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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996 PACAB Minutes ~ hi:: .. , .'.'" City of Seward, Alaska January 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 155 CALL TO ORDER The January 10, 19961 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There wen~ present: Ron Long, presiding, and Sharon Anderson Willard Dunham David Fairchild Jack Goodwill Richard Goshorn Dean Kasischke comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzinil City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CnC Representative Gwynne Pilch, Port Marketing Theresa Buttsl Quality Marine Rosemary Sardarov, Fishing Company of Alas.ka Robert Valdatta Eric Landenburger ABSENT were: Doug Lechner (excused) James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for public hearing. None Items other than those appearing on the agenda. Robert Valdatta noted the interest of Davis Block & Cement to import "super bags" of cement from Asia to 5E.>ward - a possible backhaul opportunity. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Anderson/Kasischke) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda. Long added th~ Seward Forest Products sub-committee report. Dunham added the neW coal import proposal. 156 City of Seward, Alaska January 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Fage 156 VOTE ON APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED Motion Approved. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach. ARRlCBC Urbach noted that City Manager Garzini was meeting with the ARRC today in Anchorage. Urbach stated the coal impurt proposal WtlS an interesting private enterprise project. She also mentioned the fish by-product proposal by John Walls, Jr. that was presented to City Council on January 8 was a project on which the board should comment. Bruce Sieminski. KPBIEDD absent SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY Nune UNFINISHED BUSINESS Seward Forest Products Sob-Committee Report Long noted that forest-relatl;:'d issues had been closely followed and attended by the committee on a regional level. He reiterated that a long-term timber supply was iI keystone to both small and large timber products industries. Long advised that the Governor's bills, SB180 & HB344, though an attempt to provide opportunities for the timber industry, remained restrictive in terms of its llhigh value-added" language and should be amended to "value-added" (timber products). He recommended that the city convey to its representatives that the language be changed, particula.rly to include finished product such LIS plywood and wafcrbo3rd and to consider a secondary product such as wood chips. MOTION (Anderson/Dunham) The City convey to the Governor, the Alaska legislature and to our Congressional delegation that the language in SB180/HB344 be changed from "high value.added" wood products as finished product to a less.restridive tenn of "value.added" wood products {such as plywood, waferboard and wood chips} from long.tenn, negotiated timber sales. Dunham noted that until a major change occurred in forcM service laws and management practices the Seward Forest Products site would be better utilized by other forms of industry. 151' Gty of Sf'WUrd, Alaska ]anUlJry 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 157 Anderson stated the city should develop a statewide perspective. She noted a spinoff from the fertilizer itself (Walls' proposal was presented to Council on January 8) was its significant effect on the growth of timber. Anderson advised that Washington and Oregon states were implementing silviculture techniques that northern arctic countries had long employed. She felt that the city should support a practice that was proven effective, that utilized a fish by-product and tied in with the state's current timber dilemma. Anderson recommended that the city work to develop a mission or goal in that regard to convey to state foresters and to the legislature. She 3p'eed with Dunham that the mill site and its dock had a greater potential than timber-related industry. VOTE ON MOTION Motion Passed. Unanimous. NEW BUSINESS Preliminary Marketing and Advertising Plan Pilch verbally sketched the steps that would be taken to acquire information regarding the advantages of marketing and advertising on the Internet. Coal Import Proposal Dunham noted he had learned about the proposal at the Planning & Zoning meeting and felt the board should have an opportunity to review the plan in order to make a recommendation. lloardmembers expressed concern that the port-related issue had not been presented to them for comment. Following lengthy discussion, the board agreed to place the itt::rn on the January 24 meeting agenda. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Foster Singleton. Projects Status Report Singleton noted the activity and schedules of various projects in the harbor. He advised the dredhring had been completed in the harbor basin. Long expressed his gratitude for the water supply at the North Dock. CORRESPONDENCE AAPA Membership Lung discussed the merits of the AAPA recommended that the city submit its application for membership. objection from the board to address the issue with the administration. newsletter and There was no BOARD DISCUSSION The board discussed further several dredging issues. Cruise Ship Schedule Fairchild noted that a preliminary cruise ship schedule would be circulated at the subsequent meeting. ~ r' (~ .:..':,)() City of Seward, Alasko. ]Ilrtlurry 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Vulume 1, Page 158 Small Boat Harbor Grid Singleton explained the circumstances surrounding the elimination of the grid, one of which was the impending ~nforcemcnt of the Clean Water Act. Long further explained elements of the Act. Army Charter Boan. Singleton annuunced, at Anderson's request, that the Army boats would nut be forced to move from the dock once the new X Float is in place. Jncreascd Dock Space Anderson noted that thE' lack of dock space had been presented to Council at its last meeting and asked boardmembcrs to look for ways to resolve the shortage. Anderson reiterated that the North Dock was unusable because of prevailing swell conditions and suggcsted mure focus on the chip dock. She voiced her disappoinhnent that the Corps of Engineers' (COE) Reconnaissance Study determined there was no federal interest in expanding the dock "md endo~ing the basin at SMIC. Small Uoat Harbor Eastward ExpJ.nsion In response to Dunham's inquiry, Singleton noted that at the January 8 meeting, the City Council put the Nash Road Boat Harbor proposal "to sleep". He stated that with the help of Senator Stevens the Corps of Engineers (COE) Small Boat Harbor Expansion Reconnaissance Study had been extended for approximately fourteen months. Singleton noted that when the extension period expired, the city was obligated lo match funds with the Corps (approximately $150,000) for the economic phase of the project. Singleton noted that Harvey Smith, COE coastal engineer, had originally conceived the concept that expanded the harbor eastward to the coal loading facility while X Float remained central to the harbor basin. ISTEA Funding Dunham asked Pilch to investigate ISTEA funding with regard to the downtown lighting extended northward to the harbor, the percentage of historical funds to be utilized and ifthow the acquisition of these types of funds might be uSi;'d for the Mile 0-8 rchabilitation/improvemcnts. Long thanked Quality Marine (Ther"'. Butts) for atlendin!; the City Cuuncil meeting as well as the PACAB meeting. Black Book of Trade Long noted the blue book had listings of all business and trade organizations in the slate as well as a number of other types of listing. He invited anyone to borrow the publication. AAPA Membership Dunham reitcrated that the city should be a member of the American Association of Port Authorities. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Robert Valdalla Valdatta mentioned the chip and cottonwoud potential, the problems with the chip dock, coal loading improvements and incubator systems. 'r, ~,(! ~, ,,-. ;, City of Seward, Alaska ImlUary 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Hoard Minutes Volum~ 1, Page 159 Rosemary Sardarov Sardarov, representative of Fishing Company of Alaska, discussed the problems associated with insufficient dock space. 1n response to the question of the Inlet Salmon dock, Singleton advised that Chapter 11 notice had been received and the company was in the process of reorganization. He also explained to Sardarov the city's priorities according to code. Theresa Butts Butts, co-owner of Quality Marine, noted the cooperative ad in the Ports Alaska directOlY, aspects of the Internet and other ways and means of advertising. She also concurred with the insufficient dock space dilemma. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS To Valdatta, Long stated he liked the stud mill idea and to Sardarov, he advised that a resolution could be achieved with concerted joint effort. Long advised Singleton that the catwalk/gangplank w.<!s missing from the chip loading dock. Dunham asked Singleton about permits for anchor buoys. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:37 p.m. t,~. /I/O (,-- " ~~~. , Gwynne 'Filch /' '0- - Port Marketing L;' "" . . . ~: C' : (City Seal) ~:; .' ,ft, "; '.;~, ,~. .; 2~ r'" -- - / ."""-'J L''- Ron Long ~ Chairman City of Seward, Alasku - ]unuary 24, 1996 '.,'" t-' .,':""",'> , ,~- Port & Commerce Advisory lloard Volume 1, Page 118 CALL TO ORDER The January 24,1996, meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p,m. by Chairman Ron Lung OPENING CEREMONY 160 City of Seward, Alaska lan/wry 24, 1996 Port & Commerce- Advisonj Boord Minutes Volume 1, Page 160 ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Doug Lechner Sharon Anderson Willard Dunham David Pairchild Jack Goodwill Richard Goshorn Dean Kasischke comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbormastcr Gwynne Pilch, Port Marketing Mr. Kim, Suneel Alaska Corp. Mr. Reese, SuneeI Alaska Corp. Shelly Knopik, Suncel Alaska Corp. Robert Valdatta Paul Slenkamp, Ketchikan Pulp Co. "Red" Marshall, I.RL.U. Donna Marek, Nibbles 'n' Bits ABSENT were: James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for public hearing. None Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Dunham/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda. Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARR/CBC excused Bruce Sieminski. KPBIEDD absent ""I J.,U City of Seward, Alnskn ]a1wnry 24, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Hoard Minutes Volume' 1, Page 161 SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY None UNFINISHED BUSINESS Timber Issues It was noted that City Council approved on January 22, 1996, Resolution %-007, relating to changing timber legislation language from "highll value- added products to simply value-added. There was no objection from the board to next direct the resolution and the city manager's accompanying statement to the Governor, State representatives, the Commissioner and the Alaska delegation. Several board members conveyed their appreciation for the timber sub-committee's work which resulted in Council's approval of the resolution. Distributed prior to the meeting's commencement was a "Notice of Preliminary Decisions..." with regard to the Aurora timb!:'r sale. Long noted the timber sub-committee would look into the aspects of the sale for the board's information at the subsequent meeting. Coal Proposal Members discussed various issues associated with the coal import proposaL Suneel representatives nuted that the preliminary pruposal pused no particular problems for their coal export operation at this point in time, although not enough was known in terms of its affect on the Usibelli minE: operation. Garzini explained that at this point the concept's feasibility was being investiKated to determine if there are any problems that should be incorporated into the actual bid and that there an: no barriers that aren't real. Members discussed compatibility with the long-term plans for the area as well as existing commerce activities and that provided the current dock users are protected the project should be encouraged. MOTION (Dunham/Anderson) Communicate with PN&D advising that the PAeAB reviewed the preliminary proposal and found it to be a reasonable p.roposition provided there is no significant impedance or interference, now or in the future" with the dock's current users, in particular, the cruise ships and pipe ships. MOTION PASSED. YES: Long, Lechner, Anderson" Dunham, Fairchild, Goodwill, Kasischke ABSTAIN: Goshorn On-Line Information Pilch noted that the 1I1ntcrnet" seminar she attended in Anchorage on January 22, 1996, provided, among other things, sources for on-line activities, ~uch as on~ramp service providers and web browsers, at no cost. She further noted that on-line users in Seward would be sought to det~rmine what types of modems 1 ~t) City of Seward, Alaska Ja71uary 24, 1996 Porf & Commerce Advisory Board Millufts Volume 1, Page 162 are currently being used in the Seward area as well as connections, service providers and browsers. Pilch mentioned two additionall'lntemet" seminars on February 27 (Sheraton) and on May 29, 1996 (TBA). NEW BUSINESS None ADMINISTRATIVE REI'ORTS ARRC Dock Extension Garzini noted that the goal to obtain a dock extension concept by January 24 had been achieved. He stated he would next meet with the concept designer Dennis Nottingham (PN&D) and John Bums (ARRC) within the next few days to select a funding tltrategy. Carzini advised the ship1S captains had viewed the extension plan and that it appeared the dock would accommodate tvvo BOO' cruise ships and the AMHS Tustumena for approximately $6 million. He noted he would bring plans before the board at the subsequent meeting. Seward Fort'S! Products Garzini stated thClt ongoing- negotiations with Seward Forest Products were expected to culminate by the end of January. He noted that in the event the facility was acquired as expected, the city would product' an RPP as soon as possible and begin to market the facility. Garzini advised th<1t Chris Gates, well qualified in Alaska's timber industry, was being considered to draft the RPP LInd he noted that inquires had been received in terms of the facility and the dock. Alaska ScaUfe Center Garzini mentioned that the bid for the center\s construction would be circulated February 15. Development & Marketing Plan Garzini noted that with the advent of the ASLC and commitments (to expand the ARRC dock) from the cruise lines that real estate values would likely increase. He stated that he felt it was time to think abuut planning issues, to get out ahead. Garzini noted there was no dedication to properly by the condos, the Alaska Treks In' Voyages lease, city shop, state shop, and the two ballfields. He asked that the board consider contracting a developer who would establish a marketing plan for the properties. Garzini stated that he was receptive to anyone's capital and development ideas. CORRESPONDENCE Dunham discussed briefly a letter from Kachemak Heritage Land Trust and asked if Pilch would look into it for the next meeting. BOARD DISCUSSION Alaska Sea Life Center Anderson advised th<l.t ASLC's fund-raising goal was $4 million by March 31 and that it appeared that the goal would be rt'ached. She noted a major fund raising event on February 8 at the Anchorage Museum, with others in New York, San Diego and Seattle. City of Seward, Alaska January 24, 1996 Port & Comml"rcr Advisonj Hoard Minutl1s Volume 1, Page 163 Dunham noted that the bid on the structure would be circulated February 15 and the contract awarded April 15. He noted the $30 million construction project should provide many jobs. Fisheries Issues In response to the question about the Magnuson Act's status, Dunham stated he'd learned that there may be a decision by the end of February. Forest Service Issues There was no objection to inviting Duane Harp to a PAeAB meeting to discuss plans for Kenai Peninsula forests and timber. Harbor Enterprise Fund Garzini noted a tremendous concern was the Harbor Enterprise Fund deficit. Singleton added that administrative fees contributed to the debt as well as overspending during the past decade. Singleton advised that the XFloat/Puel Float project should be completed around March 19%. Flood Mitigation Meetings Long advised of a multi-agency meeting for flood hazard mitigation, Garzini added that monies Were available providing a plan wa~ adopted by the community. Stccllmport Issue Dunham noted that the ARRC had been greatly impacted by the steel import tariff - the dock hours alone were down 14,000 from last year. He urged to board to work with the Congressional delegation wht.'n the tariff comes up for review. Garzini stated he would place tw'o issues on the subsequent agenda for the board's discussion: community adoption of the flood mitigation plan; and, a plan for development and marketing the dty's (underutilized) property. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Robert Valdatta spoke briefly about the need of a Hydro-Barge as an alternative to the recent coal proposal; sub-dividing Seward Forest Products lease; and the XFloat bidding process. Donna Marek owns Nibbles & Chips located near the launch ramp at the Small Boat Harbor. Marek advised she agreed with Garzini - that the city should take a good look at the property it owns. Though she stated she might be "shooting herself in the foot" she felt the property should be developed and marketed by <1 professionaL Shelly Knopik added that she didn't want to see the bike path moved because it was so nice. City of Seward, Alaska January 24, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 164 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:16 p.m. ., 14v,,/ 'if " ) Gwynne PH&' - ..~~,~.\~ Port Marketing $"8-,:'.~,~:: ~ ",CI'" :.: l:~r '.', (City Seal) : i (' ;, : II: L, ;;C, -'-' :. ~ .: :.i ... . -, ~ "',. '" ... t,.t"\'_"e" '-, -.,.:} 'fI1 _ ~ -. -',c-"':" ~ . > ! :. ,'., ~""",~,,-<. ~,',- "" .'" ~c, _ t,: "._ ',~',,-, "'~ City of Seward, Alaska "':-"1,: 0'. ",~.:"""",.. February 14, 1996 .u~~..,~ ' ) / v N AA- Ron Long Chairman Port & Commerce AdvisOMj Board Volume 1, Page 164 CALL TO ORDER The February 14, 1996, regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Doug Lechner Sharon Anderson David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Dean Kasischke comprising a quorum of the Boardj and Rick Gifford, Pinance Director Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR;CBC Representative Gwynne Pilch, Port Marketing Assistant Marianna Kcil, Councilmcmber Donna Marek, Nibbles 'n' Bits Red Marshall, LRLU Jim Walsh, Cook Inlet Processing 16~ City of Seward, Alaska February 14, 1996 Port & CommerCl' Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 165 ABSENT were: Willard Dunham (excused) Jack Goodwill (excused) James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for public hearing. None Items other than those appearing on the agenda. Donna Marek noted the problems associated with parking, She asked that boardrnembers consider the issue and make a recommendation to Council. Long stated the item would be discussed during Board Discussion. Urbach announced that parking was on the Downtown Business Association/Chamber of Commerce meeting agenda. The two-hour meeting was scheduled for Friday, February 16, 1996, at 8:30 a,m, at the Apollo Restaurant. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Anderson/Kasischke) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda. Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARR/CBC Urbach advised the ARRC ridership was up 16% from 1994. She also noted the plans for dock expansion that were induded in the packet. Urbach briefly commented on the recent ARRC acquisition inquiry as well as the coal handling facility proposal. Bruce Sieminski - KPB/EDD absent SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOT1CE ONLY None UNFINISHED BUSINESS Timber Issues Long commented on the timber sub-committee activities and the Aurora sale from which, it was speculated, no bids would be received due to the inferior quality of th~ timber. He noted that Keil provided information relating to a resolution that had been introduced by Torgerson which prohibited in some instances the export 166 City of Seward, Alaska February 14, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Hoard Minutes Volume 1, Page 166 of unprocessed timber. Long advised that the sub-committee would research the developments and report at the subsequent meeting. NEW BUSINESS None ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS ARRC Dock Expansion Gifford noted that both Garzini and l::3encardino were in Juneau addressing the dock expansion issue. Sawmill Gifford advised that Garzini had ungoing negotiations with Seward Forest Products and that a decision was near culmination. CORRESPONDENCE Rackhaul Opportunities Andersun stated she would like to see a follow-up on the Davis Block & Cement proposal to Suned related to backhauling cement from Asia. She noted that the board should support attempts which "open the door" to backhaul opportunities. MOTION (Anderson/Kasischke) Send a letter to Suneel Alaska Corporation to convey the board's support of the backhaul proposal from Davis Block. Motion Passed. Unanimous. BOARD DISCUSSION Airport test site Anderson advised that the FAA should be contacted in order to acquire equipment that would improve air trLlffic in Seward. She noted that currently the Seward airport has visual approach capabilities and that by means of a recent program, instrument approach capabilities could be acquired. Anderson stated the updated features would allow daily flights of crafts canying up to fifty passengers which she believed to be critical criteria once the Alaska Sea Life Center begins its operations. She nuted that monies were available now and urged that Councilmembers be informed to quickly contact the FAA and Senator Steven:;' staff in order to gather sufficient political support of Seward as a test site. MOTION (Anderson/Kasischke) Urge City Councilmembers to promptly contact the FAA and Senator Stevens' staff in order to gain sufficient political support to acquire a test GPS Instrument Approach site located in Seward. Motion Passed. Unanimous. l' (!~ City of Seward, Alaska February 14, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 167 Inlet Salmon In response to Kasischke, Singleton briefly explained the aspects and status of Inlet Salmon, Inlet Salmon Harvester and Inlet Salmon Producers.. Inc. ParkinG" Issue Kasischke advised that if paid parking was implemented, it should affect everyone - the boat harbor, 4th and 5th A venue merchants. Fairchild stated that if paid parking- was implemented at the boat harbor, it should also be implemented in the Downtown Business District. Lechner stated that parking assessments should be reinstated. He noted that he supported paid parking provided it was imposed on the entire town. Long advised he shared other members' view that the fee should be imposed equitably. Long stated "if we're to have paid parking.. it should be equally offensive to everyone". He, too, noted that assessments may need to return. Keil noted that Councilmember Deeter had filed a notice of reconsideration with regard to paid parking. Many members concurred that the upcoming Friday Downtown Business Association meeting would be an appropriate forum in which to discuss the parking issue. Fish Reduction Plant Fairchild advised that cruise ship captains wanted to know about the smell at the dock this year. Singleton explained the status of the meal plant and the by-product industry in 1996. He aJ.so noted that Seward Fisheries applied for a permit from the Corps of Engineers to extend a pipe deep into the bay beyond the coal ship dock that would be used as a "safety valve." At the onset of an offensive odor, the product would be flushed quickly - and become food for marine life. Alaska Sea Life Center Anderson commented on an article in which Senator Stevens listed the Alaska SeaLife Center among important projects in the state. Harbor Crew/City Staff Commended Goshorn pr.:!ised the Harbormaster and his harbor workers for the excellent work they performed while the city was innundated with heavy snow. He noted that in addition to a watchful eye on the boats in the harbor, crewmen assisted motorists who were stuck in the roadway and in parking areas - helping people in and out He stated that seVen boats would have sunk absent the snow removal efforts of the harbor crew. The board discussed in a similar manner the noble efforts of Ainsworth and his crew. There was no objection to Goshorn's request for a letter of commendation fonvarded to the City Council in appreciation of Singleton and his harbor workers and Ainsworth and his street crew for their excellent pcrfonnance beyond nonnal duties. 168 City of Sewurd, Alaska February 14. 1996 Port & COtllltlf:rce Advisory BonTd Minutes Volume 7, Page 168 CITIZENS' DISCUSSION None ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 12:40 p.m. ,.~ ". ..:,- n,~. .... -'-' ~~- -<;\.' , .," <: " ,.' : ;;' r. )'~ q . q . .. : .. . ,"" : 0: i', - : - . - . ~ (:.. ,,", .. c.!, " - '.. ,-', "~t " '.~. " , CihJ of Seward, Alaska March 13, 1996 Gwynne Pile Port Marketing ,. ) / Ron Lon Chairman (City Seal) " Port & Commerce Adrd$onj Board Volume I, Page 168 CALL TO ORDER The March 13, 1996, regular meeting of the Seward Port and Cummerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Vice Chairman Doug Lechner. ROLL CALL There were present: Doug Lechner, presiding, and Willard Dunham David Fairchild Jack Goudwill Richard Goshorn Dean Kasbchke comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Michael V. Yanez! Deputy City Manager foster Singleton! Harborma::;ter Margaret Anderson, Councilmember Marianna Keil! Councilmembcr, LTG Dorothy Urbach, ARRlCBC Representative Gwynne Pilch, Port Marketing Assistant Tom Tuugas, Kenai Fjords Tours, Inc. Donna Marek, Nibbles 'n' Bits Theresa Butts, Quality Marine of Alaska Sue Clifton Red Marshall, LL.W.U. If''' . (L; Port & Commerce Advisory Board Millutes Volume 1, Page 169 City of Seward, Alaska March 13, 1996 ABSENT were: Ron Long (excused) Sharon Anderson (excused) James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for public hearing. None Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischkc/FairchiId) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda. Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS DoroIhy Urbach - ARR/CBC Bruce Sieminski - KPB/EDD Urbach advised she had nothing new tu report. absent SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY None UNFINISHED BUSINESS Multi-user Dock Dunham distributed a letter to DOT Commissioner Perkins from I.L.W.U. President Carl Norman endorsing the multi-user dock txpansion concept. Prison Expansion The board engaged in brief discussion with regard to the expansion potential uf Spring Creek Con'ectional Center, NEW BUSINESS Development Properties Garzini explained the intent of the RFP for the Plannjng~ Development, Marketing, Financing, Management and Disposition oj Designated Pruperty in Seward, Alaska, following discussion, members moved to recommend to Council that the RFP is circulated to see what kind of response is received. MOTION (Dunham/Goshorn) The board believes the RFP is a positive slep and recommends Utal the city go forward with its circulation to determine what kind of response is received. MOTION PASSED. Unanimous. 170 City of St'Wtlrd, Alaska March 13, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 170 Industrial Development Brochures BOJrdmcmbers discussed with city manager Garzini the need to stay diversified and to cultivate winter and year~round activities/employment. Dunham suggested that member~ develop a wish list of things that should be contained in a brochure. The ilen\ was. placed on the work session agenda. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Dock Expansion Garzini noted that the multi-us~r dock exp<msion project had not been induded in the final STIP plan, though he mentioned that he hadn't found any docks anywhere in the list. Following brief discussion Garzini added that he and Mayor llencardino would pursue the issue with Kent Dawson in Juneau. Korean Sister-City Carzini not~d that a letter had been received from the Korean city of Yochon advising that they would be visiting Seward in May. Mariculturc Technical Center & Shellfish HJtchcry Garzini advised that the center was starting to go forward in a big way. He noted that the topic would be placed on a furnre agenda at which time EDD and the Native Corporation would be extended an invitation to attend a PACAB meeting. Hospital A~eemt'nt Yanez provided an update on the hospital acquisition by Providence which induded the construction of a new $6+ million hospital facility. CORRESPONDENCE RCAC For information, Goshorn noted that there was an oil response team in Seward comprised uf thirteen vessels. Aquatic Farm\:> applications Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION ASLC Dunham noted that the invitation to bid for the construction of the Alaska Sea Life Center was circulated un March 12. Sawmill Garzini advised that negotiations had deteliorated. He noted that the goal was to get a new operator through the next year. He stJted a letter would be induded in the board packet in the next few weeks. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Cruise Ship Passenger Impressions Clifton remarked lhat last year the dock was in a s.tate of chaos each time passr:ngers disembarked and were loaded onto busses. She asked fur solutions to the embarrassing dilemma. '17', . - City of Seward, Alaska March 13, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 171 Budget Discussions Earlier, Anderson informed members abuut the budget proceedings on March 18 and that the Harbor Enterprise Fund would be discussed. She encouraged members to attend. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:27 p,~ t' .. , .. .. Gwynne PHcW .. ' ' /) '" '" D:::';'i;;;l\ner /' Port Marketing Vice Chairman (City Seal) " " , . . ~ . ,,' " '.. City of Seward, Alaska April 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page] 71 CALL TO ORDER The April 10, 1996, regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Longl presiding, and Sharon Anderson David Fairchild Doug Lechner Richard Goshorn James Pruitt comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manage: Foster Singleton, Harhormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARRlCBC Representative Louis Bencardino, Mayor Margaret Anderson, Councilmember Marianna Keil, Councilmember, LIO Gwynne Pilch, Port Marketing Red Marshall, l.L.W,U, Theresa Butts, Quality Marine of AK Sue Clifton, Quality Marine of AK 17". City of Seward, Alaska April !O, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Vulume 1, Pa!l,c 172 ABSENT were: Willard Dunham (excused) Jack Goodwill (excuseu) Dean Kasischkc (excused) cmZEN'S COMMENTS Aeenda items not scheduled for Dublic hearing. Nom: Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Anderson/Pruitt) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda. Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS None Dorothv Urbach - ARR/CBC Urbach noted the ARRC purchase proposal that was being explored and that city manager Garzini would meet with ARRC personnel on April 12, 1996, to discuss among other issues the dock's much needed dredging. With respect to the dredging issue Fairchild noted that cruise ship captains were extremely concerned about "high spots" near the dock. Following discussion the hoard unanimously concurred that Long wuuld write a letter to the ARRC expressing concerns shared among captains, local merchants and members of the hoard. Garzini advised he would hand carry the letter to the ARRC. Bruce Sieminski - KPB/EDD Ahsent Mayor Bencardino noted that EDD wrote a letter to Governor Knowks with regard to funding the ARRC dock expansiun. He discu<.;sed the STIP process and the most recent DOT publil: review draft in which none of Seward's priority projects was found. He identified various other projects which were being given special consideration by legislation. Bencardino identified representatives who were helpful during this phase of the process and emphasized that the money for the dock expansion was needed this year. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY Nooc UNFINISHED BUSINESS 173 City of Sewrml, Alaska April 10, 1996 Purt & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 173 Marketing Brochures Gatzini advised that ~e would present the issue to Council at the next scheduled meeting. He stated that $65,000 was in the FY97 budget as a "tota] package" - $15,000 to effect a successful sister-city relationship with Vachon; $15,000 for an RFP, advertising and marketing city-owned properties; and $35,000 fur professional materials and year-round marketing dfafts. Garzini next recommended a committee on winter and year-round marketing. Fairchild and Kasischke will continue to identify and develop brochures items and issues to present to the board - Anderson will be available to assist the committee when necessary. MOTION (AndersonlFairchild) That the board supports Garzini's year- round marketing plan and budget proposal. Motion Passed. Unanimous. NEW BUSINESS Meeting Schedule Urbach suggested that the board meet once a month, Anderson suggested the schedule change beginning now through the fall. Following discussion, the board unanimously agreed to cancel the work session - unless issues warrant an additional meeting - and meet once a month in the Council Chambers at noon. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Seward Forest Products Garzini stated that SFP would continue to pay rent until June. He noted some of the alternatives that were discussed with SFP representatives. City Properties RFP Garzini advised that P&Z had recently approved the RFP proposal which the board had previously review;;;;d, discussed and approved. He noted that with the Alaska SeaLife Center and new hospital under construction this year that the propusal to circulate an RFP for city-owm:d properties would be considered good timing. Garzini advised he would next bring the issue before the Council in May. Sister~City Connection Garzini noted that Yochon representatives would be in Seward on May 21 and 22. Committee members planned to take the Korean representatives on a first day tour to illustrate the common, cultural, recreational and environmental aspects of the Seward community. The second day would be devoted to business and corporate matters. Eastward Harbor Expansion Garzini clarified that the Nash Road Boat Harbor project was "history". He stated the permit expired March 31, 1996, and the city was no longer involved with or interested in the issue. Garzini noted that the COE permit to pursue the eastward expansion of the Small Boat Harbor was current and active. Garzini advised that the city would go forward with the expansion project. 174 CIty of Seward, Alaska April 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 174 The board discussed duty-free zones, the "special assistance" that the Ketchikan shipyard was receiving, and the ARRC dredging issue. CORRESPONDENCE Noted BOARD DISCUSSION Housing Issues The hoard discussed the problems associated with housing, partkularly, that appraisals are higher than in most other communities in Alaska. Cfl'IZENS' DISCUSSION Sue Clifton commented on the ARRC dock dredging issue and provided insight as a former cruise ship passenger bus driver. She noted that in past years many lucal businesses do not adjust their schedule for the early arrival of cruise ship passengers. Clifton also noted that the cruise ship staff circulate many new dollars into the community. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:28 p.m, /:u;:; c-- -,- , / ~ Ron L~ng l Chairman .?JJ, ' (vt.jd~ Gwynne Pi~ ,f/' ,-'" Port Marketi~ ':.: ' t, .' " (City Seal) ~ e, : .' .. ~ , ., . ~ " ":o,t'::". ~...... "~ ~. '" "<1.1"" , ~l$h City of Seward, Alaska ' , May 8, 1996 Pnrt & Commerce AdvlSOry Board MIJlutes Volume 1, Page 174 CALL TO ORDER The May 8, 1996, regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was calkd to order at 12:04 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and David Fairchild Jack Goodwill Richard Goshorn Dean Kasischke 17r:; , ~ I.... City of Seward, Alaska May 8, 191}6 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 175 comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Mike Yanez, Deputy City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CBC Representative Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Assistant Kathy Cline, Chamber of Commerce Director Red Marshall, I.L.W.U. Robert Valdalta ABSENT were: Doug Lechner (excused) Sharon Anderson (excused) Willard Dunham (excused) James Pruitt (excused) cmZEN'S COMMENTS Al!enda items not scheduled for public hearinl!. None Items other than those appeariDl! on the 32:cnda. None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Kasischke added Increased Harbor Rates to New Business. MOTION (Fairehild/Kasischke) Approve the Amended Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRjCBC Urbach noted that the house bill related to potential private acquisition of the Railroad had passed both the house and senate and was awaiting the Governor's signature. The board discussed the positive relationship between the city and the ARRC. Urbach mentioned the contributions that the ARRC had made to organizations in the community. Questions related to continued service to bush communities in the Interior, the uisposition of ARRCMowned lands ami the frequency of service to Seward. 176 City of Seward, Alaska May 8, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Mmutes Volume 1, Page 176 Garzini noted that although he liked private solutions to particular issues, he felt there were technical problems with the bill. He also emphasized the good working relationship that the Port & Commerce Advisory Board had with the ARRC. Following lengthy discussion, the board unanimously agreed to recommend that the City Council mi.te to the Governor to convey concerns about the ARRC providing its own funds (approximately $250,000) to conduct a feasibility study on whether the sale of the Alaska Railroad is in the best interest of the state. The board further agreed that if the legislature deemed it necessary, that funds should be appropriated from the state general fund and transferred to an independent state a~ency in order to conduct an unbiased study. Fain:hild asked about the fencing i~sue ~3at involved Suned Alaska Corp. and the ARRC. Garzini explained the issue concerned insurance liabilities. The board discussed briefly the question of whether the ARRC was negotiating leases on the dock and determined the issue was actually part uf the potential dock expansion project. Bruce Sieminski - KPB/EDD (absent) SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY None UNFINISHED BUSINESS ARRC Dock Dredging Long briefly recuflped the exchange with ARRC John Bums following his receipt of the letter from the board. Fairchild conveyed his gratitude for the transaction which led to a quick response from the ARRC to Cruise Line Agencies. NEW BUSINESS Board Support Structure Garzini explained the responsibilities of support staff members - Barbara Hilderbrand would type the meeting minutes, follow-up on meetings and prepare meeting agendas while Yvette Wclsh would maintain marketing and SMIC lease properties. He noted there would be an interim transitional period in which members and staff would adjust. Garzini stated he would be open to anything down the road. Harbor Rates Goshorn explained a proposal that he would present to the City Council in which the harbor moorage rate strucl....rc would be adjusted - in lieu of the city's proposed rate increase. Long noted that as a management issue, Goshorn should direct the matter to the Harbormaster and/or City Council and hoped to see the board continue to focus its efforts on marketing and expansion. Fairchild agreed and noted that he knew little about the harbor rates and its history. Goodwill concurred that he was not familiar with the figures. Garzini upheld the process and noted that the proper way to effect change was to state "your" views. He said he was not oppo~ed to a rate structure review/examination. City of Seward, Alaska May 8, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Pa/{e 177 ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Marketim! Materials Garzini noted that Chamber of Commerce director Kathy Cline was willing to merge with the board in a joint-venture to create and fund marketing materials and brochures. He advised that Cline would work with board members to establish menu-driven materials that would "work for all of us", media that could be customized to each particular client and/or inquiry. Garzini stated that Cline would chair the committee to work up a game plan and present it to him for funding. He noted that the project would be a high priority and that Cline is focusing on year-round activity. Board members concurred with the strategy without opposition. Sister-City Relationship Garzini announced that the Yochon representatives would be in Seward on May 21 and 22. He noted that the dinner on May 22 would be hosted by the board and encourage.d all members to attend. Garzini added that $15,000 had been budgeted to pursue joint port relations. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION Long mentioned the health care issue and the related meeting on Thursday, the problems associated with housing in the community. and encouraged board members to attend the dinner with the Korean delegation from Ynchon. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Valdatta noted that the North Dock was not listed on navigational charts; that EDD director Stan Steadman had "promised" a video tape of the Seward area for marketing purposes; and highlighted activities at the North Dock in terms of timber. Yanez reminded attendees of the special meeting on May 21 related to the hospital acquisition, and Garzini provided an update or the Alaska ScaLife Center, ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:23 p.m. " -.. ~1/1. i, /,' Gwynne PilCh -::'.- " Port Marketing :;" .... , ,"" ,. ~' ,./;z~ ( Ron Long Chairman (City Seal) " ,,;. ,. ,.. " ~. ') ~ . . ..' . ..' " ~. " .., -, .~ .", ,-' ': .-' -1-;. .' ~J., ' ";~'if , . , , , ;' "-"' ,,' .! '," " ~, 178 City of Seward, Alu\'ka JUll/! 12, 1996 Port & Commerce AdviWJry Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 178 CALL TO ORDER The June 12, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:02 p.m. by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischke Willard Dunham Richard Goshorn James Pruitt comprising a quorum of the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Foster M. Singleton, Harbormastcr Louis Bencardino, Mayor Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathleen G. Cline, Director, Seward Chamber of Commerce Tim McDonald, Alaskan Barge and Salvage, Inc. Theresa Butts, Quality Marine of AK Sue Clifton, Quality Marine of AK Matt Callahan, Parking Enforcement Officer ABSENT were: Doug L~chncr (excused) Sharon Anderson (excused) David Fairchild (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS A!!enda items not scheduled for public hcarine:. None Items other than those appearing on the 32enda. None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (KasischkelPruittl Approt'e the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach. ARR/CBC (absent) 170 Cit)' of Seward, AllJ.lka June 12, 19Y6 Purl & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Paf{e 179 Louis Bencardino - KPB/EDD Bencardino updated the board regarding Midrex's location in Tyonek. He further nukd that the Borough gave EDD $100,000 as they were requested, and h~ reported that they would like to re,ceivc information for the coming year regarding any projects for which the City would need their support. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY: Tim McDonald. Lil!hthouse Point Project McDonalLl presented his concept for a commercial, conselVation and transportation development project that he proposes for the north end of ResurrectoD Bay, particularly utilizing 1,320' of waterfront property owned by the McDonald family. The entire proposal includes: (a) 3,000' cruise ship dock!cau~eway facility with three mooring sites; (b) thirty acrt:-s of upland development; (c) creation of a nature preserve in the Resurrection River delta area; and (d) a road extension linking Port Avenue and Nash Road. McDonald stated that the need to address increasing transportation problems exists now, particularly concerning an outlet for Port Avenm.: and the north boat harbor area. He also st:-cs a future need for a transportation link between vi~iting cruise ships and the Alaska SeaLife Center. Funding for the project would come from a combination of private and governmental sources. McDonald stated that he has already sought responses from cruise ship companies and developers interested in the project. His presentation to the PACAB was intended to seck the Board's initial views and recommendations. Questions were raised regarding the project's impact on the Re~urrection River, how the dock would be utilized during the eight-month off. season, and how the necessary permitting and financing would be handled. Dunham expressed support for the projt:-ct and suggested two sources for McDonald to contact for their professional input. Garzini stated that the proposed project identified several areas of present and future concern that the City should start looking at now. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS: None UNFINISHED BUSINESS Marketing Brochures Kathy Cline reported that she has received a lot of good ideas regarding the development of marketing brochures for the City and knows plenty of research material already exists for the content of the brochures. She sought direction from the Board as to whether to contract with a professional advertising agc:.ncy to design and mass-produce the brochure, stating that the $35,000.00 set aside for marketing could be eatt:-n up quickly. Garzini suggested that (1) Cline chair a committee, with Yvette Welsh, of business leaders in the community to screen and select an ad agency to produce a high-quality product; (2) the group present drafts to P ACAB and City Council for approval; and (3) they arrange to have the brochure mass-produced in substantial amounts, hopefully by October 1996. Cline noted that the Seward Chamber of Commerce had already screem:d several agencies for the Chamber'~ work and had sclected Walsh & Sheppard, Inc. Cline also distributed copies of the Seward Economic Development Forum questionnaire (February 1995) for the Board to assess its possihle value to the project. 180 City of Seward. Alaska June 12, 1996 Pon & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Vulume I, Page 180 Pruitt emphasized the need to give the contracted ad agency specific marching orders regarding the Board's preferred design/aim of the brochure/folder. Long suggested that boardmembers respond to Cline or Welsh within one week with any idea"i, thoughts or suggestions for the brochure/folder and, after that date, they will present the material to the selected ad agency for development of a product. NEW BUSINESS Alaska Transportation Wet:k Dunham inquired as to the result of the transportation meeting in Anchorage back in April and what plans the State has for addressing transportation needs. Garzini stated that research and [tl!Sponse to the Board would be made. PACAB Agenda and Packet Procedure Long suggested that the Board adopt the guidelines for deadlines and mailing of the agenda packet to conform with those for the City Council agenda. Long further suggested inserting a place on the regular agenda for presentations without prior notice to accommodate last-minute items. Board membcrs concurred. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Strategic Plan Garzini reported that he is working on a nt.:w City Strategic Plan documt.:nt fur the coming year, and he hopes to present it to the Board in draft in July for their review and ultimately to the Council for action. He predicted that the plan would contain a new harbor stratcgy, including a provision to write off some of the Harbor's $1.4 million debt to the Central Treasury. Boat Harbor Use Agreement Garzini noted that the Council chose to reduce the amount of the City's commitment to the Harbor's MRRF from $250,000, as set forth in the current Boat Harbor Use Agreement, to $1 RO,OOO rather than to increase harbor moorage rates for FY-97. Further, he stated that he has retained Mr. Herv Hensley, an independent consultant with more than twenty years of city managerial experience, to help the City write a comprehensive proposal to amend the Boat Ha:hor Use Agreement with the State. One amendment to the agreement would be to provide for a more "reasonahle sum'! (approximately 15% of revenue stream from state-owned facilities) to be set aside to fund the harbor facility. AAP A Membership Long inquired as to the status of the City's involvement with the American Association of Port Authorities. Garzini stated that his office would look into the cost of membership and make a report at the next meeting. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION Goshorn restated his opposition to the declining block rate for moorage in the boat harbor, and Garzini mentioned that he intended to') examine the harhor rate structure a.. a part of the upcoming strategic plan draft. ''', 1-U_~. City of Seward, Alaska June 12, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 181 Pruill inquired as 10 whether land lease rates in the boat harbor area would increase pursuant to the recent reappraisal done by MacSwain; Singleton responded by saying that not all rates increa<.;ect and that he would obtain the status of the harbor-area sites from the Community Development Department. Pruitt furthl:I inquired as to the slatus of Brad Snowden's hotel project in the harbor. Garzini reported that Snowden's efforts are on-going to modify his obligations under his subdivision agreement with the City; i.e. to relocate the sewer dump, relocate the road (Fourth Avenue at the north end of the harbor), and to continue the waterfront boardwalk around the proposed hotel site. Regarding the planned move of the railroad's passenger depot, Garzini noted that, with the relocation of Fourth Avenue, the move of the depot would be inevitable. It was emphasized that, though it supports the relocation of t1le sewer dump and the road, the City would not fund the projects. Pruitt furthL:r introduced discussion regarding Tanya Sandefur's proposed train car venture, the alignment of Port Avenue, and the exemption of KPB taxes on out-of-town boats. Kasischke inquired about the status of the X float replacement, and Singleton reported that the Harbor's portion of the work was complete on the previous Monday. Garzini stated his desire to soon c.levelop a solution to the transportaLion problems existing at the north end of the harbor area, specifically at the intersections of Third Avenue at Port Avenue and Inird at North Harbor, as w~ll as the lack of an eastward ouUet for Port Avenue. He indicated that, because of increasing cruise ship, tourism, and commercial traffic, the City should make this area a top~priority focus in the next couple of years. Dunham inquired as to the status of the State's road construction plan, particularly regarding Mile O-H. Welsh indicated that she would find out and make a report. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION Callahan suggested that, before Fourth Avenue is slraightened, the north parking lot south of Napa Auto Parts should be fully paved and striped to help facilitate enforcement of the area. Clifton, a tour bus driver, noted numerous traffic problems for large tour vehicles entering and exiting the railroad dock area via Port Avenue. She supports the creation of another road into the area to alleviate the congestion. AUJOURNMENT .Uti /- --) ~. / <:-::J~ Ron Long r Chainnan The meeting was adjourned at 1:41 p.m. Bprbara J. Hild rb;' -, Board Secretary;"'; ,; -, ~ :,: e . (City Seal) :;. ~ , ... .'" :":". "/'!" .,. ',,4, "'""....i..;. ~... 'J , " '~'., '" ''';'.~ A~,." ".- ~~~~ " . . , .. ,+1 'Ii, .~.' ~~.! ~j, 'l> 182 City of Seward, Alaska July 10, ]l.)IJfJ Port & Commercf' Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Paxe 182 CALL TO ORDER The July 10, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL Th~re were present: Ron Long, presiding, and David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Doug Lechner Jack Goodwill James Pruitt comprising a quorum of th~ Board; and Ronald Garzini, City Manager Michael Yanez, Deputy City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbonnaster Louis Bencardino, Mayor Dorothy Urbach, ARR/CBC Represeutative Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathleen G. Cline, Director, Seward Chamber of Commerce ABSENT were: Sharon Anderson (excused) Willard Dunham (excused) Dean Kasischke (excused) cmZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items nut scheduled for public hearing. None. Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Pruitt/Fairchild) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unaml110us. SPECJAL REPORTS 19Q , , ."_V" City nf Seward, Alaska July lV, 1990 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 183 Dorothy Urbach. ARRICBC Urbach noted that tbe Alaska Railroad board would be meeting in Seward on July 17-18, 1996, with the meeting open to the public on the 18th (Rae Auditorium). Louis Bencardinu - KPB/EDD Bencardino reported that the most rel:enl meeting of the EDD Board of Directors dealt primarily with their budget for the coming year in the amuunt of $611,776. He noted that Clyde Johnson, Business Development Director for the EDD, will he in the Seward EDD office (Chamber of Commerce building) on a bi-weekly hasis with plans to have the office staned weekly in the future. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS: None. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY: None, UNFINISHED BUSINESS Marketi"!! Brochure Bud2:et Kathy Cline presented her preliminary budget for the brochure project as prepared by Walsh & Sheppard, Inc. with three cost/quantity options. It was noted that only the highest quantity option included less expensive photography and set-up work in order to stay within the $35,000 budget limit. Garzini stated that he favored the highest~quantity/lowest-ullit-eost option, and Long noted the importance of a product of the highest possible quality. Cline was encouraged to see if Walsh & Sheppard would agree to produce 5,000 pieces within the budget limitations but with no cuts in quality. In order to further keep expenses down, Cline stated that the cover art could be created by a 100:al artist to save on design costs and that she hoped to usc help from boardmembers and others in editing existing text material. Garzini further stated that he wanted to have the finished product available for distribution by the end of September for possible use at Fish Expo. Goshorn queried whether the project would eventually be available on a computer data disk, and Cline stated that once the product is created it could be formatted to a variety of media for future marketing and network involvement. The copyright to the material will belong to the City. AAPA Membership Lmg noted that corporate membership in AAPA was too expensive for what limited funds the City has availablt:. Garzini agreed and stated his desire to set the matter aside for future reconside,rati-;n. Fish Expo Participation in the 1996 Fish Expo scheduled for September 26-28 was dis{;ussed. As the total marketing budget for the year has been earmarked for promotional brochures and World Trade Center Alaska membership, Garzini suggested that, should one or more delegates from Seward wish to attend, the cost for an exhibit space be borne by the City (outside of the marketing budget) if private enterprise would commit their time and resources in organizing and staffing the booth. 184 City of Seward, Alaska .Tuly 10, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 184 MOTION (Pruitt/Lechner) The City spend $34,519 for 5,000 good-quality brochures and reserve $500 for World Trade Center Alaska membership. Motion Passed. Unanimous. STIP Update Long reported that Dunham had expressed his concern that Mile 0-8 was not appropriately addressed in the STIP forecast and suggested enlisting Rep. Gary Davis' help in bringing the matter to the State's attention. Long noted that the plan for improvements in 1997 to Mile 0-3 (Nash Road) seemed acceptabk. Long also mentioned a matter of pedestrian and bicycle safety along the road in front of Eagle Quality Center with northbound cars making left-hand turns and others passing on the right shoulder. He suggested the pla<.:t:ment of safcty cones along the road to prevent this practice. Garzini explained that improvements planncd for this area for 1997 were exp~uited because the State had been made aware, in writing, that there were multiple problems with this stretch of highway, including school bus lighting and turn lanes in addition to the problem mentioned. In response to a question from Lel:hner, Garzini noted that the multi-user dock is in the STIP budget for the year 1999 but is not funded at this time, and the City is beginning to consider other options. NEW BUSINESS Can:u Carriers Pruitt inquired as to SeaLand's purported revived interest in <.:oming into Seward. Garzini responded by saying that discussions arc on-going with a competitor, and SeaLand has shown interest in those talks. Surplus Floats from X-Float Pruitt proposed the fabrication and installation of a 2UU' float facility at SMIC reusing old float IT.cterials left from the X-float replacement project. The float would he located along the riprap between the Syncrolift Dock and the dock used by the 250-ton Travclift. The purpose of the facility would be to create additional moorage space for vessels having dockside work done and to relieve pressure for space un the Synerolift Dock and in the Small Boat Harbor. He further proposed that if the surplus float sections could be transported to Ow site (utilizing available Harbor funds), Seward Ship's Drydock could provide a ramp to the facility to offset the overall cost of the project. Long countered by stating that, although he generally approved the re-use plan, if Harbor funds were available he supported their use for repair of the North Dock. Singleton stated that there are no Small Boat Harbor funds available for SMIC. He estimated that deploying the surplus float sections at SMIC would require (1) the State's approval for disposal of their property; and (2) costs of approximately $60,000 in transportation, rebuilding and pile-driving expenses. Pruitt queried wheth~r there was any state money available for such a project, and Singleton answered that the only existing repair/replacement funds are the MRRF (for Small Boat Harbor repairs only) and specific 'i8h .J. .'_ City vf Seward, Alaska luZv 10, 1996 Port & Cummerce Advisory Bnard Minutes Volume 1, Page 185 grant money (SBH dcctrical upgrade). Garzini stated that, since renegotiation of the Boat Harbor Use Agreement is pending, this would not be a good time to suggest utilizing MRRF funds for this project. He advised Pruitt to present his own proposal in writing to the City for the reuse of the float sections. Goshorn objected to the use of any surplus pilings at SMIC, but rather supported their possible use to extend the fish cleaning stations 40' at J-float and B-float ramps to clear the pedestrian walkways. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Eastward Exoansion of Harbor Singleton reported that the US Army Corps of Engineers has l:umpleted the draft of its reconnaissance study of the expansion project and will be reviewing the report November 8, 1996. If there is a favorable review, they win be prepared to propose a letter of agreement to the City to go into the next phase; I.e. cost feasibility study. The cost for this study (amount unknown at this time) would be shared equally between the City and the Army COE. Boat Harbor Use Agreement Garzini restated the City Council's intent to dedicate 15% of Harbor revenues to capital improvements (MRRF) rather than the current commitment to set aside a fixed amount unrelated to income levels, The City will also seek to run the harbor apart from the State. He stated that a letter from the City is forthcoming inviting the State to audit the MRRF and enter into negotiations to rewrite the agreem~nt. Strategic Plan Garzini nott:u that his Strategic Plan would be presented to the Board in draft in August with projected presentation to the City Council in Septemher. Yochon City Delee.ation Garzini reported that Ym:hon has expressed interest in Seward's busint:ss and cultural development" anu has extended a formal invitation for a delegation from Seward to visit October 22, 1996. With a budget of $15,000, he indicated his uesire to have a representative committee of government and business leauers make the trip, including two members of the PACAB at its own discretion. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION GOSHORN inquired whether the chartt:r boat owners and/or operators should be asked to help underwrite the cost of moving/extending the fish-cleaning stations. Garzini suggested that, together with Singleton, he wo;1}d discuss the matter of the fish-cleaning stations and come up with a rt:asonable proposal to address the evident problems. GOSHORN inquired to the statu, of the electrical upgrade in the Small Boat Harbor, and Singleton reported that the notice to proceed was given to the successful bidder of the RFP, Service Electric, and the materials arc ordered for the project. When the materials have heen received, the notice to construct will be issued and the contractor will have 120 day' to complete the upgrade. 186 City of Seward, Alaska Ju~y 10. 1996 Purl & Cummerce AdvL\'Ory Hoard Minutes Volume 1, Paf:e 186 FAIRCHILD mentioned the fence around Sunee]'s property and stated that Cruise Line Agencies sent a letter to the Alaska Railroad outlining the fence's impact on the cruise industry at the dock. Garzini commented that Snueel "did everything right" in putting up their fence, but, to address the long-term effect of this and other decisions, perhaps the Alaska Railroad should consider putting a port administrator in Seward, dedicated to handling operations in and around the dock on a full-time basis. Additionally, he suggested that those with business concerns in the area should be more direct in discussing with one another their common operational problems in order to resolve them, especially at this time with the ARRC Board meeting here next week. LECHNER expressed thanks to Singleton and Garzini for keeping the eastward expansion project alive. Garzini commented that if the City can get the administrative and legal constraints controlled and the engineering work done, we may he in a position by next year to seek financial help with the project. LONG thanked uchner for a job well-done in filling in for him and presenting the annual P ACAB report at the last City Council moeting. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION SUE CLIFf ON commented on the Sun eel fence and the transportation issue in general affecting the cruise industry. She stressed that the traffic problems create image problems for Seward in the eyes of not only the tourists but particularly crewmembers who come to work and purchase goods here all summer. She recommended that boardmembers drive over and look at the unpaved road-full of holes-that all buses, taxis and some limousines have to traverse to get into the railroad dock area, and she further urged the City to take a proactive stance now to correct problems that will certainly escalate into something more onerous in the future. Garzini responded by saying that there was no better time than the present for the ARRC Board to visit Seward and see the dock situation firsthand. Goodwill asked if the rity planned to make a presentation to the Board at their meeting. He stated that Northern Stevedoring had written to the railroad about the road problems, and he had further asked Princess Cruises, Gray Line and Cmise Line Agencies to also write letters so that the Railroad could use the letters for support to hopefully seek financial help in resolving the problems. Garzini asked Hilderbrand to collect what letters had been written amI forward copies to him so that he could make a presentation to the ARRC Board at their meeting. Regarding the downtown district, Clifton questioned what happened on the Fourth of July as it appeared that vendors-and subsequently the tourists-packed up and left town earlier than usual. Emphasizing again that it presents an "image problem" for Seward, she stated that the City needs to address those areas where simple amenities are lacking (handicapped-accessible restrooms, for example). nine responded to the Fourth uf July question by saying that the holiday was all Thursday; the City Clerk's office informed her that the city was to be open for business as usual on Friday and that the Chamber would 1 (''if7 ..\..0, Ci~v of Seward, Alaska July 10, ]l)Y6 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1. Page 187 not be allowed to block the streets all weekend long. Garzini stated that he had not heard ahout it, and if asked would have allowed vendors to stay through the weekend. Bencardino urged Cline to write letters to the vendors participating this year to encourage them to come back next year as it will be a three-day holiday weekend. Clifton queried as to what kind of oil spill response capabiHty the City has. She suspected that the answer was zero, but was looking to the Board for more information. JON DAHLMAN responded to Clifton's question by saying that, to the best of his knowledge, the City had no oil spill response capability, On behalf oflhe Regional Citizen's Advisory Council's Oil Spill Response and Prevention Committee, he provided the Board one copy of EcoSystems of Juneau's Community Response Center Manual, a basic set of guidelines on how to put together a response center or plan. (The manual is intended for duplication and tlistribution to anyone interested in having a copy.) He stated that a meeting could be set up with Joe Banta to meet with either this board or the city council for an in-depth discussion of the suhject. The Board discussed what steps had been previously tak~n to gather infonnation on whc in Seward has what response equipment, what local training SERVS conducts yearly, etc. Singleton. in order to clarify the City's position with response to uil spills, noted that RCAC is primarily involved with near~shore or off-shore spills. He stated that the City does, in fact, have consid~rable capability to respond to on-shore incidents up to approximately five to six thousand gallons under ideal conditions with materials that the Harbor has, plus materials and equipment from various other sources, including Shoreside Pctroleum, Marathon Fuel, USCG, etc. The Harbor responds initially, but it is the generator's responsibility to clean up oil spills. Garzini stated that if a cruise ship oil spill response plan were to be formulated, the Alaska Railroad would have to be the lead. mERESA BUlTS urged the Board to contact a representative of RCAC to comc and give suggestions as to how to put together ail oil spill response plan. She also queried, on behalf of Quality Marine of AK, as to what the original plan was for the surplus sections from X-float, their value, and the possibility of using them at the dolphins at SMrc. She stated that dock space is needed for larger boats (100' to 150'), and, she expressed concern that, if a rebuilt float was deployed, there be no preferential use restrictions tu the facility. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:48 p.m. --~ /- .. - -~ ---) / ~ ~ " / ('='1 Ron Long Chairman (City Seal) , ,~ . " " " " ,. ,"v", ~~, ."". " 188 City of Seward, Alaska AuglJ.~t ]4, /91,16 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1. Pa~e 188 CALL TO ORDER The August 14, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Willard Dunham Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischke Doug Lechner David Fairchild Richard Goshorn comprising a quorum of the Buard; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Foster Singleton, Harhormaster Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing ABSENT were: Sharon Anderson (excused) James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for public hearing. None. Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (KasischkefGoodwill) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRfCBC Absent. Louis Bencardino - KPBjEDD Absent. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None. 180 City of Seward, Alaska August 14, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Bnard Minules Volume 1, Pa~e 189 PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Marketine: Brochure Update Welsh presl;'nted five preliminary cover options for the brochure as prepared by Walsh & Sheppard. The board chose one of the photos and the slogan, "The Beauty of Locating Your Business in Seward" from the selection offered. Welsh will munitor the project as it progresses toward completion. PAUL ANDREW LAWRENCE, a local photographer, expressed his interest in taking additional photos for use in the brochure. It was nuku that his name will be passed on to Walsh & Sheppard. Also noted was the fact that, since the port facilities were especially active this week, it would be an excellent opportunity for good photo shots. NEW BUSINESS Seward Alaska Emolovment Service Office Goshorn read a letter expressing his protest of the scheduled layoff of employees and the discontinuation of unemployment services at the Seward Alaska Employmcnt Service office. He also read a letter of explanation of the action written by Gordon Wickstrom, uffice manager of the office. Garzini recummended that the Board write a letter to the Alaska Department of Lahar to seek more information on the Seward offi<.::e l:utback. MOTION (Goshorn/Kasischke) That the Board ask the mayor to write a letter to the Alaska Department of Labor to express its concern and seek a response regarding cutbacks in employees/service in the Seward Employment Service office. Motion Passed. Unanimous. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Instrument Approach to Seward AirDort Garzini noted that the City Council had approved the City's application to the F A^ for a GPS approach to Seward Airport. The much-needed instmment approach, which will be designed and approved by the FAA, will likely effect a 10-15% increase in air service to Seward. Strateeic Plan Garzini reported that a presentation of his Strategic Plan would be made to the Board at the September meeting, and he urged all boardmembers to be attending. ReQuest for Proposals. Five Sites Garzini introduced a comprehensive Request for Proposals as drafted by the Community Developlnent Department targeting the old railroad depot building, as well as an area above Nash Road known as the "scenic bench" and sites 190 City of Seward, Ala.~ka August 14, 1996 Port & Commerce AdvisO/y Board Minutes Volume J, Page 190 in and around the small boat harbor. He stated that the City will be looking for proposals from qualified individuals or firms to l:ummercially develop whole sites or portions of them into enterprises that will be an asset to the surrounding area and Seward in general. On a related issue, Garzini mentioned that, at their next meeting, the City Council would be asked to authorize the disposal of various surplus city-owned properties by a sealed-bid land sale. The list of properties, put together by COD Director Kerry Martin, include those parcds owned by the City but considered useless to its future purposes. Downtown Vision 98 Garzini stated his concern that the Alaska SeaLife Center and downtown environs keep in step developmentally by design to create a mutually complementary atmosphere, as in a typical shopping mall with an "anchor" store surrounded and supported by smaller businesses. He has asked Deputy City Manager Yanez to plan a trip in September with a group of downtown merchants and Marianna Keil to visit selected sites in coastal Oregon. These sites will be among those examples recommended by "Livable Oregon" (private commercial development group) as having developed beautiful and aesthetically.pleasing outdoor commercial districts with possibly some ideas for Seward's downtown area. Parking Report Garzini presented the parking report as prepared by De.rek Soden, a University of Alaska Fairbanks engineering student. The probable result of the study will be to put the management of parking and campgrounds out for RFP in the near future. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION LECHNER inquired about how the members of the delegation going to Yochon on October 18-24, 1996 were chosen. Garzini stated that the group was selected to match its countcrpart from Y ochon; i.e. a group of ten business leaders active in various aspects of the community. LONG expressed his support for pursuiflg construction of the access road from the Alaska Railroad dock to the Seward Highway. DUNHAM recommended beefing up enforcement of the launch ramps to ensure that all boaters that use the ramps pay the requisite fee. DUNHAM also inquired as to whether there could be developed an capital development "wish list" as a part of the city manager's strategic plan, and Garzini stated that that type of planning is in thc normal course of day-to-day city administration. Dunham expressed his support for the Institute of Marine Science and indicated that facilities such as IMS need the community's focused attention to stay in business in Seward. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION None. '\(,','"': .L~.l City of Seward, Alaska August 14, 1996 Port & Commerce AdvIsory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 191 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at I :20 p.m. -- ,/,) :/ < ~ arbara J. Hi! erb and. ~' ,- ' Board Secretary - ,-/', .... ',. , (City Seal) ..' ." ...( ~ . '. . ~ ' ~ ,. . . ~ . :: €it: ~ . ~ . - . - " .,. ~ ". ;";".1"". '.. ",,' ',' ,. . City of Seward, Alaska August 14, 1996 P0l1 & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume I, Page 191 CALL TO ORDER The September 11, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There were present: Ron Long, presiding, and Sharon Anderson David Fairchild Richard Goshorn James Pruitt Doug Lechner Willard Dunham Jack Goodwill Dean Kasisch ke comprising a quorum of the Board; and Michael V. Yanez, Deputy City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbormaster Louis Bencardino, Mayor Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Kathleen Cline, Executive Director, Seward Chamber of Commerce Marianna Keil, Councilmember, LIO Theresa Butts, Quality Marine of Alaska Sue Clifton, Quality Marine of Ataska 192 City of Seward, Alaska September 11, 1996 Port & Commerce Ad~'iso1Y Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 192 ABSENT were: None. cmZEN'S COMMENTS A2enda items not scheduled for public hearing. None. Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Goshom/Anderson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach. ARRjCBC Excused. Louis Bencardinu - KPB/EDU Bencardino noted that EDD has proposals out for a management plan to be decided on in the near future. He also noted that he would be working on making the gas pipeline to Seward a pussibility. He also reported that there has been recent work on the issue of prison expansion and is optimistic about the outcome. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY Stratee:ic Plan Update Yanez introduced the updated draft of the city manager's Strategic Plan for the board's review and particularly pointed out those issues contained in the plan that named the board as a "key player." He stated that the board's comments on the plan would be heard during their regular board meeting in October, and those comments and/or suggestions would be passed on to the city council for their consideration and incorporation into the plan. The plan is scheduled to be presente,d for adoption to the city council at their last meeting in October. Various boardmembcrs offered preliminary comments on the plan. Pruitt suggested that the board participate in the plan for the ekctric utility. In response to a question by Anderson, Yanez stated that the first step in the "Downtown/Seward Vision 9R" section of the plan would begin next week with a fact-finding delegation traveling to Oregon and visiting communities who have successfully revitalized their downtown and waterfront districts, Dunham noted in the plan the absence of two things: (i) a target project "wish list" to include the City's future goals; and (ii) any reference to the relationship Seward has with the fishing/aqua~culture industry and boat-building. ~ 0.1"": ~ .:,1 ) City of Seward. Alaska September 11. 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 193 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Marketinl! Brochure Update Cline and Welsh presented the draft of the text for the hrochure to the board for their final comments/corrections before publication, and the board went through the draft page by page with editing suggestions. Cline noteu that the promised delivery date for the finished brochures was now October 1. Welsh also passed samples of the paper stock to be used. as well as copies of the key photos, and she noted a few additional layout changes to be made. The board enthusiastically commended Cline and Welsh fur their excellent work so far on the project. Dunham further noted that. during a n:cent visit, he found a surprising lack of tourist information about Seward-and the Kenai Peninsula in general-at the visitor's center at Tok. He suggested the City/Chamber look at ways to supply various visitor's centers statewide with Seward information. Anderson also expressed a desire to have smaller rack brochures produced for general distribution from the data now compiled. An idea mentioned was to include in a tri-fold brochure a directory of community services and have it funded through paid advertisements. North Access Road to ARRC Dock Long noted that the road construction IS mentioned in the strategic plan and, therefore, needs no further study at this time. NEW BUSINESS Election of Chairman Ron Long was nominated by Dnnham/Anderson. Long, being the sole nominee, was elected Chairman. Election of Vice Chairman Duug Lechner was nominated by Dunham/Anderson. Lechner, heing the sole nominee. was elected Vice Chairman. Work Sessions MOTION (Goshorn/Dunham) Add a monthly work session to be held on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Motion Passed. Unanimous. Long agreed with Goshorn that there are enough issues before the board to merit another meeting per month in addition to the regular meeting, and that this schedule gives all boardmembers a chance to be present at one meeting per month, at least. Anderson noted that the work session can be schednled os needed, but that boardmembets should corne to the met:tings fully prepared. Long scheduled the next work session for September 25, 1996 to discuss the city mana2er's strategic plan. 194 City of Seward. Alaska September 11. 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page N4 ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Providence Seward Medical Center Yanez presented Providence's design for the new medical center, including the floor plan and artist's conception of the front view of the building. He stated that public comments un the design will be heard at the September 23 city council meeting. Eastward Harbor Exuansion Singleton reported that he met with the Corps of Engineers recently and stated that they arc preparing for their final review of the reconnaissance study of the expansion plan. At their meeting scheduled for November 18, they will approve the study and move onto the second phase, which is the cost/feasibility study. Costs for this study are to be shared equally between the Corps and the City. Northeast Harhor Dunham inquired about the "lake" that still exists at the northeast corner of the harbor. Singleton reported that, as a part of the DSR from the September 1995 fluuds, a drainage system is planned to be installed and the road will be paved and brought up to grade. He also stated that controlled ingress and egress into the parking lot is also planned in order to improve traffic now. Electrical Uoerade In response to Kasischke's query about the progress of the electrical upgrade in the small boat harbur, Singleton reported that the electrical contractor has already begun work replacing the service on B-Float and will continue to C-Float. Seward Aimort Instrument Appnmch Anderson queried Yanez about a possible timeline for the design/approval of an instrument approach at the airport. Yanez reported that a contract has been awarded for the prerequisite sUlvey work, and Hilderbrand related that a estimate had been given of about nine or ten months to complete the process. Derelict Vessels at SMIC Pruitt queried Singleton about certain derelict vessels stored on city land at the Seward Marine Industrial Center. Singleton reported that four of vessels were presently scheduled tu be seized and sold as derelicts for non-payment of storage fees. He also noted that a report of soil contamination under one of the vessels stored at SMIC resulted in a DEC investigation, hut that the claim proved to be unmerited. CORRESPONDENCE Letter Reeardine: Emnlovment Service Cutbacks Dunham stated that he was 110t satisfied with the response sent from ADOL (Rebecca Nance) to Mayor Bencardino's letter of inquiry regarding the cutbacks in the Seward Employment Office. Long recommended that Dunham compose a counter-response to Nance's letter as to why Seward was not treated the same as other agencies statewide. Letter from William Corbett. WHSYC Dunham asked if the board was planning a response to Corbett's letter and Long answered in the negative. 195 Oty of Seward, Alaska September 11, ]1)96 Pon & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page ]1)5 BOARD DISCUSSION LECHNER inquired as to progress on the cut-off access road to the Railroad Dock. KASISCHKE asked about the status of the Seward Forest Products site. Singleton stated that there were five responses to the recent RFP on the site and that SFP is rumored to be negotiating with one of the proposers. SFP is current on their lease payments. Bencardino added that he expected to get an update on the mattcr soon. Kasischkc also asked why the City did nut relinquish the personal property tax on outside vessels corning to Seward for business purposes as did the Borough. Yanez responded that the City was not in a position to be giving away needed tax funds while maintaining one of the lowest mil rates on real property. Singleton was asked to come up with some figures relative to revenues lost/gained over th~ tax issue. Park DUNHAM n~ted that other roadside areas around the state maintain~ll by th~-F0rest Service~ri kepfXc9.eaner than those in the Seward area, and he recommenll~ll that a llteMrlti8!l'be hHa~ 8fli to that agency. He also noted that September 13, 1996 is the cutolI date for comments regarding Chugach timber. FAIRCHILD inquired about the status of the railroad groin project, and Bencardino reported that work was scheduled to begin in October. Fairchild also reported that Seward can expect cruise ship activity for the 1997 season in essentially the same amounts as 1996. PRUITI inquired as to whether there was an expansion planned fur the Spring Creek Correctional facility. Goodwill noted that the governor had his prison hudget cut and there was not money set aside for it. Pruitt also commended those who worked on the brochure. He also recommended that the board compare dollars lost and gained over the personal property tax exemption issue. LONG complimented the work on the brochure. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION MARIANNA KEIL asked Singleton if DEe was planning to do a report on the alleged soil contamination at SMTC. Singleton said no and stated that what hall been reported as spilled oil on the soil turned out to be simply rust. Keil also reported that the personal property tax issue is up for discussion. KATHY CLINE thanked those present who helped with the Silver Salmon Derby this year, and particularly expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the harbormaster's office. She also nuted the Meet the Candidates Night scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, 1996 at A VTEC. SUE CLIFTON expressed interest in being included in a citizen's group for input in Downtown Vision 9t: or Seward Vision 9R. She also noted that heautification ideas gathered 196 City of Seward, Alaska September 11, 1996 Pan & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 196 from the trip to Oregon should be considered in light uf the fact that the climate in Oregon is milder than Seward. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1 :54 pm. (City Seal) brand......... ;-:'_ " c~.~'__> ':"r' ,.,. .:": "'..".' ~:: ! <j L, . . ,.. (':. ,., -', . . . . - . - .. ~;. .~...~.. '-'" '" ~~~.~~;;'...'".: ,:. .:c. '~, '.,;: (:",~ f'.. . "J'", . ~ \" '.~~Ii;HL~'" '/~~ Ron Long e1'--' r7L-~ ) Chairman Otv of Seward, Alaska Octoher 9, 1996 Pan &. Commerce Advisory Buard Minutes Volume 1, Page 196 CALL TO ORDER The October 9, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by Chairman Ron Lung. ROLL CALJ. There were present: Ron LJng. pn:siding, and Willard Dunham Richard Goshorn Doug Lechner Sharon Anderson Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischkt: comprising a quorum of the Board; and Michad V. Yanez, Deputy City Manager Foster Singleton, Harbormastc.r Louis Bencardino, Mayor Dorothy Urbach, ARRJCBC Representative Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Marianna Keil, Councilmember, !JO ABSENT were: 197 . . City of Seward, Alaska October 9, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisury Board Minule.I' Volume L Page IV7 David Fairchild (excused) James Pruitt (excused) cmZEN'S COMMENTS A~enda items not scheduled for public hearing. None. Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Dunham/Goshorn) Approve the Agenda and Consent A~enda. Motion Passed. Unanimous. At Dunham's request, the September 11, 1996 minutes were amended as follows: Dunham noted that the other roadside areas around the state maintained by the Forest Service Park Seroice, ELM. and Alaska nOT are kept much cleaner than those kept by the Forest Service in the Seward area. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urhach - ARR/CnC Urbach reported that there would likely be four more train trips and more cruise 1:Ihip.s visiting Whittier next year. She noted that the train schedule for Seward was expected to remain the same until the opening of the Alaska S~aLif~ C~nt~r in 1998. Urbach also reported that the ARRC had suggested that Mr. Joe Fields. of Kantishna Holdings Inc. in Fairbanks who was spearheading the Denali Railway System Project (rail service into Denali National Park) he invited to give community leaders and business peopk an update on the project. She also mentioned that the ARRC was planning to reorganize its Community Briefing Council to meet this year. MOTION (Dunham/Kasischke) Invite Joseph N. Fields, III of Kantishna Holdings 1m;. to visit Seward and brief the board on the status of the proposed tmin service into Denali National Park. Motion Passed. Unanimous. Urbach reported that Providence Hospital was seeking volunteers, two of which would be selected to represent Seward on the hospital's governing board and laymen's advisory buard in Anchorag~. 198 City of Sewwd, Alaska Octuver 9, 1996 Port & Cummerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume I, Page 198 Urbach dis<.:ussed several recent cases of food poisoning at local and Anchorage restaurants. Questions wen: raised and the board discussed whether or not there was a local health official to inspect commercial food handling and preparation. MOTION (Andersun/Dunham) Recommend that the City Council review city policies and procedures relative to commercial food handling and preparation at local restaurants. The board discussed the ARRC groin project and use of the military recreation camps by the Corps of Engineers for their recent conference. Louis Bencardino - KPB/EDD BeneaIctino reported 011 his recent meeting with Anchorage Mayor Mystrom and others regarding the possibility of a gas pipeline to Seward. Welsh mentioned that Wayne Lewis of Yukun Pacific was scheduled to make a presentation to the board at its regular meeting on December 11, 1996. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Request for approval of the Strategic Plan. MOTION (Dunham/Anderson) Recommend the Strategic Plan to the City Council for approval. The board discussed the following amendments to the Strategic Plan: 1. H. Utility/Roadway Improvements. C - Access road, add PACAB to key boards. 2. III. Re,creation - Leisure - Ouality uf Life, D - Trail system linkage, insert "Add trail link from Port Avenue to the airport to those areas identified for development." 3. TV. Harbur Issues, E - Seward Forest Products site a. Add item "Monitor environmental situations." b. Add item "See if the duck can be utilized in the future hy new uperation or City." c. Add item "Develop policies to prevent future potential environmental prohlems with new businesses." ': (\(j , City of Seward, Alaska Octo/)er 9, 1990 ForI &- Commerce Advisory Buard Minutes Volu.me 1, Page 199 4. VlIl. El:onomic Development a. A - Increase dock capal:ity, add item "Reinforce year-round use of the dock," b. Add subtopic "Estahlish gas pipeline to St:ward." 5. VIII. F . Strengthen port/community marketing efforts a. Add item "Encourage city's representation at future Fish Expos." h. Add item "Study feasibility of hosting trade show locally." 6. X. General. F . Downtown Vision 98. add P ACAB to key boards. 7. Add main topic "Develop plan to support commercial fisht:ries and aquaculture." a. Add subtopic "Study areas of financial assistance for commercial fishermen to kct:p IFQs in the community." b. Add item "Evaluate "Point of Landing" lax versus "Point of Processingll tax. 8. Add main topic "Impkment personal property lax break program for marine vessels as adopted by the Kenai Peninsula Borough." The board reached a consensus to include all of the foregoing amt:ndrnents in the Strategic Plan to fC.commend to the City Council. MOTION (Long/Dunham) Amend the Strategic Plan to include the foregoing amendments. Motion Passed. Unanimous. VOTE ON MOTION AS AMENDED Motion Passed. Unanimous. NEW BUSINESS None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS None. IN}'ORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS Noted. CORRESPONDENCE Noted. BOARD DISCUSSION 200 City of Seward, A/u..I'ku October 9. 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume f, Page 200 DUNHAM introduced discussion of the pedestrian crosswalks in the harbor area and the city in general, including enforcement, number, signage, etc. He also suggested that traffic on 4th Avenue in the harbor be restricted tu one-way. GOSHORN asked wbether or not a crosswalk eQuId be added to cross 3rd Avenue to the lagoon boardwalk, and the board also discussed the benefits of establishing one-way controlled ingress/egress at the harbor's parking areas. DUNHAM also asked about the recent accidental death at SMIC (where a car had been driven off the Travdift dock at night) and whether there would be any changes made to prevent a further incident of this type. LECHNER commented about the recenl Fish Expo in Seattle and noted that it would not be profitable for the City to display its uwn booth at the show. GOSHORN inquired if there hall been any action on the counter~reply to the Alaska Department of Labur regarding the reduction in employment selvices in ,seward. DUNHAM reported that he was still gathering facts with which to respond. ANDERSON reported that a $1.3 million contract was awarded to Ruger Swenson for the rehabilitation project on the Air Force recreation camp. LONG repurted that he and the vice chairman would he out of town during the next scheduled wurk session. Chairman Long canceled the next work session scheduled for October 23, 1996. without ohjection from the board. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION BOB V ALDATIA, 528 Fifth Avenue, voiced his concerns on variuus subjects including street striping in front of the IMS building, resolving the Seward Forest Product."i issue, and finding a way to use the hroken rock residue pile, perhaps in asphalt proJects in the region. MARIANNA KEIL, 1701 Chi,well, asked if the Small Boat Harbor Management Plan would he updated annually. Long replied that he thought it was originally prepared so that it could be revised at a later date, hut hc doubted that would happen until the state/city negotiations over the Boat Harbor Use Agreement were complete. THERESA BUTTS, Star J >ane, #3, statca that, in light of the recent death at SMIC, there shuuld be a warning sign at the complex indicating that the road ends. She also nutified the hoard that there were two proposals submitted (one from Seward Ship's Drydock, Tnc. and one from Quality Marine of Alaska) regarding the RFP for redeployment of surplus Hoat sections. She invited any boardmemhers with questions about the redeployment to contact Singleton, Pruitt or her. Butts announced that QMA would also 201 City of Seward, Alaska Oerober 9, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minule.l" Volwne 1, Page 201 be submitting a proposal for use of the "fourth rail" at the Syncrolift complex. She invited any comments, infurmation or suggestions that boardmembers may have on this subjt':ct. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:25 p.m. //--~ Ron Lung Chairman (City Seal) City of Seward, Alaska Novemher 13, 1996 ,', Pon & Commerce AdFisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 201 ~" ;,-.;, CALL TO ORDER The November 13, 1996 regular meeting uf the Seward Port and Commerce Advisury Board was <.:alled to order at 12:00 noon hy Chairman Ron Long. ROLL CALL There wcr~ present: Ron Long, presiding, and David Fairchild Dean Kasischke James Pruitt Sharon Anderson Richard Goshorn Duug Lechner comprising a quorum uf the Board; and Ronald A. Garzini, City Manager Michael V. Yanez, Deputy City Manager Fostcr Singleton, Harbormaster Louis Bencanlino, Mayor, KPBIEDD Barbara Hilderbrand, Board Secwlary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Stu Clark, Cuuncilmember Kathy Cline, Seward Chamber of COmmCfL':t": ABSENT were: ?,02 City of Seward, Alaska November 13, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minute.\' Volume 1, Page 202 Willard Dunham (excused) Jack Guodwill (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not scheduled for puhlic hearing. None. Items other than those appearing on the agenda. None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Kasischke/Andcrson) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRlCBC (excused). Louis Bencardino ~ KPB/EDD. Mayor Bt-ilcardino reported on recent efforts to bring in a commercial user for the Seward Forest Products lease site and to build a gas pipeline tu Seward. Long noted the need to advertise the help that is offered oy the EDD for small businesses starting up. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY. None. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY. None. SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS. None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Denali Railway System Project. Long Dured that information presented to the City Council in April, 1996 regarding the project was available for boardmembers tu review. Health Inspections. Long noted that t:opies of a memo regarding the board's concern over health inspections at local restaurants was forwarded to City Councilmembcrs. ARRC Dock Groin. Garzini disl:ussed the proposed improvements to the Alaska Railroad Dock, induding the dredgmg of the basin and road access, and he stated that funds were identified in the budget for 199R. Anderson stressed the need for dredging on the west side of the dock. Garzini em:uuraged hoardmembers to submit their concerns in writing to his office bdore Friday to give to Commissioner Perkins, State Senator John Torgerson and KPB Mayor Mike NavarIt: who would be in Seward to meet with city administration. Long suggested that there be follow-up on these issues after the visit. 203 City uj" Seward, Alaska November 13, 1996 Fort & Comnw.rce Advisory Board Minutes Volume J, Page 203 NEW BUSINESS Gravel Export. Garzini briefly reported on his efforts to market Seward gravel. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Korean Visit. Garzini briefly discussed the Seward delegation's recent trip to Korea and efforts to develop a Korean market fur UsibeHi coal. Alyeska Alloys. Garzini commented on AlYt"ska Alloys' proposal for reuse of the Seward Porest Products site. He stated that hefore the City would (i) sponsor a gas pipeline to Seward ami (ii) sell the sawmill site, tllest:; issues would first be presented to the community for a vote. Marine Fuel Tax. Garzini brictly discussed recent efforts to have the marine fuel tax dedicated as a cuntinuing funding source fur the state's harbor facilities. CORRESPONDENCE Pruitt disl:ussed Ketchikan's cncte,avor to secure state funding for their proposed shipllft, which would llireL'tly compete with Seward's Syncrolift operation. Garzini suggested that a subcommittee be appointed (Pruitt/Goshorn) to draft a policy statement on behalf of the board. Garzini further encouraged the hoard to actively monitor timber issul;s. Stu Clark comIllended Singleton on his response to the letter from William II. Seward Yacht Club. BOARD DISCUSSION LECHNER commented brid1y on the marine fuel tax. Although he did not oppose a dedicated tax, he did not support an increase in the tax and did not feel it appropriate for the board, as a body. to promote it. ANDERSON concurred with LECHNER in opposition to an increase in the marine fuel tax. KASISCHKE commented on the formation of an AMIIS advisory board and their solicitation for interested parties to offer route suggestions for their new ocean-class ferry. FAIRCHILD inquired about the status of the marketing brochures. Welsh reported that the folders were done and that the inserts would be finished in a few days. A sample uf the packet would be supplied at the hoard's next meeting. CITIZENS' DISClJSSION 90A. ,~ .', City of Sewald, Alaska Nnvemher 13, 1996 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Min/J.tes Volume 1, Page 204 KATHY CLINE stressed the critical need for the Chamber to he able to retain their lease on their harbor boardwalk site. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 1:35 p.m. (City Seal) .,' " " , '" ."., ~ . , ::;. 0.: , ... . '''', ~ , - , ~ ' ... ~"'." 0;:.("""'.' ... ,,"'. ~. ." "., ' '-., '. "", ." .'~l'~;; //~ . Ron Long Chairman arbara J. ild Board Secreta City of Seward, Alu..I'ka Decemlwr 1 I, 1996 Port & Cnmmerce Advisory Board Minutes Volt/me 1, Page 2()4 CALL TO ORDER The December 11, 1996 regular meeting of the Seward Port and Commerce Advisory Board was called to order at 12:00 noon by ChJ.irman Ron Long. ROLL CALL Thew were present: Ron Long, presiding, and David Fairchild Richard Goshorn Doug l..echner Willard Dnnham Jack Goodwill Dean Kasischke comprising a q UOnllTI of the Board; and Michael Yanez, Deputy City Mahager Foster Singleton, Harbormastcr Dorothy Urbach, ARRlCBC Representativt:. Barbara Hild\:rbrand, Board Secretary Yvette Welsh, Community Marketing Margaret Anderson, Vice Mayor Stu Clark, Councilmember ABSENT were: Sharon Anderson (excused) , ,~.- f\"" : vl.' Citv of Seward, Alaska December Il, 1Y96 Polt &- Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 2U5 James Pruitt (excused) CITIZEN'S COMMENTS Agenda items not sch~duled for public hearing. None. Items oth~c than those appearing on the agenda. Nune, APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA MOTION (Fairchild/Goodwill) Approve the A~enda and Consent Agenda Motion Pass~d. Unanimous. SPECIAL REPORTS Dorothy Urbach - ARRICBC. Urbach reported on recont meetings with ARRC's Robert Hatfield and City Manager Garzini regarding the City's list of top priorities for the dock project. Urbach also discussed he-r and others' ft:cent interview with a national news network regarding their recoIIections of the 1964 earthquake. Louis Bencardino . KPB/EDD (excused). SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None. PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE ONLY Wayne Lewis and Ward Whitman, Yukon Pacific Corporation. Lewis and Whitman gave a comprehensive slide presentation of Yukon Pacific Corporation's Trans-Alaska Gas Sy.stem (TAGS). The presentation was made to thc Board as part of a statewide effort to educate the public and dispel myths regarding YPC's plan to transport North Slope natural gas reserves (in the form of Ii4.uefictl natural gas or LNG) to the Port of Valdez via an ROO. mile long, 42-inch buried pipeline (paralleling the existing oil pipeline) destined for customers in the Far East. Whitman offered technical informatiun while Lewis disclosed hope that the market-driven project woukl be operational by the year 2005, approximately when projections would indicate that the world's demand for LNG would exceed the supply. The presentation was followed by board discussion, and the board was impressed with the concept and goals of Yukon Pacific's plan. Chairman Long postponed th~ balance of the n~enda until the January 8, 1997 meeting. He also canceled the Dec~mber 25, 1996 work. session due to the holiday. There was 110 o~iection from the Board. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 200 Oty of Seward, Alaska Decemher 11, 191)6 Port & Commerce Advisory Board Minutes Volume 1, Page 206 Downtown Vision. Wdsh reminded the board 01 the presentation of the Downtown Vision Statement that evening at 7:00 p.m. at A VTEC. BOARD DISCUSSION DUNHAM thanked Lewis and Whitman for presenting Yukon Pacific's TAGS project to the board. He also suggested that the board express its encouragement to the US Forest Service, and he complimented Singleton on his i--.;sponse to the most recent correspondence from the William H. Seward Yacht Club. LONG requested that discussion of the formation by AMHS of an advisory board for its new ocean-going ferry be included on the January 8: 1997 agenda. CITIZENS' DISCUSSION None. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 2:05 p.m. ~ ~~ //'- // / /.e<L \" Ron Long } Chairman (City Seal) , ';. ....,1- i , ". ..' 'r. ~~ 'j'.' " . .~ . "./~i:r, ....