Valdez City Council Regular Meeting - July 7, 2026

The Valdez City Council held its regular meeting on July 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a work session on the CSO budget process and parameters earlier at 6:00 PM, but the regular session commenced with call to order, pledge, and roll call. Key actions included approval of consent agenda items, a sale of surplus equipment, appointment to the Ports & Harbor Commission, acceptance of a late property tax exemption application, and a series of reports from city staff and council members. Public comments addressed a business owner's concern about the economic development tax exemption and an invitation to a utility member tour.

Consent Calendar

• Proclamation: July 2026 as National Parks and Recreation Month - Recognized the value of parks and recreation in Valdez, encouraging citizen reflection.
• Proclamation: Congratulating Captain Mike Weber on Retirement - Honored Captain Weber's 32-year career with the Valdez Fire Department, including his roles as firefighter, lieutenant, captain, senior captain, interim fire chief, and backcountry search and rescue team coordinator.
• Approval to Go Into Executive Session: Discussion of implications for city revenues and litigation strategy regarding Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues.

All consent agenda items were approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Morgan Melton, Chief Communications Officer for Copper Valley Electric Association (CVEA): Invited council members and the public to CVEA's member tour on July 28, 2026, from 10 AM to 5 PM, showcasing power generation and distribution assets. Registration is online, limited to 20 members.
• Mr. Barnett (unidentified business owner): Expressed concern that the recently passed tax exemption for new business development in the town center does not apply to other business owners within city limits. He asked the council to reconsider and make the exemption fairer, stating he is not seeking a handout.
• Keith Thomas: Spoke about his late application for the Senior Citizen's Property Tax Exemption, explaining that he was unaware he needed to reapply after moving. Noted that previously a city staff member had called to process his application.

Discussion Items

• Department Operations Reports: City Manager Nate gave an overview, noting that the reports include work plans, budget requests, and departmental priorities. He mentioned that the utility department will be combined in future reports and that the reports are intended to prepare council for budget season. Council members praised the new format and depth of information.
• City Manager Report:
  • Head Start Daycare: Facing staffing challenges, closing this week until fall. The city is exploring an apprenticeship program for early childhood educators through UAA to augment staff.
  • Housing Subcommittee: Met to discuss House Bill 13 implications; framework being developed for council consideration. Changes to tax exemptions must be made before January.
  • Economic Development Tax Exemption: Three additional businesses have expressed interest in the current exemption, which includes a housing component. The city manager will provide more information if council considers modifications.
  • 4th of July Turnout: Record attendance – 192 participants in the race (up from 95 pre-registrants), double prior years. Staff praised for handling the event.
  • Distinguished Budget Award: Valdez received the award for the seventh consecutive year; congratulations to Finance Department and staff.
  • Upcoming visit by Senator Murkowski for Blueberry Estates subdivision opening.
• City Clerk Report:
  • Citizens Academy: 17 participants signed up; third session focusing on finance and budget. The program is considered a success, with high engagement.
  • Encouraged applicants for Ports & Harbor Commission to reapply for future vacancies.
• City Attorney Report: Deferred report to executive session update on litigation, but offered to answer specific questions in public – none were raised.
• Mayor Report: Highlights included commendation for 4th of July events, meeting with Senator Murkowski, and welcoming new Coast Guard Commander Meekham.

Council Business from the Floor

Council members expressed gratitude and congratulations:

• To Captain Mike Weber for 32 years of service, including his leadership and training contributions.
• To all city staff for successful 4th of July and 125th birthday celebrations, noting that Valdez was recommended as a top destination for the holiday by visitors across the state.
• To the streets team for cleaning and beautifying business areas.
• To the Finance Department for the Distinguished Budget Award.
• Enthusiasm for the Citizens Academy’s high participation and engagement.

Key Outcomes

• Consent Agenda Approved: Unanimous approval of proclamations and executive session authorization.
• Sale of Surplus 2008 Ford F550: Approved to auction with a minimum acceptable bid of $15,000; motion carried 7-0.
• Appointment to Ports & Harbor Commission: Mike Wells appointed to a three-year term, receiving majority council support; motion carried 7-0. The city clerk thanked all applicants (Thane Miller, Jamie Pierce, John May) for their interest.
• Acceptance of Late Property Tax Exemption Application: Keith Thomas's late application for the Senior Citizen's Property Tax Exemption was accepted; motion carried 7-0. The city clerk clarified that the office sends notices and makes calls to prior applicants as a courtesy, but the state requires annual filing.
• Executive Session: Held to discuss TAPS litigation and revenue implications; no public actions taken thereafter.