Seward is the home of AVTEC, which has a current enrollment of over 800 students going through the maritime training program. AVTEC provides local capability to the Coast Guard to train officers and crew with its marine simulators. The community has a hospital, the best schools in the State, and employment opportunities for Coast Guard spouses. Seward is seeking the Alaska Delegation's support with the Coast Guard to serve as the homeport for two FRCS. Shovel Ready Seward Community Road Proiect The Kenai Peninsula Borough submitted the shovel ready Seward Community road Project to the Economic Development Administration as one of a number of shovel ready transportation infrastructure projects. The City was awarded $2.7 million in State STIP funding for a "grind and repave" project. The City has provided a total match of $350,000 for the project and the citizens of Seward voted to approve the issuance of a municipal bond for the shortfall and complete the original road project repaving list of streets. All of the right-of-way surveys and fieldwork have been completed. The State has bid out its share of the project and the City is working with the contractor to identify the remaining streets with the funding for its share of the project. The climate of Seward and Resurrection Bay is extremely hard on asphalt. The continuous freeze and thaw cycles make it difficult to catch up once the potholes appear. New road surfaces will benefit all coming and going from Seward for many years. Seward is home to the northern most ice free deep water port in Alaska. The Alaska Railroad's freight dock is busy year-round and serves as Anchorage's backup dock should the Port of Anchorage experience an icy Cook Inlet or an emergency occurs. The Railroad Cruise Ship Terminal is experiencing an increase in ship visits. Seward is a destination for world travelers who contribute heavily to the Alaskan economy. Nearly 75% of Seward's General Fund budget relies on sales tax receipts. Our community roads must be maintained in order to support the state and local economies. The City is looking for $1.5 million to finish the investment on this important project. Community Health Center Program Community Health Centers (CHCs) are neighborhood health centers generally serving Medically Underserved Areas and Health Professional Shortage Areas, including our clinic in Seward. With the passage of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, mandatory funding for Federal healthcare programs that support CHCs was extended for an additional 2 years, at $3.6 billion/year in each of FY 2016 and FY 2017. This averted the so-called "Primary Care Cliff', which would have meant the end of mandatory funds for CHCs and a 70% cut in funding. The remaining 30% of funding comes through annual appropriations via HHS's Health Resources and Service Administration. The Seward Health Clinic was awarded $241,000 in funding last fall for expanded care services from this program. The Centers recently have been recognized for their work on the front lines of combatting opioid abuse, with $94 million awarded nationally by HRSA for drug abuse treatment at the community level. The City supports for FY 2018 the same amount appropriated in 2016 and 2017 of $1.49 billion and, at the appropriate time, further extension of mandatory funding. We understand that Senators Wicker and Stabenow are circulating a letter in support of CHC funding. The City recommends that Senators Murkowski and Sullivan either sign the Senate group letter or submit individual appropriations requests. The City would like to thank Congressman Young for signing the CHC funding letter in the House. EPA Commercial Fishing Vessel Incidental Discharges The latest version of the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, S. 168, was introduced by Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) in January. The legislation would pre-empt state management of ballast water discharges in favor of a uniform national rule, and permanently exempt all commercial fishing vessels from the EPA's NPDES discharge permit requirements. The Senate Commerce Committee reported the bill to the full Senate on a contested partisan vote on January 24, and the bill was reported to the full Senate on March 30. Representative Duncan Hunter (R- CA) introduced House companion legislation, H.R. 1154, on February 16. This bill is likely to be offered as an amendment for inclusion in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act when it is marked up by the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. A coalition of eleven States is aggressively opposing the current legislation over the ballast water issue. Senators representing these States have the ability to successfully filibuster S. 168 as a stand-alone measure. The moratorium blocking the EPA rule governing commercial fishing vessel discharges is set to expire December 19. Senate proponents of S. 168 are not prepared to separate the ballast water issue from the commercial fishing vessel NPDES permit issue at this time. The City is concerned that the gridlock over the ballast water issue will cause the commercial fishing vessel moratorium to expire in December. The City is requesting the Alaska Delegation's ongoing support to make the moratorium permanent so that resident fishermen and operators of small non -fishing commercial vessels are not subjected to needless and costly regulatory requirements. Seward Marine Industrial Center Basin Breakwater The Seward Marine Industrial Center ("SMIC") is a vital component of the U.S. maritime infrastructure. It is located at an ice -free deep -water port. It supports the recent increase and growth in Arctic marine traffic, shipping via the Northwest Passage, new Arctic routes, homeland security, military, Arctic research, and is a desirable location for petroleum and natural gas companies as SMIC offers road and rail access to Anchorage and surrounding Alaska. Seward's central geography enables provision of critical ship repair, fuel, moorage, and support facilities for maritime vessels traveling through Anchorage, Kodiak, Western Alaska and the Arctic. SMIC provides essential ship haul -out and maintenance/repair services at the drydock with a 330-ton Marine TraveLift and 5,000-ton Synchrolift. Existing utility infrastructure and significant upland acreage offer ample space for vessel repairs, marine support services, cargo storage, staging, and future development. Since construction in the 1980s, the SMIC basin has been unprotected from ocean swells and boat wake action, rendering SMIC's wharfing structures unusable most of the year. The dock structure and fendering systems have been damaged by wave action and the Synchrolift dock has been damaged by the rolling of a berthed vessel. There has been a shortage of safe moorage in Seward for larger commercial vessels, forcing tugs, barges, and other vessels to anchor or "jog" while awaiting moorage, cargo, or repair and maintenance operations. Shipyard and SMIC customers and many potential users have been forced to bypass Seward altogether. Additionally, the lack of moorage at SMIC negatively impacts the use and development of the entire facility, including the ample upland area. These issues are being addressed with the construction of an 1100' rock breakwater that will enclose the basin and provide roughly 15 acres of protected moorage. This $20 million project, funded by the State of Alaska general obligation bonds and legislative appropriations, is under construction and nearing completion. The City has $6 million remaining to add a floating dock, crane, anodes, and widen the Travel Lift. There is no Army Corps cost associated with this project. The increased utility gained by the SMIC breakwater and expansion will foster the private development of the extensive uplands available. Uplands development would support additional services, infrastructure, and address the increased demand for cargo and staging areas at the three major mainland Alaska ports of Seward, Whittier, and Anchorage. Development of SMIC will enable Seward to better support moving goods and materials throughout the State via the Alaska Railroad. The following is a list of the growing demand for additional moorage and laydown yard space — Based on increasing freight deliveries to Seward, the Alaska Railroad has issued its five- year Seward Master Plan for calling for additional moorage/wharf capacity, new roads, and industrial space. The AVTEC Maritime Program has increased its training of Alaskans for marine industry jobs statewide, noting the value of the SMIC breakwater for future statewide economic growth, increased workforce development and employment opportunities in training. The new UAF School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Research Vessel (the RN SIKULIAQ) homeports in Seward. The SMIC industrial harbor has been identified as a desirable laydown/transition area for the Alaska LNG Project should it move forward. As the long-awaited breakwater becomes reality, interest in uplands parcel leases has picked up substantially, and development of already leased parcels has accelerated as the project moves forward. Alaska Maritime Training Center (information provided by AVTEC) The Alaska Maritime Training Center ("AMTC") is nationally accredited by the Commission of the Counsel on Occupational Education and is a United States Coast Guard Approved Maritime Training School. The AVTEC- Alaska Maritime Training Center has been delivering maritime related courses since 1969. In the early 1980 AVTEC started offering United States Coast Guard approved course and became a USCG approved training facility. AVTEC has been an approved facility for over 45 years. AMTC's mission is to build a domestic maritime workforce focused on Alaska industry needs and Alaska's challenging operational environment, including the Arctic Region. The mission also includes providing Alaskans with the skills and technical knowledge to enable them to thrive in Alaska's challenging and ever evolving maritime working environment. AMTC currently possess 38 USCG approved courses for training mariners in both the Deck and Engineering departments. One of those approved courses is Ice Navigation. This is the only USCG approved Ice Navigation course in the United States. We have also developed both the Basic and Advanced Training Courses for Ships Operating in Polar Waters. These courses meet the International Maritime Organization, STCW Polar Code guidelines. All Merchant Mariner Deck Officers operating in the Polar Regions will be required to have this training by July 1, 2018_ AMTC will be offering the first Polar Code courses July, 2017 and these are the only courses in the United States that meet these requirements. AMTC possesses both entry level and advanced United States Coast Guard and International Maritime Organization approved courses that inevitably allow AVTEC to serve more Alaskan Mariners. AMTC possesses the only true DNV Class A full mission bridge simulator in Alaska. This is a necessary tool to train Marine Pilots and all three State Pilot Associations (AMP, SEAPA, and SWAPA) train at AVTEC. AMTC has supported mission specific, vessel specific maritime industry training for decades. Last summer, AMTC completed an Advanced Ice Navigation Course for the USCG Icebreaker Healy Junior Officers. AMTC has been involved in several research and development projects involving the use of the Full Mission Bridge Simulator. The most recent and prominent completed studies have been for the Port of Anchorage and AK -LNG. We are currently working on an R & D project for ports of refuge for Tankers in Prince William Sound and self -arresting Tankers in Cook Inlet. AMTC trained the Indonesian Navy and Coast Guard in Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems. This training was customized to help them use advanced communication tools for anti -piracy techniques. AMTC is a pioneer in maritime youth outreach and delivers maritime courses to Junior and Senior high school students all over Alaska. The first course is called Introduction to Nautical Skills. This class is a video teleconference course that has reached many school districts across the state. The class is a prerequisite for The Young Fisherman's Program. This is a course delivered on site, at the high school and is more intensive. Both courses have been very popular and industry endorsed. All AVTEC Maritime Courses are Veteran Affairs (VA) approved. They are also approved by the Workforce Development Grant to support displaced workers training needs. Sponsored by: Planning and Zoning Commission First Public Hearing: May 8, 2017 Second Public Hearing: May 22, 2017 Enactment Date: May 22, 2017 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-028 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, ADOPTING AND RECOMMENDING THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH APPROVE VOLUMES I AND II OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO INCLUDE THE LAND USE PLAN MAP WHEREAS, the 2020 Seward Comprehensive Plan was approved by City Council on August 8, 2005; and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan is a document the Council uses to manage and facilitate the decisions made in the growth of our community; and WHEREAS, during the last twelve (12) years the community of Seward has experienced significant growth and change; and WHEREAS, in January 2015 the City applied for and received Kenai Peninsula grant funding to assist with the update of the 2020 Compressive Plan; and WHEREAS, through the RFP process the City selected PDC Engineers to gather public input, work with the Planning and Zoning Commission and City staff to complete the update of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, over the last two years the Planning and Zoning Commission has held thirteen (13) public work sessions and meetings working on the updates; and WHEREAS, PDC Engineers has completed the update and submitted the final draft of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan including the Land Use Map for approval by the City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough; and WHEREAS, all amendments to the City Comprehensive Plan must be approved by Ordinance of the Kenai Peninsula Borough, as per KPB Ordinance 21.01.025, A; and WHEREAS, having complied with the public notification process on April 18, 2017 the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and approved Resolution 2017-06, recommending the City Council adopt and recommend the Kenai Peninsula Borough approve volumes I and II of the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan Map. CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-028 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA that: Section 1. The Seward City Council hereby approves the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, to include the Land Use Plan Map. Section 2. The Council further recommends the Kenai Peninsula Borough approve the 2030 Seward Comprehensive Plan. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption. PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 22nd day of May, 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Bardarson, Mayor AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Johanna Kinney, CMC City Clerk (City Seal) Agenda Statement Meeting Date: May 8, 2017 To: City Council Through: Jim Hunt, City Manager Ron Long, Assistant City Manager From: Donna Glenz, Planner Agenda Item: Council approval of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan and recommendation to KPB for approval BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION: The Seward Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2005, and provides a guide for community development pertaining to land use, transportation facilities, economic development, public facilities and services. The 2030 Comprehensive Plan is a long range policy document adopted and amended by the City Council. The Plan establishes a vision for the City provides policy guidance for growth and development and contains action items directed at the City to implement the vision. During the last twelve (12) years the community of Seward has experienced growth and.change. The community needs to have an accurate and current Comprehensive Plan that expresses the community's desire for future growth and development. In January 2015 the Council approved Resolution 2015-008 requesting grant funding from the Kenai Peninsula Borough for the purpose of updating the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The Kenai Peninsula Borough approved Ordinance 2014-19-47 which appropriated a $50,000.00 grant to the City of Seward for the Comprehensive Plan update. Through the Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the City hired PDC Engineers to gather public input, work with the Planning and Zoning Commission and City staff to complete the update of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. PDC Engineers has completed the update and submitted the final draft of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan including the Land Use Plan Map for approval by the City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough. Over the last two years the Planning and Zoning Commission held thirteen (13) public work sessions and meetings updating the 2030 Plan. Members of the public where notified and attended work sessions and meetings, providing comments and input through several sources including hard copy and digital surveys, using the City and Comprehensive Plan webpages, Facebook, local newspapers and media sources. Having complied with the public notification process on April 18, 2017 the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and approved Resolution 2017-06, recommending the City Council adopt volumes I and II of the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan Map. The Commission also recommended the Council forward the plan to the Kenai Peninsula Borough for approval. Two members of the public were present at the meeting and also voiced support for the approval of the plan. CONSISTENCY WITH CITY PLANS Yes No N/A Comprehensive Plan (2020, approved by Council August 8, 2005) 1. • Was written to provide a vision and guidance for growth and X development through the year 2020. Strategic Plan (Approved by Council Resolution 99-043): Pursue the community's vision through rigorous implementation of 2' the Comprehensive and Land Use Plans X • Ensure that all legislative and administrative decisions are consistent with the goals of the Strategic and Comprehensive Plans Page 10 & Bullet 3) Seward City Code 15.05.010. - Seward Comprehensive Plan. From time to time, upon recommendation of the city council, the Kenai Peninsula Borough assembly shall by ordinance modify, adopt and 3. implement the Seward Comprehensive Plan. The plan is a public X declaration of policies reflecting community goals as expressed by citizens, and is meant to guide the actions of elected officials in setting forth the goals, objectives, and policies governing the future development within the city. INTENT: Council to approve the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and recommend KPB approval. FISCAL NOTE: The Comprehensive Plan update has been financed by the Kenai Peninsula Borough grant P058308. Approved by Finance Department:4DbA ,&, ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes No N/A-X RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Council approve Resolution 2017-028 , adopting the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan Map. Sponsored by: Staff CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2017-06 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVE VOLUMES I AND II Oh THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO INCLUDE THE LAND USE MAP WHEREAS, the 2020 Seward Comprehensive Plan was approved by City Council on August 8, 2005; and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan is a document the Council uses to manage and facilitate the decisions made in the growth of our community; and WHEREAS, during the last twelve (12) years the community of Seward has experienced significant growth and change; and WHEREAS, in January 2015 the City applied for and received Kenai Peninsula grant funding to assist with the update of the 2020 Compressive Plan; and WHEREAS, through the RFP process the City selected PDC Engineers to gather public input, work with the Planning and Zoning Commission and City staff to complete the update of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, over the last two years the Planning and Zoning Commission has held thirteen (13) public work sessions and meetings working on the updates; and WHEREAS, PDC Engineers has completed the update and submitted the final draft of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan including the Land Use Map for approval by the City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough; and WHEREAS, having complied with the public notification process on April 18, 2017 the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and made the following recommendations. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission that: Section 1. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends the Seward City Council approve the 2030 Seward Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Map. Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution 2017-06 Page 2 of 2 Section 2. The Commission further recommends the Council submit the 2030 Seward Comprehensive Plan to the Kenai Peninsula Borough and recommend approval. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. PASSED AND APPROVED by the Seward Planning. and Zoning Commission this 18`1` day of April, 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD ha Fleming, ice -Chair AYES: Seese, Ambrosiani, Fleming NOES: Anderson ABSENT: Carlton, Swann, Ecklund ABSTAIN: None VACANT: None ATTEST: Jo anna Kirin C C' y Clerk (City Seal) `1 SL.. N i DPP . i i t_`• i ' r, City of Seward, Alaska April 18, 2017 Planning Commission Mbrutes Volume 7, Page 233 Resolution 2017-06 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska recommending City Council approve Volumes I and II of the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land. Use Map Glenz noted that the proposed amendments to the Land Use Map were displayed and directed Commissioners to the included zoning areas. Glenz described the proposed amendments and summarized the public comment that had been received during the work sessions. Glenz stated the City began working on the Comprehensive Plan update in. January of 2015. The process included 13 public meetings. She noted the updated plan was to go before City Council for approval and recommendation to the Kenai Peninsula Borough for adoption. v Anderson asked if the approval could be postponed until the May 2" d meeting to include more Commissioners. Glenz stated the schedule, for adoption would be delayed to the point that the City of Seward might need to request A, extension from the Kenai Peninsula Borough and that a full Commission was not expected until the June meeting. Fleming asked if the Land Use Map amendments proposed for the Dairy Hill Tracts (former horse corral) would affect any planned to development. Glenz noted that the Land Use Map designation of Resource Management provided more flexibility for a land owner to rezone as necessary in the future. Glenn noted that A had rved no conunents from the public and recommended approval. 1114 Notice of public hearing and the public hearing was Hearing no one wishing to Motion (Seese/Ambrosianl) Motion Passed Unfinished Business — None New Business Items — None I ublished as required by law was noted public hearing was closed. Approve Resolution 2017-06 Yes: Seese, Ambrosiani, Fleming No: Anderson Informational Items and Reports (No action required) 2017 Planning & Zoning Meeting Schedule City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes April 18, 2017 Volume 7, Page 234 City Clerk Information Regarding Motions and Amendments Alaska Railroad Corp. Expansion Plan Meeting Permitting & Agency Information Day Glenz directed Commissioners to the City Clerk information in the packet that related to motions and amendments, which was intended to be helpful for effective meetings. Glenz also noted the Permitting & Agency Information Day, and that the Alaska Railroad Corp. would be present. Other agencies would be present as well. In response to Anderson, Glenz said the Community DevelQP�ent Department had been involved with six building permit reviews. In response to Seese, Glenz said the Permitting ',RAF lnfol Lion Day was an informational event and not required. ,t Commission Comments — Ambrosiani thanked staff for the work and effort in producing the Comprehensive Plan. Anderson said she also appreciated the work on the pant of staff to complete the Comprehensive Plan. Anderson added that she felt the comnrunity participation level was lower than she expected,iat influenced her vote to recommend the plan for approval. Fleming said the p partic ion seemed somewhat lower than during previous plan revision efforts. Sam e in was provided electronically, through surveys and social media, and that may hav �/ that participation was lower. SS Citizens' Comments -None Commission and Administratio esponse to Citizens' Comments — None Glenz noted that public participation during the previous Comprehensive Plan update was relatively low. Glenz said the two public meetings held by contractor PDC Engineers Inc. were well attended and the City sponsored work session to address the Land Use Plan Map was also well attended. In response to Fleming, Planning Technician Dwayne Atwood reiterated comments made by Glenz. He noted he had attended most meetings as a journalist and that the public participation during the previous Comprehensive Plan update was modest. The Commission and staff further discussed issues related to encouraging public participation, including the best ways to disseminate information and notices to inform residents. Final Draft: March 30, 2017 Vk"e ms`57 prepared by: PDC Engineers 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................. 2 1.1 A GUIDE TO THE USE OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN.........................................2 1.2 PURPOSE OF THE SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN...................................................................2 1.3 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE SEWARD 2020 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN............................................3 2 SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES...................................................................................6 2.1 COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES FOR 2030...............................................................................6 2.2 COMMUNITY VALUES..................................................................................................................6 3 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS..............................................12 3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.......................................................................................................12 3.2 LAND USE...................................................................................................................................13 3.3 HOUSING...............................................................................................................................................14 3.4 TRANSPORTATION...............................................................................................................................15 3.5 PORT AND HARBOR DEVELOPMENT..........................................................................................15 3.6 RECREATION........................................................................................................................................16 3.7 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES............................................................................................17 3.8 NATURAL HAZARDS...................................................................................................................18 3.9 QUALITY OF LIFE.................................................................................................................................19 APPENDICES- MAPS............................................................................................................................................. 21 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT 6 INTRODUCTION -2 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A GUIDE TO THE USE OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The 2030 Seward Comprehensive Plan Update (2030 Plan) is organized into two volumes. Volume I identifies the goals, objectives, and implementation action items, updat- ed and developed for each comprehensive plan element. Volume II presents background information and planning issues identified for each of these elements. The nine comprehensive plan elements include: economic development, land use, housing, transportation, port and harbor development, recreation, public facilities and ser- vices, natural hazards, and quality of life. The planning issues are community issues that have developed over time and are necessary to consider in implementing new projects that follow from the plan. The intent of Volume I is to provide a readily useable guide to aid the City of Seward and its citizens in the prepara- tion, adoption, amendment, revision, and implementation of specific plans, programs and regulations that derive from the vision embodied by the goals and objectives. In this introduction, the accomplishments of the 2020 Plan are listed as a baseline from which to proceed. The overall community vision and values follow immediately from the introduction. In the final section, the heart of the 2030 Plan, the goals, objectives and implementation action items are listed for the each of the plan elements. Volume II briefly describes the history, setting, and de- mographics of Seward, and then presents the background and analysis of each plan element identified in Volume I. The intent of this volume is to supply important sup- plemental information to assist the City of Seward in attaining the goals and objectives set forth in Volume I. 1.2 PURPOSE OF THE SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The community of Seward has seen a significant amount of change since it was established as a port and selected as the southern terminus for the Alaska Railroad in the early 1900s. Over the past two decades, the community has experienced the increases in the cruise ship indus- try, increases in charter boat and railroad bookings, the opening of the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), and in- termittent coal shipments to Korea. These changes have had significant effects on the land use, economy, and character of the community. 7§4 M 1-3 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 The continuing challenge is to retain Seward's unique historic, small-town character, while pursuing modern economic development opportunities and accommodat- ing changes in business services, public facilities, and affordable housing. The 2030 Plan is the community's guide for managing this process. Seward is among the most active communities in Alas- ka in planning projects using the public process. The 1998 community vision project, which culminated in the development of the 1999 strategic plan, recommended revising the comprehensive plan in accordance with the goal: "Maintain Comprehensive and Land Use Plans that reflect and achieve the community's vision" The city has utilized the information gathered in previous commu- nity surveys, plans, the Partnership 2000 process, and the strategic plan visioning process to revise the present comprehensive plan. As dictated by the Seward City Code, the 2030 Plan contains both advisory and binding elements. The ad- visory elements include strategies for improving public services and facilities, promoting economic development, and maintaining and enhancing the quality of life. The binding element is the land use plan, which can be changed only by amendment, upon petition by the land owners or at the initiation of the Planning and Zoning Commission. The land use plan forms the basis for updating land use regulations and policies. Title 29 of the Alaska State Statutes requires that zoning regulations be based on a current comprehensive plan. The updated 2030 Plan helps to evaluate discrepancies between existing land use and what the plan has identified as preferred land use; thereby dictating what changes should be made to the existing zoning ordinance. Additional purposes for updating a comprehensive plan are that it will: • Anticipate trends in the community; forecast needs for land use, city infrastructure, public services, and economic development; and develop strategies to achieve community goals and objectives. • Provide guidance on how land use and infrastruc- ture decisions can create opportunities for economic development. • Guide the city on how to best use lands it owns through municipal entitlement under the Alaska Statehood Act. • Develop priorities and justify funding requests to the local community, Alaska State Legislature, United States Congress, and public agencies for capital and transportation improvements. • Maintain the health and safety of residents and visitors. • Coordinate and involve public agencies affecting the economic and social life of Seward. • Preserve and enhance the town's best features. • Foster participation of Seward residents in making public decisions, evaluating community progress, and developing community consensus on the future of the city. This plan has been prepared with the assistance of City Staff, community members, and representatives of rele- vant organizations through a series of public meetings. In the spirit of achieving long-term objectives for the greatest common benefit, the 2030 Plan addresses pri- vate as well as public lands, facilities, and services. It anticipates future needs and opportunities for the city. It is designed to ensure that Seward is a better place for people to live and work. 1.3 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE SEWARD 2020 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1.3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goal: Strengthen and diversify the economy of Seward by working with the private sector and other govern- mental units. • Completion of Army and Air Force military recreation camp enhancement projects. • Construction of a new cargo dock by Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC). • Continued development of the Seward Marine In- dustrial Center (SMIC). • Development of heritage tourism and other historic heritage opportunities. • Replaced the Institute of Marine Science (IMS) re- search vessel. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT 6 INTRODUCTION 1-4 1.3.2 LAND USE Goal: Maintain Seward's Land Use Plan as the primary local tool to ensure quality community land use arrange- ments, growth, and development to the year 2010. • Constructed new Community Library and Museum. • North Forest Acres Levee and Transfer Facility Road. • Adopted All Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2010. • Adoption of Floodplain Management Ordinance, Amended 2013 and 2016. • Reviewed and updated the Sign Code. • Consolidated, reviewed and updated all definitions in Title 15 of the city code. • Updated the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) Plan. • Adoption of Municipal Lands Management Plan in 2014 1.3.3 TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES Goal: Maintain Seward's Transportation Plan as the primary local tool to ensure safe and convenient trans- portation facilities that address the needs of Seward res- idents, businesses and visitors to the year 2010. • Completed construction of a new road from the Seward Highway to the transfer facility that bypasses the Forest Acres Subdivision. • Updated city code provisions for driveway widths. • Constructed a new road to Seward Mountain Haven long-term care facility. • Constructed a new SMIC breakwater to create a har- bor basin. • Upgraded the electrical service to the SMIC north dock. • Harbor expansion, including float replacement and electrical upgrades. 1.3.4 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES Goal: Continue to improve the quality ofpublic facilities and services made available to the residents of Seward. 1.3.4.1 Utilities • Electric emergency generation plant and warehouse. • Continued placement of utility lines underground throughout the service area. • Completed electric utility rates study. • Major upgrade of Third Avenue water main. • Construction of new 600,000 gallon water storage tank. 1.3.4.2 Waste Management • Major upgrade and dredging of sewer lagoons at Lowell Point and SMIC. 1.3.4.3 Health Care & Social Services • Completed new long-term care facility. • Explored the feasibility of providing veterans care locally. • Established federally qualified health center clinic to provide more affordable access to primary health care. 1.3.4.4 Public Safety • ADA public sidewalk improvements, ongoing. • Supported Alaska Department of Fish and Game's Bear Safe Community Program. • New fire department ladder truck. • Relocated U.S. Coast Guard building a moorage to enhance response time and capability. 1.3.4.5 Governmental Services • Continued review of sites to identify an alternative location for the city shop facility. • Compiled, distributed, and posted on the City's web site a City of Seward directory of information. 1.3.4.6 Parks and Recreation • Platted, zoned, and dedicated for park purposes, Two Lakes Park, Waterfront Park, and Benny Benson Me- morial Park. • Continued efforts to refurbish the Seward Community Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery. • Continual yearly beautification of Hoben Park and Kawabe Park. • Automation of campground pay stations. FEWR�A PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT -5 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 Continued to work with ALPAR, the Kenai Penin- sula Borough and other agencies in the cleanup and reduction of trash and litter. 1.3.4.7 Cultural Facilities Options studied on refurbishing the Jesse Lee Home with local advisory board and recommendations lined out in Historic Structure Report. 1.3.5 EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES Goal: Support efforts to continually improve the quality of educational facilities located in Seward and ensure that these facilities continue to enhance the community. Adjoined campuses for the pre-K 12 schools complex with a new bike path. Replaced middle school. AVTEC construction of new dormitory, new culi- nary arts facility, new heavy equipment and diesel mechanic facility, fire training facility and maritime simulator facility. 1.3.6 COMMUNITY APPEARANCE Goal: Improve the appearance of the entire community through increased landscaping, beautification and litter control efforts, through more attention to sign control and through promoting the preservation of Seward's historic architecture. (See Parks and Recreation for accomplish- ments meeting this goal concurrently) • Many private businesses and residences along the Seward Highway/Third Avenue corridor and in the entire community landscaped their properties. • Installation of three new community signs: Welcome to Seward, Small Boat Harbor, and Downtown signs along the Seward Highway/Third Avenue corridor. • Removal of numerous abandoned and dilapidated buildings by both city and private property owners. • Improved pedestrian pathway for access to and from schools. • Upgraded downtown decorative lights to LED. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES W SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 2.1 COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES FOR 2030 Building on its impressive heritage and natural setting, • the community's vision for itself includes: an attractive, healthy, vibrant community; a strong diverse economy with quality business, educational and recreational opportunities; a process for orderly growth; and an appreciation of local history, culture and community. 2.2 COMMUNITY VALUES The values of a community reflect and drive the quality of its life. This quality is also impacted by such factors as: • geographic, cultural and historic features that are unique to a community; M011111� the type and quantity of human activities in the area as shown by economic indicators, vital statistics and population data, education and health statistics, and other data; the opinions and experiences that the community collectively embodies. In order to maintain or improve the overall quality of life, these underlying community values must be known and respected. The following are key community values identified by the citizens of Seward with supporting di- rections for the plan. 2.2.1 Small Town Feel and Atmosphere We value the "small town feel" and friendly atmosphere. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 The following items have been identified by citizens as contributing to Seward's small town atmosphere: • people are friendly and you know your neighbors • a comfortable, relaxed attitude • a dynamic historic downtown and a thriving boat harbor • a high level of citizen commitment to the community • convenient access throughout town; a pedestrian friendly downtown • pride in our historic downtown district and historical surrounding areas • an attractive community appearance 2.2.2 Natural Environment and Open Space We value clean air, clean water and a healthy, natural environment for people and wildlife. We value natural open spaces and the scenic views of the surrounding undeveloped mountains. We value quiet in our residential neighborhoods. • Develop a beach erosion and storm surge protection program. • Protect our ecosystem and public health. • Preserve and protect the scenic views of the mountains and Resurrection Bay. • Seek ways to protect the watershed and mitigate de- velopment impacts on the slopes of Bear Mountain, Marathon Mountain, Mount Benson and the Mount Alice bench. • Encourage education and support our environment. 2.2.3 Community Appearance We value a clean, well - maintained community, beautification through landscaping, and restoration of our historic structures. • Encourage citizens as well as the city to take an active role in beautifying the community. • Maintain a clean, litter -free community. • Support an effective recycling program. • Continue to require landscaping plans for conditional use permits as feasible. • Continue the enforcement method for violations of city codes affecting community appearance. • Support activities initiated by the Seward Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC). • Implement aesthetics when designing and maintain- ing roadways. • Encourage historic conservation and preservation within our city. 2.2.4 Recreation We value diverse, year-round, indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities and facilities for residents and visitors of all ages. • Update the 1993 City of Seward Parks Master Plan and encourage regular updating. • Include a dog park in the Parks Master Plan. • Support the development of indoor and outdoor rec- reational facilities. 0 Explore development of a community center. 0 Complete construction of new restroom at Wil- liams Park. 0 Expand utility sites in campgrounds, based on demand. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT x SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES JJ -8 2.2.5 Education We value a community that will ensure that pre-K-12 and post -secondary education institutions have the resources and programs to provide quality educational opportunities to our children and residents. • Support the return of a Community Schools concept for adult education. • Support a safer traffic route among the three schools by supporting the development of adjoining campuses for a pre-K 12 schools complex. • Support a local Head Start program. • Support the development of local University of Alaska campus (School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences) and degree programs. • Support infrastructure for the RV Sikuliaq and their research. • Support the mission and programs of the Alaska Vo- cational Technical Center to develop the workforce. • Support educational opportunities which are enhanced by Seward's physical geography and economic activities. • Support the efforts of all educational organizations and government agencies, including the Seward Community Library and Museum, Alaska SeaLife Center, National Park Service (NPS), and US Forest Service (USFS), to provide educational opportunities that incorporate community resources into education programs. • Support quality after -school education programs, including the Boys & Girls Club. • Support adequate funding for education, including intra-school district sports and art and music programs. 2.2.6 Health Care We value effective, accessible, and affordable healthcare. • Explore the feasibility of a borough health care ser- vice area. • Support additional beds and short-term stay beds at the hospital. • Support co -location of long-term care facility and medical center. • Explore the feasibility of providing veterans care locally. • Support medical health care professionals to relocate to Seward. • Pursue affordable health care insurance through bor- ough, state and federal sources. • Encourage cooperation between all health care pro- viders. • Support educational, preventative and rehabilitation social services. • Retain Seward as the hub for social services on the Eastern Kenai Peninsula. • Continue to support Independent Living Center, SeaView Community Services and Seward Senior Center and other similar organizations. • Explore the After Birth Services for families in Seward. • Pursue program for restoring ground ambulance ser- vice between Seward and Anchorage. • Maintain status of federally qualified health center, which provides federal funding and access to afford- able health care for the uninsured and underinsured. 2.2.7 Community Partnerships We value the contributions of the various organizations and individuals who work to better our community. • Encourage all citizen participation in community organizations. • Continue support for active city/borough relationships in areas of mutual interest that impact our community. • Continue supporting community organizations and their private grants that enhance our community. • Approve resolutions of support for endeavors and projects of various organizations and individuals which benefit the community. • Continue community support for the collaboration between the Seward Library and Museum and the FEWRWI PLHN •DESIGN • CD-PUCi M 1-9 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 Resurrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS), and the Seward Community Library Association. 2.2.8 City Government We value an open, responsive city government based on a high level of citizen input and community involvement. We value a fiscally sound government that provides high quality services. • Keep up-to-date the City of Seward directory of in- formation on the City's web site. • Continue to review and update the city code. • Develop practical enforcement procedures for code violations. • Recommend the development of a policy and proce- dure manual for each department. • Explore the possibility of annexing surrounding areas, studying economic and social effects. • Support for continued legislative services and lobbyists. • Create a funding mechanism for the repair and re- placement of city infrastructure. • Replace outdated technology to improve productivity and public service. 2.2.9 Public Safety We value a safe community and a feeling of security. • Support adequate police services and equipment. • Periodically review, evaluate, update, and conduct simulations of all emergency plans, especially the Emergency Preparedness Plan, training core city staff and community members. • Support a safe house for victims of domestic violence. • Maintain an effective public safety communications network in Seward, including an enhanced emergency 911 system and corrected street addresses. • Encourage annual reporting of crime statistics, analysis of crime incidents, and recommendations for solutions. • Encourage marine safety activities. • Establish additional north -south routes throughout the community for emergency evacuations. • Identify & support an appropriate site for a new an- imal control shelter. • Ensure a high level of fire protection within the com- munity by periodic evaluation and update of the Fire Master Plan. • Continue support of Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Anticipate future demands for their services and how to best meet those needs. • Support the installation of ambulance warning lights at the intersection of Third and D Street. • Continuously plan for future police services to ensure the highest level of public safety within the community. • Review, update and support the Hazard Mitigation Plan. • Continue to support Alaska Department of Fish and Game's Bear Safe Community Program. • Continue support of the Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area Board. • Improve and increase the availability of public parking. • Improve the safety of city -owned buildings. • Improve pedestrian and street lighting. • Support fire services, volunteer fire fighters and equipment. • Support upgrading fire station, and addition of annex station. 2.2.10 Land Development We value orderly growth and balanced development that is driven by community consensus in conformance with the land use plan. • Develop a land use plan for the former Air Force Recreation Camp property. • Ensure all adopted codes reflect community values. • Encourage home ownership opportunities. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT 6 SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 1-10 M • Develop a land use plan for the east side of Resur- rection Bay. • Enable a more viable property use at Fifth Avenue and B Street by encouraging the relocation of the State maintenance facility. 2.2.11 Economic Base We value a stable economic environment, economic diversity, year-round businesses, environmentally responsible industry, and employment that promote a high standard of living. • Support adoption and incorporation of the Chamber of Commerce Economic Growth Plan. • Provide modern communications infrastructure. • Explore ways to reduce energy costs. • Encourage the development of infrastructure expan- sion plans for currently undeveloped residential and commercial property. • Promote infill development by encouraging and pro- moting construction on vacant sites in areas of the city which are already established • Explore incentives to attract more year-round private sector industries to augment the tax base. • Support the promotion of sporting, cultural events, conventions and other activities year-round. • Support an aggressive Chamber of Commerce mar- keting campaign highlighting the quality of life and diverse resources that make Seward a desirable place to live and establish a business. • Expand maritime trade for commercial fishing, in- cluding the addition of a crane and grid. • Support Seward schools to attract and retain families. • Support expansion of the Institute of Marine Science (IMS) infrastructure. • Improve and expand port facilities to attract more maritime trade. • Continue development of SMIC as a revenue source with year-round employment opportunities. • Encourage the prudent management of resources for healthy commercial and sports fishing industries. • Promote and protect wild salmon habitat to reduce dependency on hatchery -raised salmon smolt. • Promote expansion and development of local marine entrepreneurial businesses. • Maintain haul out facilities for all vessels. • Educate and encourage historic economic incentives. 2.2.12 Transportation Facilities We value diverse transportation facilities including road, rail, air, pedestrian, and water routes that meet the needs of residents, businesses and visitors. 2.2.12.1 Traffic Management • Develop a transportation plan for Seward. • Designate truck and bus routes to minimize traffic in residential neighborhoods. • Support enhanced public transportation throughout the community. 2.2.12.2 Parking, Loading Areas, and Transportation Facilities �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT M 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 -11 • Assure adequate public parking and loading areas for the harbor slip -holders. • Encourage safe on -site loading areas for service ve- hicles in commercial and institutional zones. 2.2.12.3 Road construction • Support adequate funding to maintain safe roads year round. • Support forward funding for major road repairs and upgrades. • Enforce sight triangles at major intersections to im- prove traffic and pedestrian safety. • Work with the Alaska Railroad Corporation to im- prove local railroad crossings. 2.2.12.4 Sidewalks, Bike Paths and Rights of Way • Approve a sidewalk and pathway policy to enhance pedestrian mobility and safety. • Support efforts to maintain integrity of the waterfront bike path. • Support efforts to extend the bike path out the Seward Highway. • Extend boardwalk to the South harbor uplands. • Support reconstruction of the Benny Benson Lagoon boardwalk. 2.2.12.5 Air traffic • Establish flight corridors to minimize intrusions on the community's quality of life. • Support commercial commuter service. 2.2.12.6 Marine • Support establishment of Alaska Marine Highway System service. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 1-12 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 3.1.1 Attract new business and industry to the greater Seward area. 3.1.1.1 Develop an active marketing campaign that highlights the diverse resources and quality of life that makes Seward an attractive place in which to live and to establish a business or industry. • Support efforts of village and regional Alaska Native corporations to expand business activities and services. • Encourage the enhancement of private businesses in downtown Seward as the community's traditional retail core. • Promote seasonal and year-round tourism, including heritage tourism. • Promote year-round sporting events, cultural produc- tions, conventions and other activities. • Support Alaska Native cultural events and activities. 3.1.1.2 Update and expand infrastructure for commercial and industrial properties that are currently underdeveloped. Encourage development of Seward's Industrial Zone. • Support railroad expansion plans and extend utilities to Alaska Railroad lands. • Support and improve the airport. • Improve roads within the industrial zone. • Encourage and support downtown revitalization ef- forts on vacant and dilapidated buildings. • Support development of modern communications infrastructure. • Continue to support efforts to develop alternative energy sources. • Improve and expand maritime facilities (see Port and Harbor Development). 7§4 1-13 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 3.1.1.3 Enhance Seward's international role in 3.2 LAND USE trade and tourism. • Explore foreign trade zone. • Develop Heritage Tourism and other historic heritage opportunities. 3.1.1.4 Support private sector employment and programs. • Support home businesses. 3.1.1.5 Support public sector employment and programs. 3.1.1.6 Support existing public institutions in their effort to maintain, expand and develop. • Continue to advocate on behalf of the University of Alaska in their efforts to expand the Institute of Ma- rine Science (IMS) facility. • Continue to advocate the Department of Corrections and Alaska State Legislature to expand the Spring Creek Correctional Center (SCCC). • Continue to advocate for the growth of the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC). • Continue to support external funding for the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC). • Support existing public institutions in their efforts to maintain, expand and develop. 3.1.1.7 Encourage and assist in the development of new public services and facilities. • Support the construction of a courthouse/public safety building in Seward. • Encourage additional military facilities that upgrade Seward as a Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) destination. • Continue to explore economic renewable energy projects. 3.2.1 Promote residential and commercial development within the city of Seward and its vicinity in accordance with community values. 3.2.1.1 Manage land use to facilitate economic development while maintaining the historic, small town character of Seward. • Use city -owned land and tidelands to encourage feasible and sound economic development by setting devel- opment standards and performance periods through the leasing process. • Update, as needed, the Municipal Lands Manage- ment Plan. • Develop infrastructure and utility expansion plans for all undeveloped residential and commercial property within city limits. • Ensure uniform and consistent enforcement of the zoning code, building code, subdivision ordinance, and city lease agreements, and evaluate potential code changes to make enforcement easier. • Raise public awareness of development requirements in each zoning district. • Support the on -going dialogue with the Alaska Rail- road Corporation and the State of Alaska regarding the status and disposition of their undeveloped lands. • Develop and adopt open space overlay district. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 1-14 3.2.1.2 Expand the opportunity for affordable, Obtain equipment, software and training necessary diverse, year-round housing through to produce custom maps with overlays for presenting appropriate land use regulations. land use information necessary for project exhibits • Support mixed commercial and residential uses in used in planning, code revisions, purchasing, selling, the Seward downtown business district. and development proposals. • Support apartments and other high density residential development, including seasonal worker housing. 3.3 HOUSING 3.2.1.3 Establish an attractive highway corridor from Mile 0 to 8. • Coordinate with local residents and the Kenai Peninsula Borough Planning Department to develop a specific land use plan for the corridor from Resurrection River to Mile 8 and areas adjacent to the city. 3.2.2 Continue to support and improve the capacity of the office of Community Development. 3.2.2.1 Maintain community vision through 3.3.1 Encourage development of new rigorous implementation and update of housing in Seward. the Comprehensive and Land Use plans. • Regularly review, update, and affirm the Comprehen- 3.3.1.1 Support a range of housing choices that meet the needs of people in sive and Land Use plans through public participation various income and age groups. in town meetings, outreach to community groups, and increased public relations. • • Review and recommend administrative and legisla- tive decisions for consistency with the goals of the Strategic and Comprehensive plans. • Ensure the Comprehensive Plan is consistent with • the Strategic Plan when addressing infrastructure and growth ramifications. • Update the zoning code in order to implement the • Comprehensive Plan and bring the zoning map into conformance with the Land Use Plan. 3.2.2.2 Improve the capability of the office of Community Development to develop land use and other maps in Seward. Continue to support and fund in-house Geographic Information System (GIS) capability by coordinat- ing with other agencies to build on existing borough mapping that shows zoning, subdivisions, existing uses, natural hazards, and other GIS data. Develop a comprehensive housing plan to identify specific needs, to encourage residential development within the city, and to provide a reasonable range of housing options. Obtain information from comparative communities throughout the nation concerning their housing pro- cesses, including subdivision development. Encourage the development of seasonal employee housing. 3.3.1.2 Create incentives to provide land for housing development within the City of Seward. 3.3.1.3 Assess solutions to extend cost- effective utilities to home sites on land zoned for residential development. Set priorities for utility extension in a manner that encourages orderly residential development within and outside city limits. 7§4 1-15 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 • Authorize engineering studies to determine the costs of utility extensions to developable land within the city. • Study forming Local Improvement Districts (LIDS) to create an equitable method of paying for extensions by developers, buyers, and/or the city. • Encourage energy efficiency. 3.4 TRANSPORTATION 3.4.1 Provide safe and efficient vehicular transportation facilities that meet the needs of the community. • Facilitate and develop the public right of way connec- tion of Benson Drive through to Dora Way. • Complete the development of the existing Hemlock Avenue right of way east from Afognak through to the Seward Highway. • Examine and implement the development of a round- about at the Hemlock Avenue, Dimond Boulevard and Ash Street intersection. • Support enforcement/compliance of legal parking, storage and use of the public right of way. • Improve public transportation between downtown and the harbor. • Enforce parking consistently in the downtown and harbor areas. • Examine and implement a range of public parking solutions in the boat harbor area including: 0 Encourage day cruise and sport fishing charter operations to provide offsite private parking for their patrons. 0 Continue to provide information on parking lo- cations and regulations. • Explore and improve Industrial Zone traffic route. • Support the upgrade of Lowell Point Road. • Pave Oak Street route to Seward Mountain Haven care facility. • Pave Dieckgraeff Road to the solid waste transfer facility. 3.4.2 Expand and maintain existing sidewalks and the multi -purpose trail system in order to provide safe, fully accessible, pedestrian pathways throughout the city. • Develop an improvement plan for safe pedestrian and vehicular traffic articulation, including sidewalk extensions and year-round maintenance of pedestrian pathways. • Support the construction of sidewalks throughout the community. • Connect schools and residential areas through the development of safe public rights of way, sidewalks and trails. • Support the construction of a pedestrian and bike paths within the community. 3.4.3 Improve the usability of the state owned airport. • Encourage the State to: 0 Complete and implement a flood mitigation project to protect the runways from flooding. 0 Upgrade navigational aids with the latest, indus- trial standard technology. 3.4.4 Support the return of the Alaska Marine Highway presence in Seward. 3.5 PORT AND HARBOR DEVELOPMENT 6 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 1-16 3.5.1 Maintain a thriving port of Seward through harbor improvements, infrastructure expansion, and implementation of management plans. 3.5.1.1 Encourage the growth and development of an efficient, functional boat harbor that meets Seward's commercial and recreational needs. • Ensure sound development of private and public har- bor uplands with a plan that addresses the needs of harbor users and visitors by reviewing allowed uses in the harbor zoning district, including public parking and amenities. • Continue to add public amenities and improve the look of the harbor area through landscaping, and litter control. 3.5.1.2 Plan for adequate port infrastructure that will serve the needs of users in the main industrial/Alaska Railroad area and at the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC). • Support the Alaska Marine Highway System and Alaska Railroad to continue intermodal dock im- provements. • Continue working with the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS), Alaska Railroad, and cruise ship industries to develop convenient and well -publicized local, state, and national transportation connections from the port areas. • Coordinate with Seward Terminal and the Alaska Railroad in developing multiple uses of the coal load- ing dock. • Support the SMIC Development Plan to include new market trends and modern technologies for ship repair and construction, shipping of natural resource prod- ucts, boat storage, and other compatible industries, soliciting support from Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) and the US Economic Development Administration (EDA). • Support breakwater and harbor development that would accommodate large vessels. 3.6 RECREATION 3.6.1 Improve, expand and diversify year-round parks and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. 3.6.1.1 Improve existing and develop additional recreational infrastructure. • Improve playgrounds. • Maintain city campgrounds to include planting of native trees and shrubs, and ensures protection of the beach habitat. • Develop a landscape plan for Waterfront Park that provides for additional green space. • Encourage and continue development of walking and bike paths that connect residential areas to schools, parks and retail locations which are safe and as un- encumbered by vehicles as possible. • Sustain current zoning for city park lands. • Identify, protect, and preserve scenic and natural areas for recreational enjoyment. • Continue to protect and preserve all city parks. • Add additional park restrooms. • Address coastal erosion impacting waterfront camp- ground and bike path. 7§4 1-17 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 3.6.1.2 Update the 1993 Parks and Recreation Master Plan for improving and expanding recreational facilities, parks, playgrounds, day -use areas, camping areas, and trails, addressing the following items: Maintain public access to beaches by continuing City ownership of tidelands and upland access points. Develop an acquisition strategy to identify and secure sufficient and suitable public lands for parks, sports fields, greenbelts, open space, trails, trailhead parking and other public facilities, including easements to access these public lands. Ensure that Municipal land acquired for or converted to long-term or permanent -park or recreational uses are officially dedicated as park land. 3.6.1.3 Develop and promote winter tourism by expanding opportunities, creating advertisements, and marketing incentives to visit Seward during winter months. Support visitor studies that eliminate the duplication of counts and provide year-round visitor counts to target marketing. Support and promote existing back -country activities in cooperation with state and federal park agencies, Seward Parks and Recreation, and Seward Chamber of Commerce, and plan for future opportunities. Encourage the expansion of cross-country skiing and snow machining trails and the development of infra- structure for alpine skiing and ice- skating/hockey. 3.7 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES 3.7.1 Support efforts to continuously improve the quality of educational facilities and services. 3.7.1.1 Support development of infrastructure and acquisition of land that promotes educational activities. • Promote improved telecom capabilities for long dis- tance learning opportunities at the public schools, Alaska Vocational Technical Center, Alaska SeaLife Center, and other places of learning in the community. • Continue to coordinate with the Kenai Peninsula Bor- ough, the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, and the community to provide limited, safe access between Seward Elementary and Seward Middle and Seward High schools for emergency and bus transport purposes. • Continue to identify and acquire land, working with the Kenai Peninsula Borough to develop the pre-K 12 public school campus fully with adequate playing fields, safe road access, and compatible trail systems. 3.7.1.2 Support, strengthen and develop diverse educational and research programs at various public and non- profit institutions. • Support continued development and dissemination of educational programs and research at the Alaska SeaLife Center. • Support the expansion of research and public infor- mation capabilities of the Seward Marine Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks. • Continue working with the Kenai Peninsula College, University of Alaska Anchorage to form a degree -grant- ing branch. • Support the life-long learning needs of community residents through a variety of formal and informal educational opportunities. • Support the continued home porting of the research vessel Sikuliaq. • Provide opportunities for integrating arts and culture support programs in developments throughout the community. • Encourage the year-round use of public schools as neighborhood and community centers. 7§4 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 1-18 • Support the design, funding and construction of a 3.7.1.6 Maintain and actively enforce a new indoor recreation facility. hazardous material disposal program that coordinates with Borough, State, and Federal regulatory agencies. 3.7.1.3 Continue to improve the quality and efficiency of city governmental services. • Continue to revise and update the Seward City Code. • Adopt a community impact review process for pro- posed retail developments over 15,000 square feet. 3.7.1.4 Continue to upgrade and expand utilities to meet existing needs and encourage future development. • Evaluate and implement ways to equitably extend utilities to areas that are priorities for residential de- velopment (see Housing). • Continue to conduct rate studies on utilities as needed. • Support efficient, economic alternative sources of energy and feeding into the power grid. • Expand customer base within the Seward Electric Utility area as a means to reduce energy costs and improve services. 3.7.1.5 Plan to relocate and rebuild selected city facilities to improve compatibility with land uses and increase cost- effectiveness of services. • Relocate the city shop to a more appropriate area. • Support the design and construction of a recreation facility. • Relocate the animal shelter facility to a more appro- priate area. • Study the feasibility of a new city hall facility that consolidates city offices, separating out the state court- house and other state, borough and federal offices. • Support expansion and modernization of health care facilities. 3.7.1.7 Encourage the development of cost- efficient options for renewable energy production in Seward. 3.7.1.8 Support and develop opportunities for individual and community health improvement. 3.8 NATURAL HAZARDS 3.8.1 Promote community safety from natural disasters through mitigation measures and preparedness training. 3.8.1.1 Develop an open spaces overlay district. 3.8.1.2 Protect citizens from natural hazards by using appropriate land use policies and regulations. 3.8.1.3 Create sound public uses of potentially hazardous lands. • Continue to identify areas subject to natural haz- ards with appropriate state and federal agencies and understand the nature of these hazards particularly earthquakes and tsunamis, flooding, avalanches and landslides, and saturated soils. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT -19 1 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 Use potentially hazardous public lands for low risk 3.9 QUALITY OF LIFE uses such as open space, wildlife and bird habitat protection, and recreation activities. 3.8.1.4 Mitigate flood hazards. • Secure funding to implement a comprehensive flood mitigation plan for Resurrection River and Japanese Creek. • Maintain the Fourth of July Creek dike system and keep channel clear of debris. • Continue support of the Bear Creek/Seward Flood Service Area in planning, developing and implement- ing flood mitigation measures in adjacent areas that impact the safety and functioning of the city. • Continue planning with USACE and Federal Delegation for replacement of the Lowell Creek diversion tunnel. 3.8.1.5 Control development on lands subject to risks from seismic activity, floods, steep slopes prone to erosion, avalanches, landslides, and saturated soils. • Support building codes and practices that allow safe utilization of potentially hazardous lands and conform to state and federal regulations. • Investigate land trades and other mechanisms for acquisition of potentially hazardous lands. • Advocate building standards and planning in areas outside the city working with the Bear Creek/Seward Flood Service Area to avoid inappropriate development. • Secure funding to continually and adequately clear river channels of gravel and debris. • Develop and implement a beach restoration program. 3.8.2 Plan and prepare for disasters. • Continue to participate in the National Flood Insur- ance Program. • Coordinate with the Kenai Peninsula Borough to an- nually review and update all disaster emergency plans. • Coordinate community wide disaster preparedness training and public education efforts. • Strengthen the capacity of Seward Mountain Haven commons to serve as an alternate emergency operation center in the event of a declared disaster. 3.9.1 Enhance the "sense of community" including its economic and historic significance among residents of the greater Seward area. 3.9.1.1 Maintain Seward's small town, family - oriented character throughout the growth process. Encourage citizen participation in local organizations and task forces. Support community engagement programs that promote positive adult -youth relationships and cross genera- tional activities that enhance health and well-being. Encourage community appreciation of local history and support the continuation of traditions such as the Mount Marathon Race and other historical events. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT x GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS JL_ m I-20 ff- 3.9-1.2 Encourage the recognition, rehabilitation and preservation of prehistoric and historic sites, transportation routes, trails, buildings, objects and artifacts. • Support the Seward Historic Preservation Commission's (SHPC) efforts to raise public awareness regarding the inventory of local historic properties; as well as those properties listed on local, state and national registers; and benefits of placing properties on these registers. • Evaluate incentives, procedures, and regulations to encourage continued identification, inventory, acqui- sition, preservation, and restoration of buildings and sites. • Develop with SHPC appropriate information, guide- lines and incentives for owners to incorporate historic preservation using the Secretary of Interior's Stan- dards for Historic Preservation or locally determined standards. • Add a voluntary historic resources survey as part of the application for city building and conditional use permits. • Encourage planning and adaptive use of historic prop- erties to promote residential, cultural, commercial, and heritage tourism purposes: • Clarify roles of SHPC, Planning and Zoning Com- mission, and the City of Seward in regulating historic preservation and integrating it into the planning process. • Encourage preservation of historic landscaping, sup- port the Seward Historic Preservation Commission's Historic Plant and Tree Register. 3.9.2 Improve the appearance of and reduce unnecessary noise in the entire community. 3.9.2.1 Encourage citizens, as well as the city, to take an active role in beautifying the community. • Encourage the landscaping of developed property. • Increase recycling efforts to reduce litter and impact on landfill. • Evaluate measures to control improper signage and community "eyesores." • Support and encourage solid waste management " 3R's Reduce, Reuse, Recycle". • Support creation of a sustainable, comprehensive recycling program. • Support the Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Re- cycling (ALPAR). • Support Parks and Recreation Volunteer Community Clean Ups. • Support Christmas Tree Recycling for wood chips. • Evaluate citywide curbside pickup of recyclables. • Support community gardens. 3.9.2.2 Preserve and protect the scenic views of the mountains and Resurrection Bay. • Seek ways to minimize development impacts on the slopes of Bear Mountain, Mt. Marathon, Mt. Benson, and the Mt. Alice bench utilizing watershed protec- tion measures. • Ensure zoning that maximizes park purposes along the waterfront and waterway buffer areas, in partic- ular dedicating Waterfront Park for open space in perpetuity. • Promote ways to increase public awareness of historic significance along Waterfront Park. 3.9.2.3 Preserve the quiet of residential neighborhoods. • Support the ordinance on quiet hours. • Promote soundproofing of generators, air quality con- trol units, and other sources of noise in commercial or institutional zones adjacent to residential zones. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT M 1- 21 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0 Appendices - Maps '7 �� r 11 L A Single Family Residential Two . Family Residential Institutional Park Single Urban Residential Commercial FIB TIMMii7F71 M11ES M I S Map Components Sanitary Sewer Manholes © Lift Station PS- Pump Station Sewer Pressurized Mains Sewer Gravity Mains Water Parcels City of Seward, Sewer System Miles 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 SMIC 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 Miles N w e s Map Components 0 Production Well Water Hydrant 0 Water Main Water Parcels City of Seward, Water Distribution System Miles 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 Final Draft: March 30, 2017 Vk"e ms`57 prepared by: PDC Engineers 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 1 2 3 4 ri 6 7 HISTORY OF SEWARD.................................4 NATURAL SETTING...................................5 GEOLOGICAL SETTING ..............................6 DEMOGRAPHICS........................................7 10 4.1 Population..............................................7 4.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends .... 9 ECONOMY......................................................10 5.1 Employment..........................................10 11 5.2 Income.....................................................11 5.3 Tourism...............................................13 5.4 Factors Affecting Seward's Economy ........ 13 5.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 14 LANDUSE.......................................................15 12 6.1 Land Ownership....................................15 6.2 Land Use Patterns....................................15 6.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances .......... 17 HOUSING....................................................19 7.1 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...20 13 8 TRANSPORTATION...................................21 8.1 Parking and Traffic..................................21 8.2 Transit................................................21 8.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends.. 22 9 PORT AND HARBOR..............................23 Table of Contents 9.1 Seward Marine Industrial Center.............23 9.2 Seward Boat Harbor................................23 9.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 23 RECREATION................................................24 10.1 Campgrounds..........................................24 10.2 Parks, Ball Fields, and Picnic Areas .......... 24 10.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 24 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES..25 11.1 Education.................................................25 11.2 Health Care & Social Services...................25 11.3 City Government & Finances..................25 11.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 26 PUBLIC SAFETY..........................................28 12.1 Emergency Medical Services....................28 12.2 Emergency Preparedness ..........................28 12.3 Library Museum......................................29 12.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 29 UTILITIES......................................................30 13.1 Water..................................................30 13.2 Wastewater.............................................30 13.3 Electricity.............................................30 13.4 Solid Waste & Recycling ........................31 13.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 31 71 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT 11 MW 14 NATURAL HAZARDS.................................32 14.1 Tsunamis..................................................32 14.2 Flooding and Floodplain Development ...... 32 14.3 Avalanches and Landslides .......................33 14.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 33 15 QUALITY OF LIFE....................................34 16 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND COM- MUNITY APPEARANCE ..........................35 16.1 Historic Preservation .............................35 16.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends ... 36 PEMR�A PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT II-3 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 Background This section of the Comprehensive Plan presents back- ground information about the city that is needed to identify trends, understand patterns, and set the stage for Seward's future. It is a snapshot of current conditions that includes historical data and forecasts to illustrate changes over time, as well as possible future conditions. Understanding these items is important to ensure that the comprehensive plan is a realistic and responsive document. At the end of each section is a summary of planning issues and trends. These summaries are a result of research, stakeholder interviews, and public outreach. The issues and trends are used to help inform and determine the long-term goals and objectives of the community. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT 6 History of Seward I History of Seward .." Fr Seward, founded in 1903 as the ocean terminus of a fledgling railway to Interior Alaska, was incorporated as a city in 1912. Congress purchased the private line in 1915 and completed the rail linkages that now consti- tute the Alaska Railroad. The Anchorage rail link was completed by the year 1918; the rail to Fairbanks was completed by 1923. The ice -free port facilitated export of the state's agricultural, mineral, and timber resources. Seward's population gradually rose to about 1,000 people until World War II, when it grew rapidly as a military post. By the early 1950s, when the Seward Highway was completed, the town had reached a population of 2,100. The number of residents fell substantially after the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake, but grew again in the 1970s in response to the construction of the Alyeska Trans -Alaska Oil Pipeline and diversification of the economy. Seward's small-town scale and historic character has been retained through the years. It has kept its original town site as a vital residential and commercial center. The town site, which was established in 1903 by the Bal- laine brothers while they were working for the Railway, features well -kept older homes that line paved streets, and downtown stores concentrated within easy walking distance of each other. Larger commercial and industrial development is isolated from residential areas. The city shows less of the growing pains of haphazard development found elsewhere in Alaska. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT II-5 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 Natural Setting Seward is situated at the northern end of Resurrection Bay on the southeast coast of the Kenai Peninsula, 126 highway miles south of Anchorage. The depth and width of Resurrection Bay create moderate tides with slight variations in extent. There are no overhead or navigational obstructions, and the bay's waters and shores are ice -free year round. Fair winds, inconsequential tide ranges, weak currents, and a north -south orientation make for relatively calm water in the bay. Seward is located at 600 07' N Latitude, 1490 26' W Longitude (Sec. 10, TOO1S, R001W, Seward Meridian). Its maritime climate zone with cool summers and rela- tively warm winters is due to the moderating influence of the coastal currents flowing through the nearby Gulf of Alaska. Average winter temperatures range from 17' to 38' Fahr- enheit (F), and the summer averages from 490 to 630 F. Annual precipitation averages 66 inches of rain and 80 inches of snowfall. Resurrection Bay, framed by mountains covered by snow in the winter and wildflowers below remnants of glaciers in the summer, gives the town a spectacular setting. Mt. Marathon provides the western backdrop; its westernmost peak reaches 4,866 feet, while the nearer peak is 3,022 feet. A glacial fjord itself, Resurrection Bay serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Other enti- ties that preserve and manage the natural setting of the surrounding area include the Chugach National Forest of 890,000 acres, the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and Caines Head State Park. �77 PLPN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT Geological Setting MW Geological Setting The glacial fjord of Resurrection Bay, approximately 18 miles long and 2 to 5 miles wide, extends southward from the mouth of the Resurrection River. The sides and bottom of the bay are generally quite steep, with near shore depths increasing quickly to a maximum depth of nearly 1,000 ft. The depth of the fjord in the vicinity of Seward is approximately 500 ft. Most of the downtown portion of the City of Seward is built on the alluvial fan of Lowell Creek, which extends into the northwest corner of Resurrection Bay. This fan is approximately 1.25 miles long and 0.5 miles wide. Its maximum elevation of 130 feet is found at the mouth of the Lowell Creek canyon. Drilling performed after the 1964 earthquake suggests that Lowell Creek deposits average about 100 feet thick, with considerably thicker segments exceeding 300 feet found near the Seward end of the tongue. Although no major fault lines have been identified in the Seward area, the topography of the region suggests the valley system extending north to Kenai Lake and south to Resurrection Bay is partially fault controlled. Surveys made after the 1964 earthquake identified numerous small shear zones and small faults in the Seward area. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT II-7 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6 4 Demographics 4.1 Population The population of Seward has fluctuated from decade to decade, but has seen an overall pattern of growth over the last 100 years. Seward saw its greatest periods of growth in the 1940's and 1980's, corresponding with the post -world war II boom and opening of the Spring Creek Correctional Center in 1988 (capacity, 412 inmates). The population has remained stable in recent years. It was measured at 2,693 people in the 2010 Census, and was estimated at 2,740 people in 2015. 3000 2500 C: 2000 O M 1500 p1000 500 0 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015 Year Figure 1- Seward Population Growth, 1910-2015 Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- ment, Research and Analysis 3000 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Year Figure 2 - Seward Population, 2010-2015 Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- ment, Research and Analysis The sections below provide further information on the composition of Seward's population over the years. 4.1.1 Race and Ethnicity The city of Seward has a racial composition similar to Alaska's statewide racial composition. A majority of the population (69%) is white, with American Indian/Alaska Native as the second largest racial group (170/o), and 8% of the population comprised of two or more races (see Figure 3). Diversity in the City of Seward increased markedly be- tween 1990 and 2010. In 1990, racial minorities comprised 21% of Seward's population. By 2010, that figure rose to 32% (See Figure 4). It is important to note, however, that non -white persons are over represented in the institution- alized population. Excluding institutionalized persons, the non -white population is 24% of the total. ® Two or more races 0 Other 0 Asian 0 American Indian/AK Native 0 Black 0 White Figure 3 - Seward Racial Composition, 2010 3000 Two or more races 2500 Other O 2000 Asian —° 1500 American Indian/AK Native a1000 500 Black 0 y White 1990 2000 2010 Year Figure 4 - Changes in Seward's diversity, 1990-2010 �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT 6 Demographics II-8 W 4.1.2 Age and Gender Distribution Over the 20-year period from 1990 to 2010, the median age of Seward's population increased steadily from 32 to 38 (see Figure 5). 40 35 30 al 25 a C: 20 50 0 15 v �E 10 1990 2000 2010 Year Figure 5 - Seward Median Age, 1990-2010 350 300 250 C 0 a 200 0 a II.YC 100 50 0 1990 2000 2010 Year © 20 to 24 years ■ 45 to 49 years ■ 75 years and over ■ 15 to 19 years ■ 40 to 44 years ■ 65 to 74 years El10 to 14 years 35 to 39 years 60 to 64 years ❑5to 9years ❑30 to 34 years 55 to 59 years Under years ■25 to 29 years ■50 to 54 years Figure 6 - Age Breakdown of Seward Residents Although the median age for Seward continues to rise, there is currently a larger portion of the population between the ages of 20 and 29 than at any point in the past 20 years. This is an indication of changing age demographics in the institutionalized population rather than a change in the general noninstitutionalized population. Sixty-two percent of Seward's population is male, which is higher than the statewide average of fifty-two percent. The median age of males in Seward is 36.6, and the median age of females in Seward is 41.3 (see Figure 7). Both of these figures are skewed by the all -male Spring Creek Correctional Center. Excluding institutionalized persons, male population is 52.5% of the total noninsti- tutionalized population. 0.4 5.9 10.14 15.10 20.24 25.29 o 30.34 35.39 40.44 0 45.49 a 50.54 55.59 60.64 65.69 70.74 75.79 80.84 85 + 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Year MFemale Male Figure 7 - Seward population by age and gender, 2010 Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- ment, Research and AnalysisMigration Patterns Over the past 15 years, in -migration and out -migration patterns have largely kept pace with each other. There has been an overall slight decrease in people moving away from Seward, and a slight increase in people moving in. Figure 8 illustrates the annual pattern of in -migration and out -migration from the city of Seward from 2000 — 2014. Please note that in -migration figures include births, and out -migration figures include deaths. FEWR$A PLHN • DESIGN CONSTRUCT II-9 600 Soo .2 ° 0 400 ° ° a- 00 ° 300 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year Moved away from Seward ---m- Moved into Seward Figure 8 - Migration patterns, 2000-2014 Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce The population has continued to grow faster outside of Seward's city limits. Total population in the Census area surrounding Seward increased by 2% between 2000 and 2010, while the population within city limits declined by 5% over this same period. 4.1.3 Population Projections Projections for the population within the City of Seward are provided in Table 1 and below. These estimates rep- resent a steady growth rate of 0.3% per year. The Kenai Peninsula and the entire state of Alaska are projected to grow at about 0.7% per year over the same period (Depart- ment of Labor and Workforce Development, 5/11/2016). Please note that these figures only represent the population within Seward's city limits. Any changes to city services and infrastructure should consider the total population of the areas adjacent to city limits. Table 1- Seward Population Projections 2015 2,740 2025 2,834* 2035 2,928* Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development *Numbers extrapolated using least squares regression 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 4.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • Population decreased slightly between 2000 and 2010, but seems to be on an upward trend again. • Population has grown faster outside city limits. • The Seward population is aging — the median age has increased from 32 to 38 since 1990. Ak Economy II-10 Economy For a community of its size, Seward has a diverse local economy. This is due in part to its historic role in the growth of the state of Alaska; its location on a scenic, deep -water, ice -free bay; and the actions of its leaders and citizens. In the past, it long served as the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad connecting passengers and cargo coming by sea with the rest of Alaska. More recently, it has served as a port for various cruise line itineraries, using highway and rail connections. Marketing the local scenery and proximity to Prince William Sound and to national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges has contributed to a growing tourism sector. Salmon, halibut and other fishery resources in nearby waters support both commercial and charter fishing op- erations. Community leaders have actively lobbied for economic development, resulting in the development of thriving institutions such as the Alaska Vocational Techni- cal Center (AVTEC), the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), the Institute of Marine Science (IMS) of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the Spring Creek Correctional Center (SCCC). Seward has also used municipal lands and resources to support the development of the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC), and construction of the Providence Seward Medical Center. 5.1 Employment In 2014, 983 (611/o) of Seward's working -age residents were employed, a majority of whom were employed year round (67%). Most workers were employed in the private sector (78%), 11% were employed by State government, and another 11% were employed by local government. Of those employed in 2014, 65.4% were private wage and salary workers, 25% were on the payroll of federal, state, or local government, and 9% were self-employed (U.S. Census 2016). Employment in the city of Seward generated $35,913,820 in wages in 2014 (Alaska De- partment of Labor and Workforce Development 2016). Figure 11 shows the changes in employment in Seward by industry between 2001 and 2014. Total employment during this period decreased from 1,135 jobs in 2001 to 983 jobs in 2014. 300 250 0 200 0 v 150 E z 100 L71, 0 2001 2010 2014 Year Professional and Business Services Trade, Transportation, and Utilities Manufacturing Leisure and Hospitality Construction © Educational and Health Services - Other - Local Government - Financial Activities State Government - Natural Resources and Mining - Information Figure 9 - Employment Trends by Industry Table 2 compares employment by industry gains and losses between 2000 and 2014. Overall, employment has decreased in construction, State government, man- ufacturing, information, and leisure and hospitality. The greatest growth in employment over this period was seen in professional and businesses services. Educational and health services, and local government, also saw a slight increase in employment over this period. Table 2 - Seward Employment by Industry, 2000 to 2014 Gains and (Losses) Information Natural Resources and Mining 0 Financial Activities 0 Construction (2%) Manufacturing (10/0) �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT II-11 Indus ains and (Losses) Professional and Business 6% Services State Government (2%) Local Government 1% Educational and Health 2% Services Leisure and Hospitality (10/0) Trade Transportation and 0 Utilities The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the 5-year average unemployment rate (2010-2014) for Seward to be 8.2%. The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Devel- opment estimated that the March 2016 unemployment rate for the Kenai Peninsula Borough was 9.7%. They estimated the average unemployment rate for the entire state of Alaska that month to be 6.6%. 5.2 Income Measurements of income in Seward show increases between 2000 and 2014. Per capita income in 2014 was $30,076; the median household income was $49,432; and median family income was $69,158. Household income includes the income of the householder and all other individuals 15 and older in the household, whether they are related to the householder or not. Family income is the incomes of all members 15 years and older related to the household- er, and are summed and treated as a single amount (US Census Bureau). The largest percent of household and family income remained within the $50,000 to $74,999 income bracket over this period (19% and 20% respec- tively). An estimated 5.5% of the population was listed as below the poverty level in 2014. 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 80000 � 70000 0 60000 u 50000 40000 c 30000 v 20000 10000 Per Capita Households Families Figure 10 - Measurements of Income in Seward T 500 0 v 400 D O 0 300 iv 200 z 100 x Less than $50 K $ SO- $ 75 K Above $ 75 K Figure 11 - Household Income in Seward 5.2.1 Business The predominant industries in Seward by total sales are Construction, Guiding (water), Retail, and Wholesale Trade. Table 3 summarizes the gross business sales in Seward, according to industry. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT Economy II-12 Table 3 - City of Seward Gross Business Sales, in thousands, 2009-2013 Admin, Waste Mgmt $2,514 $2,077 $1,772 $1,575 $1,306 Ag, Forestry, Fishing, Hunting $27 $10 $0 Arts & Entertainment $58 $252 $616 $534 $93 Construction Contracting $26,040 $29,769 $23,956 $22,290 $33,687 Educational Svs $39 $56 $57 $40 $17 Finance & Insurance $47 $144 $446 $118 $86 Guiding Land $604 $151 $149 $195 $80 Guiding Water $23,936 $20,968 $21,080 $19,769 $17,258 Health Care, Social Asst $1,310 $1,165 $1,225 $1,495 $1,694 Hotel/Motel/B&B $13,892 $12,604 $11,601 $10,207 $9,401 Information $3,705 $3,644 $3,845 $3,915 $3,967 Manufacturing $16,941 $20,175 $16,136 $13,979 $14,522 Mining/Quarrying $0 $0 $0 $0 $72 Prof, Scientific & Technical Svs $8,624 $10,257 $11,314 $9,942 $7,062 Public Admin $7,399 $7,366 $7,076 $6,793 $6,987 Remediation Svs $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Rental Commercial Prop $1,845 $1,973 $1,516 $1,739 $1,705 Rental Non -Residential Prop $426 $348 $262 $298 $352 Rental Self -storage & Miniwarehouses Rental Personal Prop $133 $160 $149 $140 $125 Rental Residential Prop $7,865 $5,257 $5,397 $4,369 $5,506 Restaurant/Bar $13,192 $12,005 $11,132 $10,052 $9,197 Retail Trade $54,276 $52,178 $51,417 $49,972 $46,894 Services $14,361 $17,973 $10,434 $1,886 $2,420 Telecommunications $396 $480 $493 $610 $405 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT M II-13 IF 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II cff��� 4M Transportation, Warehousing $9,722 $7,127 $4,631 $4,277 $4,592 Utilities Wholesale Trade $31,627 $31,537 $26,292 $22,343 $18,426 GRAND TOTAL $238,980 $237,677 $210,994 $186,539 $185,854 Annual % change 0.5% 12.6% 13.1% 0.4% -11.6% Source: Kenai Peninsula Borough Finance Dept confidential The trend in gross business sales from 2009 to 2013mo R shows overall growth. Some industries have seen greater growth, such as wholesale trade and services, while some January 26 33 industries felt the impact of the great recession more than February 63 74 others. One industry, Construction Contracting, has not recovered to pre -recession levels. March 103 461 April 185 205 5.3 Tourism May 772 1,338 Tourism is a major economic engine for the City of Seward. The months of June, July, and August are the primary June 3,581 4,320 months for tourism, with approximately 80-90% of all July 5,260 5,188 visitors arriving during that time. Winter tourism has seen an increase, with events such as the Polar Bear Plunge. August 5,134 3,207 Cruise ships bring a substantial number of visitors to September 200 1,014 Seward. Over 90,000 cruise ship passengers passed through the community in 2016. However, there is insufficient October 34 126 data on the economic impact of tourists in Seward. November 3 45 Table 4 - Seward Chamber of Commerce visitor counts, 2014- 2015 December 2 15 Source: Seward Chamber of Commerce 5.4 Factors Affecting Seward's Economy 5.4.1 National Economic Trends Anything that impacts tourism will have a significant impact on Seward's economy. For example, the "great recession" in the contiguous United States impacted tour- ism traffic in Seward. The data in Table 3 shows that Economy L II-14 services in the tourism industry saw reduced revenue between 2008 and 2009, and took some time to climb back up to 2009 levels. 5.4.2 State Spending Reduced state budgets can mean less money available to communities such as Seward. Grants and other funding programs for local government are often cut or elimi- nated when state revenue declines. This can mean less money available for staff positions or capital improvement projects that would employ locals. Fiscal year 2017 state budget cuts eliminated nearly $500,000 for the City of Seward (approximately 5% of the City's annual budget). 5.4.3 Transportation Infrastructure Closures of the Seward Highway due to avalanche, flood- ing, or other natural events could impact the local econ- omy. As the only overland route between Seward and Anchorage, the Seward Highway is vital to the flow of goods into and out of Seward. 5.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • The Service sector has grown considerably since 2010 • Most industries have rebounded to pre -recession levels CIE The local economy has diversified since the last com- prehensive plan update • State budget cuts have reduced local government funding 7§4 II-15 Jr' 1[ 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6 Land Use The City of Seward completed the Municipal Lands In- ventory and Management Plan in December 2014. That document addresses the City's land asset holdings and needs. It provides an action guide specifically for the management of city -owned lands. The primary recom- mendations of the plan are: Budget time and attention to applying for the remain- ing municipal entitlements. Budget time and attention to applying for the remainder of state tidelands and replatting as needed. Establish a land bank where funds acquired from the sale of surplus property accrue to a special account for acquisition of other needed lands. Reaffirm the comprehensive plan by continuing to lease commercial and industrial lands rather than sell. Consider using different rental percentage rates to reflect supply and demand on various city land areas (i.e. the Seward Marine Industrial Center where land is available and development is encouraged, and the Boat Harbor where land is in short supply and high demand). Vacate otherwise undevelopable Rights of Way to enlarge and/or consolidate adjacent lands. (Note: This is generally accomplished when adjacent lands are replatted) Plan rights of way acquisitions to: Work to obtain rights of way within the Clearview Subdivision. 6.1 Land Ownership Seward's developed area is primarily composed of pri- vately owned property. Much of the public land within the city limits has been developed and is owned by the City of Seward, Kenai Peninsula Borough, State of Alaska, and Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC). The city and ARRC also own substantial undeveloped lands within city limits. Undeveloped city land is concentrated in the southwest part of town and along the northeastern side of Resur- rection Bay. Large blocks of state land are located along the Resurrection River and the western boundary of city land. The ARRC owns blocks in the harbor and industrial parts of town. These are strategic locations, which can influence the type of development that occurs in Seward. The borough owns lands developed for the schools and the waste transfer facility while the state has parcels developed throughout town for AVTEC, the airport, and road maintenance facilities. 6.2 Land Use Patterns 0 Develop Hemlock Avenue and Olympia Road to 6.2.1 Residential the Seward His4hway. 0 Extend Chamberlain Road above the horse pasture to Phoenix Road to provide an alternate parallel route to relieve pressure on the Seward Hwy. 0 Extend Benson Drive from Swetmann Drive to Phoenix Road to provide a safer alternate egress from Gateway Subdivision. (Note: Two private parcels stand between the end of Benson Drive ROW and Phoenix Road) Modify and enforce the City code to discourage the use of rights of way for the storage of personal prop- erty such as trailers, inoperable /unlicensed motor vehicles, and commercial equipment. Continue to keep an accurate and complete inventory data base of all easements. Residential uses are zoned into single-family, two-fam- ily, multi -family, and rural residential. In some areas of Seward these uses are concentrated, such as along First and Second Avenues and in various subdivisions like Clear View, Gateway, and Forest Acres in the northwest portion of town. In other areas, they are mixed in with commercial development such as along portions of Fourth, Fifth, Sixth Avenues, and Ballaine Boulevard (office/ residential and urban residential zones). Multi -family residential use is scattered throughout parts of downtown and along First and Second Avenues. Large lot residences not hooked up to city water and sewer occur in Forest Acres, and in scattered areas on the east side of Resurrection Bay. �77 PLPN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT Land Use -- 1 II-16 As indicated previously, there has been residential growth north of city limits adjacent to the Seward Highway and Nash Road and in subdivisions. These residences use on -site wells and septic systems. 6.2.2 Commercial General commercial activity in Seward is concentrated into three areas. The downtown business district, which extends along Third, Fourth, and Fifth Avenues between Jefferson Avenue and the bay, is the largest area of activity. The second general commercial area includes fishing, ma- rine recreational and tourism -oriented businesses located in the small boat harbor and its immediate vicinity. The third area extends along the Seward Highway from Port Avenue to the northern city limits. As with residential growth, commercial growth north of city limits relies on highway access. Availability of land not subject to City sales and property taxes may encourage continued development outside the city, although limited or lack of services such as sewer, water, fire protection, and emergency service could be a deterrent. 6.2.3 Marine Industrial Marine industrial use is associated with fish processing, boat repair and storage, marine fuel storage, transship- ment, commodity and passenger transfer, and staging for marine research vessels and projects. These uses occur in four general areas: on the south edge of downtown Seward, partway out to Lowell Point; in the vicinity of the boat harbor; in the area at the head of Resurrection Bay between the boat harbor and the mouth of the Resur- rection River; and at SMIC. There is currently additional land available for this type of use at SMIC. Additional railroad -owned lands may also be available. 6.2.4 Upland Industrial Upland industrial uses are located adjacent to marine industrial uses, and generally have some relationship to marine access. The same areas described in marine in- dustrial apply to upland industrial use. 6.2.5 Public/Institutional Seward has a significant amount of land devoted to pub- lic and institutional use. This includes facilities owned, leased, or operated by the City of Seward; state facilities such as AVTEC, SCCC, the airport, and road maintenance facilities; the Institute of Marine Science; the ASLC; Kenai Fjords National Park Service Visitor Center, and US Forest Service Seward District Ranger Station. Most of these facilities are scattered throughout the city. Public and institutional uses cluster on the southern part of downtown along or up from the waterfront, in the busi- ness district along Fourth and Fifth Avenues, in midtown blocks along First, Second, Third, and Fourth Avenues, in the boat harbor on the eastern side of Fourth Avenue, in the industrial area bounded by the highway and Port Avenue, and near SMIC. In 2014, the city updated the Municipal Lands Manage- ment Plan. 6.2.6 Resource Management The City of Seward and the State of Alaska own a large amount of undeveloped land and tidelands within city limits. These lands are concentrated on the east side of Resurrection Bay, along the Resurrection River, and the steep slopes on the western city limits. Much of this land is zoned under Resource Management, which allows a wide variety of uses. It may be more appropriate to use the district as a holding zone that requires rezoning before development or sale. 6.2.7 Open Space/Recreation A certain amount of land in Seward functions as open space and recreational use land, including much of the area zoned as Resource Management. Waterfront Park, a shore side park with developed campsites for both RVs and tents, stretches from the south of the boat harbor to the ASLC on the west side of Resurrection Bay. There are also small municipal parks at various locations. FEWRW P N • DESIGN CONSTRUCT II-17 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances 6.3.1 Zoning Districts Table 5 presents the existing zoning districts. The num- ber and specific intent of zoning districts need to be reviewed and revised. The current zones do not reflect existing land uses in many areas, leading to requests for rezoning, conditional uses, and variances before the Planning and Zoning Commission when owners wish to improve their property. As a result, some districts have a broad range of uses. Table 5 - Zoning Districts Rural Resi- Provide stable, quiet, low -density detached dential single-family residential development. Single-family Provide stable and quiet, low to medium Residential density detached single-family residential development. Provide medium density traditional Two-family housing area with a mix of single and residential two-family units. Provide opportunities for a higher density residential setting with a mix of housing Multi -family units, which are predominantly multi-fam- Residential ily housing units close to concentrations of public services, employment, and/or recreation. Allow an area of higher density mixed residential uses from detached single-fam- Urban Resi- ily housing to multi -family apartments in dential conjunction with compatible low impact professional office uses in the surrounding downtown business district. Provide for a medium density residential, commercial and office development de- Office/Resi- signed to act as a transition zone between dential the high density central business district and surrounding medium -high density residential districts. Provide for water -dependent or water -re- lated uses with particular emphasis on Harbor Com- transportation, tourist, recreational, com- mercial mercial or industrial enterprises that derive major economic or social benefit from a harbor location. Provide areas to accommodate high- way -oriented commercial activities such Auto Com- as offices, certain institutional uses, and mercial limited personal services and retail uses requiring substantial outdoor activity, traffic and parking. Public and private educational, admin- istrative, government and health care Institutional uses, including public land reserved for District future public development. The develop- ment standards are high to assure that the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding area. Designate park, recreation and commem- Parks District orative property owned by the city, state or federal governments for recreation and other compatible public purposes. Lands that are generally undeveloped and cannot be precisely zoned due to inadequate Resource information on the extension of public Management services and utilities; the suitability of the land to support commercial, residen- tial, industrial or public uses; and other possible environmental consideration. Established as a district in which the principal use of land is business, manu- Industrial facturing, processing, fabricating, repair, assembly, storage, wholesaling and dis- tributing operations; which may create some nuisance and are neither properly associated nor compatible with residential land uses. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT 6 Land Use II-18 6.3.2 Subdivision Ordinance Responsibility for platting is shared by the City of Seward and the Kenai Peninsula Borough; each has a subdivi- sion ordinance. The party subdividing a parcel of land within city limits must conform to the city ordinance and requirements. Preliminary plats are first submitted to the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission. Once approved, the city prepares and submits written com- ments with the plat to the Borough Planning Department, which prepares the final plat. Final plats submitted to the Borough Planning Commission that deviate from the preliminary plat, in a manner not approved by the city, are sent back to the city for review. 6.3.3 Road Standards The City of Seward currently has no adopted road stan- dards, which becomes an issue when land is subdivided. The developer builds roads within a subdivision, and those roads are turned over to the city for maintenance. Roads that are not built to proper standards can create safety and maintenance problems. In some cases, the city may elect not to take responsibility for road maintenance, which leaves that responsibility to homeowners. The city should evaluate and adopt road construction standards as part of the subdivision ordinances. 6.3.4 Infill Development There is a need to concentrate and enhance existing devel- opment in conformance with the Land Use Plan. There is also a need to limit unguided expansion of land uses throughout the community. 6.3.5 Vacant Residential Land Vacant, developable, privately -owned residential land in the City of Seward is limited to about 120 acres. Seven- ty-three acres are in parcels less than 5 acres in area. In total, there are over 301 vacant, developable residential parcels in the city. Together, these parcels equal over $11.5 million in taxable land value. Figure 12 - Map with vacant private residential parcels valued over $10,000 per acre. PD�i7 PLHN DESIGN - CDNSTPUCT 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 7 Housing Table 6 and Table 7 present Seward housing characteristics for the years 2000 and 2010. Over this period, the total number of housing units increased by 6%. The portion of housing units that were vacant increased 41/o. The portion of single detached housing units increased by 11%. The number of renter occupied units remained roughly equal to the number of owner occupied housing units over this entire period. Median rental rates went up by approxi- mately 5%. The largest change during this period was in housing values, which increased significantly. The num- ber of houses in the $200,000 and over range increased from roughly 50 to 250 over this period. Between 2000 and 2010, the number of homes with a reported value of under $100,000 decreased by half, while median home values increased from $138,400 to $191,900. Table 6 - Seward Housing Characteristics for the Year 2000 Occupied Hous- 917 Less than $50,000 8 ing Units Owner Occupied 461 $50,000 to $99,999 90 Renter -occupied 456 $100,000 to $149,999 137 Vacant housing 141 $150,000 to $199,999 87 units UNITS IN STRUCTURE $200,000 to $299,999 38 1 Unit Detached 585 $300,000 or more 13 1 Unit Attached 30 RENTAL RATES 2 - 4 Units 165 Less than $200 32 5 - 9 Units 123 $200 to $299 47 10 or more Units 142 $300 to $499 87 Mobile Home, 5 $500 to $749 113 Trailer HOUSEHOLDBYTYPE $750 to $999 83 Families 556 $1,000 to $1,499 50 Married Couples 409 $1,500 or more 5 Male House- holder Female House- 111 holder Non -Family 361 Persons per 2.4 Household Persons Living in Group Quarters 628 Table 7 - Seward Housing Characteristics for the Year 2010 Occupied Housing 928 Less than $50,000 0 Units Owner Occupied 459 $50,000 to $99,999 44 Renter -occupied 469 $100,000 to 149 $149,999 Vacant housing units 196 $150,000 to 147 $199,999 UNITS IN STRUCTURE $200,000 to 38 $299,999 1 Unit Detached 873 $300,000 or more 81 1 Unit Attached 30 RENTAL RATES 2 - 4 Units 128 Less than $200 0 5 - 9 Units 111 $200 to $299 0 10 or more Units 166 $300 to $499 92 Mobile Home, Trailer 0 $500 to $749 138 �77 -. UESIGN CONSTPUCT Housing L II-20 HOUSEHOLD BY TYPE $750 to $999 83 Families 474 $1,000 to $1,499 91 Married Couples 364 $1,500 or more 0 Male Householder 32 Female Householder 78 Non -Family 454 Persons per Household 2.14 Persons Living in 709 Group Quarters It is also important to point out the change in rental rates between the years 2000 and 2010. In 2010 there are no rentals available below $300 per month, and the distri- bution of rental rates has shifted significantly higher. What this information does not show is the number or rate of housing units developed outside the city limits, but still connected to the services and opportunities provided by Seward. Population and housing continue to grow at a faster rate outside of Seward's city limits. Between 2000 and 2010, Seward`s total housing stock grew by 6%. Over that same period, the total housing stock in the Census area surrounding Seward grew by 16% (see Figure 12). 2500 2000 c 3 1500 2 0 rn __ 1000 3 O 2 L11 0 Surrounding Area Seward Figure 13 - Housing growth within City of Seward versus surrounding area, 2000-2010 7.1 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • Home values increased significantly between the years 2000 and 2010. CIE The portion of single unit detached housing increased markedly between the years 2000 and 2010. The num- ber of structures with 2 or more units fell from 41% to 31% of the total housing stock. • The rate of housing developed outside city limits continues to outpace development within Seward. This trend could have long term implications, such as increased cost of services, the development of nat- ural amenities, and a change in the "character" of Seward. The city can continue to explore incentives to develop reasonably priced housing within Seward, such as zoning changes or tax increment financing. FEWR�A PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT II - 21 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Transportation Seward has several modes of transportation available for traveling to and from the community. The Seward Highway remains the primary access route to and from Seward to the rest of Alaska. The Alaska Railroad's southern terminus is at Seward and provides scheduled service to Anchorage. 8.1 Parking and Traffic 8.1.1 Traffic 8.2 Transit There is a city -operated seasonal shuttle bus that provides service between the railroad depot, cruise ship terminal, and downtown. The shuttle is funded with cruise ship taxes. There is no regularly scheduled bus service within Seward and the surrounding area. Seward Bus Lines provide ser- vice between Seward and Anchorage, with connections to other Kenai Peninsula destinations on a daily basis. A Senior Center van currently serves the older residents. Traffic on the Seward Highway and within Seward's city limits peaks during the summer with the influx of The Seward Public Transit Human Services Coordina- tourists. Traffic speeds throughout the community are appropriate for the urban setting. There are no traffic signals within the city. 8.1.2 Parking The City of Seward has six parking lots in the boat harbor. The North Lot and South Lot provide parking for those interested in going out on a fishing or wildlife tour. The Center Lot is located in the heart of the boat harbor and is strictly a two-hour maximum lot. The South Harbor Uplands Lot and Northeast Lot accommodate vehicles with trailers. These lots contain 50 foot stalls and are located near the west boat ramp and northeast boat ramp. The Permit Lot is strictly for permit holders and is also the location for the Parking Department office. Parking fees are now collected via automated pay stations in the harbor area. On -street parallel parking is available throughout the city with angled on -street parking available along sections of Fourth and Fifth Avenues. On -street parking is free. tion Plan (2015) (not adopted) analyzed demographics, services, and geographies in Seward and the surrounding area. The purpose was to understand the current needs and provide high quality access to the city and region's human services. Based on this analysis, it was estimated that between 20 and 400 trips per day were being unmet in Seward and the surrounding area, and that additional public transportation services were needed in order to provide a desired level of access. The plan recommended a combination of checkpoint and route deviation services. Making this combination of transit available will require the coordination and cooperative efforts of the City, the Central Area Rural Transit System, Inc. (CARTS), hu- man service organizations, and a number of other local entities (LSC Transportation Consultants, Inc., 2015). 8.2.1 Railroad Daily rail service between Anchorage and Seward is pro- vided from May through September. The Alaska Rail- road owns a 350.E-acre reserve in Seward that is used for train operations, as well as a passenger depot and terminal facilities. These lands include the docks and adjacent uplands, which support intermodal operations. Portions of the land used to support railroad operations, or those not set aside for future capital and expansion opportunities, are made available for lease or permitted use (Alaska Railroad Corporation, 2014). �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT Transportation A II-22 ARRC acquired the Seward Coal Loading Facility (SCLF) in 2003 and has made subsequent repairs and improve- ments to the facility. As of 2014, the SCLF is the only facility available in Alaska to export coal. 8.2.2 Airport The State of Alaska maintains paved airstrips at the north end of Resurrection Bay. The main runway is 4,240 feet long and 100 feet wide. The second, short runway is 2,200 feet long and 75 feet wide. The airport has flooded a number of times over the last 10 years, including multiple occurrences in 2013. The State is currently overseeing an Airport Improvement and Design project to develop engineering alternatives to protect the airport facilities from further recurrent flooding damage. Although charter flights to nearby destinations are avail- able, no scheduled commercial service is available at the airport. 8.2.3 Alaska Marine Highway The State -run ferry service discontinued service to Seward in 2005. 8.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • Investigate the viability of year-round public transit services. • Conduct an inventory of non-ADA compliant side- walks and bring them into compliance. • Ensure connectivity between the harbor and downtown. 7§4 II - 23 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 0 9.1 Port and Harbor Seward Marine Industrial Center 9.3 The City of Seward has expanded the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) considerably since the last com- prehensive plan update. Most recently, construction of the much -anticipated breakwater began in 2016. This improvement project will allow vessels to dock at the SMIC without fear of damage from waves, a concern prevalent in the past. Plans include adding new linear floats, upgrades to existing docks, and installation of a crane. A vessel washdown pad was installed which allows for containment and proper disposal of washdown water. A new 330-ton boat lift was added in 2015. Vigor Industrial operates a full -service shipyard at the SMIC, including a 5,000-ton lift that can handle vessels up to 300 feet long. 9.2 Seward Boat Harbor The Seward Boat Harbor is a significant aspect of the overall commercial and economic picture of the City of Seward. The existing harbor was constructed immedi- ately following the 1964 earthquake and had minimal upgrades until 1998. At that time, the harbor was owned by the State of Alaska, but operated by the City. In June 1998 the Seward City Council authorized the City Man- ager to negotiate a transfer of the harbor and all of the associated improvements from the State of Alaska to the City of Seward. The 2014 Seward Boat Harbor Plan provides in-depth analysis of the current and planned facilities, operating costs, and physical characteristics. Recent harbor up- grades include the replacement of floats, construction of fish cleaning stations, the installation of a new boat lift dock, creation of the south harbor uplands and an expanded breakwater. The Alaska Railroad is also moving forward with harbor improvements that include additional moorage/wharf ca- pacity, new roads, and increased industrial space. Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • The Seward Marine Industrial Center's recent and ongoing upgrades will potentially stimulate additional marine industry economic activity. • Seward's marine facilities may see increased use with the opening of the Northwest Passage and additional arctic marine traffic. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPU{T Recreation - II-24 10 Recreation The City of Seward is surrounded by many opportunities for outdoor recreation. This includes hiking, boating, fishing, flight -seeing, birding, hunting, and camping. 10.1 Campgrounds The City of Seward operates seven separate campgrounds, six of which are within Waterfront Park. All sites are on a first -come, first -served basis; reservations for caravan groups of 10 units or more can be made. The City will begin testing a pilot program in 2017 / 2018 to allow pre- paid reservations. Ninety-nine sites have electrical and water hook-ups for RVs. These sites cost $40 per night. Tents can camp in designated `tent camping' areas along Ballaine Boulevard and in Forest Acres campground. There is no tent camping during the winter, due to lack of water / sewer and restroom facilities. Winter camping is available at times to self-contained RVs. All camping fees are collected via automated self -serve kiosks. Waterfront Park offers free Wi-Fi, and a self -pay sewer dump station is located on Ballaine Boulevard. Approximately 10 miles from Seward, the National Park Service operates a walk-in, 12-site, tent campground at Exit Glacier. There are also five private campgrounds/RV parks in the Seward area, and one military recreation area that offers camping and RV sites. 10.2 Parks, Ball Fields, and Picnic Areas The City of Seward maintains nine public parks, three ball fields, and five picnic areas or pavilions. Pavilions can be reserved through the Parks and Recreation department. 10.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends * Outdoor recreation is a major attraction for visitors and residents of Seward. * Continued increases in tourist numbers may impact recreation facilities. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT II - 25 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 11 Public Facilities and Services 11.1 Education The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District operates three schools in Seward covering grades K 12. Seward Elementary School, Seward Middle School, and Seward High School are located near each other on the north end of town. Enrollment has remained steady over the past four school years, with minor fluctuations. Beginning with the 2014/15 school year, sixth grade was moved from the elementary school to the middle school. Table 8 - Seward K-12 School Enrollment Elementary 296 282 338 336 Middle 123 118 81 83 High 164 182 175 182 Source: Kenai Peninsula School District Department of Finance The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) maintains facilities in the City of Seward and offers nu- merous courses, including maritime trades, information technology, building technology and culinary arts. The Alaska Maritime Training Center provides a variety of US Coast Guard approved courses, and is distinguished for its state-of-the-art radar navigation and ship's pilot training programs. 11.2 Health Care & Social Services Seward offers a broad range of health care services, which also contribute significantly to the local economy. Providence Medical Center is city -owned and managed by Providence Health Services, and includes a 24-hour emergency department; laboratory and radiology ser- vices; physical, speech, and occupational therapies; and a long term care facility. Those with serious injuries and illnesses requiring specialized care are sent by air or ground medivac to Anchorage. Chugachmiut North Star Health Clinic is available to members of the Chugachmiut tribe. It provides primary care services with a focus on preventative patient education and screening. Services include acute and chronic illness care, emergency care, illness prevention education, rou- tine screening exams, well childcare and immunizations, prenatal care, and behavioral health. The Seward Community Health Center is a federally -qual- ified health center that provides non -emergency services such as wellness visits, family medicine, labs, well child care, physical examinations, and health education and counseling. SeaView is a mental/behavioral health care provider that services individuals with disabilities through residential and support services such as assisted living, community prevention programs, family development services, and substance abuse and recovery services. 11.3 City Government & Finances Seward is a home -rule city located within the Kenai Pen- insula Borough. An elected seven -member council directs the city manager (see Figure 13). City services are funded through taxes and service charges. Taxes include a four percent sales tax, a four percent bed tax, and a property tax of 3.12 mils. The bulk of Seward's sales tax (47%) is generated during the summer (June -August) with the influx of summer visitors. The City's taxpayers have become more diverse over the last several years, but still lean toward an over -dependence on tourism -related businesses and the visitor industry. 77 PLAN DESIGN CDNSTPUCT 6 Public Facilities and Services II-26 Boards Et Commissions Planning 11 Zoning Port Et Commerce Historic Preservation Parks Et Recreation Figure 14 - City of Seward organizational chart Citizens of Seward Mayor Et Council ECity Clerk City Manager Community Development Library Et Museurn Public Works Harbor Et SMIC Electric Utility Fire, Bui4ding Inspection 11.3.1 Kenai Peninsula Borough The Kenai Peninsula Borough functions similarly to counties in other states. Incorporated in January 1964 as a second-class borough under the authority of the State of Alaska, the bor- ough is responsible for area wide education, solid -waste management, planning and zoning, taxation, and assessment. The borough has delegated planning and platting advisory authority to the city. Locally authorized service areas provide fire, flooding, emergency, and recreation services. An elect- ed mayor serves as the chief administrator and works with an elected nine -member legislative assembly. The borough delegates education responsibilities to the Kenai Peninsula City Attorney Finance Public Safety Police, Jail, Animal Control Borough School District, which is managed by a super- intendent hired by an elected nine -member school board. 11.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • Identify a mechanism for prioritizing and funding city infrastructure improvements and major maintenance of existing assets. • State fiscal issues are resulting in less state funding assistance to local governments. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT 11- 27 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 12 Public Safety The city police department consists of ten officers and six sworn volunteers that assist in times when the population swells for special events. The department also provides a Safe Kids program, drug awareness instruction, an officer in the schools, motor vehicle registrations, drivers licensing, a 12-bed jail, and 24-hour dispatch and radio communications for all emergency services on the eastern peninsula. Vehicles include ten (10) police cars. The Seward Animal Shelter, operated by the police de- partment, provides animal licensing and control. The police department maintains the 911 service locally with monitors that display incoming caller information, phones for the hearing impaired, marine VHF, emergen- cy Citizens Band radios, and civil defense phones. This service is integrated with the Kenai Peninsula Borough system. Figure 15 - City of Seward Police Station The State Troopers service most of the eastern peninsula (up to Mile 52 on the Seward Highway and up to Mile 62 on the Sterling Highway), with one sergeant and two troopers based in Seward. The State Troopers have a mutual aid agreement with the city to assist each other with law enforcement. All search and rescue operations are coordinated by the troopers, and include the US Coast Guard and Civil Air Patrol as necessary. One wildlife enforcement officer serves the same area. Seward maintains two fire stations. The main fire sta- tion is located on Fourth Avenue, with a satellite station located in SMIC. The main station houses three engines with tanks (three 1,500-gpm), two rescue units, a ladder rig, and three support vehicles. Other equipment includes the fire boat John Foster. The satellite station houses one 1,250 gpm truck and a rescue unit. There are two hydrant systems, one on the west side of the bay and a separate one for SMIC. The department is staffed by a full-time chief and deputy, administrative assistant and building inspector, with 30 volunteers, and provides fire services within the city. Services include fire suppression, search and rescue, vehicle extrication, inspections, plan reviews, and public training and education. The City of Seward has a mutual aid agreement with the Lowell Point, Moose Pass and Bear Creek fire service areas, as well as federal and state forestry. The latter operate a rural volunteer fire department which serves the outlying areas of the community and is under the jurisdiction of the Kenai Peninsula Borough. 12.1 Emergency Medical Services The Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps (SVAC) covers a service area to Mile 38 on the Seward Highway, and also provide ground transportation to Anchorage. They provide emergency medical services using 18 trained volunteers and three Type-1 Advance Life Support Ambu- lances. Due to fewer volunteers, SVAC no longer provides ground transportation to Anchorage. This has resulted in a significant increase in fixed wing and helicopter medical flights and an increase in medical costs. Seward must consider how to reestablish ground ambulance service between Seward and Anchorage. The city and Providence are conducting a feasibility study to determine the costs of adding the ambulance service. The Seward Fire Station and the Bear Creek Fire Service Area both have search and rescue response capability and automatically respond with SVAC calls. 12.2 Emergency Preparedness The City of Seward operates under an Emergency Op- erations Plan that provides direction and control during periods of emergency. It gives emergency instructions for use with the public, and directs coordination with outside �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT Public Safety - II-28 assistance from private, state, federal and national relief organizations. The plan includes check lists to provide for maximum protection of life and property, as well as recovery efforts after an emergency. This plan is updated and maintained by the Seward Fire Department, and can be viewed at the fire department, the library, and at all city departments. It was last updated in 2015. 12.3 Library Museum The Seward Community Library & Museum is a unique combined public library, museum, archives and com- munity center serving Seward and the surrounding area providing opportunities for equal access to information, technology, lifelong learning, community enrichment, and the preservation of Seward's heritage. The museum is a partnership between the City of Seward and the Resurrection Bay Historical Society, whose col- lection of objects, photographs, and archives is housed and exhibited in the museum spaces. imp► 12.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • The public safety building is over 60 years old and needs to be updated. • Diminishing state funding for State Troopers and community jails may increase responsibilities of local law enforcement. 7§4 II - 29 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 13 Utilities 13.1 Water The City of Seward provides water to its residents from groundwater sources at 3,800 gallons per minute (gpm). Total reserves equal 620,000 gallons. Water consumption has averaged 1.2 million gallons per day (gpd). Much of the existing water system in Seward was built by the USACE prior to the construction of the Seward Highway. Originally designed as a conventional loop system, it has subsequently developed in a linear fashion due to the topography of the area. The City of Seward 2010 Comprehensive Plan identified that water capacity was adequate in 1990, but stated that "the infrastructure is old and will eventually be in need of replacement" A recent water and sewer plan produced detailed recommendations for system improvements. Major improvements have been made in recent years. In recent years the city has taken several significant mea- sures regarding water service, including the restriction of development in the Lowell Creek watershed area to protect the city's potable water supply, and the extension of water service to SMIC, and the upgrade of the water main from Mile 0 to 1 of the Seward Highway. In addition, two new wells have been installed at Fort Raymond, one well was upgraded, one water storage was refurbished and a new 600,000 gallon water storage tank was constructed in the northern part of the city. 13.2 Wastewater The Seward wastewater system serves the immediate city and the Fourth of July Creek area, which is a separate system. Some areas, such as the airport and Cliff Addition, are not currently served. Usage is approximately 700,000 gpd through the sewer main and pump station. It is rated at 880,000 gpd. The system has a capacity of twice that volume. Wastewater for the city proper is treated at the Lowell Point Wastewater Treatment Plant by a series of four lift stations. The treatment plant is located approx- imately one mile south of the central business district, outside city limits. Wastewater for the Fourth of July area is treated at SMIC. The two main components of the wastewater system are the two sewer treatment ponds at Lowell Point and SMIC. Both are dredged and repaired to include new oxygenation system upgrades in 2016. The sewer system consists of a network of collector sew- ers that serve residential and commercial customers, and then discharge into the main line interceptor sewer at various points along its length. The interceptor system consists of a combination of gravity sewers, pump sta- tions, and force mains that transport sewage, beginning from the Forest Acres Subdivision in the north. It then collects sewage along the Seward Highway, Fourth Ave- nue, Ballaine Boulevard, and Railway Avenue, and finally discharges it to the sewage treatment lagoon located off Lowell Point Road. 13.3 Electricity The Seward Electric System (SES) operated by the City of Seward purchases its electrical power from Chugach Electric Association. Several improvements have been made to the city's electrical system in recent years. The power system was upgraded to include the 115 KV line from Mile 44 to Mile 25. The power line from mile 18 to mile 3 was also upgraded to 115 KV in capacity, although that segment is energized only to 69 KV. Two additional plans call for the upgrading of electrical distribution and underground burial of electrical corridors where possi- ble. A new 5,000 square foot electric utility warehouse and storage building was constructed at Fort Raymond allowing four (4) of the current six (6) generators to be relocated in the building and offering indoor storage of inventory and upgraded electronic control systems for the generators. Two replacement generators were purchased 2008. In 2016 the utility operated 2,800 meters, including 70 miles of distribution lines, 48 miles of transmission lines and three (3) substations. The average annual load was 8 megawatts, with sales of approximately 53,000,000 KWH. Electric rates change seasonally to offer rate relief to year-round residential and general service customers. P°c.71 PLAN DESi:N CO`J>�F.UC� Utilities AM ` II-30 i That is, the rate paid by customers during the winter is limits on the west side of the bay, to SMIC, and the lower than that paid by customers during the summer. airport continues to be a need. 13.4 Solid Waste & Recycling Solid waste generated in Seward is collected by Alaska Waste under contract with the city. The Seward landfill, located on the north edge of town, was closed in 1992 and replaced by a solid waste transfer facility. The transfer facility is contracted by the Kenai Peninsula Borough to Alaska Waste. Annually, the Seward Transfer and Recycle Center sends over 5,000 tons of solid waste to the Central Peninsula Landfill, and over 30 tons of aluminum, glass, newspaper, corrugated cardboard, and office paper to the Anchorage Recycle Center. In 1997, an inert waste land fill was opened to accept land clearings, metal scraps, and con- struction materials up to a given limit annually. Excess inert material is transferred out. 13.4.1 Communications The local telephone system has a capacity of 15,000 lines, with over 3,300 lines currently in service. The local util- ity provides long-distance service through several other communications providers, including internet services through the local TV cable system, and a recently laid fiber optic cable. Seward facilities currently has limited access to the two fiber optic cables running through town, although AVTEC, Providence Seward Medical Center and ASLC are equipped and can use videoconferencing in their operations. Cellular service is available through a provider. Upgrading and expanding connections to modern telecommunications networks need to be continued to support business and government operations. 13.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends Generally, the city needs to have public utilities and services which are not out-of-date in order to maintain and attract new businesses, industry, and residents. Some development within city limits is stymied by lack of sufficient water and sewer service. The ex- tension of the sewer system to properties within city • People value the quality of city water. Replacement of aging infrastructure for water distribution, and protecting the city's potable water supply in the Lowell Canyon watershed, continues to be a concern. • Providing sufficient power to attract industry is an ongoing concern; energizing the transmission line to a higher voltage into Seward remains a possibility. The city is also interested in bringing liquid natural gas as a fuel, if a viable distribution system can be established and gas can be shipped into Seward at a feasible rate. Such an effort may be more likely with the development of a natural gas line. Area wide animal control is an issue. The Kenai Pen- insula Borough does not provide this function, but the city does and is called on to handle problems. Animal control services, in cooperation with the borough in areas beyond the city, should be continued. Reloca- tion of the animal shelter to a more suitable location should be addressed. Most communication transmissions to and from Seward go through a limited number of main trunks, which are a limited slow speed. Although much improved, continued updating of telephone and telecommuni- cations equipment and lines is necessary to provide fast, reliable service so agencies and businesses can be efficient and up-to-date in their practices. FEWR�A PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT T II-31 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 4 Natural Hazards The City of Seward is particularly susceptible to earth- quakes, tsunamis, and stream flooding which may be aggravated by heavy rains, melt runoff, heightened tid- al action, and severe winds. During winter, deep snow and avalanches occasionally hamper transportation and emergency response in the community, which is poten- tially a major factor during a disaster. Natural hazards are something the City of Seward is all too familiar, and the community has taken a variety of steps to mitigate their affects. In addition to controlled development, land use may be subject to requirements of other programs such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE). 14.1 Tsunamis The 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake had a devastating effect on Seward with loss of life, destroyed livelihoods, property damage, and a changed landscape. The waterfront area along the west side of Resurrection Bay suffered the most lasting damage due to the loss of the Port of Seward and Alaska Railroad facilities. Development should con- tinue to be controlled in this area of high seismic risk, with zoning restricted to Parks. In response to the 1964 earthquake, Seward became the first tsunami ready community in Alaska. The USACE conducted a study that located hazardous zones. Seward has placed warning signs in those areas and has restrict- ed development, keeping the beachfront as a park and camping area. In order to protect property owners and insurance companies from undue financial hardship re- lated to natural hazards, the City of Seward participates in the national Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating system and programs. This allows for the reduction of insurance liability and rates, and provides incentives for more safety measures. 14.2 Flooding and Floodplain Development All flat land along the southcentral Alaskan coast is floodplain, as a result flooding of streams and rivers has historically occurred in Seward and the outlying areas. The most recent flooding occurred in 2012. Seward par- ticipates in the National Flood Insurance Program, and last revised its floodplain maps in 2016. Seward voted in the 2003 Kenai Peninsula Borough election to form a flood service area with Bear Creek. The Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area will address the most persistent, regularly occurring problem areas. 14.2.1 Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel and Canyon Much of Seward is built on the alluvial fan created by Lowell Creek, prior to the tunnel being built to divert Lowell Creek away from Jefferson Street and the down- town area. The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel drains Lowell Creek and Lowell Canyon streams through Bear Mountain to Resurrection Bay. The tunnel is constructed through rock, and is grouted and lined with rails on the bottom designed to help prevent damage from heavy rocks and debris that flow through the tunnel. These rocks cause extensive damage and erosion, which requires pe- riodic rebuilding and repair to the interior of the tunnel. There is potential for catastrophic damage as the tunnel is susceptible to clogging up; the rock above the portal is unstable. If this occurred, floodwaters can come straight down the canyon to Jefferson Street and downtown. There are several homes in the canyon with only one way out, which could be a life threatening situation. 14.2.2 Lowell Point The stream at Lowell Point, which had a landslide during the flood of 2012, needs to be kept as clear as possible. This will give an unobstructed straight flow to the ocean and avoid impacting the sewage lagoon that is directly in its course. �77 PLPN DESIGN CONSTPUCT o Natural Hazards II-32 14.2.3 Japanese Creek 14.3 Avalanches and Landslides During the 1986 flood, Japanese Creek breached the dike Steep slopes, which may be susceptible to avalanches next to the water tank. The Creek is at high velocity at and landslides, occur on the edge of town west of First all times, but particularly during flood events. It shoots straight out of a narrow steep canyon and then makes a left turn heading toward the transfer facility. If Japanese Creek breaks through near this corner it will head directly for the two schools, possibly the Forest Acres Recreation Camp, and many homes below. 14.2.4 Resurrection River The Resurrection River channels have flooded the airport several times in the last decade. Protection of the airport from erosion and flooding is currently being assessed by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. 14.2.5 Clear Creek The small stream at Mile 2 Seward Highway is exca- vated each year. Clear Creek should be channeled every couple years to avoid coming out of its banks as it did during the 1986 flood. This is private property. If the lower reaches are not constantly cleared, the road in this area is susceptible to being destroyed. 14.2.6 Fourth of July Creek Fourth of July Creek is powerful when it reaches flood stage. During past years it has exceeded its limits. During the 1986 flood, the river took out the rip -rap wall and posed the potential threat of heading directly for the ship lift. If the short breakwater on the northern side of the valley behind the Spring Creek Correctional Center (SCCC) were to break, it could enter the Correctional Center. It could also destroy the sawmill and chip pile. A flash flood would threaten to breach the dike. 14.2.7 Subdivision Flooding As a result of city floodplain delineation, planning, and flood control projects, most flooding during high rainfall events occurs outside of municipal boundaries. The Old Mill Subdivision and the Questa Woods area are very vulnerable to flooding. Avenue, on the west side of Resurrection Bay along Low- ell Point Road, and the eastern section of Nash Road as it goes up the hill toward the Fourth of July Creek area. The potential for avalanche/landslide hazards to develop in areas of steep slopes should be analyzed. There is also a potential for avalanches to close the Seward Highway. A 1982 avalanche study by the Alaska Divi- sion of Geological and Geophysical Surveys identified 60 avalanche paths along the Seward Highway. 14.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends * The following flood dangers exist: 0 The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel could in times of high water clog up or collapse, resulting in flooding public and private property, including the hospital. 0 The stream at Lowell Point is susceptible to land- slides and can lead to road closures and flooding. 0 The dike next to the water tank could breach from high velocities of water from Japanese Creek, flooding Seward Resort and public and private property in Forest Acres subdivision. 0 Resurrection River channel problems can lead to airport erosion and potential flood problems for roads and structures in the industrial area, as occurred in the 2012 flood. 0 Clear Creak streams can clog up and flood roads, causing damage. 0 Potential for a flash flood from the breaching of the dike at Fourth of July Creek could endanger lives at Spring Creek Correctional Center and/or community security. 0 Some subdivisions, because of the way buildings are sited and spaced, are vulnerable to flooding. FEWRWI PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT II-33 P 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0 15 Quality of Life As a community, Seward has taken many deliberate steps to retain and improve the quality of life enjoyed by residents and visitors. Investments in city services and infrastructure, educational and economic opportunities, health and social services, housing, recreation, and historic assets have been discussed throughout this plan. Many of these efforts are the results of previous comprehensive planning by the citizens and officials of Seward, and are ongoing today. Previous plans and surveys reveal positive factors as expressed by its residents: • Pristine natural resources • Recreational opportunities • Low crime rates • No traffic lights or parking meters • Slow pace of life • High quality public services • Cultural variety • Highway and boat accessibility • Small town community atmosphere • Less congestion than other towns • Good place to raise children • Business and job opportunities • Heritage and history • Factors that negatively impact the quality of life ac- cording to residents include the following: • Poor climate • Drug and alcohol abuse • Lack of shopping options • Lack of cultural activities • Need for beautification of public and private property • Shortage of full-time, year-round employment • Isolation from other towns • High cost of living • Influx of tourists and crowding • Lack of housing options • These values and concerns will be explored in more depth during the comprehensive planning process. �77 PLAN DESIGN CONSTPUCT Natural Environment and Community Appearance 16 Natural Environment and Community Appearance Seward is surrounded by a dynamic ecosystem of moun- tains, ice and ocean. The natural environment supports a vast array of wildlife, including sea otters, orcas, whales, sea lions, sea birds, eagles and bears. Boat and plane tours, as well as kayaking and hiking bring people closer to these natural assets. The Kenai Peninsula has an impressive trail system that is constantly developing. This also includes World War Two Army installations scattered within and outside the city of Seward. In the Kenai Fjords National Park, one can view calving gla- ciers by boat or hike to the Harding Icefield from the Exit Glacier entrance. The ASLC offers a close up view of Alaska's marine ecosystem through its aquariums. There are many different areas in Seward to view dif- ferent types of birds. In Kenai Fjords National Park one can see a variety of sea birds. At Exit Glacier, one can view owls and watch for nesting dippers. In the marsh area at the end of the Seward airport, one can find many wetland species, and in the boat harbor, different types of gulls and loons. Sometimes the natural environment is shaped by political and natural events. The Caines Head State Recreation Area is the scenic site of abandoned World War II structures including Fort McGilvray and the South Beach Garrison. The 1964 earthquake has left some visible history be- hind, although it may not be immediately recognizable. The Seward Community Library and Museum offers a variety of displays depicting Seward's history as well as historical videos for viewing by residents and visitors. Accepted as a great asset by its citizens, the eclectic nature of the local architecture reflects the history and diver- sity of Seward. Seward's tremendous community pride is evident in the showcase of its historic structures and museum collections. The Seward Historic Preservation Commission in assistance with the city's Community Development and Library — Museum Departments have inventoried many of its historic properties, providing research and working closely with local citizens. Down- town has seen restoration of the Railroad Depot, L. V. II-34 L Ray Building, the Brown and Hawkins store, and new signage at Urbachs clothing store. In 2016, rehabilitation of the Osbo building on 4th Street began. The City of Seward has in addition to historical structures on the National Historic Register, a local Register of Historical Places. In 2016, the Eide-Stotko house (built 1905-10) located at 420 Third Ave was added to the local register and the 1905 Government Cable Office (Telegraph house) on 6th Avenue began its restoration. In addition to increased restoration of historic buildings, Seward has improved its landscaping and beautification (Seward Historic Preservation Commission — Historic Plant & Tree Register provides an inroad to increase public awareness of Seward's significant plants and trees), given more attention to sign control (Planning & Zoning Commission — Seward Community Development Depart- ment), enhanced litter control with recycling collection bins established around town, assist in the increased community cleanup efforts. These events include the an- nual Super Saturday cleanups hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department in May, painted dumpsters at city campgrounds, and the annual coastal clean-ups hosted by RBCA (Resurrection Bay Conservation Alliance) and the ASLC. Some of the beautification efforts include the painting of more than a dozen murals reflecting important Seward themes on different wall expanses around town. 16.1 Historic Preservation The designation of Seward as a Certified Local Govern- ment (CLG) affords the city the opportunity to request assistance from state and federal experts in a wide variety of preservation disciplines. As a requirement of CLG status, the city created the SHPC in 1992. This body of appointed citizen volunteers was tasked to look into Seward's historic assets including historic buildings, ar- chaeological sites, and documents. They were charged with the development of a historic preservation plan. (Seward Historical Preservation Plan 1996 currently in process of revision, will be titled, Seward Historical Preservation Plan — 2017), identification and inventory of local historic and prehistoric resources, making recommendations for properties eligible for the National Register, and acting as FEWRWI PLHN •DESIGN • CDNSTPDCT II-35 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II ia � an advisory body to the city council, city administration, and other boards and commissions. In 1974, the State of Alaska passed the Alaska Historic Preservation Act. The commissioner of the Alaska Depart- ment of Natural Resources was given overall responsibility for historic preservation duties. To assist the commissioner are the Alaska Historic Commission and the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). The SHPO administers the Federal Historic Preservation Fund Program. It serves as a "clearinghouse" of information on the state's historic, prehistoric and archaeological resources; and encourages and assists local governments in historic preservation activities through the CLG program. The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) was en- acted in 1966 requiring that historic and prehistoric prop- erties be taken into consideration during implementation of all federally funded projects. The NHPA established several programs to encourage historic preservation. These include the National Register of Historic Places and matching grant funds administered through state historic preservation offices. 16.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends The Historic Preservation Plan, Phase II (1996) has set forth community goals for historic preservation in Seward along with the historical perspective and background for the political and economic framework within which these goals will be achieved. The Seward Historic Preservation Plan (1996) is currently in re- vision process by the Seward Historic Preservation Commission and be eliminated when the updated plan is finalized. Current responsibility for historic preservation over- sight is administrated in cooperation with the staff of the Seward Library and Museum, Seward city administration, and the Community Development Department. Resources used by the volunteer com- mission is the state SHPO office and other state and federal agencies committed to historic preservation efforts. Actively working with the public and regulatory com- missions, city council and city administration can assist to strengthen any uncertainty about enacting additional local regulations and zoning requirements as a strategy to implement historic preservation. Com- munity opinion may be shaped by a lack of awareness of historic preservation goals, lack of explicit incen- tives, and unclear procedures to follow. 7§4 Sponsored by: Planning and Zoning Commission Introduction Date: May 8, 2017 Public Hearing Date: May 22, 2017 Enactment Date: May 22, 2017 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE 2017-002 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, AMENDING PORTIONS OF SEWARD CITY CODE §15.10.220 DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS TABLE — NOTES; TO EXTEND THE MAXIMUM 26 FOOT BUILDING HEIGHT AREA TO INCLUDE THE SOUTH HARBOR UPLANDS, TRACT H, WATERFRONT PARK REPLAT WHEREAS, currently within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District in the area bounded by Fourth Avenue, the (south) boat launch ramp, the harbor basin and J Float Ramp, maximum building height is 26 feet. All other property in the City is subject to a 34 foot maximum building height; and WHEREAS, according to § 15.10.220 of the City Code the purpose of building height standards is to prevent loss of life or excessive property damage through the inability of the city fire department to reach upper stories or roofs and to help maintain the character of neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the proposed ordinance will extend the 26 foot maximum building height requirement southward to include the area known as the South Harbor Uplands, with a legal description of Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat number 2012-04; and WHEREAS, it is in the public interest to maintain a city code that reflects community needs; and WHEREAS, the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board (PACAB) held a public meeting on April 5, 2017 and supported by motion extending the maximum 26 foot building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands; and WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing on April 18, 2017 and approved Resolution 2017-05 recommending City Council approve the proposed City Code amendments included within this Ordinance. NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, HEREBY ORDAINS that: Section 1. Seward City Code is hereby amended as follows: (Deletions are Bold C*..:',, thr-,...; Additions are Bold Underline CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE 2017-002 Table §15.10.220. Development Requirements —Notes NOTE 1. Within the HC District, in the area bounded by Fourth Avenue, the boM the southern boundary of the South Harbor Uplands - Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat, the harbor basin and J Float Ramp, building height is limited to 26 feet. Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days following enactment. ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, this 22nd day of May 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Jean Bardarson, Mayor AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Johanna Kinney, CMC City Clerk (City Seal) Agenda Statement Meeting Date: May 8, 2017 To: City Council Through: Jim Hunt, City Manager Ron Long, Assistant City Manager From: Donna Glenz, Planner Agenda Item: Council amend Seward City Code §15.10.220 Development Requirements — Notes to extend the maximum 26 foot building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION: Currently within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District in the area bounded by Fourth Avenue, the (south) boat launch ramp, the harbor basin and J Float Ramp, the maximum building height is 26 feet. All other property in the City is subject to a 34 foot maximum building height. According to the Zoning Code the purpose of building height standards is to prevent loss of life or excessive property damage through the inability of the city fire department to reach upper stories or roofs and to help maintain the character of neighborhoods. Not only is it important to maintain a public view of the Harbor Basin from the uplands, it is also important to maintain the , view of the mountains and back drop from other areas. The area of South Harbor Uplands abutting the harbor basin is built approximate 5 to 6 feet higher than the adjoining areas. ` 5, CONSISTENCY CHECKLIST: Yes No N/A Comprehensive Plan (2020, approved by Council August 8, 2005): • Preserve and protect the scenic views of the mountains and X Resurrection Bay. (page 11) Seward Boat Harbor Plan (December 8, 2014): View shed from the uplands is not addressed in the current X Harbor Plan Previous Seward Small Boat Harbor Plans (1980's & 1990's) Multi -story building development is blocking shoreline access and X views of the boats within the Small Boat Harbor Strategic Plan (Approved by Council Resolution 99-043): • Natural Environment: o We celebrate our natural environment by: preserving views and open spaces:.... (Page 4) X • Goals and Objectives: o Preserve and Protect the Scenic Views of the Mountains and Resurrection Bay (Page 15, Bullet 1) Municipal Lands Management Plan: (Adopted by Council X Resolution 2014-095) The Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board (PACAB) held a public meeting on April 5, 2017 and supported by motion extending the 26 foot maximum building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat. PACAB also noted support for continuing the current harbor boardwalk and development style of the Seward Boat Harbor southward in the development planning for the South Harbor Uplands. PACAB held another public work session on April 121h regarding development plans for the South Harbor Uplands and again voiced continued support for the 26 foot maximum building height code amendment. Seward City Code §15.01.035(c)(2)&(3) provides that the Planning and Zoning Commission shall hold a public hearing and forward written recommendations to the City Council before the City Council amends or repeals any land use regulations, or changes zoning or land use boundaries. As per Seward City Code the Planning and Zoning Commission held public hearings on April 18, 2017 and approved P&Z Resolution 2017-05, recommending City Council approved the attached Ordinance, amending Seward City Code § 15.10.220 Development Requirement — Notes. INTENT: Amend Seward City Code § 15.10.220. Development Requirements — Notes to extend the maximum 26 foot building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat No. 2012-04. FISCAL NOTE: Implementation of the code amendment will have no direct cost to the City. Approved by Finance Department: �YA=;� ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes X No N/A RECOMMENDATION: Staff, the Planning and Zoning Commission and PACAB recommend the Council approve Ordinance 2017-002, amending portions of Seward City Code § 15.10.220, Development Requirements — Notes, Note Number 1. Ir, U 4, Current 26 Foot Area � ���2i'1it~`6�lili�ly i',1 Rpa � E9N1 �4 -: 0: i Area of Proposed Maximum 26 foot Building Height Due to different data sources property lines and aerial imagery do not overlay correctly. Map is to be used for orientation and reference purposes only. � Area to be added Ordinance 2017- N P&Z 0 180 360 720 Feet Mapping Assistance by Alaska Map Company, LLC Sponsored by: Staff CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2017-05 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL AMEND PORTIONS OF SEWARD CITY CODE §15.10.220 DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS TABLE — NOTES TO EXTEND THE MAXIMUM 26 FOOT BUILDING HEIGHT AREA TO INCLUDE THE SOUTH HARBOR UPLANDS, TRACT H, WATERFRONT PARK REPLAT WHEREAS, currently within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District in the area bounded by Fourth Avenue, the (south) boat launch ramp, the harbor basin and J Float Ramp, the maximum building height is 26 feet. All other property in the City is subject to a 34 foot maximum building height; and WHEREAS, according to §15,10.220 of the City Code the purpose of building height standards is to prevent loss of life or excessive property damage through the inability of the city fire department to reach upper stories or roofs and to help maintain the character of neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the proposed ordinance will extend the 26 foot maximum building height requirement southward to include the area known as the South Harbor Uplands, legally known as Tract 1-1, Waterfront Park Replat number 2012-04; and WHEREAS, having complied with the public notification process, on April 18, 2017, the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and made the following recommendations. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Seward I'lanning and Zoning Commission that: Section 1. The Commission recommends Ordinance 2017 attached and incorporated herein by reference, be forwarded to City Council. Section 2. The Commission further recommends the Council approve Ordinance 2017- , amending portions of Seward City Code § 15.10.220, Development Requirements— Notes, Note Number 1. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption, Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution 2017-05 Page 2 of 2 PASSED AND APPROVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission this 18"' day of April 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD Martha Fleming, i e-Chair AYES: Anibrosiaiti, Seese, Anderson, Fleming NOES: None ABSENT: Carlton, Swann, Ecklund ABSTAIN: None VACANT: None ATTEST: Johaina Kinney C City Jerk (City Sea[) 1 1 City of Seward, Alaska Plannilig Commission Minutes April 18, 2017 Volume 7, Page 232 New Business Items requiring a Public Hearing -- Resolution 2017-05 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska recommending City Council amend portions of Seward City Code §15.10.220 Development Requirements Table — Notes to extend the maximum 26 foot building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat Glenz said the Code amendment was to extend the 26 foot building height zone in the boat harbor basin area southward to include the South Harbor Uplands. She noted the Port and Commerce Advisory Board held a meeting on April 5 and supported by motion extending the 26 foot building height standard to the uplands. Staff recommended approval. Glenz directed Commissioners to the wall map proposed amendment. ,4 Ambrosiani asked what the structural height stanc if no action was taken, Glenz noted the developn was 34 feet. She added that the upland area was adjacent grade. In response to Fleming, Glenz noted it the 26-foot zone, but g , ievelol in response to s above 26 feet at the p r standard Notice of public hea It' beir and the public hearing was of gable roof the area to be included by the he South Harbor Uplands outside of the harbor area roximately six feet above f ;�a three-story structure within be li" ted to two-story construction, truction was allowed to be extended roof height did not exceed the Code and published as required by law was noted Hearing no one wishing to speak, the public hearing was closed. Motion (Anderson/Seese) Approve Resolution 2017-05 Motion Passed Unanimous Sponsored by: PACAB CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD RESOLUTION 2017-002 RESOLUTION OF THE PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD, RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE SOUTH HARBOR UPLANDS DEVELOPMENT WHEREAS, The Port & Commerce Advisory Board held a Regular Board Meeting on April 5,2017 and a work session on April 12, 2017 to discuss developing the South Harbor Uplands; and WHEREAS, a financial split of 50/50 with Lessee's for utilities improvements on the South Harbor Uplands development with Lessee paying their portion over 15 years was discussed and approved similar to council Resolution 97-056 approving a comparable financial split for upgrading of utilities with the Lessee's of 8 lease sites behind the harbormasters office; and WHEREAS, to allow for more infrastructure space on the uplands it was determined that all the utilities should be located into one utility easement; and WHEREAS, the South Harbor Uplands should mirror the existing Harbor Boardwalk parcels; and WHEREAS, in P&Z Resolution 2017-05 recommending that City Council amend portions of the City Code 15.10.220 Development Requirements Table — Notes to extend the maximum 26 foot building height area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park Replat; and WHEREAS, keeping with the height limit in Track H that the South Harbor Uplands maintain the 26 foot height limit; and WHEREAS, the harbor boardwalk/bike path should connect with the South Harbor Uplands. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Port & Commerce Advisory Board that: Section 1. The Port and Commerce Advisory Board recommends that the Council approve the following development recommendations for the South Harbor Uplands. 1. A financial 50/50 split between the City and the Lessee's for utility improvements at the South Harbor Uplands. 2. Locate all the utilities into one utility easement. 3. Mirror the existing harbor boardwalk parcels. 4. Keeping with the 26 foot height limit in Tract H for the South Harbor Uplands Port and Commerce Advisory Board Resolution 2017- Page 2 of 2 5. Connect the harbor boardwalk/bike path with the South Harbor Uplands PASSED AND APPROVED by the Port and Commerce Advisory Board of the City of Seward, Alaska this 3rd of May 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Darryl Schaefermeyer, Chair AYES: NOES: ABSENT: %hp� ABSTAIN: VACANT: ATTEST: NO4�- 1 Johanna Kinney City Clerk, CMC (City Seal) City of Seivard, Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Minutes April 5, 2017 Volume 3, Page 310 INFORMATIONAL ITEMS, REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS — UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None NEW BUSINESS Other New Business Motion (Terry/Hughes) General Discussion was given Motion (Hughes/Terry) Motion Passed Motion (Hughes/Lawrence) Motion Motionry/Hughes Motion Passed Motion (Terry/Hughes Motion Passed Discussion of the South Harbor Uplands Develooru t Plan of 50/50 financial split improvements on the s development with r ion over 15 years. RecomrAcnding that City Council amend Portions of'oe City Code 15.10.220 Developrnent 1�equirements Table —Notes o extend the maximum 26 foot building eight area to include the South Harbor Uplands, Tract H, Waterfront Park nimous Consent Recommending that South Harbor Uplands should mirror the existing Harbor Boardwalk parcels Unanimous Consent Recommending to extending boardwalk with possibly of connecting bike path Unanimous Consent **Schaefermeyer and Andrews left meeting 12:50pm Motion (Hughes/Terry) Approved PACAB Goals Calendar from March 15, 2017 work session Motion Passed Unanimous Consent City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page CALL TO ORDER The April 10, 2017 regular meeting of the Seward City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Jean Bardarson. OPENING CEREMONY Lieutenant Doreen Valadez led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Jean Bardarson presiding and Marianna Keil Ristine Casagranda Dave Squires Sue McClure Deborah Altermatt comprising a quorum of the Council; and Ron Long, Acting City Manager Will Earnhart, City Attorney Johanna Kinney, City Clerk Absent — Erik Slater CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING John Moline stated there was conflict between nighttime operations at Safeway and neighboring residents and businesses. He had called the Seward Police Department several times regarding the noise when Safeway was having their parking lots cleaned after hours. Moline did not have an issue with necessary snow removal, but more with the spring sweeping and cleaning. He had lost income with his lodging business due to this practice during unacceptable time frames. Lynda Paquette stated these were challenging times globally, and on state and city levels. She recommended a book titled The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz that shared the following tools: always do your best, be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, and don't make assumptions. Kenn Carpenter, Assembly Member representing areas including Seward, noted recent happenings with the Kenai Peninsula Borough. By Unanimous Consent, Council suspended the rules to allow questions. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page Keil asked Carpenter about his recent vote against the marijuana establishments, presumably based on personal objection. Carpenter clarified he voted against this measure not for personal reasons, but because he was not getting answers to his questions. He felt the media captured that inaccurately and thanked Keil for the opportunity to clarify. McClure asked Carpenter for an update on the invocation issue at the assembly. Carpenter stated there was currently a lawsuit filed against the Kenai Peninsula Borough by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and he hoped the borough would continue to work on this issue to find a solution that everyone could agree on. Council went back on the rules. Suzi Towsley noted she was posting city events on her Facebook page. She hoped tonight was full of useful dialogue and hopefulness. Parks and Recreation Director Karin Sturdy stated the city's Easter Egg Hunt was moved to the Alaska SeaLife Center. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda Keil moved Resolution 2017-020 to the consent agenda, and there was no objection from council. Motion Passed Unanimous The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items: Approval of the March 13, 2017 and March 28, 2017 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Resolution 2017-020, Accepting Funds For A Certified Local Government Grant Award In The Amount Up To $2,000 To Develop The Seward Historic Preservation Plan, Including Up To $1,200 In Federal Share And Up To $800 In Non -Federal Share And In -Kind Contributions, And Appropriating Funds. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Proclamations & Awards National Telecommunicators Week April 9-15, 2017 National Library Week April 9-15, 2017 We Love Us Proclamation City Manager Report. Assistant City Manager Ron Long stated there were no purchase City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page orders authorized since the last meeting between $10,000 and $50,000. Long stated administration was reexamining the timeline for the electric meter exchange project and was now looking at alternate dates, emphasizing the city wanted to do this project well rather than quickly. He noted the city's audit schedule was included in the manager's report in council's packet. Long announced the State had awarded the city's road project bid to Knik Construction, so the city would be working to add their additional pieces in to the scope of work. Long stated that, regarding noise ordinances, there was a provision in code for the City Manager to grant a waiver to allow breaking the ordinance, but it had to be specific to time and place. It was not a blanket waiver, and in the past they had issued waivers for lot sweeping to Safeway. Any other activity not accompanied by a waiver was a violation. McClure requested from administration that when the power went out to please send an email to council letting them know the cause. They received many calls and McClure wanted to be able to have some response. Squires asked Long if they could put out a public notice on these types of noise waivers. Casagranda asked about the Historic Preservation grant that was on tonight's agenda, specifically about the procurement process to seek someone to edit the Historic Preservation Plan. Long said staff and the Historic Preservation Commission wanted to get this grant moving quickly and noted the resolution preauthorized the acceptance prior to application. An informal quote process on the administrative side would be performed in addition to developing the scope of work. City Attorney Report. Will Earnhart said the city's brief on the Orion Litigation was almost finished and he felt optimistic the decision would be upheld. They continued to advise and participate in negotiations to protect the City's interests regarding the Bradley Lake agreements. The Attorney provided advice and work on lease assignments and working on land use guidelines for land procedures. His firm was going through about 50 boxes of city documents inherited from the old firm. Earnhart noted he provided to council some old articles on strong manager form of government and the role of mayor in this form of government. He finished with a comment to the public: the role of the attorney was to advise on legality. Unless the council had asked him to perform an investigation, it was his responsibility to take facts as presented and advise on the facts alone. He was not here to voice an opinion on who was right or who was wrong, and they were working through the issues of what was administrative or legislative. Casagranda said because the body had decided no one council member could contact the attorney directly, she presented a memorandum to the attorney in response to a recent attorney opinion. She also provided a confidential memorandum to the attorney. Other Reports, Announcements and Presentations — None PUBLIC HEARINGS — None UNFINISHED BUSINESS —None City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page NEW BUSINESS Resolution 2017-021, Authorizing The Purchase Of A Dodge Ram 2500 ST From Anchorage Chrysler For A Net Price Of $31,200.00 And The Purchase Of Installed After -Market Operating Equipment From Quality Equipment Sales And Service For $8,184.00 For A Total Cost Of $39,384.00 For The Electric Department. Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approve Resolution 2017-021 Long noted for this resolution, administration was using two pieces of procurement code: the state bidder's list to procure the vehicle, and solicited quotes for the additional pieces needed to accompany the vehicle. Electric Utility Manager John Foutz said this vehicle was one of the oldest in the city's fleet. It was down for maintenance at the moment. He added they were upgrading to a four-wheel drive truck. Squires commended Foutz for including all the lights and safety equipment on the vehicle. He noted he would like the city to not always utilize the state bid list, sometimes it was advantageous to solicit bids. In response to Casagranda, Foutz said the truck needed to be four wheel drive in order to go off road to access the Transmission Line. He added the crews needed to have secure storage area, and it ended up being more economical to have an extended cab for storage rather than to purchase tool boxes. Is Motion Passed Unanimous Resolution 2017-0229 Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into An Agreement With Frontier Directional Drilling Specialists, Inc. To Provide Directional Boring Services To Relocate Two Primary Electric Supply Circuits From Poles Mounted Along Third Avenue, Adjacent To The Lagoon, And Two Additional Locations In Old Mill Subdivision And Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC), Plus 10% For Contingencies, For An Amount Not To Exceed $399,375.20, And Appropriating Funds. Motion (Kell/Casagranda) Approve Resolution 2017-022 Foutz said this project was to replace old lines. The poles were beyond their life expectancy. They would require less voltage which would erase the need for bird diverters. He added the city could give the opportunity for other lines to continue on the existing poles or go elsewhere. Motion Passed Other New Business Items Unanimous City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page Schedule a work session to review executive session procedures. Council set this work session for Monday, May 8, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. Discussion of 2014 City of Seward nepotism memo and interpretation of Interference in Administrative Services. Keil read the nepotism policy into the record. Keil read the City Clerk's interpretation of administrative services into the record. Eamhart said it would be good for the City Manager to look at keeping employees from following council members as well. Regarding recent allegations of city employees living together, the employees in question were not in the supervisory chain of command and were not in the chain of nepotism except when the Finance Director was placed in acting status. He did not feel there was a violation of the nepotism policy. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS Planning and Zoning Commission Quarterly Report. City Clerk Procedural Memo on making motions, primary amendments, and secondary amendments. On going City Project and Goal List. COUNCIL COMMENTS 10 Casagranda congratulated Jim Woodside for being Seward's first roving vendor and was excited to try his smoked dips and sauces on the streets this summer. It was a great opportunity to start a business as a comprehensive plan contractor, she felt. Altermatt thanked everyone for coming to the meeting tonight and noted that feedback was good. She encouraged the public to please contact the council and communicate their concerns. McClure reminded the public the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly would be in Seward on April 18, 2017. Committee meetings started in the afternoon that day. There was also a meeting that evening for the proposed Snow River Hydroelectric Dam Project which was taking place in Moose Pass. She wished everyone a Happy Easter. Squires thanked the street department for temporarily fixing the potholes at Hemlock. He wished everyone a Happy Easter. Keil hoped that some of these documents presented and discussed tonight gave clarification. She looked forward to getting back to work on their council duties. Bardarson thanked everyone for coming. She was excited to move into spring. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page CITIZEN COMMENTS Kris Erchinger stated she had never participated in nepotism. She disclosed her address for the public and the council member interested. She hired employees only within her department. She did not hire anyone in Human Resources, Parks and Recreation, or Public Works. Erchinger apologized to the people who were her friends and the attempts made to disparage them. Linda Lasota, on behalf of the Seward Historic Preservation Commission, thanked the council for voting for approving Resolution 2017-020 and their support in moving forward. She also thanked Long for expediting this grant. The draft Historic Preservation Plan was sent to the state. The commission had been working on this plan for some time now and spent over five hours last Saturday continuing that work. Suzi Towsley didn't apologize for the public spectacle and noted these discussions were important and nepotism was a symptom of a problem_ Her point of view was that it was council's duty to bring concerns from constituents to the proper channels, which would be in the manager's evaluation, which happened this year. Towsley had been challenged to bring issues to council. She disagreed with the attorney's opinion that it was a dead issue and thought this discussion was a symptom of something larger. The city had a number of employees leaving good city jobs. Towsley thanked council for what they were doing and encouraged them to keep talking if there was an issue. She felt Casagranda was speaking truth. Lynda Paquette said everyone was all energy. She loved this town and wanted this town to be beautiful. She said it was important to bring issues to the room. The public should come together and stop singling out one council person to go to because things needed to go to the body as a whole. They were all connected and they were all human beings with energy. She was optimistic they were going to create one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Karin Sturdy stated the city was enjoying and celebrating the successes of the Teen Rec Room. She was proud of the staff they had at Parks and Recreation. Sturdy noted other positive mentoring programs happening in Seward. The Teen and Youth Center was operating well, and staff and students were gearing up for the Easter Egg Hunt this weekend, hosted by Moriarty Family Dentistry. Sturdy noted the annual Diaper Derby event was looking for anew corporate sponsor. The campgrounds were looking to open on April 15, 2017, and she was proud of the campgrounds and the parks. Sports and Recreation was transitioning to the softball season and volunteers were needed for the annual Pink Cheeks Triathlon on May 6, 2017. COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS Long said it was refreshing to hear the public asking council to see if something existed, rather than making assumptions. He stated there had been no findings of fact of wrong doings regarding personnel. Long added PACAB had a good work session on the South Harbor Development Project, and he looked forward to bringing their recommendations to council. He noted that he had sat in the seat of an elected official and noted what was required was an acceptance and recognition of the separation of powers. He understood that was difficult because they cared about what they were doing. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 10, 2017 Volume 40, Page Keil said this year in politics, there was a lot of "sticking it to the man", but there was a lot of truth. She thought that people in power sometimes got a bad rap sometimes because they were powerful people. She didn't like tearing people down and encouraged Casagranda to speak her mind. She believed government could work if they worked together, and she thought the council was approachable. Earnhart echoed Long's comments that no one in the city had been terminated, and that there wasn't a liability out there lingering. He reminded everyone to look at the big picture — they were arguing over personnel issues and he felt that was a very easy job, as other communities were working with lawsuits and major budget issues. He encouraged free speech, but also encouraged the city to keep things running smoothly. Bardarson felt Seward was moving forward in a lot of positive ways. They had a lot of things to be appreciative of. Squires encouraged Towsley to bring issues forward to the council and that council should take any issues to the City Manager. One council member couldn't do anything, because the majority took action. His understanding was the council agreed they would let the mayor know if they wanted to talk to the attorney to maintain budget issues. He thanked Paquette for her words and Sturdy for the Parks and Recreation updates. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:16 p.m. Johanna Kinney, CMC Jean Bardarson City Clerk Mayor (City Seal) City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page CALL TO ORDER The April 24, 2017 regular meeting of the Seward City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Jean Bardarson. OPENING CEREMONY Police Chief Tom Clemons led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Jean Bardarson presiding and Marianna Keil Dave Squires Deborah Altermatt comprising a quorum of the Council; and Jim Hunt, City Manager Johanna Kinney, City Clerk Brenda Ballou, Deputy City Clerk Absent — None Is Ristine Casagranda Sue McClure Erik Slater CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING Karin Sturdy said over 500 people attended the Easter Egg Hunt held last weekend at the Alaska SeaLife Center. The Parks and Recreation Department was still seeking volunteers for the Pink Cheeks Triathlon on May 6, 2017. Tim McDonald said there were about 350 Sandhill Cranes at the head of the bay. He counted them today. He said there were also some Trumpeter Swans out there as well. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda Squires added an item to Other New Business to discuss scheduling a work session on May 22, 2016 with the Chamber of Commerce, local contractors, local realtors, and the public to discuss housing. Motion Passed Unanimous City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items: Resolution 2017-025, Adopting The Port And Commerce Advisory Board Priorities From January 2017 To December 2017. Resolution 2017-026, Adopting The Planning And Zoning Commission Priorities From April 2017 To April 2018. Non -objection to the renewal of Package Store Liquor License #4334 for the Oaken Keg #2728. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Proclamations & Awards Retirement of Patrick Linton, Executive Director of Seward Community Health Center. Retirement of Flip Foldager, City of Seward Harbor Employee. Chamber of Commerce Report. Cindy Clock thanked Council Member Squires for adding the work session to the agenda. There was a chamber booth at the Seward Job Fair, and the Financial Reality Fair. Kris Harris and Margee Starr staffed the chamber's booth at the Fairbanks Sports & Recreation Show. Clock introduced Melissa Schutter, a board member and one of the people who comprised the chamber's Finance Committee along with Von Terry. The chamber hired Share HR as a human resources consultant firm. Chamber staff member Kris Harris focused on member services, and she was earning the moniker "Member Magnet" for achieving high membership numbers. Harris' goal was to reach 400 members by end of summer. Denny Murphy was hired as the part-time bookkeeper, and GeNeil Flaherty was the Events Coordinator. Charity Cinereski would be transitioning from student intern to Visitor Center Representative next month, and Jen Leahy would be working at the Derby Booth during the Halibut Tournament in June. The Seward Harbor Opening Weekend and the Mermaid Festival would be May 19-21, 2017. There would be a Military Appreciation BBQ on May 20, 2017 at the Harbormaster's Office. On Friday, May 5, 2017 at 4:00 p.m., Advanced Physical Therapy would be having a public open house to celebrate the opening of their new location downtown in the Petro Plaza. The first cruise ship would arrive on May 18, 2017. The Chamber would be hosting the second annual 60-Second Business Preview & Ice Cream Social on Thursday, May 18, 2017 in the Community Room at the library; this was a business social for networking and would start at 6:00 p.m. The annual open house at the Chamber of Commerce would be on Friday, May 19, 2017. The next chamber luncheon would be on Friday, May 12, 2017 and would feature William Lapinskas from Spring Creek Correctional Center. City Manager Report. Jim Hunt reported there had been no purchase orders between $10,000 and $50,000 approved by the City Manager since the last council meeting. Electric Utilities Manager John Foutz said the meter exchange program was postponed until May, 2018. In response to McClure, Foutz said the costs should be about the same. Assistant City Manager Ron Long added that administration was trying to eliminate a duplication of efforts, and expected the net result to actually be less cost. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page Public Works Director Doug Schoessler said the elevator repair in City Hall had been considered by three different companies; all three had provided pricing. Arctic Elevator seemed to be the best choice. Regarding the road paving project, Schoessler said the winning bidder with the state was Knik Construction. Schoessler anticipated the Order to Proceed to be issued by the state within two weeks. Knik Construction appeared to be willing and able to wrap in the city's paving project, and there would be a pre -planning meeting held to coordinate timing. In response to Long, Schoessler said he'd love to see the entire project competed within one season, and he expected to see road crew presence in town within the next week. However, Schoessler said there could be advantages to having the road project extend to two years so that additional roads could be included. Council requested an updated, comprehensive list of all the roads being considered for this project. In response to Casagranda, Long said administration had been reaching out to the local Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) businesses to ensure they were not being negatively impacted by the breakwater project. Long said they continued to have a weekly project meeting with all the players. Hunt said he was working with the mayor of Wasilla, and the governor's office, to plan for a public presentation on opioid addiction in the near future. Other Reports, Announcements and Presentations Seward Community Health Center Report. Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District (KPEDD) Quarterly Report by Tim Dillon. V PUBLIC HEARINGS IP Resolution 2017-023, Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Consent Assignment To Harbour Holdings, LLC To The Lease Agreement 97-105 With Tom Tougas, For Lot 8, Block 6, Seward Small Boat Harbor Subdivision, City Of Seward, Kenai Peninsula Borough Plat 2000-19, Seward Recording District, Third Judicial District, State Of Alaska, And Harbour Holdings, LLC Request For A New 33 Year Lease. Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approve Resolution 2017-023 Harbormaster Norm Regis said Tom Tougas requested that his lease be assigned to his son, Joe Tougas, of Harbour Holdings, LLC. Administration provided a laydown version of the resolution for consideration which would extend the existing lease for ten years, and also add two 33-year extension options. Regis added the utilities and lease payments were current for this leaseholder. Notice of the public hearing beingposted and published as required by law was noted and thepublic hearing was opened. No one appeared to address the Council and the public hearing was closed. In response to Casagranda, Long said this location was previously the Once In A Blue Moose store location. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page Motion To Amend (Keil/Squires) Amend Resolution 2017-023 by adopting the Motion To Amend Passed Main Motion Passed laydown version. Unanimous Unanimous Resolution 2017-024, Increasing The Mill Rate From 3.12 Mills To 3.84 Mills To Account For Costs Associated With The Issuance Of $3 Million In General Obligation Bonds For Road Improvements In Accordance With Resolution 2017-003. Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approve Resolution 2017-024 Long said this resolution formalized the repayment process for the road bond the voters approved last fall. Notice of the public hearing beingposted and published as required by law was noted and thepublic hearing was opened. No one appeared to address the Council and the public hearing was closed. In response to McClure, Long said the mill rate increase was based on the assessment in place when the bond package was put together. Long confirmed that with the borough's new assessments, the income from this mill rate increase would be higher in the first year than previously predicted. Motion To Amend (Casagranda/Keil) Amend Resolution 2017-024 by adding a new Section 4 that reads, "Unless subsequently amended by the City Council, the 0.72 mill rate increase in this resolution shall end the first year following retirement of the Road Improvement Bond that meets the Kenai Peninsula Borough levy notice deadline.", and moving the previous Section 4 down to Section 5. Squires said he would not support this amendment because the city had not historically done well with sunsetting taxes, and he wanted the council at the time to make the decision. Keil supported this amendment and said the council in place at that time could decide whether they wanted to leave the sunset in place, or extend it. In response to McClure, Long confirmed that this bond would last for 20 years. Motion To Amend Passed Yes: Slater, Altermatt, Casagranda, Keil, McClure, Bardarson No: Squires City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page Casagranda expressed concern over the borough's assessments currently underway, and that the result would be an overage of funds generated by this mill rate increase; her concern was this excess of income was not designated to anything, and so would just be pit into the general fund. Altermatt was concerned about non -profits not contributing to the road bond repayment; Long said, although non -profits could not be taxed, they could be assessed, but that would require some methodology and justification that didn't currently exist. Keil was going to support this resolution based on the voter approval rate of 73%. McClure would also support this; she felt this was the best option. Motion To Amend (Casagranda/Squires) Amend Resolution 2017-024 by striking the words "To Account" and replacing them with "Solely Dedicated". In response to Squires, Casagranda explained that her reason for requesting this amendment was to ensure any overage collected would go toward paying off this bond, and would not be used for other purposes. In response to Squires, Hunt and Long confirmed that any revenue generated from this mill rate increase would only be used to satisfy the costs associated with the road bonds. Hunt said there would be a dedicated account number for this line item. Finance Director Kris Erchinger said they didn't know the exact revenues that would be generated, but this revenue would show up in the debt service fund in the general fund; the property tax revenue for the road bond could be broken out specifically. Motion To Amend Failed Main Motion Passed UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None NEW BUSINESS Yes: Casagranda No: Slater, Squires, Altermatt, McClure, Keil, Bardarson Yes: Slater, Squires, Altermatt, McClure, Keil, Bardarson No: Casagranda Resolution 2017-027, Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Purchase Agreement With Arctic Elevator Company LLC, For Modernization Of The City Hall Elevator In The Amount Of $86,300.00 And Appropriating Funds. Motion (Keil/Casagranda) Approve Resolution 2017-027 Long said he brought a few laydowns that provided an overview of the quotes received. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page Schoessler said this project would bring the elevator up to date. In response to Slater, Schoessler said the project would take approximately 10 weeks to complete. Motion Passed Other New Business Items Unanimous Discuss ideas for Celebrating the 50tb Anniversary of the Seward-Obihiro Sister City Relationship. Council directed the city clerk to draft an invitation to the City of Obihiro. The invitation should invite up to six (6) delegates from Obihiro to come in August, 2018; home stays would be sought. If the City of Seward received an in -kind invitation from Obihiro, council would like to consider a brief visit to Kushiro as well. Discuss scheduling a work session on May 22, 2016 with the Chamber of Commerce, local contractors, local realtors, and the public to discuss housing. Council scheduled the work session on May 22, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS On -going City Project and Goal List. Annual Financial Disclosure Statement Submission Report. COUNCIL COMMENTS Casagranda congratulated Flip Foldager on his retirement. She congratulated to Patrick Linton as well, and welcomed Craig Ambrosiani. She thanked Cindy Clock for providing a transparent and informative report. She expressed appreciation for the Port City Players' production of You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown, the adults put in a lot of hours to prepare the children for this event. Altermatt wished Patrick Linton and Flip Foldager good retirements, and thanked them both for their service. She appreciated Tim Dillon for providing a KPEDD report. She attended the KPEDD board meeting last week via teleconference, but decided she would strive to be there in person from now on so that her voice was heard. There would be a Rotary fundraiser on May 6, 2017 at the Seward Brewing Company. Slater was pleased to see the Little League backstop repaired so quickly, and he was happy to see the street sweeper out already. Keil reminded everyone to remember their mothers on Mother's Day. Squires congratulated Patrick Linton and Flip Foldager on their retirements. McClure congratulated the retirees. She thanked Kenn Carpenter, the city's representative on the borough assembly, for attending the council meeting tonight. On Thursday this week at 7:00 p.m. City of Seward, Alaska City Council Minutes April 24, 2017 Volume 40, Page there would be a Resurrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS) presentation by Doug Capra about Rockwell Kent at the library, and at the same time there would be a free concert at the K.M. Rae Building. She thanked the Parks and Recreation Department for the fun Diaper Derby. Bardarson thanked the Parks and Recreation Department for the Diaper Derby. She thanked the Alaska SeaLife Center, Dr. Moriarty, and all the participants for the Easter Egg Hunt. She, too, was glad to see the street sweeper out. Hunt said Tim Dillon had been staying in touch with administration very well and administration was working with Mr. Dillon on several projects for Seward. Long thanked Flip Foldager for his service at the harbor, and Patrick Linton for his work at the Seward Community Health Center. CITIZEN COMMENTS Karin Sturdy appreciated the accolades on behalf of the Parks and Recreation Department. She announced the Pink Cheeks Triathlon would be on May 6, 2017, that the Terry's Tires Bike Rodeo would be on May 13, 2017, and the Super Saturday Clean -Up was also on May 13, 2017. Doug Schoessler wanted to clarify that the elevator project would take seven weeks plus 10 days to complete. He announced the Ducks Unlimited fundraiser would be held on May 20, 2017 at the Seward Brewing Company. COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS —None ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:24 p.m. Johanna Kinney, CMC Jean Bardarson City Clerk Mayor (City Seal) Sponsored by: Seward Historic Preservation Commission CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2017-001 A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, REQUESTING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL REINFORCE THE COMMISSION'S PURSUIT OF PRESERVATION OPPORTUNITIES REGARDING CITY OWNED FORT RAYMOND PROPERTIES AND ASSETS WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the Seward Historic Preservation Commission to assist with the continuing education of citizens regarding local historic preservation and community history; and WHEREAS, the Seward Historic Preservation Commission wishes to assist with the ongoing responsibilities it holds as a Certified Local Government ( CLG), which requires provision for recognition of the historically significant activities, structures and the people who helped build Seward; and WHEREAS, the Commission has continuously received Certified Local Government grants for historic preservation activities; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the responsibilities with the Powers and Duties of the Historic Preservation Commission (Seward City Code 2. 30.425); and 2) Survey and inventory community historic architectural and archaeological Resources within the community, 4) Act in an advisory role to other officials and departments of local government Regarding the identification and protection of local historic and archaeological Resources, and 7) Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties Identified in the local historic preservation inventory. Note: The local historic inventory is different from the local Register of Historic Places_ The inventory only requires that the historic or archaeological resource be more than 50 years old.) WHEREAS, Seward City Council Ordinance No. 95-10 established the Seward Register of Historic Places in order to locally recognize properties important to Seward's history; and WHEREAS, the establishment of World War II's Fort Raymond was a significant historic CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-001 and formative development for the community of Seward; and WHEREAS, substantial portions of the former Fort Raymond remain under public ownership through the City of Seward therefore facilitating straightforward historic preservation initiatives ; and WHEREAS, time is of the essence, as opportunities to determine historic preservation priorities for Fort Raymond properties and assets will continue to dwindle as the area may be subject to appropriation and development by public and private entities in the near term; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONUMSSION that: Section 1. To competently evaluate the remaining historical substance of the Fort Raymond site and weigh that against community needs, regulatory regimes and with the preservation needs of the community in mind, the Historic Preservation Commission requires participation of the organs of city government, specifically those in occupation of any portion of the district, those engaged in strategic planning, and those responsible for execution of those plans. Section 2. The Historic Preservation Commission hereby recommends that these parties take heed of the dwindling opportunities for preservation of Seward's heritage at these physical sites. Section 3. Further, the Historic Preservation Commission recommends that the City Council campaign for engagement between these parties to arrive at outcomes for existing structures and sites that are thoughtfully determined and in the community's interest. Section 4. Finally, where preservation of sites and structures in part or in whole are not so determined to be practical, the Historic Preservation Commission recommends that alternate forms of preservation be pursued so that the community's heritage remains represented. PASSED AND APPROVED by the Seward Historic Preservation Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 15t' day of February, 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA APPROVED February 15, 2017 Linda Lasota, Chair AYES: 4 NOES: 0 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-001 ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Johanna Kinney, CMC City Clerk (City Seal) MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: Johanna Kinney, City Clerk DATE: May 2, 2017 RE: City projects and goals - REVISED The following list of City Council projects and goals was reviewed and discussed at the March 20, 2017 City Council Work Session, and revised as follows: 1. New ADA accessible parking location on west side of City Hall' 2. Set location for Satellite Fire Station and Public Works Building -3-. Expand eur-r-ent Couneil Chambers 4. Discussion on Air Force Rec Camp Site 4 & 14ar- ., 6. Saltwater Heat Pump Project 7. Energy Efficiency of City Hall 8. Ground Transportation for Ambulance Services 9. Animal Shelter Improvements 4 10. City Hall Elevator 4 11. Research elected/appointed official tele-conferencing possibilities for meetings 3 12. Refine Executive Session Procedures 3_worksession scheduled for May 8, 2017 13. Update the KPB Tsunami Warning message to include specific reference to the local radio station (91.7/106.1) 14. Incentivize family entertainment -type businesses to come to Seward 4 15. Affordable Housing (including Summer Worker Housing)' 16. Develop South Harbor Uplands 17. Seward Community Health Center Expansion 18. Building Maintenance Z 19. LED Light Conversions z 1 Potential Work Session 2 Address as a budget consideration 3 Awaiting City Attorney input - #11 will be scratched unless City Attorney advises differently 4 Currently underway May 2017 May 201h June 17 SuMo TuWe TFr Sa SuMo TuWTh Fr Sa e Th 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 910 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Apr 30 May 1 2 3 4 5 6 7:OOpm 10:30p 12:OOpm 2:OOp 10:00am 11:30a m P&Z Mtg m PACAB m 2nd Grade o (City Annex Mtg Field Trip Building) (Chambers) (Chambers) 0 m Q a 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5:30pm 7:OOpm 10:00am 1:30p CC WS m HP WS (Chambers) (Chambers) rn 7:OOpm 10:30p m CC Mtg (Chambers) 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 6:OOpm 9:30pm 12:OOpm 2:OOp P&Z WS (City m PACAB WS Annex (Chambers) CD Building) 6:30pm 11:OOp mHPMtg & WS 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 5:30pm 7:OOpm CCWS 7:OOpm 10:30p N m CC Mtg N(Chambers) T 28 29 30 31 Jun 1 2 3 M HolidayOffice 00 N Nanci Richey 5/1/2017 2:35 PM June 2017 June July 17 SuMo TuWFr Sa SuMo TuWTh Fr Sa e Th e Th 1 2 3 1 4 5 6 7 8 910 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat May 28 29 30 31 Jun 1 2 3 M c 00 N 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 6:00pm 7:00pm P&Z/Flood Board WS 7:00pm 10:30p m P&Z Mtg (City Annex Building) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 7:00pm 10:30p m CC Mtg (Chambers) 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 6:00pm 9:30pm P&Z WS (City Annex N 00 Building) 25 26 27 28 29 30 Jul 1 7:00pm 10:30p m CC Mtg Ln N 7 (Chambers) Nanci Richey 5/1/2017 2:36 PM