Public Meetings - Sitka, Alaska

The Sitka Assembly met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. All seven members were present. The meeting included updates on the Sitka Seaplane Base, a code recodification project, departmental quarterly reports, public comments, approval of consent agenda and a board reappointment, a decision to contract nonprofit grant administration to the Sitka Legacy Foundation, and approval of sales tax free days after Thanksgiving. The meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the March 11, 12, 18, 25, and August 26 Assembly meetings. - Passed on first reading Ordinance 2025-23 (supplemental appropriations for FY2025-2026 – reappropriations) and Ordinance 2025-24 (supplemental appropriations for FY2026 – Library Books Unbanned Programming Grant). Second readings set for September 23, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Off-agenda comments: Karen Lucas, a Historic Preservation Commission member, asked the Assembly to postpone further action on the Seaplane Base and involve the Historic Preservation Commission, noting she was not informed of the Section 106 process. Richard Wein spoke against Proposition 2 (initiative process barrier) and Proposition 1 (future fund allocation). Sean Cavlan opposed Proposition 1, citing poor road conditions. - On item E (Nonprofit Grant Program): Richard Wein spoke in opposition, arguing the $2,500 administrative fee could be used for a grant. Ben Hughey spoke in support, noting the cumbersome application process and the need for professional grant administration. - On item F (Sales Tax Free Days): No public comment. Discussion Items - Sitka Seaplane Base Update: Airport Terminal Manager Joseph Bea reported the draft Supplemental Environmental Assessment is in a public comment period through October 10. An FAA public open house will be held on October 9 at 5 PM, and a pilot stakeholder meeting on September 16 at 6 PM. Assembly members discussed wave attenuators and economic impact concerns. - Code Recodification Project: Attorney Rachel Jones and General Code representative Emily Wood presented a two-year project to correct errors, resolve conflicts, and modernize the municipal code. The project is already budgeted and will not require a supplemental appropriation. - Quarterly Department Reports: IT Director Grant Turner reported a 76% first-contact help desk closure rate and ongoing projects. Clerk Sara Peterson reported staff transitions, election preparations, 60 public records requests, and congratulated Holly on earning Certified Municipal Clerk designation. The HR report was postponed. - Annual General Fund Grants for Non-Profit Organizations Program (Item E): Sponsors Mosher and Ystad proposed delegating administration to the Sitka Legacy Foundation for a two-year trial at a 5% administrative fee. The Foundation’s board chair Chris Kowalczewski explained their experience and processes. The Assembly directed staff to negotiate a two-year contract with a withdrawal clause, preserving Assembly control over annual budget amounts. - Sales Tax Free Days (Item F): The Assembly discussed and authorized November 28–29, 2025, as sales tax free days, excluding fuel, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and marijuana. The estimated revenue loss is $35,000. Mayor Eisenbeisz recused himself due to a financial interest. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (7-0). - Tyler Green reappointed to Port and Harbors Commission (7-0). - Motion to direct staff to negotiate a two-year contract with Sitka Legacy Foundation for nonprofit grant administration passed (7-0). - Sales tax free days on November 28–29, 2025, authorized (6-0; mayor recused). - Ordinances 25-23 and 25-24 will have second readings on September 23, 2025. - Board vacancies announced for multiple commissions; early voting starts September 22 for the October 7 municipal election.

On August 26, 2025, the City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting at the Assembly Chambers. Deputy Mayor Timothy Pike presided in the absence of Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz, with members Kevin Mosher arriving later. The meeting covered an assessing department report, public comments, approval of consent agenda items, a board reappointment, a collective bargaining agreement, and updates on electric vehicle shipping, a cell phone tower hearing, city facilities, and the upcoming municipal election. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the April 8, 15, 22, and August 12, 2025 Assembly meetings. - Approved liquor license applications: renewal for Totem Marina, LLC dba Marina Pizza & Grill (non‑operational) and transfer of ownership/premises/restaurant endorsement from The Galley Restaurant LLC to Umbria Sunset LLC dba The Galley Restaurant. - Approved marijuana license renewals and applications: vanGreen's LLC (cultivation), AKO Farms LLC (cultivation, concentrate manufacturing, retail store at 1210 Beardslee Way), and AKO 2 (cultivation at 213 Price Street). - All consent items passed 4‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Olson (Lions Club member) spoke about efforts to charter a Lions Club in Sitka. He stated the club needs at least 20 members to officially form and outlined Lions International’s global causes including sight, disaster relief, environment, diabetes, and youth services. - Andrea Thomas raised concerns about a proposed requirement for economic impact studies on citizen initiatives. She argued that such studies are prohibitively expensive (citing costs of $220/hour and examples of $15,000‑$20,000), burdensome, and would effectively block all citizen initiatives, making Sitka the most restrictive locality in Alaska. Later, during testimony on the collective bargaining agreement, she expressed support for the agreement and noted that collective bargaining itself was a citizen initiative. Special Report: Assessing Department - The Assessing Department director reported that all three full‑time positions (director, appraiser Casey Kinslow, appraisal technician Chloe Cagle) are filled. The department is currently working on corrections to the 2025 tax roll (primarily address/ownership updates) and continuing the fifth year of residential reappraisal in the north end (Halibut Point Road area). A market trend model will be applied annually to keep values current. Recent accomplishments include staff training (Casey earned Level II certification; Chloe passed probation and completed Level I education). The fiscal year 2026 budget is 4% spent. Deputy Mayor Pike commended the director (referencing “Larry”) for establishing a regular reappraisal cycle and state compliance. Discussion Items 2025‑2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement with ASEA - Brand Hoover (management) presented the agreement negotiated with the Alaska State Employees Association. Non‑economic changes include updated personnel file procedures, evaluation schedules, and layoff provisions. Economic terms: 3% pay matrix increase effective July 1, 2025, 2.5% on July 1, 2026, and 2.5% on July 1, 2027, plus step movement every two years based on positive evaluations. The total fiscal note is $502,248 over the contract term. No supplemental appropriation is needed for FY26. The agreement passed 5‑0. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar (items A, B, C) by a 4‑0 vote. - Reappointed Peter Jurczak to a three‑year term on the Building Department Appeals Board by a 4‑0 vote. - Approved the 2025‑2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement with ASEA by a 5‑0 vote (with Kevin Mosher present). - The Administrator will submit comments to the Alaska Marine Highway System regarding electric vehicle shipping regulations by the September 15, 2025 deadline, based on input from the Sustainability Commission meeting on September 8, 2025. The comments will align with existing decarbonization resolutions. - The hearing on the cell phone tower appeal concluded on August 22, 2025; the hearing officer has until September 12, 2025 to issue a decision. - The Municipal Clerk announced that ballots for the October 7, 2025 municipal election are finalized and early voting will begin September 22, 2025.

On August 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:25 PM, the City and Borough of Sitka Assembly, acting as the Board of Adjustment, held a special meeting to consider an appeal filed by the Central Council of Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, dba Tidal Network, regarding the Planning Commission's denial of a height variance for a 120-foot communications tower at 116 Nancy Court. Administrative Law Judge Max Garner presided. The hearing included staff presentations, applicant arguments, public testimony, and rebuttals. No final decision was reached; the judge requested supplemental briefing on federal preemption and extended the decision deadline to September 12, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Attorney Scott McCollough, representing eight adjacent property owners (Robert Krehbiel, Kelly Sweeney, John Martin, Hal and Carrie Spackman, Carol Voisin, Taylor and Mike Vieira), opposed the tower. He cited safety concerns (landslide risk, fall zone), property value impacts, visual intrusion, and argued the applicant failed to meet its burden of proof for all required findings. He also contended that Tidal Network did not provide personal wireless service and therefore was not entitled to federal preemption protections. - Amy Bethune (Sitka for Safe Tech) opposed the tower, citing evidence of property value reductions, loss of views, and landslide risk, including expert analysis from a registered civil engineer. - Alysha Guthrie (Sitka Tribe of Alaska economic development director) spoke in support. She explained STA's partnership with Tidal Network to use 2.5 GHz spectrum, stating the tower would serve up to 5,000 citizens, enhance telehealth, education, and economic development, and that 129 sites were evaluated with this being the only viable location. - Kris Chinalski, Melissa Thorsen-Broschatt, Larissa Nellis, Lori Johnson, Paul Clemments, Austin Cranford, and Richard Wein spoke in opposition, raising concerns about landslide history, steep terrain, fire access, property values, visual impact, and questioning the need for additional coverage. Discussion Items - Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones clarified that the appeal concerned a variance, not a conditional use permit. She argued the Planning Commission's denial was supported by the record, emphasizing that Tidal Network admitted it had not conducted detailed studies of a 35-foot tower's coverage. She stated the city's position was to uphold the denial without prejudice, allowing the applicant to reapply with more complete data. - Applicant Attorney Douglas Bonnor requested reversal of the denial. He argued the tower would close a significant coverage gap, that the Planning Commission ignored staff recommendations and previously granted variances, and that the city failed to propose viable alternatives as required by Ninth Circuit precedent (Anacortes). He cited an RF engineer's testimony that a 35-foot tower would provide only 25% coverage. - Judge Garner questioned both sides on the interpretation of “special circumstances,” the applicability of the federal Telecommunications Act, and the sufficiency of evidence regarding tower height alternatives. He noted potential tension between the city's interpretation of the ordinance and federal preemption requirements. - Rebuttals: Jones clarified that the Planning Commission did request coverage maps, but Tidal's representative stated he did not have one. Planning Director Amy Ainslie explained that prior tower variances were in different contexts (undeveloped areas, commercial zones) and not directly comparable to this developed residential R1 zone. Key Outcomes - No final decision was rendered at the hearing. - Judge Garner requested additional briefing from the applicant on the issue of federal preemption (whether Tidal Network's services qualify for protections under Section 332(c)(7) of the Communications Act). - The parties agreed to extend the decision deadline by seven days, moving the due date from September 5, 2025, to September 12, 2025. - The hearing was adjourned at 7:25 PM.

The Sitka Planning Commission met on August 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Harrigan Centennial Hall. The meeting included three main agenda items: approval of an Alaska Tideland Survey for a dock lease, a modification to a conditional use permit for a short-term rental, and a discussion on a proposed zoning code amendment to prohibit roosters in residential zones. Public comments were heard on noise pollution from tour buses and potential development of a vacant lot, as well as on the rooster issue. The commission voted 4-0 to approve the tideland survey and the short-term rental modification, and postponed the rooster discussion pending further information from police, fire, and legal departments. Consent Calendar - The August 6, 2025 meeting minutes were approved (not detailed in transcript, but listed on agenda). Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Hagan (Sitka resident) spoke about noise pollution from increasing bus traffic and construction vehicles, noting that tour guides and a person in a crab suit use loudspeakers to be heard over the noise. He also mentioned that high egg prices during COVID have led to more backyard chickens and roosters, and referenced animal behavior studies linking noise to increased aggression. - Christina Cranston (205 Monastery Street) expressed concerns about potential development of a vacant lot possibly becoming a bus parking station, stating she and at least 10 neighbors met to discuss the issue. She cited worries about noise, diesel fumes, traffic, and loss of housing and business properties, and asked the commission to consider the impacts on nearby homeowners. Alaska Tideland Survey 1753 (BP 25-06) - Staff Report: The survey defines a lease boundary for tide lands adjacent to a dock, float, and gangway on a single-family home on Gilmore Island. The Department of Natural Resources requires plating authority approval. The dock is existing and has never had an Entry Authorization before. Staff recommended approval, noting no impacts to traffic, noise, or safety, and consistency with the comprehensive plan. - Applicant: Brita Speck (attorney for Frederick D. Smith Living Trust) clarified that this is a required part of the ADL (Application for Disposal of Lands) process through the state, and that more similar surveys are expected as leases come due. The dock is existing and the survey is the final requirement for the EA (Entry Authorization). - Vote: The commission approved the survey 4-0 (Chair Windsor, Vice Chair Riley, Commissioner Mudry, Commissioner Sherman). Modification to CUP 24-02 – Short-Term Rental at 419 Marine Street (MISC 25-12) - Staff Report: The applicant, Caitlin Way, previously received a conditional use permit for a short-term rental in the upstairs unit. She now wishes to live upstairs and rent the lower unit (Apartment A). The rental will operate May–October, with a maximum of four guests, quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, and a renter handout for garbage. The applicant is completing construction and must obtain a certificate of occupancy for the upstairs unit before the rental can begin. Staff recommended approval. - Public Comment: None. - Vote: The commission approved the modification 4-0, including adoption of required findings. Discussion on Proposed Zoning Code Amendment – Prohibiting Roosters (ZA 25-04) - Staff Report: The applicant requested a zoning text change to prohibit roosters either in all residential zones or throughout the city. Staff presented three options: (1) broad prohibition in all zones; (2) prohibition in residential zones only; (3) allowance in low-density and island zones with prohibition elsewhere. Additional criteria included securing poultry and potential nonconforming uses. Staff noted enforcement challenges and recommended input from police and fire. - Applicant: Carolyn Nichols (Sitka resident for over 40 years) described persistent noise from a neighbor's rooster, crowing from 4 AM to 11 PM, which has caused sleep deprivation and health issues. She also cited damage from free-ranging chickens entering her yard, greenhouse, and shop, and stated that complaints to the neighbor, animal control, and police have been ineffective. She supported an outright ban and proposed a three-strike rule for free-ranging fowl. - Public Comment: - Megan Pasternak (Cascade Creek Road) reported similar problems with neighbors' chickens and roosters, and noted that chickens attract bears. She suggested option three (conditional use for rooster allowance) might be best, but expressed concern that neighbors in allowed zones might still be disturbed. - Pete Hagen (Sitka resident) recounted issues with a half-wolf dog (since hit by a car) and ongoing rooster noise, as well as damage to his rental property from chickens, including 50 piles of feces on a deck after cleaning. - Commission Discussion: - Commissioners expressed caution, noting that the issue may be more about enforcement of existing codes (e.g., noise complaints, animal trespass) than a need for new regulation. - Commissioner Muir emphasized that the problem appears to be isolated to a few bad neighbors, and questioned whether citywide regulation is appropriate. - Commissioner Muir also noted that the commission has higher-priority zoning work (e.g., telecommunications). - Commissioner Riley suggested that enforcement capacity is limited due to understaffing at the police department and animal control. - Chair Windsor committed to contacting Police Chief John to raise the issue. - Vote on Postponement: The commission voted 4-0 to postpone the item until staff can obtain reports from the police and fire departments, the animal control officer, and legal counsel regarding state regulations and enforcement options. The decision does not set a specific date; it is open-ended pending receipt of information. Key Outcomes 1. Approved Alaska Tideland Survey 1753 (4-0) – plating board approval for the survey as part of the ADL process for an existing dock. 2. Approved modification to CUP 24-02 for short-term rental at 419 Marine Street (4-0), subject to conditions including certificate of occupancy for upstairs unit. 3. Postponed discussion on prohibiting roosters, pending further information from police, fire, animal control, and legal departments. The item remains open for a future meeting. 4. Acknowledged Commissioner Mudry's last meeting; staff and commissioners thanked her for her service. 5. Future Action: Chair Windsor will contact Police Chief John regarding enforcement capabilities. Planning staff will prepare a report on zoning in the central business district related to public concerns about bus parking.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held its regular meeting on August 12, 2025, with Deputy Mayor Timothy Pike presiding. The Assembly approved a routine consent agenda and debated two major new business items: a petition to the state for additional Restaurant and Eating Place Licenses (REPLs) and a landmark operating agreement with Highmark Marine Fabrication for the new vessel haul-out facility. Consent Calendar - Item A: Approved the minutes of the February 25, 27, and July 22 Assembly meetings. (Passed 6-0) - Item B: Approved new distillery manufacturer and retail licenses for Sitka Spirits LLC and Harbor Mountain Brewing Company LLC. (Passed 6-0) - Item C: Approved renewal of a marijuana cultivation facility and retail store license for Northern Lights Indoor Gardens, LLC. (Passed 6-0) Public Comments & Testimony On Resolution RES 25-11 (Additional REPLs): - Lenise Henderson: Expressed full support for additional licenses as vital for economic development, arguing the seasonal population creates enough demand. (In favor) - Jasmine Wolfe (reading a letter from Stan Filler Sr., President of Sitka CHARR): Read a letter strongly opposing the resolution, arguing it devalues existing businesses' paid licenses, sets a dangerous precedent, and was rushed without adequate industry input. (Opposed) - Christian Litten (Wildflower Cafe & Bakery): Spoke in support, stating a license would allow him to grow his business and serve the community year-round. (In favor) - Cambria Goodwin (Campfire Kitchen): Spoke in support, stating beer/wine sales are crucial for year-round sustainability and clarified that food trucks are not eligible for these licenses. (In favor) - Mary Magnuson (Mean Queen): Voiced strong opposition, criticizing the lack of an economic impact statement and the rushed timeline. She argued new businesses should purchase existing licenses rather than have the city devalue them. (Opposed) - Patti MacPike (Sitka CHARR): Opposed the resolution, citing inadequate notification of the industry and questioning the methodology of counting visitors as citizens. (Opposed) - Drew Wilson: Spoke in support of the amendment to request three licenses. (In favor) - Luke Bruckert (Campfire Kitchen): Spoke in support of the amendment, arguing competition raises the bar for all businesses. (In favor) - Peter Menendez (Zoltán’s): Opposed the resolution, stating the town is already over its license cap and new licenses would devalue the investments of existing businesses. (Opposed) On Item E (Highmark Marine Operating Agreement): - Linda Behnken (Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association): Expressed concern that Highmark was the sole bidder, the $84,000 annual return is low for the public investment, and questioned automatic renewal clauses. (Concerned) - Mary Magnuson: Expressed concern about automatic five-year renewals without Assembly oversight. (Concerned) - Megan Pasternak (Commercial Fisherman): Noted she only received the agreement that day and had concerns about the clarity of the fee schedule. (Concerned) - Ben Matthys: Urged caution against expanding Highmark’s scope with little restriction. (Concerned) - Jonathan Wolf: Presented a financial analysis calculating a 0.7% rate of return on Phase 1, equating to a 140-year payback period. He urged the Assembly to reject the agreement or renegotiate for a percentage of gross receipts. (Opposed) Discussion Items - RES 25-11: Petitioning for Six Additional Restaurant or Eating Place Licenses (REPLs) - Proposal: A resolution to petition the Alaska State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board for up to six new REPLs to meet seasonal demand and support new businesses. - Sponsor Statement (Assembly Member Christianson): The request originated from local businesses but became unexpectedly complex. He felt six licenses was too high and introduced an amendment to reduce the request to three to minimize risk. - Debate & Concerns: Assembly Members expressed deep unease about economic impacts and the precedent for existing businesses. The Chamber of Commerce reversed its initial support, asking the Assembly to hold off. Assembly Member Saline analogized the issue to fisheries management, calling it a “bad deal for equity.” Assembly Member Mosher raised concerns about the number of unknowns and insufficient notification of license holders. Staff clarified the notification process and discussed the differences between standard and seasonal REPLs. - Outcome: Amended to request three licenses (passed 5-1). The amended resolution was then postponed to the October 28 meeting (passed 6-0) to allow for additional public outreach, potentially via the Planning Commission. The Clerk noted the resolution would need new sponsors. - Item E: Highmark Marine Fabrication Operating Agreement for Haul-Out & Shipyard Operations - Proposal: Approve a five-year operating agreement with Highmark Marine Fabrication to operate the new vessel haul-out and shipyard at the Gary Paxton Industrial Park (GPIP). - Staff Presentation (Gary White, GPIP Director): Reviewed the negotiated agreement, including reduced haul-out fees (down $3/foot), a $2,000 monthly payment to the city, and annual reviews. The heated washdown pad was removed from the project scope to avoid material-related delays. - Assembly Discussion: Members celebrated the milestone, characterizing the facility as essential infrastructure. The $700,000 city investment to buy down rates was highlighted. Members emphasized the importance of annual performance reviews. Assembly Member Christianson noted the rates are competitive and the community is ready for the service. - Outcome: Approved 5-1. Operations are expected to begin this season. The city will not proceed with the heated washdown pad. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (6-0). - REPL Resolution (RES 25-11): Amended to request three licenses (5-1). Postponed to the October 28 meeting (6-0) for broader community outreach. - Highmark Marine Haul-Out Agreement: Approved (5-1). Facility operational this season; heated washdown pad removed to prevent delays. - Acting Administrator’s Report: Josh Branthoover confirmed the concrete washdown pad will proceed without heating to avoid a 12-week delay. - Attorney’s Report: Cell phone tower appeal hearing scheduled for August 21. - Clerk’s Report: Municipal election and citizen initiative signature verification process updates.

The Planning Commission of the City and Borough of Sitka met on August 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Harrigan Centennial Hall. The meeting included a public comment period, an update on the Land Suitability and Feasibility Study, and a public hearing and vote on a minor zoning variance for a sign. One commissioner announced that their term expires at the end of the month and they would not reapply. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident (name not given) urged the commission to stop the industrialization of downtown and residential neighborhoods, citing increased bus traffic, exhaust, noise, and pollution. They argued that a proposed bus depot would lower property values and harm residents, comparing it to past failed projects like the incinerator and a metal skateboard ramp. They asked the commission to not permit a motor pool in the area. - Christina Cranston, a nearby resident whose house borders the property on Oya Street, stated that she and her neighbors had received no official notification about a potential bus depot. She expressed concern about exhaust, noise, and property value impacts on the 10 surrounding homes. She also noted that the Crescent Apartments (12 low-income units) were sold and may be torn down, adding to the housing crisis. She questioned who benefits from the bus depot and urged the commission to consider the neighborhood. - Tess Hayburn, of 207 Monastery Street, similarly expressed concern and curiosity about plans for a bus depot on Oya Street. She asked the commission to keep the neighborhood informed and noted that diesel fumes and noise would be incompatible with her short-term rental business. Discussion Items Land Suitability and Feasibility Study Update Staff presented an update on the study to evaluate municipal lands for housing development. Nine potential sites were identified, with preliminary developable acre estimates: Gavin Hill (63 acres), Gavin Hill/Sitka High School (7 acres), Gavin Hill extended (14 acres), Benchlands (62 acres), Indian River Road (57 acres), Green Lake Road (32 acres), Herring Cove Peninsula (32 acres), and Osprey Street (1 acre). Assessments considered topography, soils, wetlands, drainage, hazard mitigation, and available infrastructure. Staff recommended wetland delineations for the most promising sites (Gavin Hill, Sitka High School property, and Harbor Mountain Road) and desktop studies for other areas. Commissioners discussed density scenarios, including potential for planned unit developments, manufactured home lots, and higher-density options. The next phase will involve utility capacity reviews and cost estimates to support grant applications. Minor Zoning Variance for Sign at 4500 Sawmill Creek Road (VAR 25-07) Jeremy Serka, owner of Sitka Custom Marine and Pacific Jewel Marine, requested a variance to install a 340-square-foot sign (20 by 17 feet) on the south wall of his building in the Gary Paxton Special Zone. The code permits a sign no larger than 10% of the wall area or 100 square feet, whichever is less. Staff noted unique circumstances: the building's location, steep topography, and roadway curvature make it difficult for motorists to see the building from the road. The sign would be backlit with dimmable LEDs and include a logo and lettering. Staff recommended approval, citing a 2004 variance for a similar sign at False Island Lodge. The applicant stated that the sign is needed for wayfinding and that the building houses multiple businesses. Commissioners discussed concerns about setting a precedent for future signs in the industrial park and the need for possible code updates specific to the district. After a brief discussion, the commission voted on the variance. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to approve the minor zoning variance for the sign at 4500 Sawmill Creek Road (VAR 25-07), adopting the required findings as listed in the staff report. Conditions include that the approval is for one sign and that the applicant must obtain any required building permits.

The Sitka Assembly met on July 22, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. Six members were present (Deputy Mayor Timothy Pike absent). The meeting featured a ceremonial citation for U.S. Coast Guard Day, department quarterly reports, and passage of a charter amendment to allow the Sitka Community Hospital Dedicated Fund to be used for recreational facilities, subject to voter approval. Three supplemental appropriations were approved, and Mark Seavey was promoted to Public Works Director. Ceremonial Matters - Mayor Eisenbeisz presented a citation honoring U.S. Coast Guard Day (August 4). Coast Guard representatives thanked the community for its support and noted Sitka's designation as a Coast Guard City. Special Reports - Sitka Tribe of Alaska: Chairwoman Yeidikook’áa Dionne Brady-Howard reported on recent tribal resolutions, including a limited waiver of sovereign immunity for the Indian River historic site agreement, a temporary agreement with Sea Alaska, letters regarding tribal consultation with the school district, a resolution opposing expansion of local contributions definition for school support, a contract to improve broadband via antennas on tribal facilities, and a new child care program allowing relatives to provide care. The tribe also launched a heat pump program and is exploring a repository for repatriated sacred items. - Fire Department (Chief Craig Warren): Reported busy operations, including special events staffing (Medeviggi Solstice Run, Alpine Adventure run, Change Your Latitude swim). Full staffing except one vacant secretary position. Upcoming Firefighter I class and Alaska Fire Conference in Sitka. Chief praised community members who extinguished a house fire and assisted in a water rescue. - Library (Director Jess Arima): Reported staff changes, summer reading program with 196 youth and 45 adults registered, reading buddy program fully matched, snack grab-and-go program (sixth year) with increased demand supported by Friends of the Library. Upcoming PBS Kids workshops (Ready Jet Go Space Camp full, Learn and Grow Family Workshop open). Adult programming to resume in late August. - Electric Department (Director Ron Vincent): Reported on FERC relicensing studies, E2C project (formerly C2C) including microgrid model, hydro model, and additional censoring. Projects supported: GPIP haul out, Crescent Harbor restrooms, Critical Secondary Water Project, Airport Project. Internal projects: Marine Street substation relay replacement, Green Lake transformer repair. Staffing challenges: two new linemen, but loss of general foreman and contract manager. Budget performance: 87% of operations budget used, capital projects on target. Generation data for April–June, water planning outlook for Green and Blue Lakes. Discussed penstock inspection and cone valve installation challenges. Public Comments & Testimony - Off-agenda: Rachel Roy (Chamber) announced Southeast Leadership Summit on September 14–15. Michelle Kavouras (Sitka Counseling) noted the youth suicide prevention summit watch party will not be held locally but encouraged virtual participation. Chief Craig Warren invited the public to the Sitka Volunteer Fire Department's Super Saturday fundraiser on July 26. Drew Wilson announced plans for a craft distillery at the former Columbia Bar location, pending state permit. - On-agenda (Item C): Austin Cranford opposed the charter amendment, arguing it allows capital expenditures without a public vote. Jeremy Strong, Brian Farley (Sitka Youth Soccer), and Brian McLaughlin (SCORE) supported sending the question to voters. Discussion Items - ORD 25-18A (Charter Amendment): Third reading. Finance Director Brooke Volschenk explained the Sitka Community Hospital Dedicated Fund: revenues from tobacco tax ($750,000/year), SEARHC payments ($700,000/year through FY41), bad debt collections, and interest. Major expenditure is PERS liability for former hospital employees ($1.4 million in FY26). The fund also owes $3.125 million to the General Fund. The amendment would allow expenditures for capital improvements and bond obligations for recreational facilities. Assembly members debated: Kevin Mosher supported the community vote, noting the fund's excess revenues are accumulating. JJ Carlson initially opposed but changed to support after hearing the timeline and potential for leveraging other funds. Thor Christianson expressed concern about complexity but voted yes to let voters decide. The ordinance passed 6-0. - ORD 25-19 (Visit Sitka Supplemental Funding): Second reading. Provides funding for Chamber of Commerce to continue visitor services through January 2026 while a new contract is procured. Planning Director Amy Ainslie said a direct RFQ will shorten the timeline. Assembly discussion: Steven Eisenbeisz urged for complete analysis of alternatives; Chris Ystad supported for continuity; JJ Carlson mentioned IT infrastructure and accounting standards. Passed 6-0. - ORD 25-20 (E911 Phone Consoles): Passed 6-0 with no discussion. - ORD 25-21 (Custodial Services): Passed 6-0 with no discussion. - Item G (Promotion of Mark Seavey): Administrator John Leach praised Seavey's asset management work and civil engineering background. Assembly members commended his leadership and technical skills. Passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - ORD 25-18A approved on third reading (6-0). The question will be placed on the October 7, 2025, regular election ballot for voter approval. - ORD 25-19 approved (6-0), authorizing supplemental funding for Chamber/Visit Sitka services through January 2026. - ORD 25-20 approved (6-0), supplemental appropriation for E911 phone consoles. - ORD 25-21 approved (6-0), supplemental appropriation for custodial services. - Mark Seavey promoted to Public Works Director (6-0). - Consent agenda approved (6-0): minutes of May 13, May 29, and July 8 meetings, and liquor license renewal for Channel Club. - Next meeting: August 12, 2025. Administrator Leach will be absent at the AML conference in Utqiaġvik. - Cell tower appeal hearing scheduled with State OAH for August 21. - Candidate filing for October 7 election opened July 21, closes August 8. Two assembly seats and two school board seats (one 3-year, one 2-year term) are open.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held a work session on July 17, 2025, to discuss reprioritizing capital projects, focusing on Lincoln Street improvements, the Swan Lake Senior Center renovation, and the Upper Molar Paving Project. The session was prompted by prior budget discussions and community feedback. No votes were taken; the assembly provided informal direction to staff for future planning. Discussion Items Lincoln Street Prioritization: Assembly member Steven Eisenbeisz advocated for moving Lincoln Street improvements higher on the capital priority list, citing community and visitor frustration with congestion and condition. He questioned the return on investment for the $1 million Senior Center allocation, suggesting that Lincoln Street could be expedited if funds were reallocated. Other members (Thor Christianson, Kevin Mosher) resisted reopening the current FY2025 budget, arguing that major changes should wait for future fiscal years. JJ Carlson proposed starting public engagement and planning within two budget cycles (by summer 2027), but Public Works Director Mark estimated groundbreaking would take 5–10 years. The project cost is estimated at $15.5 million (up from $11 million in 2019) for repaving plus utility work (water, wastewater, electric). Currently, $6.54 million is saved (from general fund, water, wastewater, electric funds), leaving a $9 million shortfall. CPV (Visitor Enhancement) fund balance is $3.3 million (end FY24), growing $1M per year, which could be a partial funding source. The wastewater fund (needed for effluent disinfection mandate) is the tightest constraint. Swan Lake Senior Center: Staff explained that $1.3 million (including previously authorized $300,000 and new $1 million) was allocated for five bundled projects (e.g., fire suppression, roof leaks, piling foundation issues). No full condition assessment has been done because staff paused work pending this session's direction. Some members (Thor, Kevin) supported proceeding with the budgeted amount, arguing the center serves 30+ seniors daily and lacks alternative sites. Others (Steven, JJ) questioned whether investing $1.3 million into a building with potential structural issues (on pilings) was prudent without a full assessment. No decision was made; staff will proceed with the assessment and projects per budget. Upper Molar Parking Lot Paving: Steven mentioned this as a low-risk-score project that was prioritized due to visibility, raising concerns that similar logic should apply to Lincoln Street. The project was approved in the budget and remains on track. Capital Planning Process: Administrator John Leach outlined plans to start capital improvement planning earlier (October 2025) to involve the assembly more fully, separate from the operating budget. Some members (Thor, Kevin) cautioned against changing the current process mid-year without prior notice. JJ highlighted staff capacity issues—over 100 funded projects with limited engineering personnel—and suggested prioritizing projects or hiring more staff to avoid cost overruns from delays. Key Outcomes No formal votes or ordinance actions were taken. The assembly gave informal direction to: Lincoln Street: Move up on the priority list for future fiscal years; explore CPV and other funding sources; begin public engagement and planning rather than immediate construction. Staff will bring back options for reprioritization in the upcoming capital planning cycle (starting October 2025). Senior Center: Proceed with the FY2025 budget allocation ($1.3 million) and immediate projects (fire suppression, roof repairs); perform a full condition assessment before committing further funds. Overall Capital Plan: Staff will develop execution dates for funded projects to improve scheduling and contracting efficiency. A follow-up work session may be scheduled to discuss capital improvement strategy in more detail, as requested by Thor Christianson, noting that the advertised agenda was narrowly about Lincoln Street prioritization options.

The Sitka Planning Commission met on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Harrigan Centennial Hall to consider three major items: a land sale request at Bahovec Court, a conceptual minor subdivision at Sawmill Creek Road, and a conditional use permit for a distillery manufacturing operation on Lincoln Street. The commission also received the Planning Director’s report on ongoing projects and heard public comments. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the June 18, 2025, meeting minutes (motion by Commissioner Alderson, seconded by Commissioner Sherman). Public Comments & Testimony - No individuals addressed the commission during the Persons to Be Heard portion (items not on the agenda). - During the subdivision discussion, a written public comment from Adam Kowski was read into the record. Kowski expressed concern that additional residences upstream could increase water flow and potentially cause the existing drainage culvert under his property to fail, stating he would not be responsible for repairing the neighborhood’s water drainage if that occurred. Planning Director’s Report - The Planning Director (Amy Ainsley) provided updates on three items: - Cruise ship dock zoning text amendment: The Tourism Commission reviewed the draft and recommended that the conditional use be either prohibited in all zones or significantly narrowed, requiring a zoning text amendment for most zones. The draft ordinance will be presented to the commission in August. - Gary Paxton Industrial Park (GPIP) zone change: The process to convert the GPIP special district into a regular zoning district is being revisited now that the haul-out is developed. The GPIP board will review the proposal tomorrow, and the commission will see a draft zoning text amendment in the coming months. There are also ongoing conversations about merging the GPIP board with the Ports and Harbors Commission. - Land study: At the next meeting, staff will present an update on the land study, including preliminary site investigations, environmental review, and utility infrastructure analysis. The commission will be asked to guide which areas should be narrowed for more intensive study (including wetlands delineation) before winter. Discussion Items B. Land Sale Request – 105 and 107 Bahovec Court (Erik Bahrt) - The applicant, Erik Bahrt, requested to purchase a portion of Tract B and C of Alaska Land Survey 79-4 (C-2 General Commercial Mobile Home District and R-1 Single-Family Duplex Residential District) adjacent to his properties. The land is municipally owned, undeveloped, and contains a significant natural drainage course (a fish-bearing stream) that has been eroding the bank. The applicant intends to stabilize the embankment. - Staff recommended approval as a boundary line adjustment (not subdivision) and noted that due to the size, shape, and location (challenging access from Kramer Avenue, drainage constraints), competitive bidding would be inappropriate; the land is only useful to the adjacent property owner. - The commission discussed the need to formally find competitive bidding inappropriate. Commissioner Sherman noted the property’s lack of developability and that access from Kramer Avenue is prohibited by a plat note. A separate motion was made to find that competitive bidding is inappropriate due to the nature of the property and its undevelopable character. C. Minor Subdivision Conceptual Plat – 2011 Sawmill Creek Road (Casey Finn / Finn Excavation, LLC) - The applicant proposed a three-lot subdivision on a 42,680-square-foot lot (zoned R-1 LDMH, minimum lot size 15,000 sq ft net). Staff presented a modified conceptual plat that would reorient lot lines to more evenly distribute buildable ground, but this would result in lots B and C being substandard (lot B 13,400 sq ft gross, lot C 4,700 sq ft net of access easement), requiring a platting variance for minimum lot size and width. - Extensive discussion ensued about whether to approve using a variance. Commissioner Sherman expressed concern about “development by variance” and setting a precedent for reducing minimum lot sizes without a clear undue hardship. Commissioner Alderson suggested rezoning the property to R-1 (minimum 6,000 sq ft) coupled with a plat note limiting further subdivision. Staff noted that R-1 would not allow manufactured homes, which are permitted in LDMH, and that the drainage easements and topography limit buildable area. The applicant, Casey Finn, indicated he was open to rezoning if that was the commission’s preference. - No motion was made; the commission concluded that the applicant received sufficient feedback to decide on the path forward (plating variance or rezoning). The commission did not vote on the conceptual plat. D. Conditional Use Permit – Distillery Manufacturing at 328 Lincoln Street (Drew Wilson) - The applicant, Drew Wilson, requested a conditional use permit (CUP) to operate a small-scale distillery (vodka and gin) in a vacant 1,462-square-foot building in the CBD Central Business District. The use is not explicitly in the code; staff interpreted “winery and brewery small scale” as the most analogous use. The permit is a prerequisite for an AMCO distillery manufacturing license and retail endorsement. - Staff recommended approval subject to conditions (fire separation, building permits, alcohol control regulations). The building official has reviewed the proposal and will require increased fire separation and sprinkler requirements. The applicant noted the building has historical significance as a former bar and that the distillery will target tourists and locals, with minimal odor due to redistilling neutral grain spirits. - The commission was supportive, noting the building’s revitalization and economic development benefits. A motion to approve the CUP subject to the attached conditions was made and seconded. Key Outcomes - Land Sale (Bahrt): The commission unanimously approved a motion to recommend the sale of municipal land (portions of Tract B and C, Alaska Land Survey 79-4) to the Sitka Assembly, with the finding that competitive bidding is inappropriate due to the property’s size, shape, and undevelopable nature. The recommendation includes a boundary line adjustment and a future rezoning of the R-1 portion to C-2. (Motion by Commissioner Alderson, seconded by Commissioner Mudre; vote: all in favor.) - Subdivision (Finn): No formal decision was made. The commission provided guidance that the applicant should consider either pursuing a platting variance or rezoning the property to R-1 with a plat note limiting further subdivision. The applicant will decide on the next steps. - Distillery CUP (Wilson): The commission unanimously approved the conditional use permit for distillery manufacturing at 328 Lincoln Street, subject to the attached conditions of approval. (Motion by Commissioner Alderson, seconded by Commissioner Sherman; vote: all in favor.) Adjournment The meeting was adjourned. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 2025.