Public Meetings - Sitka, Alaska

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting on June 11, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers, with five members present (Mosher, Eisenbeisz, Ystad, Carlson, Saline) and two absent (Christianson, Pike). The meeting addressed routine approvals, new business including a fisheries enhancement fund award and a grid resilience grant, and discussions on supplemental funding for Visit Sitka and an amicus brief on halibut bycatch. The meeting adjourned at 8:11 PM. Consent Calendar - Items A & B approved 5-0: Minutes of April 23, May 14, 16, and 28, 2024 meetings, and liquor license renewals for Bayview Restaurant and The Sitka Hotel. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Wein spoke twice: first on fossil fuel reliance, COVID-19 vaccine literature, and introduced a "popcorn metric" to contextualize a $60,000 city fraud loss; later on the need for clear audit objectives for Visit Sitka and suggested cruise line partners fund the $275,000 shortfall. - Rachel Roy (Sitka Chamber of Commerce Director) updated on three chamber initiatives: housing network and high-density housing, emerging leaders group and summit, and a new child care initiative with a fall speaker series. - Linda Behnken (Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association) spoke in support of the amicus brief review and noted Petersburg and Cordova have passed resolutions. - Emily Scott and Eric Jordan spoke in support of the equal split of fisheries enhancement funds, citing personal experience with ALFA programs and broad community benefits. Discussion Items - Fisheries Enhancement Fund (Item F): Three applicants each presented: ALFA (Linda Behnken) highlighted young fishermen programs and leveraging city funds; Sitka Sound Science Center (Arleigh Reynolds) requested $27,996 for hatchery operations; Sitka Tribe of Alaska (Jeff Feldpausch) requested funds for Redoubt Lake weir operations. Assembly members debated full funding vs. equal split, with many noting the weir’s community importance. Public comment supported all three. Motion passed 5-0 to award $15,998.66 each. - Grid Resilience Grant (Item G): Sustainability Coordinator Bri Gabel and Public Relations Director Melissa Wileman explained the $149,979 subaward from STA for electric grid upgrades, with a 30% match ($44,994) from already-budgeted projects. The partnership with STA was praised. Approved 5-0. - Visit Sitka Supplemental Funding (Item H): Extensive discussion on whether to provide a $275,000 supplemental (through December 2024 or full year), conduct an RFP, or order a financial audit. Members noted the lack of a detailed budget in the packet, the upcoming tourism manager hire, and the need to align fiscal years. Decision postponed to June 25 meeting; staff will prepare a memo with options for $275,000 funding and a potential third-party audit. - Amicus Brief on Halibut Bycatch (Item I): Ken (from Homer) presented the brief drafted for the Halibut Defense Alliance to support Resolution 2024-13. Assembly members agreed on the importance but wanted independent legal review by JDO (at cost) before signing. Direction given to place the reviewed brief in the June 25 packet. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved 5-0. - Reappointment of Roberta Littlefield to Historic Preservation Commission approved 5-0. - ORD 24-14 (water system joint service connections) approved on second and final reading 5-0. - ORD 24-15 (tideland lease to Evergreen Properties) approved on first reading 5-0, conditioned on continued use as a mobile home park. - Fisheries Enhancement Fund awarded $15,998.66 each to ALFA, Sitka Sound Science Center, and Sitka Tribe of Alaska (total $47,996), motion passed 5-0. - Grid Resilience Grant subaward request authorized 5-0. - Visit Sitka discussion continued to June 25; staff to prepare details on $275,000 supplemental and audit scope. - Amicus brief to be reviewed by JDO; assembly will consider signing at June 25 meeting. - Executive Session (Item J) pulled; no action taken.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz was absent. The meeting lasted approximately 40 minutes, adjourning at 6:40 PM. The Assembly unanimously approved multiple ordinances, including the FY2025 budget and a resolution supporting halibut bycatch limits tied to abundance. Ceremonial Matters - Service awards were presented to Tourism Task Force members: Phyllis Hackett, Rich McClear, Chris McGraw, Ryan Gluth, Camille Ferguson, Barbara Bingham, Jeremy Plank, Scott Wagner, and Cambria Holmes. Deputy Mayor Kevin Mosher read the awards. Ex-officio members and liaisons were also thanked. Special Reports - Parks and Recreation Program Update: Coordinator Kevin Knox reported on summer programs. Swim lessons filled within minutes of registration opening, with a waitlist nearly as large as the enrolled number. A new summer camp for ages 6–12 offers sustainable energy sessions, arts, games, hikes, science, culture, and field trips. Camps include a free, healthy snack program in partnership with the Sitka Conservation Society. Additionally, nine infrared trail-use counters (no video) have been placed in partnership with Sitka Trail Works and Alaska DOT to gather year-round usage data, with some counters in place for one year. The data will support maintenance planning, funding requests, and commercial use permits. Consent Calendar The following items were approved by a 6–0 vote: - 24-076: Minutes of April 18, 25, May 2, and May 9, 2024 Assembly meetings. - 24-075: Liquor license renewals for Dove Island Lodge & Sitka Sports Fishing Charters (dba Dove Island Lodge) and SOE, LLC (dba Asian Palace); transfer of ownership, premises diagram, and restaurant endorsement for JL Sitka, Inc./SCOJO, LLC (dba Westmark Sitka Hotel). - RES 24-12: Setting millage rates for FY2025 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025). Board, Commission, Committee Appointments - 24-077: Barbara Teepe was appointed to an unexpired term on the Tree and Landscape Committee by a 6–0 vote. Discussion Items - ORD 24-13 (Supplemental appropriations for FY2024 – Clean Energy to Communities Project): Approved on second and final reading, 6–0. - ORD 24-10 (Supplemental appropriation to replace Harbor 300HP outboard motor): Approved on second and final reading, 6–0. Some discussion clarified the budget is for a 300-horsepower motor (not 3,000). - ORD 24-11 (Adopting FY2025 budgets and capital improvement plan for General Fund, Internal Service Funds, and Special Revenue Funds): Approved on second and final reading, 6–0. Assembly members praised the improved budget process, noting it is now more transparent and efficient. - ORD 24-12 (Adopting FY2025 Enterprise Fund budgets, amending Title 15 public utility rates, and setting moorage and harbor fees): Approved on second and final reading, 6–0. - ORD 24-14 (Amending Title 15 Chapter 15.10 Section 410 “Joint Service Connections” for water system): Public Works Director Ron Vinson explained the modification allows a single water line to serve multiple structures on one parcel, subject to Public Works Director approval for good cause (e.g., sufficient capacity, reduced infrastructure vulnerability). The change aligns water code with existing wastewater code and is intended to reduce costs, environmental impacts, and weaknesses from multiple taps. Assembly questions addressed capacity calculations, property subdivision implications, and a past wastewater dispute. Approved on first reading, 6–0. - RES 24-13 (Supporting Amendment 123 to the BSAI Groundfish Fishery Management Plan – linking halibut prohibited species catch limits for the Amendment 80 trawl fleet to halibut abundance): Assembly member Chris Ystad introduced the resolution as a step toward accountability. Public testimony: Linda Behnken (Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association) spoke in support, noting that halibut supports over 500 local commercial fishermen and processors handling over 1.5 million pounds annually. She detailed a 20-year effort to reduce bycatch, with a 25% reduction in 2015, and that Amendment 123 would tie bycatch caps to abundance, as already done for other fisheries. She noted a lawsuit filed by the trawl sector and requested the resolution to support an amicus brief. Assembly members expressed strong support, calling it a “no-brainer.” Approved on first and final reading, 6–0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments on off-agenda items. - During the meeting, one public testimony was offered: Linda Behnken (Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association) spoke in support of RES 24-13, emphasizing the economic, cultural, and recreational importance of halibut to Sitka. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items A, B, C): Approved 6–0. - Appointment (Item D): Barbara Teepe to Tree and Landscape Committee – Approved 6–0. - ORD 24-13 (Clean Energy supplemental): Approved on second/final reading 6–0. - ORD 24-10 (Harbor outboard replacement): Approved on second/final reading 6–0. - ORD 24-11 (General Fund budget FY2025): Approved on second/final reading 6–0. - ORD 24-12 (Enterprise Fund budget FY2025, rate changes): Approved on second/final reading 6–0. - ORD 24-14 (Joint water service connections): Approved on first reading 6–0 (second reading scheduled for a future meeting). - RES 24-13 (Halibut bycatch amendment support): Approved on first and final reading 6–0. - Reports: Administrator John Leach congratulated Sitka High School Track & Field teams on their state win. Clerk Sara Peterson announced the June meeting schedule (11th and 25th), nonprofit grant application period (June 17 – August 16), and candidate filing period for the October 1 municipal election (July 15 – August 2). Assembly member Scott Saline raised a concern about no-parking signs at Harrigan Centennial Hall restricting public access when no buses are present.

Note on Agenda Conflict: The City and Borough of Sitka Special Assembly Meeting scheduled for this date had a published agenda to deliberate on the Tourism Task Force Final Recommendations. The raw transcript provided for this event does not contain any tourism-related discussion. It fully records a United States Coast Guard Town Hall convened to present the Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) findings into the March 2024 capsizing of the uninspected passenger vessel Awaken off Low Island, which resulted in multiple fatalities. The summary below documents the Coast Guard presentation, public comments, and leadership statements as captured in the transcript. Marine Board of Investigation Presentation - Causal Factors: The initiating event was sudden flooding of the Awaken's well deck by a large swell. A major causal factor was the master navigating the vessel too close to Low Island in shallow water at low tide, encountering hazardous breaking surf. The vessel's freeing ports provided only 14.25 square inches of drainage, compared to 401 square inches required for inspected small passenger vessels. The master's likely position at the aft operating station contributed to distraction and loss of situational awareness. - Loss of Life: The master and two passengers drowned and were not wearing life jackets. Two passengers became trapped inside the submerged cabin. The investigation noted the likely rapid progression from flooding to capsize prevented life-saving actions. The lack of a float-free EPIRB prevented automated distress notification. - Regulatory Gaps: Uninspected passenger vessels (six-packs) are the only commercial vessel class completely exempt from mandatory carriage of survival craft and EPIRBs, regardless of route or operating area. No stability or flotation standards exist for outboard-powered vessels over 20 feet. - Response Timeline: The Coast Guard was not notified until 2 hours and 45 minutes after the estimated casualty. The Air Station launched 58 minutes after crew notification, failing its 30-minute B0 launch standard due to fueling system malfunctions. The investigation recommended a review of SAR command center processes for evaluating overdue cases. - MBI Recommendations: The investigation formally recommended rulemaking to mandate survival craft and regulate minimum stability criteria/freeing port capacity for these vessels. The team noted the Coast Guard had previously declined similar NTSB recommendations in favor of voluntary programs like Rescue 21 and the 5-Star Safety Exam. The team strongly encouraged operators to voluntarily carry Type 1 float-free EPIRBs, register DSC radios, and check their vessel's drainage. - Navigation Software: Depth discrepancies were noted in the Time Zero Bathy Vision feature vs official NOAA charts, which were not causal to the incident but reported to the developer. - Medical Protocols: Differences in resuscitation decisions by the Coast Guard rescue swimmer (withholding CPR per protocol for extended downtime) and EMS (immediately commencing CPR) were noted and deferred to medical authorities. Public Comments & Testimony - Janet Reed (Charter Operator): Stated that electronic navigation programs fail to adequately highlight the predictable risks of offshore isolated breakers. She noted the tide was going out against the wind, creating larger breaking waves, and that hazards like Low Island should be dynamically reflected in software. - Charter Operator: Disputed the investigation's freeing port analysis, stating the vessel's two large deck hatches (with perimeters of roughly 2.5x4 feet) act as additional water evacuation ports, suggesting the calculation should be relooked. - Audience Member: Expressed concern regarding the SAR command center's overdue vessel evaluation process, which they felt takes too long (15-20 minutes on the phone) to sufficiently prompt a distress declaration for a routine missing operator. - Q&A Session: Two unaccounted meteor flares were sighted during the search. The Coast Guard acknowledged that an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) to correlate the sighting was not issued. Cost (thousands of dollars plus installation/battery life) was stated as the primary barrier to voluntary EPIRB adoption. - Steve Ramp (ex-Coast Guard, Licensed Master): Urged a shift in focus from criticizing the response to prevention. "The lesson learned we all in the room that operate out there need to take is that we need to think about what we're doing on the water and operate safely, use judgment, don't take unnecessary risks." Key Outcomes & Leadership Statements - Captain Vincent Jansen (CO, Air Station Sitka): Accepted ownership of the fueling system malfunctions that delayed the search helicopter and committed to an internal review of unit norms. He defended the pilot's decision to launch with a partial fuel load for a close-range rescue, stating he stands behind the crew's judgment. He noted his crew typically launches in approximately 13 minutes during exercises against a 30-minute international standard. - Captain Darwin Jensen (Sector Commander, SE Alaska): Personally thanked community members, particularly the lodge operator who first reported the vessel overdue. He reiterated the significant resource constraints the Coast Guard operates under in Southeast Alaska and publicly advocated for homeporting a response cutter in Sitka. He framed the purpose of the investigation as preventing future tragedies and highlighted the extreme risk of Sitka waters due to their direct exposure to the Gulf of Alaska and open ocean conditions.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly met on May 14, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The meeting included a special report on the Sitka Housing Summit, approval of multiple ordinances, and public comments addressing childcare, budget concerns, and an alleged $60,000 fraud incident. The meeting adjourned at 7:34 PM. Consent Calendar - RES 24-11: Authorized a 50/50 matching grant application to the Office of Justice Programs – Bulletproof Vest Partnership. Approved unanimously on consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Loren Wild (Childcare Now coalition) reported on a career pathways summit and new early childhood education classes in high schools, and noted the opening of a therapeutic preschool by Sitka Counseling. - Richard Wein commented on several items: supported the childcare initiative, suggested quarterly department head reports be given verbally, discussed the Katleann Street project (unfunded, cost $8.7M), and noted the Producer Price Index increase. - Austin Cranford thanked presenters for the housing summit, raised concerns about high interest rates (prime rate 8.5%, loan rates 11.5-12%), and alleged that the city was defrauded of $60,000 via an email scheme, questioning transparency and requesting a response. - Richard Wein also spoke on board appointments (supporting Trish White and Shauna Thornton), the tax exemption for Youth Advocates of Sitka (questioning valuation and process), and the FY2025 budget (noting 181 FTEs, rising costs, and reliance on tourism). - Rachel Roy (Visit Sitka) noted that the visitor enhancement fund in the budget was missing the contract amount for Visit Sitka. - Keith Nyitray and Bruce Gazaway (Sitka Maritime Heritage Society) spoke in support of the historic preservation covenant for Japonski Island Boathouse, highlighting grant funding and community benefits. - Richard Wein also spoke on the enterprise fund budget (rate increases) and the Clean Energy to Communities project (criticizing buzzwords and suggesting funds be used for workforce incentives). Special Report: Sitka Housing Summit - Amy Ainslie (Planning Director) and Robin Sherman (STA Communications) presented findings from the March housing summit and April community meeting. - Key statistics: Over half of Sitka renters pay more than 30% of income on housing; 58% of Native households are cost-burdened; median household income $95,261; average home price $500,000; affordable monthly housing cost for median income is $2,400. - Discussed challenges: limited developable land, high construction costs, lack of backbone infrastructure, market forces, and low density. - Identified priorities: higher density housing, stronger incentives for year-round housing, preserving mobile home parks, tiny home neighborhoods, and a wet climate research center. - Next steps: Tribal Council work session in June, first meeting of the Sitka Housing Network. Discussion Items - Board Appointments (B 24-070): Reappointed Trish White to the Local Emergency Planning Committee and Shauna Thornton to the Port and Harbors Commission. Approved 5-0. - Unfinished Business – ORD 24-09A: Authorized a property tax exemption for Youth Advocates of Sitka, Inc. for property at 3411 Halibut Point Road. Approved on third and final reading 5-0. - New Business – ORD 24-10: Supplemental appropriation for FY2024 to replace a Harbor 300HP outboard motor. Approved on first reading 5-0. - New Business – ORD 24-11: Adopted budgets and capital improvement plan for General Fund, Internal Service Funds, and Special Revenue Funds for FY2025. Approved on first reading 5-0. Discussion noted a 14.6% budget increase, $18 million deficit, and reliance on tourism revenue. - New Business – ORD 24-12: Adopted enterprise fund budgets for FY2025, including rate increases: water 4%, wastewater 8.25%, solid waste 4%, moorage 4%, and electric customer charges. Approved on first reading 5-0. - New Business – ORD 24-13: Supplemental appropriation for FY2024 for the Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) project ($500,000 from NREL). Approved on first reading 4-1 (Saline opposed). - New Business – 24-071: Approved a 20-year historic preservation covenant with the State of Alaska Historic Preservation Office for the Japonski Island Boathouse. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - All consent and appointment items passed unanimously. - ORD 24-09A (tax exemption) passed 5-0. - ORD 24-10, 24-11, 24-12 passed on first reading 5-0. - ORD 24-13 passed 4-1 (Saline dissenting). - The 20-year historic preservation covenant was approved 5-0. - The assembly will hold a special meeting on May 16, 2024, to discuss tourism task force recommendations. - No action was taken on the fraud allegation; the public was advised to await a city response.

The Sitka Assembly conducted a special meeting on May 9, 2024, to interview Anne Marie Billingsley, a candidate for the position of municipal attorney. The interview lasted approximately one hour, followed by a 10-minute break, then resumed for additional questions. The assembly questioned Billingsley on her experience with municipal code, land use, procurement, public safety, constitutional law, fire and EMS contracts, union negotiations, and her approach to community relations. After the interview, the assembly met in executive session and voted to invite Billingsley for an in-person interview and community meet and greet. Public Comments & Testimony - A public member (identified as Chris) raised concerns about the four-year closure of the sidewalk on Catleyan Street, calling it a "big zit on the tail of two cities for Sitka." He also referenced the Alaska Native Land Claims Act, Catleyan Bay being awarded to the Shiatica Native Regional Corporation, and efforts to build a road there since 1971. He questioned how the city could zone sovereign land and mentioned concerns about immunity granted to the native regional health care corporation and tax exemptions. Discussion Items - Code Interpretation and Community Needs: Billingsley emphasized that when code conflicts with community desires, the proper process is for elected officials to sponsor an ordinance to change the code. She noted that reviewing legislative history can clarify the intent of provisions. She advised against overly specific code provisions and stressed the importance of general applicability. - School Funding and BSA (Base Student Allocation): Billingsley expressed familiarity with the BSA issue, noting that Fairbanks recently held a special election to raise the tax cap for schools, which failed. She stated that the state legislature should address school funding rather than leaving it to municipalities, and she personally supports adequate school funding due to having school-aged children. - Land Use and Leases: Billingsley described her experience advising the Fairbanks North Star Borough on land leases, including financing agreements, defaults, and evictions. She also discussed lease negotiations for the Birch Hill ski trails on military land and the airport land lease negotiations. - Federal and State Land Use Law: She noted experience with preemption issues, such as whether the borough could impose zoning on railroad land or airport land, but said her primary expertise is in local zoning rather than federal land use law. - Procurement Process: Billingsley identified risk at every stage of procurement, from RFP development to bidder disqualification and public records requests. She had experience handling procurement disputes and evaluating whether sole sourcing could bypass the RFP process. - Public Safety and Risk Mitigation: She discussed body cameras as a risk management tool, noting associated lawsuits over footage and policies. She also referenced debates about arming animal control officers with tasers and emphasized presenting risk-reward analyses to the assembly for decision-making. - Constitutional Law and First Amendment: Billingsley highlighted her work with library display cases, book bans, and public forum restrictions. She stressed the importance of having content-neutral policies in place ahead of time to handle challenges, and noted that municipalities across the country face similar constitutional issues. - Fire and EMS Contracts: She described extensive experience negotiating fire service contracts with independent contractors, including insurance requirements, training levels, and service revisions. She advised the emergency operations department and attended regional service area advisory committee meetings. - Union Contracts: Billingsley stated that collective bargaining negotiations were her favorite part of the job. She served on bargaining teams, drafted language, and focused on making contracts accessible to employees. She also handled interpretation and enforcement. - Press Releases and Social Media: She considered it part of the municipal attorney's role to review press releases and social media posts for legal implications. She helped develop guidelines for department Facebook pages and drafted or edited sensitive press releases. - First Priorities if Hired: Billingsley said she would focus on understanding the workflow, culture, and key players, building relationships with assembly members and staff, and learning how the assembly wants to utilize the attorney. She noted that different attorneys have different styles (e.g., waiting for assignments vs. interjecting in meetings) and would adapt to the assembly's preferences. - Remote Work: Billingsley asked about the possibility of a hybrid remote arrangement initially, as she cannot move her family to Sitka by July 1. She proposed spending the first month in person, then returning home to wrap up, and later coming back. The assembly indicated they would discuss this in deliberations. Key Outcomes - The assembly moved into executive session to discuss the candidate's interview, inviting human resources and the candidate when desired. The motion passed 6-0. - After reconvening, the assembly voted unanimously (5-0) to direct staff to schedule a community meet and greet and in-person interview with Anne Marie Billingsley.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a special meeting on May 2, 2024, to finalize the FY2025 draft budget and decide on next steps for the municipal attorney recruitment. The meeting lasted approximately 26 minutes, from 6:00 PM to 6:26 PM, with all seven members present (one remote). Discussion Items - FY2025 Draft Budget (Item 24-054): Finance Director Melissa Haley presented a summary of General Fund budget changes, correcting a previous omission where a cut item was not actually in the budget. She reviewed updated revenue projections, including lower property and liability insurance costs (approximately $76,000 savings) and a 22% increase in health insurance. The final General Fund surplus is approximately $44,000. Assembly members praised the staff's work and the clarity of the budget process, noting that minor surpluses or deficits are acceptable given the budget's size (approximately $44 million General Fund, $200 million total with transfers). No formal vote was taken on the budget; the discussion concluded with consensus to proceed. - Municipal Attorney Recruitment (Item 24-066): The assembly discussed advancing candidate Annmarie Billingsley to a second round of interviews. Members debated the format (Zoom vs. in-person) and the focus of the next interview, aiming to assess the candidate's practical legal approach and community interaction style. The mayor suggested continuing the recruitment process until a hire is finalized. Key Outcomes - The assembly voted unanimously (7-0) to advance municipal attorney applicant Annmarie Billingsley to a second round of interviews, tentatively scheduled for May 9, 2024, via Zoom, with a possible in-person follow-up. - The assembly agreed to keep the recruitment open while the second round proceeds. - No formal action was taken on the FY2025 budget, but the assembly acknowledged the corrected surplus and expressed satisfaction with the budget process.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a special meeting on April 25, 2024, beginning at 6:00 PM, to interview two candidates for the position of Municipal Attorney: Annmarie Billingsley (via Zoom) and Wayne Cary (via Zoom). The meeting included a flag salute, land acknowledgement, roll call, interviews, an executive session, and adjournment at 8:56 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Interview with Annmarie Billingsley (6:12 PM – 7:15 PM): Billingsley, a Fairbanks attorney, detailed her six years as a municipal attorney at the Fairbanks North Star Borough, where she handled zoning, union negotiations (three unions), collective bargaining, contract interpretation, ballot proposition lawsuits, and risk management. She expressed enthusiasm for Sitka's community, having visited via the Fine Arts Camp. She highlighted proactive systems like “quiet Fridays” for focused work and network-building with other municipal attorneys. Assembly members asked about her experience with Alaska Native communities, substance abuse issues, and ability to work with a small staff. She stated she could start with overlap before the current attorney's departure on June 30. - Interview with Wayne Cary (7:30 PM – 8:25 PM): Cary, most recently Borough Attorney for the North Slope Borough (nine years), described his experience in municipal law, criminal prosecution, and defense. He noted no union experience but familiarity with home-rule boroughs, ballot propositions, and working with Alaska Native communities. He expressed readiness to relocate and settle in Sitka, citing his love for hunting and fishing. Assembly members asked about his legal philosophy, risk management, and ability to handle a heavy workload. Cary indicated he could start as early as May 16 if offered the job. - Discussion/Direction/Decision on Interviews: After the interviews, the Assembly voted unanimously (7-0) to enter executive session at 8:25 PM to discuss the candidates' qualifications and potential prejudice to their character. The executive session included HR Generalist Denise Salter and, when desired, the candidates. The session lasted until 8:54 PM. The Assembly reconvened, and the meeting adjourned at 8:56 PM without a public decision. Key Outcomes - No hiring decision was made publicly. The Assembly plans to potentially conduct a second and third round of interviews, including an in-person meet-and-greet in Sitka, and to request writing samples and background checks, consistent with prior recruitment processes. The goal is to have a new attorney overlap with the retiring attorney by June 30.

The Sitka Assembly met on April 23, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The meeting included a school board budget update, public comment on various issues, approval of consent items, a failed board appointment, approval of an increased driver facility charge, approval (with a one-year sunset) of a property tax exemption for Youth Advocates of Sitka, and authorization to apply for an energy efficiency block grant. Assembly Member Christianson left at 7:00 PM and missed later votes. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the April 4, 9, and 16 Assembly meetings (Item A). - Approved a package store sampling endorsement application for Triple C Ventures, Inc. dba Watson Point Liquors at 1867 Halibut Point Road (Item B). The motion passed 7-0. One public commenter opposed the endorsement, citing alcohol problems in Sitka and insufficient controls. Public Comments & Testimony - Valorie Nelson (during Persons to be Heard and on several items) criticized city administration, the electric department, and police department operations, alleging lack of transparency. - Richard Wein commented on multiple agenda items: he opposed the alcohol sampling endorsement, questioned the driver facility charge increase, supported the energy block grant but questioned plastic recycling, and called for a review of all optional property tax exemptions. - School Board President Tristan Guevin provided a special report on the district's budget. He outlined deficit scenarios depending on state Base Student Allocation (BSA): at $340 BSA – $2.3M deficit, equivalent to 22-23 positions; at $500 BSA – $1.9M deficit, 18-19 positions; at $680 BSA – $1.4M deficit, 14-15 positions. He noted the BSA has only increased $30 since 2016; if pegged to inflation it would be $1,413 higher. - Heather Meuriet (Executive Director, Youth Advocates of Sitka) and Keith Brady (YAS board) spoke in support of the property tax exemption. - Austin Cranford spoke regarding his failed commission appointment, stating he has no personal conflicts and wants the city to operate legally and ethically. Discussion Items School Board Report (Special Report) - Tristan Guevin reported that state education funding remains uncertain due to the governor's veto of a BSA increase. The district is budgeting based on a $340 one-time equivalent but is also preparing for other scenarios. The district will finalize its budget by May 1, 2024, and may need revisions later. He emphasized the need for the state to adequately fund education. Board, Commission, Committee Appointments - Katherine Prussian was reappointed to a three-year term on the Parks and Recreation Committee (motion passed 7-0). - Austin Cranford was considered for an unexpired term on the Police and Fire Commission. After public comment and assembly deliberation, the motion failed 2-5 (Yes: Saline, Eisenbeisz; No: Christianson, Carlson, Pike, Ystad, Mosher). Some members expressed concerns about his perceived adversarial stance toward the police department. ORD 24-07S – Driver Facility Charge Increase (Second Reading) - The ordinance amends Title 4, Chapter 4.85 to increase the driver facility charge from 4% to 8% (resulting in total taxes on rentals estimated at 24% as noted by a commenter). The ordinance passed 6-1, with Assembly Member Carlson voting no. Public comments: Richard Wein opposed, suggesting taxing cruise passengers instead; Valorie Nelson opposed any new fee; Austin Cranford suggested exempting rentals not using the airport. Assembly discussion noted the increase aligns with other airports and helps fund the airport master lease; a future exemption for non-airport rentals was discussed. ORD 24-09 – Property Tax Exemption for Youth Advocates of Sitka (YAS) (Second Reading) - The ordinance authorizes an optional property tax exemption for the YAS property at 3411 Halibut Point Road. The application met code criteria; assembly was reminded they have discretion. After debate, Assembly Member Pike proposed an amendment to sunset the exemption after one year. The amendment passed 5-1 (Mosher opposed, Christianson absent). The amended ordinance then passed 6-0, requiring a third reading (scheduled for May 2 or May 14). Public comment: Valorie Nelson opposed; Richard Wein asked for a review of all optional exemptions; Heather Meuriet and Keith Brady supported. Assembly discussion focused on the need for performance review and broader policy changes. F 24-064 – Authorize Application for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant - Sustainability Coordinator Bri Gabel presented the grant: $75,300 total, with $65,000 for recycling improvements (containers, education) and $10,300 for installation of two Level 2 EV chargers for the municipal fleet. The motion passed 6-0. Public comment: Richard Wein supported but expressed skepticism about plastic recycling. Assembly members thanked staff for aligning the grant with the strategic plan. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (items A & B) approved 7-0. - Katherine Prussian reappointed to Parks and Recreation Committee 7-0. - Austin Cranford appointment to Police and Fire Commission failed 2-5. - ORD 24-07S (driver facility charge increase) passed 6-1 on second and final reading. - ORD 24-09 (YAS property tax exemption) was amended with a one-year sunset (5-1) and then passed 6-0 on second reading; a third reading is required. - Authorization to apply for the EECBG grant passed 6-0. - Meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM. Reports - Mayor Eisenbeisz reported on the DC lobbying trip, including discussions with the Forest Service about a potential land exchange for housing in the Indian River valley and a $250,000 state land study. - Administrator Leach reported on meetings with federal agencies regarding grants, housing programs, and the Northwest Managers Conference. He noted he pitched hosting the 2026 conference in Sitka. - Clerk Peterson listed upcoming meetings: special meeting April 25, budget meeting May 2, and government-to-government dinner April 30.

The City and Borough Assembly held a special meeting on April 18, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, to discuss and make decisions on the FY2025 Draft Administrator's Budget, focusing on Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, Special Revenue Funds, and updates to the General Fund. The meeting resulted in several motions to adjust spending, bringing the General Fund from a projected $240,000 deficit to a $70,000 surplus, while also addressing school maintenance and tourism funding. Consent Calendar - No items were considered under the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Rachel Roy, Director of the Chamber and Visit Sitka, addressed the assembly remotely. She commended the assembly for its cohesive discussion and noted she had submitted a comprehensive budget proposal for Visit Sitka's contract, suggesting use of Commercial Passenger Vessel (CPV) funds based on precedent from Juneau. She offered to answer any questions via email before the next meeting. Discussion Items - Administrator's Opening Remarks: Municipal Administrator John Leach cautioned the assembly that ongoing debates about ballot initiatives to limit tourism could lead to costly legal challenges, potentially requiring reallocation from General Fund programs such as parks and recreation, the Blatchley Pool, Performing Arts Center funding, and paving projects. - Finance Director's Presentation: Finance Director Melissa Haley reviewed budgets for enterprise funds (electric, water, wastewater, solid waste, harbor, airport, marine service center, Gary Paxton Industrial Park), internal service funds (IT, central garage, building maintenance), and special revenue funds. Highlights included: - Electric fund: No rate increase, but a multi-year customer fee increase; significant capital needs for diesel generation and hydropower. - Water fund: 4% rate increase, with debt service coming online for the critical secondary water project. - Wastewater fund: 8.25% rate increase to cover debt service and new disinfection requirements; seeking a $6 million DEC loan. - Solid waste fund: Working capital remains negative but improving due to compactor efficiencies. - Harbor fund: 4% rate increase; condition assessments helping extend asset life. - Visitor Enhancement Fund: Revenue from bed tax is contracting, with FY24 projections below FY23 actuals; only audit fees and travel currently budgeted. - School Maintenance Discussion: Assembly members debated the city's takeover of school building maintenance, funded partly by the 1% seasonal sales tax (projected at $2.4 million annually). A $400,000 transfer from that fund to the General Fund was included, but members raised concerns about clarity of decision-making authority and the need to ensure the fund remains available for major capital projects. Administrator Leach noted the plan is still conceptual and an MOU with the school district is being developed. - General Fund Deficit Resolution: The initial deficit of $240,000 was whitled down through several motions. Assembly member Ystad proposed cutting the grader V-plow and the Granite Creek security gate, while other members proposed cutting shipping containers and body cameras. The assembly also approved a motion to increase street striping and pothole repair funding by $100,000, funded from the Public Infrastructure Sinking Fund. A proposal to fund the Tourism Manager position 50% from CPV and 50% from the Visitor Enhancement Fund passed despite concerns from some members about limiting the position's flexibility and potential legal risk. Key Outcomes - Tourism Manager Funding (Motion Passed 5-2): Moved by Carlson, seconded by Ystad, to fund the Tourism Manager position using 50% from the Commercial Passenger Vessel Excise Tax Fund and 50% from the Visitor Activities Enhancement Fund. Yes: Christianson, Ystad, Mosher, Saline, Carlson. No: Eisenbeisz, Pike. - Grader V-Plow Removal (Motion Passed 7-0): Moved by Ystad, seconded by Pike, to remove the resource proposal for the grader V-plow. All in favor. - Granite Creek Security Gate Removal (Motion Passed 6-1): Moved by Ystad, seconded by Pike, to remove the resource proposal for the gate. No: Mosher. - Shipping Containers Removal (Motion Passed 7-0): Moved by Eisenbeisz, seconded by Pike, to remove the resource proposal for two 40-foot shipping containers. All in favor. - Body Cameras Removal (Motion Passed 5-2): Moved by Christianson, seconded by Carlson, to remove the resource proposal for body cameras. No: Mosher, Saline. Police Chief indicated he would seek grant opportunities for body cameras. - Increased Street Contracted Services (Motion Passed 7-0): Moved by Eisenbeisz, seconded by Mosher, to increase the contracted services resource proposal for Streets Division from $350k to $450k (funded by an additional $100k from the Public Infrastructure Sinking Fund) for road striping and pothole repair. All in favor. - No changes to school funding were made; the assembly opted to maintain the proposed $640,000 for school maintenance and operations. - Budget Schedule: The budget will proceed to first reading on May 14 and second reading on May 28, with a finalized budget to be adopted by the end of the fiscal year.