Public Meetings - Sitka, Alaska

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Assembly Chambers. The meeting featured ceremonial honors, departmental quarterly reports, several ordinances, and a substantial discussion on allocating a $4.5 million state legislative grant. The meeting adjourned at 9:54 PM. Consent Calendar - Item A (26-126): Approved the minutes of the July 14, 2026 Assembly meeting by a 7-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Christian Fabian (part-time cab driver) commented on the proposed taxi cab ordinance, urging inclusion of businesses and drivers in the process and cautioning against repeating past regulatory failures that harmed the taxi industry. - Jay Stilwell (Executive Director, Fortress of the Bear) spoke during discussion of Item E (GPIP Lot 16B RFP), raising concerns about undefined usable space, access constraints, and scoring criteria that he argued favor marine industry proposals over nonprofits. - Multiple speakers testified in support of Ordinance 2026-17 (Parks & Recreation Master Plan funding), including Aaron Prussian, Bridget Hitchcock, KK Prussian, Candace Rutledge (on behalf of Ben Hughey), and Amy McLaughlin. They emphasized the plan's community value, grant readiness, and volunteer effort. Discussion Items - Ceremonial Matters (26-124): Mayor Eisenbeisz presented a citation honoring U.S. Coast Guard Day. Coast Guard representatives Commander Joe Plunkett and BMC Dean Buckler accepted and thanked the community. - Special Reports (26-125): - Electric Department (Ron Vinson): Reported on Q2 operations, including safety training, 14 service expansions, workforce development, capital projects (PLC replacement, SCADA servers, Green Lake dam monitoring), FERC inspection (clean), and upcoming submarine cable replacement on July 30-31. Highlighted challenges with aging diesel generators (three units 40 years old) and $3 million set aside for replacement. Discussion noted early spills at Blue Lake and Green Lake due to snowpack. - Fire Department (Interim Chief Brian McLaughlin): Reported 6% through fiscal year at 2% budget expenditure, a slight overtime overage attributed to vacancies (no deputy chief, chief not yet qualified as engineer), $200,000 in life-saving capital assets, partnerships with multiple agencies, policy updates (revising 1994 manuals), and training standardization. Highlighted response to Coast Guard 6002 crash and a hotel fire. Noted 24 cruise passenger transports (down from 42 last year). - Ordinance 2026-17: Supplemental appropriation of $20,000 for the Sitka Recreation Foundation to complete a Parks and Recreation Master Plan. After debate about MOA compliance and timing, the assembly amended the motion to make the appropriation contingent on a revised MOA that reflects the increased amount and asserts the city will not assume liability for contractual obligations made by SRF. The amended ordinance passed 7-0 on second reading. - Ordinance 2026-18: Authorizing lease of Block 4, Lot 1 of Gary Paxton Industrial Park to Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association, Inc. Assemblymember Ystad recused himself due to bias as an NSRAA board member. Passed 6-0 on second reading. - Ordinance 2026-19: Supplemental appropriation of up to $50,000 from the Visitor Enhancement Fund to Harrigan Centennial Hall to waive fees for conventions bringing 100+ out-of-town attendees during the shoulder season (September-May). Introduced by Assemblymember Ystad and co-sponsored by Mosher. Passed 7-0 on first reading. - Assembly discussion noted the program would require no net cost if it attracts sufficient bed tax revenue, and may be reviewed after three years. - Item E (26-127): Approved an RFP for long-term lease of GPip Lot 16B for private sector development. Garry White (GPIP director) introduced the item, noting the lot has been raised by rock from dam project and the RFP will determin use. Assembly directed staff to remove reference to “marine vessel haul out” from the scoring criteria. Passed 7-0. - Item F (26-128): Approved an RFP for long-term lease of a portion of GPip Lot 6 for marine vessel and marine services (related to haul out). Passed 7-0. - Item G (26-129): Discussion on selecting a project for a FY2027 Designated Legislative Grant of $4.5 million (from state CPV fund). - Tourism Manager Judson Rusk reported the Tourism Commision narrowed options to: Lincoln Street improvements, the sewal (Marine Service Center bulkhead), or a passenger ferry from cruise dock to downtown. - Assembly members debated feasibility, costs (Lincoln Street $15.5M, seawall $16.3M), timeline (5 years to spend), and community benfit. Concerns included leveraging Lincoln Street’s enterprise fund contributions (water, wastewater) and staff capacity. After extensive discussion, the assembly directed the Adminstrator to pursue a scope for Lincoln Street, noting it is the most shovel-ready and has dual benfit for tourists and locals. - Item H (26-130): Update on Municipal Administrator recruitment. Mayor Eisenbeisz reported a finalist withdrew but applications continue to be accepted; an executive session is schduled for August 11 to reviwe candidates. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-17 approved on second reading as amended (7-0), contingent on revised MOA. - Ordinance 2026-18 approved on second reading (6-0, one recusal). - Ordinance 2026-19 approved on first reading (7-0). t- RFP for Lot 16B approved (7-0) with direction to modify scoring criteria. - RFP for Lot 6 approved (7-0). t- Direction on state grant given to Adminstrator to pursue Lincoln Street project scope. - Municipl Administrator recruitment continues; applications still being accepted; August 1 meeting will include potential executive session. - Reports: Mayor will miss August 25 meeting; Congressman Begich vistiing August 1; candidate filing deadline for municipal election is August 7 at 5 PM. - Adjourned at 9:54 PM.

The Sitka Assembly met on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz presided with six members present (Christianson, Mosher, Eisenbeisz, Carlson, Saline, and later-appointed Ystad) and one absent (Riley). The meeting included quarterly departmental reports, approval of several ordinances and resolutions, the appointment of a new assembly member to fill a vacancy, reassignment of leadership roles, and an executive session to advance the municipal administrator search. Consent Calendar - Item A: Approved the minutes of the June 23, 2026 Assembly meeting. - Item B: Approved two new liquor license endorsement applications for JL Sitka, Inc. dba Cold Water Bar & Grill at 330 Seward Street. - Both items approved on a single motion by a vote of 5–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Schumacher (volunteer board member, Sitka Recreation Foundation) spoke in support of Ordinance 26-17, urging the Assembly to allocate a minimum of $20,000 to complete a 20-year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. She emphasized the plan's importance for community-driven investment and noted that the last master plan was completed in 1991. - Scott Wagner (General Manager, Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association – NSRAA) addressed Ordinance 26-18, explaining that the proposed lease terms represented a 42% increase over current rent and that NSRAA sought to bring more revenue to the Gary Paxton Industrial Park (GPIP) enterprise fund. - Chris Ystad (fisherman and NSRAA board member) expressed concern that higher lease costs ultimately reduce fishing opportunity, but also acknowledged the indirect economic benefits NSRAA brings to Sitka through sales tax and multiplier effects. - During the appointment process for Tim Pike’s vacant seat, both applicants—Jeremy Plank and Chris Ystad—answered questions from the Assembly, stating their motivations and views on issues such as boat haul-out access. Discussion Items - Special Reports – Department Quarterly Reports: - Public Works Director Mark Seavey reported that the department ended FY26 at 86% budget spent and 93% staffing. Major projects include the airport and Lake Hirsch road improvements, a public surplus auction generating $137,000 in proceeds (some to be returned to grant agencies), and a household hazardous waste event with 1,000 participants, 900,000+ pounds of scrap, 148 vehicles, and 200,000 gallons of waste collected. Water department is finalizing UV and membrane filtration plant approvals; building maintenance is addressing school district boiler work; and the pool chlorinator is back online. - Harrigan Centennial Hall Manager Tony Rosas reported that the facility hosted over 260,000 visitors from April through June 2026, with 760+ bookings year-to-date. The hall ended FY26 at 94% budget spent. Future projects include continued auditorium lighting upgrades and refinishing the auditorium floor and stage. - Ordinance 26-17 (Parks & Recreation Master Plan supplemental appropriation): Parks and Recreation Manager Kevin Knox introduced the request for $20,000, noting that the city’s last comprehensive recreation plan was from 1991. The Sitka Recreation Foundation (SRF) selected Corvus Designs via RFQ; the master plan is scheduled for completion by January 2027. Assembly members debated the timing, the original $14,900 seed funding, SRF’s fundraising efforts, and concerns about the city assuming ownership of the project. After a 2–3 vote (Christianson and Mosher yes; Eisenbeisz, Carlson, Saline no; Riley absent; Ystad non-voting), the ordinance moved to second reading per the Home Rule Charter. - Ordinance 26-18 (NSRAA lease at Gary Paxton Industrial Park): Municipal Administrator John Leach explained that the lease had been reconsidered after a previous failure in April. The revised terms increase monthly rent from $800 to $1,000 and raise the renewal rent cap from 10% to 20%. Assembly members discussed the economic benefits of NSRAA, the subsidy nature of below-market leases, and the eventual goal of dissolving the GPIP enterprise fund. The ordinance passed first reading 5–0. - Resolution 26-06 (Legal services contract for microplastics/PFAS claims): Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones described a nationwide settlement class for PFAS (“forever chemicals”) that municipalities can join at no upfront cost; the law firm would operate on contingency (33% of any recovery). The city would need to test water systems to qualify. Assembly members raised concerns about waiving the right to sue individually and potential impacts on waivers (e.g., for Blue Lake), but the resolution passed unanimously 5–0 on first and final reading. - Appointment to Fill Vacancy (Item H): Two candidates applied: Jeremy Plank (Tourism Commission chair) and Chris Ystad (former assembly member). After deliberation, Ystad was appointed by a voice vote (5–0) to serve until the October 6, 2026 election results are certified on October 13, 2026. Ystad was sworn in and seated. - Reassignments (Item I): Deputy Mayor Tim Pike had resigned. The Assembly appointed JJ Carlson as Deputy Mayor and Chris Ystad as Vice Deputy Mayor. Liaison assignments were adjusted: Saline/Ystad for Library Commission; Ystad/Eisenbeisz for Police and Fire Commission; Ystad/Mosher for Sustainability Commission; Saline/Ystad for Tree and Landscape Committee; Eisenbeisz/Carlson for Sitka Tribe of Alaska; Mosher/Ystad for School Board. - Reports: - Administrator Leach announced a $4.5 million legislative discretionary grant (CPV funding from the state) to be discussed at the July 28 Assembly meeting. - Attorney Jones provided updates on lease management software procurement, a recodification project, and her out-of-office dates. - Liaison Mosher reported that the Parks and Recreation Committee recommended creating a no-dog-off-leash period on two athletic fields from March 15 to June 30. - Clerk Peterson listed board/commission vacancies and reminded of October 6 election filing deadlines (May 31 to August 7). - Assembly member Carlson updated on the Sitka Walkability Advocacy Collab’s partnership with Outer Coast students to paint a crosswalk on Lincoln Street. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved (5–0). - Board appointments approved: Maria Capezio Crookes to Library Commission (3-year term); Scott Wagner reappointed to GPIP Board (2-year term) (5–0). - Ordinance 26-16 (sales tax security amendments) approved on second and final reading (5–0). - Ordinance 26-17 (parks master plan supplemental appropriation) passed first reading on a 2–3 vote; automatically advanced to second reading on July 28 per Home Rule Charter. - Ordinance 26-18 (NSRAA lease) approved on first reading (5–0). - Resolution 26-06 (legal services for microplastics/PFAS claims) approved on first and final reading (5–0). - Chris Ystad appointed to fill Tim Pike’s seat until the October 2026 election results are certified; sworn in. - JJ Carlson appointed Deputy Mayor; Chris Ystad appointed Vice Deputy Mayor. Liaison assignments updated as detailed above. - Executive session (8:11–8:34 PM) reviewed municipal administrator applicants. The Assembly narrowed the search to finalist Jenny Alber and voted 6–0 to extend an invitation for a community meet-and-greet and potential employment offer. - Meeting adjourned at 8:39 PM.

The assembly convened at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. All seven members were present. The meeting began with a flag salute and land acknowledgement, followed by ceremonial recognition of outgoing Deputy Mayor Timothy Pike for his service from 2022 to 2026. Consent Calendar - Approve the minutes of the June 9 Assembly meeting – Approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Austin Cranford addressed the newly implemented NextRequest public records portal. He argued that the portal's prompts to narrow requests contradict the Alaska Supreme Court's presumption in favor of disclosure (Fuller v City of Homer). He also questioned the legality of requiring a mandatory certificate of non-litigation affiliation, which is absent from the paper form. After being ignored by the clerk's office, he formally submitted an Alaska Public Records Act request and asked the assembly to direct staff to respond by June 26. The mayor noted this was not a time for back-and-forth, and the assembly declined to make a motion to direct staff. Discussion Items - Service Award – Timothy Pike: Mayor Eisenbeisz presented the award, thanking Pike for his steady leadership. Pike expressed gratitude and noted the honor of representing the community. - Sitka Tribe of Alaska Report (Tribal Chairwoman Yeidikook’áa): Reported recent council actions including an MOU for gray whale research, a joint letter regarding SSD consultation, approval of interim Kana Historic Site agreement, and updates on air quality monitoring (15 new sensors). Also highlighted upcoming community events. - Finance Quarterly Report – Director Brooke Volschenk: Reviewed interim financial statements through December 31, 2025. Mid-year sales tax revenue appeared strong but included prior-period collections. Second-quarter revenue came in $140,000 below projections, indicating potential softening in discretionary spending. Overall financial position stable, consistent with budget assumptions. - Police Department Quarterly Report – Chief Michael Hall: Staffing improvements noted: new multi-services officer Shannon Oswald (25 years experience), dispatcher hiring progressing, two new officers in training. Statistics for the quarter: 3,447 calls for service, 71 jail bookings, 63 arrests, 212 traffic stops, 26 bear calls. Planned community events: Special Olympics torch run raised $3,000; National Night Out shifted to August 8; new body-worn cameras being phased in; three new white patrol cars acquired. - School District Update – Superintendent Deidre Jensen: Discussed summer professional development, collaboration with STA, and challenges of adding all-day kindergarten (traffic/parking issues). Noted seven teacher retirements, four resignations, and cuts not being backfilled. Expressed appreciation for the Secure Rural Schools funding, which prevented cutting 6–10 more positions. - ORD 26-16 – Sales Tax Code Update (First Reading): Finance Director Volschenk explained the ordinance updates Section 4.25.330 to allow personal guarantees from all business entity types (LLCs, etc.) which has been the administrative practice. Attorney Jones clarified that "may" language in enforcement tools provides flexibility (e.g., may not be appropriate for government entities). Several assembly members discussed the distinction between sales tax (funds held in trust) and ordinary debt. Saline noted the update matches current practice and does not create new requirements. The ordinance passed 7-0 on first reading. - Reports: Administrator Leach reported on FY2027 preparations, a visit from U.S. House candidate Bill Hill, and praised police/fire response to a U.S. Coast Guard accident. Attorney Jones updated on the new records portal (positive impact), centralized lease management software, and code recodification. Clerk Bayne outlined upcoming meeting schedule, board vacancies, and filing deadlines for Pike's vacant assembly seat and regular municipal election. - Executive Session: The assembly entered executive session (7:17–8:05 PM) to review applications for Municipal Administrator, excluding the current administrator and attorney. Upon reconvening, Mayor Eisenbeisz stated the recruitment process will continue. Key Outcomes - ORD 26-14 (Supplemental appropriations for Secure Rural Schools) – Approved on second/final reading (7-0). - ORD 26-15 (Zoning amendment for Gary Paxton special zone) – Approved on second/final reading (7-0). - ORD 26-16 (Sales tax personal guaranty update) – Approved on first reading (7-0). - Reappointment of Bert Stedman to a three-year term on the Investment Committee – Approved (7-0). - Executive Session: Held to screen Municipal Administrator applicants; recruitment continues. - Next Regular Meeting: July 14, 2026; Work session on child care July 21, 2026. - Filing Deadlines: For vacant assembly seat – July 8 at noon; for regular municipal election (mayor, two assembly seats, three school board seats) – opens July 20, closes August 7.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on June 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The agenda included quarterly department reports, supplemental school funding, a major rezoning of the Gary Paxton Industrial Park (GPIP), awards from the Fisheries Enhancement Fund, and approval of a new collective bargaining agreement for public safety employees. Assembly member Kevin Mosher left the meeting at 6:30 PM, resulting in several 6-0 votes on later items. Quarterly Department Reports - Human Resources (Asst. Admin Josh Branthoover): Reported an approximate 90% employee fill rate, ongoing onboarding (30 new employees), plans for mandatory performance evaluations starting July 1, and upcoming leadership and management training. - Information Technology (Director Grant Turner): Reported the department is fully staffed. Key projects included a new city website launch, C-Walk conduit installation for a potential city-owned network, and network security upgrades. The help desk received 186 requests and resolved 158 over the quarter. - Clerk (Municipal Clerk Sara Peterson): Reported processing 46 public records requests, ongoing records digitization, migration to a new code platform, and preparations for the municipal election. Consent Calendar - 26-103: Approved the minutes of the May 26 Assembly meeting. - 26-104: Approved a liquor license and endorsement renewal for JL Sitka, Inc. dba Cold Water Bar & Grill. (Approved 7-0) Discussion Items Supplemental Appropriations for Secure Rural Schools (ORD 26-14) - Municipal Administrator John Leach introduced the ordinance, which appropriates recently received federal Secure Rural Schools payments, describing it as a one-time nonrecurring opportunity. Assembly member JJ Carlson expressed strong support but cautioned the school district against relying on this one-time funding, calling it a “gift” to be used wisely. Assembly member Timothy Pike clarified the funds were not previously coded into the budget and were newly available upon receipt. Assembly member Thor Christianson noted the state’s failure to adequately fund education. The ordinance was approved on first reading (7-0). Gary Paxton Industrial Park Rezoning (ORD 26-15) - Planning Director Amy Ainslie presented the ordinance, which replaces the GPIP’s unique flexible zoning with standard use tables. This was a process developed over months by the GPIP Board and the Planning Commission, both of which recommended unanimous approval. Key changes include restrictions on housing to prevent displacement of industrial uses and geographic designations for a park core. Assembly member Christianson stated the measure was thoroughly vetted. Assembly members Carlson and Riley praised the collaborative effort of the boards. Staff confirmed existing uses will be protected through conforming or legal non-conforming permits. The ordinance was approved on first reading (6-0), with a second reading set for June 23. Fisheries Enhancement Fund Awards (Item 26-105) - Three organizations applied for shares of the fund, coordinating to request equal amounts ($15,631 each): - Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association (ALFA): Linda Behnken and Emily Scott requested $15,631 for workforce development (placing over 145 crew members), safety training, and energy innovation. They emphasized that local funding leverages significant outside investment, reporting $1.3 million leveraged in 2025. - Sitka Tribe of Alaska (STA): Kyle Rosendale requested $15,631 for sockeye salmon monitoring at Redoubt Lake. He stated that without in-season monitoring, subsistence harvest would be severely restricted (10 fish daily limit) and the commercial fishery would be closed entirely. - Sitka Sound Science Center (SSSC): Bill Coltharp requested $15,631 for the coho hatchery program, which supports education, a hatchery apprentice program, and local sport and commercial fisheries. - Public Testimony: Alexandra Fujioka spoke in support of the ALFA application, crediting their crew training program for helping her continue working in commercial fishing. - Assembly members praised the applicants for their collaboration and the significant economic impact of the small investment. The motion to award $15,631 to each organization passed (6-0). Public Safety Employees Association (PSEA) CBA (Item 26-106) - Assistant Administrator Josh Branthoover summarized the ratified three-year agreement (2026–2029). Economic changes include a 3% salary increase effective July 1, 2027, and July 1, 2028, the addition of step movements for employee retention, a one-time $1,000 lump sum payment for qualifying employees, and an increase in standby pay to $5.00/hour. The total estimated cost increase to the borough is $311,000 over three years. Assembly member Katie Riley asked about sign-on bonuses; Branthoover confirmed they are outside the CBA and are set to expire June 30. The agreement was approved (6-0). Reports - Mayor Eisenbeisz: Reported on the Southeast Alaska Guides Organization (SEGO) conference, discussing king salmon fishing limits, unguided bear boat halibut catches, and a proposed regulatory change on pooling crab bag limits. - Administrator Leach: Noted final preparations for the FY27 budget, ongoing discussions on a Parks and Recreation MOU with the school district, and a meeting with former Congresswoman Mary Peltola. - Liaisons: - Assembly member Christianson reported on the Parks and Recreation Committee, relaying a recommendation to make Keet and Kimsham fields “no dogs allowed.” Administrator Leach noted this recommendation may require assembly action if it conflicts with existing city code. - Assembly member Carlson noted the Port and Harbors Commission is on summer break and the Health Needs and Human Services Commission meets next week. - Assembly member Riley reported the Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for an accessory dwelling unit, citing it as a successful outcome of recent code changes. - Clerk Peterson: Updated on board and commission vacancies and announced the municipal election candidate filing period runs from July 20 through August 7. Open seats include one Mayor (2-year), two Assembly (3-year), and three School Board seats (two 3-year, one 1-year). - Assembly member Carlson: Announced the Sitka Walkability Advocacy Collab is seeking community input on earth-tone geometric design ideas for crosswalks on Lincoln Street. Entry forms are due Wednesday, June 24, and a community showcase will be held on Thursday, June 25, at 6:00 PM. Key Outcomes - ORD 26-14 (Secure Rural Schools): Approved on first reading (7-0). - ORD 26-15 (GPIP Rezoning): Approved on first reading (6-0). Second reading scheduled for June 23. - Fisheries Enhancement Fund: $15,631 awarded to the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association, the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, and the Sitka Sound Science Center (6-0). - PSEA Collective Bargaining Agreement (2026–2029): Approved (6-0). - Municipal Election Dates: Candidate filing period July 20 through August 7, 2026. - Walkability Project: Community crosswalk design entries due June 24; community showcase and selection on June 25.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. All six present members (Christianson, Mosher, Pike, Carlson, Saline, Riley) voted, with Mayor Eisenbeisz absent. The meeting addressed quarterly departmental reports, public comments, consent agenda items, budget approvals for FY2027, a charter amendment referral to voters, and acceptance of Assembly Member Timothy Pike's resignation. Special Reports - Planning & Community Development Director Amy Ainslie reported on the Phase II land study for housing development, ongoing energy planning (Sitka Community Renewable Energy Strategy expected September 2025), summer camp and swim lessons reaching capacity within minutes, issuance of 45 commercial recreation permits for 2026, and anticipation of offering programming at the Senior Center starting June 1. The department's expenses are within budget. The Faith Streets program received a grant extension. - Assessing Director Larry Reeder reported that the department operates with three full-time employees, with an opening for an appraisal technician. The 2026 tax roll certification occurred that evening. Approximately 90% of the borough has been reappraised, with an 8.2% increase in real property taxable value (up from 7.9% last year), including a 3% market trend applied to residential properties. The reappraisal project has brought values closer to full and true value per state law. As of May 20, 76% of the FY2026 budget had been used. Public Comments & Testimony - Off-agenda public comments: Lisa Busch of the Sitka Public Arts Committee announced a $50,000 grant from Extra Tough for downtown public art projects, in partnership with the Greater Sitka Arts Council. Joel Hanson reported on the Jarvis Street Community Garden, noting nearly 90% capacity with 38 members and 36 of 45 large plots assigned. - On agenda item G (Charter amendment): Larry Edwards (Small Town Soul) urged a no vote, arguing the existing citizen-triggered initiative special election provision is a wise democratic tool, and that the administration's reasons (cost of $18,200, staff time, uniqueness among Alaska towns) are unconvincing. Austin Cranford also opposed, stating that two days prior the assembly and administrator had told him to use the petition process if he wanted a charter change, and now the assembly was lessening that process. - On agenda item H (Resignation): Austin Cranford later commented that the appointment process to fill Pike's seat should have the seat remain vacant if within six months of an election to avoid incumbency bias, citing practices in other Alaska municipalities. He requested the assembly put forward a charter amendment to that effect. Discussion Items - ORD 26-11 (General Fund & other budgets): Approved on second and final reading with no separate discussion. Vote: 6-0. - ORD 26-12 (Enterprise Funds budgets & rate increases): Approved on second and final reading. Assembly Member Carlson summarized rate increases effective July 1: 2% wastewater, 6% water, 2% solid waste, 4% moorage; no electric rate increase for residential users, but restructuring for commercial/industrial. The airport faces a $400,000 revenue gap due to Delta no longer servicing Sitka, requiring creative solutions in the next fiscal year. Vote: 6-0. - ORD 26-13 (Charter amendment – Initiative & Referendum): The ordinance proposes to amend Section 6.01 to remove the requirement that a citizen-initiated election be held as a special election, instead defaulting to the next regular election unless the assembly calls a special election. The amendment would be placed on the October 6, 2026 regular ballot. Following public opposition, assembly debate included: Clerk Peterson explained the change aligns with state statute and most Alaska municipalities; Mosher supported sending it to voters for a decision; Christianson agreed, noting it is a question for the public; Saline opposed, valuing the existing provision for timely citizen initiatives; Riley expressed concerns that the change could delay initiatives for up to a year and that the context of rapid national changes heightens fears, and she preferred exploring a modified timeframe but did not have an amendment ready. Vote: 4-2 (Yes: Christianson, Mosher, Pike, Carlson; No: Saline, Riley). The ordinance passed, and the question will appear on the October 2026 ballot. - Item H – Resignation of Assembly Member Timothy Pike: Pike moved to accept his resignation effective June 30, 2026 (amended from June 23 per logistical reasons). The resignation was accepted unanimously (6-0). Members expressed gratitude for his service. A second motion to set the appointment process was then considered: advertise for letters of interest from Friday, May 29 through noon Wednesday, July 8, and place an item on the July 14 agenda to appoint a replacement until the next regular election. Motion passed 6-0. Pike noted he would be absent during that vote but encouraged careful deliberation. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items A, B, C) approved 6-0: Minutes of May 12 meeting; millage rates for FY2027 (RES 26-05); liquor license renewal for Talon Charters. - Board Appointment (Item D) William Spivey appointed to Local Emergency Planning Committee (three-year term) – approved 6-0. - ORD 26-11 adopted on second reading – 6-0. - ORD 26-12 adopted on second reading – 6-0. - ORD 26-13 adopted on second reading, placing charter amendment on October 6, 2026 ballot – 4-2. - Resignation of Assembly Member Pike accepted effective June 30, 2026 – 6-0. Appointment process set: advertisement for letters of interest May 29–July 8, appointment on July 14 agenda – 6-0. - Other: The meeting adjourned at 7:01 PM.

The Sitka Assembly convened at 6:00 PM on May 12, 2026, for a regular meeting lasting until 9:34 PM. The agenda included the FY2027 budget adoption, a child care needs analysis report, a home rule charter amendment, board appointments, and an executive session to discuss municipal administrator recruitment. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The assembly unanimously approved the minutes from the April 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28 meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Kari Sagel, on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, announced the Center for Community Early Learning Program had been awarded a $15,000 Rasmuson Foundation Tending the Future Fund grant to host a Sitka Child Care Funding Summit. She invited the assembly and city staff to participate in planning and attend the summit. - Annette Evans and Margaret Galanin thanked the assembly for its support in addressing childcare challenges and expressed appreciation for the members' volunteer commitment. Discussion Items - Child Care Needs Analysis Report (Items VII and H 26-093): Blue Shibler, Executive Director of Southeast Childhood Collective, presented the report. Key findings: an estimated 485 children need care, with a supply of 204, leaving a gap of about 281 spaces. Providers cannot expand due to workforce shortages; wages cannot compete with other sectors. Three options were offered: (1) workforce incentives (including utility waivers), (2) per-child operating grants modeled on Juneau's program (estimated $1.0–1.4 million/year), and (3) a blended model adding family affordability subsidies. Shibler stated the private market cannot solve the "market failure" and sustained public investment is needed. The assembly accepted the report (7-0).\n In the subsequent discussion on next steps, Sponsor Thor Christianson expressed support for a model similar to Option 2, with city funding outsourced to an outside administrator. Sponsor Kevin Mosher also supported Option 2 as most effective. Deputy Mayor Timothy Pike reframed childcare funding as an "investment" and stressed defining the program before identifying funding. Assembly Member Katie Riley expressed concern a winter sales tax increase would overburden working families and suggested exploring alternative sources such as adjusting the sales tax cap. Assembly Member JJ Carlson noted revenue options being considered: a 2% alcohol tax (≈$500k/year), a one-percent winter sales tax (≈$1M/year), and a one-percent summer sales tax (≈$2M/year), but cautioned against taxing the same families the program aims to help. The consensus was to hold a work session in June for further deliberation. The assembly also directed the municipal administrator to write a letter supporting the $7.5 million state budget allocation for childcare workforce retention currently in conference committee. - FY2027 Budget Adoption (Items E and F): Municipal Administrator John Leach introduced the consolidated operating budget for General Fund, Internal Service Funds, and Special Revenue Funds (ORD 26-11) and the Enterprise Funds budget (ORD 26-12), which also amends utility and harbor rates. The budget is fully balanced; expenditure growth is driven by wages, benefits, and infrastructure. Sales tax remains the revenue foundation, but fuel cost volatility and federal funding uncertainty pose risks. Leach thanked Finance Director Brooke Volschenk for exceptional work. Assembly members praised the budget's accessibility and transparency. Both ordinances were approved on first reading (7-0). - Home Rule Charter Amendment (Item G): Municipal Clerk Sara Peterson presented ORD 26-13, which proposes amending Section 6.01 to remove the mandatory special election requirement within 40–90 days of a valid initiative/referendum petition, replacing it with assembly discretion to call a special election or refer to the next regular election. The last special election cost over $18,200 and placed a significant staff burden. Assembly members supported the amendment, citing increased flexibility while preserving citizen access. The ordinance passed on first reading (7-0) and will appear on the October 6, 2026 ballot. - Other Ordinances: ORD 26-09 (Donations) and ORD 26-10 (Naming of Public Places) were passed on second and final reading (7-0), with a minor administrative correction noted on the latter. - Board and Committee Appointments: Michael Hall and Brian McLaughlin were appointed to permanent terms on the Local Emergency Planning Committee under Category 2 (7-0). Key Outcomes - Votes: All items passed unanimously (7-0): consent agenda, board appointments, two first-reading budget ordinances, first-reading charter amendment, second-reading ordinances, and acceptance of child care report. - Child Care Next Steps: The assembly will hold a work session in June to discuss program options and funding mechanisms, with the goal of potentially placing a measure on the October 2026 ballot. - Charter Amendment: Voters will decide on October 6, 2026, whether to remove the mandatory special election requirement for citizen initiatives and referendums. - State Advocacy: The administrator will draft a letter supporting the $7.5 million state childcare workforce funding. - Executive Session: The assembly met from 9:07 to 9:33 PM in executive session to discuss the recruitment of a municipal administrator, considering candidates Jenny Alber and Steven Dahl. The assistant municipal administrator was invited; the municipal administrator and attorney were excluded. Upon reconvening, Mayor Eisenbeisz reported that paths forward were identified. - Liaison Reports: Planning Commission updates on cruise ship dock ordinance and zoning text change for Gary Paxton Industrial Park; Ports and Harbors Commission meeting last before summer break; Sustainability Commission work on waste reduction and public outreach. - Other Reports: Mayor reported Alaska Airlines committed to maintaining service despite high fuel prices. Administrator confirmed Senator Murkowski submitted a funding request ($5 million) for the Marine Service Center seawall and crane replacement. Attorney reported two case dismissals. Riley reminded drivers to watch for bicyclists after a severe accident.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz and included ceremonial matters, special reports, public testimony, a consent agenda, multiple ordinance readings, a resolution, a public records appeal, and an executive session. All eight voting items were approved unanimously (7-0). Consent Calendar - Items A & B were approved on the consent agenda: (A) Minutes of April 9 and 14, 2026; (B) Liquor license renewals for Sea Mountain Restaurant, The Galley Restaurant, Dove Island Lodge, and Beak Restaurant. - Item C (Wildflour Cafe & Bakery new liquor license) was pulled by Vice Deputy Mayor Carlson for discussion. The assembly approved it 7-0 after noting that public concern had diminished since the initial proposal. Public Comments & Testimony - Thad Poulson (57-year resident) opposed the city’s closure of Maksoutoff Street to vehicles for portable toilet installation, calling it inconvenient for residents and affecting historic St. Michael’s Cathedral. He urged a practical solution. - Alexia Nestic-Kewan (Mount Edgecumbe High School student) thanked the Sitka Public Library for its diverse materials, including books like Genderqueer, and spoke in favor of intellectual freedom and access to information for students. Discussion Items - Service Award: Jeff Budd was recognized for six years of service on the Library Commission. - Special Reports: - Sitka School Board President Phil Burdick reported that 74% of K-1 students at Hoots Elementary are now reading at or above benchmark (up from 59% at the start of the year). The district passed its FY27 budget and is hiring back three teachers. - Electric Department Quarterly Report: Utility Director Ron Vinson reported 16 outages in Q1 2026 (vs. 17 in all of 2025), with two-thirds due to infrastructure failures and one-third from natural causes. Tree clearing, asset assessments, and improved procedures are underway. The department is down five positions, with three near filling. A $2.5 million DOE grant (247 money) for Green Lake Power Plant refurbishment was secured. - 2025 Electric Annual Report: Vinson and Sustainability Coordinator Bri Gabel highlighted outage durations 95% better than the national average, but outage frequency 46% worse. Electric rates are just below the national average. A new risk register and modeling projects are underway. - Fire Department Quarterly Report: Fire Chief Craig Warren (retiring after 33 years) reported 9 EMT graduates (median score 93), 16 wilderness EMT students, and two vacancies. Budget is 74% expended vs. 84% of year. - Library Quarterly Report: Director Jess Ieremia reported hosting the 2026 Alaska Library Association conference, a Books Unbanned grant ($8,000) partnering with Pacific High and Mount Edgecumbe High, and an upcoming summer reading program (June 6–August 8). Adult reading buddies needed; apply by May 16. - ORD 26-08 (Postpone to a Certain Time) – Approved on second reading, 7-0. - ORD 26-09 (Acceptance of Donations to the City) – First reading approved 7-0. Establishes procedures for donations under $10,000 (accepted by staff) and over $10,000 (assembly approval), including lifetime maintenance costs. - ORD 26-10 (Naming of Public Places) – First reading approved 7-0. Sets criteria for naming city-owned property, with a presumption for traditional Indigenous names. Clerical changes noted. - RES 26-04 (State Revolving Fund Loan for WWTP Effluent Disinfection) – Approved 7-0. Authorizes application for a $1.16 million loan for design of a $14 million disinfection system (required by 2030 permit). $10 million in federal CDS funds tentatively allocated; ratepayers may cover $3 million. - Sustainability Commission 2026-2027 Goals and Work Plan – Approved 7-0. Chair Aurora Taylor and Vice Chair Elizabeth Bagley presented four goals: sustainable municipal operations, regional sustainability, strategic solid waste management, and finalizing the Sitka Community Renewable Energy Strategy (SCRES). Highlights include a greenhouse gas inventory released in January 2026, 40 hours of technical assistance on waste-to-energy, and an energy game with 84 participants producing 59 portfolios. - Appointment to SCRES – Assembly members Mosher, Christianson, and Carlson volunteered to serve on the SCRES team. - Appeal of Public Records Request Denial (Item J) – Appellant Austin Cranford argued the city illegally withheld records related to police sign-on bonuses and redacted compensation. Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones and Assistant Administrator Josh Branthoover testified that the request sought research, not existing records, and that redactions complied with Sitka General Code 1.20.042. The appeal was denied 7-0. - Executive Session – The assembly entered executive session at 9:05 PM to discuss legal/financial matters in Susan Magie et al. v. Gary Cranford et al., Case No. 1JU-25-00648CI, and reconvened at 9:14 PM. Key Outcomes - All eight votes (ORD 26-08, ORD 26-09, ORD 26-10, RES 26-04, Sustainability Commission Work Plan, Consent Agenda items A-B, Item C, and denial of appeal) passed 7-0. - Three assembly members (Mosher, Christianson, Carlson) were appointed to the SCRES team. - The meeting adjourned at 9:14 PM.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a special meeting on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 5:00 PM to conduct a second-round interview with municipal administrator candidate Jenny Alber (via Zoom) and to discuss next steps for the two final candidates, Jenny Alber and Steven Dahl. The meeting included an executive session and concluded with a plan for individual deliberation before a final decision. Discussion Items - Municipal Administrator Applicant Interview – Jenny Alber (Agenda Item 26-074): The Assembly conducted a second-round interview with Jenny Alber, who participated via Zoom. The interview lasted approximately two hours and covered topics including: her research into Sitka's community and pressing issues (housing, tourism, food security, city-run utilities); her reflections on her first-round interview; her view of the administrator's role as a behind-the-scenes position rather than the public face; her experience with angry constituents and customer service; ideas for addressing the housing crunch (short-term rentals, collaboration with nonprofits and tribal agencies); budget preparation experience and philosophy; emergency management experience (New Orleans hurricane preparedness, but no direct command center role); management style (chain of command, accountability, staff retention); relationship with the Sitka Tribe of Alaska; strategies for balancing the budget and engaging the community; experience with state and federal agencies and lobbying; the importance of professional memberships and conferences; views on public education funding (support for public schools); recruitment and retention strategies (appreciation, mentorship, work-life balance); and how she would handle admitting an error in judgment (direct and immediate disclosure). Alber also asked about the status of department SOPs and the strategic plan, and the mayor indicated SOPs were updated about six years ago and the strategic plan is nearing expiration. - Discussion / Direction / Decision on Municipal Administrator Interviews (Agenda Item 26-076): After the interview, the Assembly considered whether to enter executive session to discuss the candidates' character and reputation. A motion was made by Assembly Member Mosher to enter executive session, excluding the Municipal Administrator and Municipal Attorney, and inviting Assistant Municipal Administrator Josh Branthoover. The motion passed unanimously by a vote of 7-0 (Riley, Eisenbeisz, Carlson, Mosher, Pike, Christianson, Saline). The executive session was held from 7:00 PM to 7:49 PM. - Discussion / Direction / Decision on Next Steps for Each Applicant (Agenda Item 26-077): Following the executive session, the Assembly reconvened in regular session. Mayor Eisenbeisz stated that the Assembly had met to discuss the candidates and that members would take additional time to consider the candidates individually before determining next steps. No further formal discussion or decision was made at this meeting. Key Outcomes - The Assembly unanimously voted (7-0) to enter executive session to discuss the candidates' character and reputation. - The executive session lasted from 7:00 PM to 7:49 PM. - The Assembly will take additional time to deliberate individually before deciding on next steps for the two candidates. No final decision was made at this meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a special meeting on April 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The meeting focused on approving a lease extension for the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association (NSRAA), reviewing the FY2027 draft budget across enterprise, internal service, special revenue, and general funds, and discussing the Capital Improvement Plan. Public testimony highlighted concerns about athletic field maintenance. Consent Calendar - Approved a lease extension with NSRAA for Block 4, Lots 2 & 3 at Gary Paxton Industrial Park, extending the lease to October 31, 2026, to allow time for renegotiation. Passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Scott Wagner (General Manager, NSRAA) spoke in support of the lease extension. - Tatiana Perkins, Steven Bunnell, Carrie Iwamoto, and Katie Bunnell (representing Sitka Little League, Sitka Softball Association, and Sitka Baseball Club) testified about deteriorating athletic fields at Kim Sham and Moller complexes, citing poor drainage, safety hazards, and the need for proper sand materials. They requested collaboration with Parks & Rec and local contractors, and consideration of grant funding. - Josiah Hill provided technical input on the type of sand needed (triangular-cut, not local beach sand) and suggested community partnerships. Discussion Items - Item B: FY2027 Draft Budget – Enterprise, Internal Service, and Special Revenue Funds Finance Director Brooke Volschenk presented proposed rate increases: Electric customer fee increase (less than $1/month, no energy rate change); Water, 6%; Wastewater, 2%; Solid Waste, 2%; Harbors, 4% (though Ports & Harbors Commission recommended 3%). Discussion included working capital levels, debt service for the critical secondary water project, effluent disinfection mandate (2030 compliance), harbor infrastructure needs, and the airport fund deficit ($390,000 projected). The port director position remains frozen for FY2027. Assembly discussed the McKinley cost allocation study based on 385,000 cruise passengers (current 600,000) and potential need for an update. No formal action taken on rates. - Item C: FY2027 Draft Budget – General Fund Volschenk explained revisions to eliminate the deficit, resulting in a projected $30,000 surplus. Key changes: health insurance rate reduction from 15% to 8% (negotiated down from 11.6%), freezing a police sergeant position, and removing heat pump projects. Public testimony on athletic fields led to a motion by Carlson to add $30,000 for field sand. After discussion, the motion passed 7-0, bringing total sand budget to $80,000 (including unspent $50,000 from prior year). A motion by Riley to revert FY27 Assembly travel to the Alaska Municipal League conference from 7 to 3 members was amended by Mosher to 5 members. The amendment passed 7-0, and the main motion as amended passed 7-0. - Item D: FY2027 Capital Improvement Plan Volschenk gave an overview of the updated CIP, emphasizing completion of existing projects and phased funding. Discussion included harbor fund needs, coordination between water/wastewater/electric projects, and the strategic importance of the CIP as a planning tool. No formal action taken. Key Outcomes - Lease extension with NSRAA approved unanimously (7-0). - $30,000 added to General Fund budget for athletic field sand (total $80,000 available) – motion passed 7-0. - Assembly travel to Alaska Municipal League Annual Conference reduced from 7 to 5 members – motion passed 7-0. - The FY2027 draft budget for Enterprise, Internal Service, and Special Revenue Funds was discussed; no votes taken on rate adjustments. The General Fund budget was revised to show a $30,000 surplus. The Capital Improvement Plan was reviewed without formal action.