Public Meetings - Sitka, Alaska

The Sitka Assembly met on January 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. With five members present (Mosher, Eisenbeisz, Ystad, Pike, Saline) and two absent (Christianson, Carlson), the assembly approved consent items, passed several ordinances, postponed action on a water purchase agreement and legislative priorities, discussed community garden lease terms, and entered executive session for litigation. The meeting adjourned at 7:17 PM. Consent Calendar - RES 25-01: Adopting an alternative allocation method for the FY25 Shared Fisheries Business Tax Program and certifying fair representation of fisheries business activity in FMA 18: Central Southeast Area. Approved unanimously (5-0). - RES 25-02: Authorizing an application to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Bethany Lowrance (owner of High Output Tours, formerly Sitka Bike and Hike) spoke in opposition to Ordinance 25-02 (Commercial Recreational Use of Municipal Lands). She raised concerns about the 60-day permit application process, non-transferability of permits upon death of the holder, and the requirement for employees to carry physical permits and badges, which she compared to historical identification practices in Nazi Germany. She urged flexibility for business continuity and less burdensome identification measures. - Joel Hanson thanked the assembly and staff for their work on the community garden item. - Austin Cranford requested the city release information regarding the disposition of animals at the animal shelter. He alleged that animals were put down by gunshot in September 2025 based on publicly available surveillance footage and blood spatter analysis, and that only Lieutenant Ashe had access at the time. He stated he had transferred his findings to the state for review of the city's permitting process. Discussion Items - ORD 24-32 (Library Commission update): Approved on second and final reading (5-0). - ORD 25-02 (Commercial Recreational Use of Municipal Lands): A substitute ordinance previously referred to as Ordinance 2024-30. The effective date was moved to November 1, 2025 to allow for revision of the Commercial Land Use Plan and implementation for the 2026 season. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Kevin Ox and Planning Director Amy Eansley presented the changes. The assembly discussed permit transferability in cases of death, with staff noting internal flexibility but no explicit emergency transfer language. Assembly member Pike suggested adding an emergency appeal provision. The ordinance was approved on first reading (5-0). - ORD 25-01 (Supplemental appropriations for special election): Municipal Clerk Sara Peterson explained that a citizen initiative to limit cruise ship visitation was certified on December 16, 2024, and petition booklets were issued December 30, 2024. Sponsors have until March 30, 2025 to collect 613 valid signatures to trigger a special election. The ordinance appropriates $17,830 for a potential special election (funds revert to general fund if not used). Approved on first reading (5-0). - RES 25-03 (FY2026 Legislative Priorities): Public and Government Relations Director Melissa Wileman presented priorities including waterfront, utility infrastructure, economic resilience, public safety, and transportation. Notable changes: removed seaplane base and Green Lake Hydro projects; scaled down Eliasen Harbor to electrical and float repairs; changed PDN jail from a $20 million project to an updated feasibility study. Assembly member Carlson was absent but had requested language edits. The assembly voted to postpone to the January 28, 2025 meeting (5-0). - H 25-004 (Water Purchase Agreement with Global Hydration, LLC): GPIP Board Director Garry White explained that the recommended agreement is similar to an existing contract with Arctic Blue Waters Alaska Inc. Arctic Blue has a first right of refusal to purchase an additional 6.8 billion gallons of water, and recently sent a letter exercising that right, starting a 45-day clock to pay $100,000 upfront plus $50,000 per year. The city has about 9.5 billion gallons of exportable water annually. The agreement includes a clause (Section 4.1a) protecting Sitka's municipal water and hydroelectric priority. The assembly postponed action to the March 11, 2025 meeting to allow the 45-day period to expire (5-0). - I 25-006 (Community Garden lease terms at Jarvis Street): The mayor outlined six lease terms including authorization for site work, proof of funding, required features (lighting, restrooms), and an annual lease payment of $1 with a request to waive property tax via a community purpose exemption. The assembly directed staff to prepare the lease and bring it forward for consideration. - J 25-005 (Amendment No. 1 to Lease with Sitka Historical Society): Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones explained the amendment adds the property tax exemption and utility exemption previously approved by the assembly. Approved unanimously (5-0). Executive Session - The assembly entered executive session at 7:00 PM to receive and discuss attorney-client communications regarding Cranford v. CBS litigation. The session lasted until 7:15 PM, after which the assembly reconvened and adjourned at 7:17 PM. Key Outcomes - Consent items (RES 25-01, RES 25-02): Approved unanimously. - Sterling Camden appointment: Approved to Health Needs and Human Services Commission (3-year term). - ORD 24-32: Passed second and final reading. - ORD 25-02: Passed first reading; effective November 1, 2025; staff to consider emergency transfer language. - ORD 25-01: Passed first reading; $17,830 appropriated for potential special election. - RES 25-03: Postponed to January 28, 2025. - Water Purchase Agreement with Global Hydration: Postponed to March 11, 2025. - Community Garden lease: Staff directed to prepare lease for future consideration. - Historical Society lease amendment: Approved. - Executive session: Held for 15 minutes on Cranford v. CBS litigation.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a special meeting on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM to begin the FY2026 General Fund budget process. Staff presented resource proposals for new initiatives and sought assembly guidance on the draft budget. Public comments addressed paving, street repairs, crosswalks, and fiscal conservatism. The assembly directed staff to prepare a conservative draft budget and to include most proposed items, with some flagged for later review. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Twaddle, a lifelong Price Street resident, advocated for paving the remaining gravel portion of Price Street, citing 24.4 acres with 53 commercial/industrial lots, frequent maintenance costs, and health risks from silica dust. He argued the street is a prime candidate due to recent utility upgrades. - Nicholas McGraw, a 46-year resident, commented on crosswalk safety near the assembly chambers, suggested temporary barriers, and proposed using cruise ship funding to run power to Old Sitka Dock to reduce emissions. - Tyler Cropley, superintendent of Secon (a paving contractor), encouraged the city to develop an annual road maintenance program to enable competitive bids, referencing successful programs in Juneau and Ketchikan. - Austin Cranford supported a fiscally conservative budget approach, noting macroeconomic risks (inverted yield curve, tariff concerns) and advising the assembly to monitor national economic indicators. - Klaudia Leccese stressed the importance of a diverse economy beyond cruise tourism, noting that sales tax revenue is not directly correlated to cruise visitation, and urged thoughtful planning. Discussion Items - FY2026 Budget Process Overview: Municipal Administrator John Leach and Finance Director Melissa Haley outlined the compressed budget schedule. The zero-based budget process required resource proposals for any significant service-level changes. No new full-time equivalents (FTEs) were proposed except a 0.2 FTE for restructuring. Compensation study results and union contract renegotiations (all contracts expire June 30, 2025) are pending. - Resource Proposals (Goal 1 – Quality of Life): - Increasing SAFE (domestic violence shelter) funding by $50,000 (from flat $50,000 to $100,000). Deputy Mayor Pike supported, citing cost savings to police and emergency services. - $50,000 for evaluating the Commercial Land Use Plan. Some assembly members questioned the need, given the plan was postponed for a year. Staff clarified the funds would allow additional analysis if needed. Consensus was to include it provisionally. - $50,000 increase to Southeast Economic Development Association (SEDA) for general economic development (total now $170,000, including $90,000 for GPIP operation). - Resource Proposals (Goal 4 – Infrastructure): - Multiple vehicle replacements (city hall car, police cruiser, streets dump truck, school district maintenance vehicle) with partial sinking funds. Assembly discussed need to review sinking fund policies. - Athletic field revitalization ($50,000), interpretive sign replacement, scoreboard replacement, EV charging stations, HVAC controls at animal shelter, cross-trail drainage, Blatchley pool improvements, and $3 million for HVAC at the city-state building (police/court facility) — contingent on state cost-share. Assembly expressed concerns about the building’s long-term viability. - Other items: street improvements (downtown Lincoln Street, Katlian Street, Watchuset storm drain), ferry terminal pathway, and drone for fire department (not recommended due to insurance costs). - Revenue Forecast and Budget Philosophy: Haley noted conservative revenue assumptions (at 2022 levels) due to a potential ballot measure that could reduce sales tax. Assembly members debated planning for worst-case vs. status quo. Consensus was to prepare a conservative budget using current revenue trends, with sensitivity analysis to show impacts of potential revenue declines. The assembly emphasized protecting core services and maintaining reserves. - Other Discussions: - Price Street paving: Assembly noted it is not in the current capital plan (deferred). A Local Improvement District (LID) was suggested as a resident-driven option. - Safety training: Deputy Mayor Pike suggested additional resources; staff noted free training from Alaska Public Risk Alliance and existing online modules. - Street sign correction on Katlian Street. Key Outcomes - Consensus: The assembly directed staff to prepare the Administrator’s draft General Fund budget based on the resource proposals presented, with the understanding that some items (e.g., commercial land use plan funding) may be revisited. - Budget Conservatism: Staff will build a conservative status quo budget, assuming no change in sales tax revenue from the pending ballot measure, but will provide sensitivity analysis showing bottom-line impacts if revenue drops by $1–2 million. - Meeting Schedule: The January 30 meeting will be rescheduled to either February 4 or February 6, 2025. - Next Steps: Staff will continue internal budget reviews; the draft budget will be sent to the assembly around February 7. A joint meeting with the school board on school funding is set for January 16. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:16 PM on a motion by Assembly member Mosher.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Assembly Chambers. Four members were present (Christianson, Eisenbeisz, Ystad, Saline) and three were absent (Mosher, Pike, Carlson). The meeting covered routine approvals, a library commission code update, and a partnership letter of interest for a NOAA energy transition grant. The assembly also heard public comments and entered executive session for legal matters. Consent Calendar - Item 24-190: Approved liquor license renewals for HPR Group Inc. dba Halibut Point Crab and Chowder (4513 Halibut Point Road, Suite 102) and Our Town Catering LLC (265 Katlian Street). - Item 24-191: Approved a standard marijuana cultivation facility license renewal for Eric Van Veen dba Vangreen’s LLC (224 Smith Street, Units B, C, D, E). - Both items were approved on a single motion (4-0 vote). Public Comments & Testimony - Joel Hanson (first appearance): Thanked the Assembly and staff for their work. - Austin Cranford: Commented on the Sitka animal shelter, alleging that animals were killed by gunshot and requested the city publicly release information about the officer involved. He stated he had forwarded information to the state and would release it at the next public meeting if the city did not. - During New Business Item D: Eric Jordan and Joel Hanson spoke in support of the partnership with the Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association (ALFA). Eric Jordan highlighted past collaborative projects that saved fuel, and Joel Hanson cited a report from Goring and Rosenswag Associates about declining shale oil production to urge urgency. - During Persons to be Heard (second session): Joel Hanson, as Jarvis Street Community Garden Project Manager, provided an update on lease negotiations, noting that a seasonal reduction in utilities was being discussed but not a deal-breaker. Discussion Items - ORD 24-32 – Library Commission Code Update: Library Commission Chair Sandy Fontaine and Library Director Jess Ieremia presented an ordinance to update Chapter 2.35 of the Sitka General Code to reflect the current advisory role of the Library Commission, changing meeting frequency from monthly to quarterly and clarifying duties. The ordinance had been reviewed by the commission. Assemblymember Christianson noted this update brings the code in line with actual practice and suggested other boards might benefit from quarterly meetings. No public comment. The ordinance was approved on first reading (4-0 vote). - Item 24-193 – Partnership with ALFA for NOAA Energy Transition Grant: Cosponsor Christianson introduced the item as a letter of interest only, not a commitment. Linda Behnken, Director of ALFA, explained the grant (up to $100,000 for one year) is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and administered by the Climate Smart Community Initiative (CSCI). The grant would support energy transition planning and pilot testing for the Sitka fishing industry, focusing on fuel efficiency, alternative fuels, and reducing fossil fuel use. Behnken stated the city’s role is to submit the letter of interest; if selected, a full proposal would be due in March and would be brought back to the Assembly for approval. She noted the grant could support municipal staff time (e.g., Sustainability Coordinator Bree). Assemblymembers raised questions about the city’s role, scope, staff resources, grant management, and procurement code compliance. Behnken clarified that ALFA could manage the grant and do the heavy lifting. The Assembly voted to direct staff to submit the letter of interest to CSCI before January 10, 2025 (4-0 vote). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (4-0). - ORD 24-32: Approved on first reading (4-0). - Item 24-193: Motion passed to submit the letter of interest to CSCI before January 10, 2025 (4-0). - Executive Session: The Assembly entered executive session from 6:45 PM to 7:45 PM to discuss legal and financial matters related to three lawsuits: Cranford v. CBS, Wampler v. CBS, and Mace v. CBS. The motion passed 4-0. Austin Cranford spoke against the executive session, citing the absence of a full assembly and the public’s right to know. After reconvening, the Assembly received an update from legal counsel. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:46 PM.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly met on December 17, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. The meeting covered a consent agenda, supplemental appropriations, a strategic plan update, a resolution opposing a fisheries proposal, and extensive discussion on the Commercial Land Use Plan and related ordinance. The meeting adjourned at 10:11 PM. Consent Calendar - Item A: Approved the minutes of the November 12 and 26, 2024 Assembly meetings. - Item B: Approved the Acting Administrator list for 2025 (Amy Ainslie, Josh Branthoover, Sara Peterson, Ron Vinson). - Item C: Approved a liquor license renewal for Sitka Lodge No. 1350 Loyal Order of Moose, Inc. All items passed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - On Clerk's Office Report: Austin Cranford questioned previous denials of records requests, noting that the city's new digitization system (Laserfiche) allows keyword searches, contrary to earlier statements. - On Resolution 24-17 (Opposing Proposal 156): Justin Peeler (commercial fisherman, NSRA board president), Chris Ystad (fisherman, later recused from vote), and Scott Wagner (NSRA general manager) spoke in support. They emphasized that hatchery fish provide 46% of salmon value, that Proposal 156 is an arbitrary 25% reduction, and that it would devastate Southeast Alaska's economy and fisheries. - On Commercial Land Use Plan (Item I): - Bethany Lowrance (High Output Tours) opposed the plan, citing insufficient survey data (174 respondents), fee increases, capacity cuts, and a rushed process. - Linda Olsen (55-year resident, tourism) argued the plan creates barriers to accessing public lands and runs counter to inclusive federal land management. - Sarah Hadad-Dembs (Bumble Expeditions) raised concerns about rushed process, unreasonable fees ($5–$10 per client vs. $0.05 Forest Service annual increase), lack of enforcement plan, and negative impact on already-booked tours. - Ryan Harris (former Island Fever/Sitka Bike and Hike) highlighted guides' roles as educators and safety professionals, warning that capacity limits could lead to unguided visitors causing safety issues. - Keith Dundas (High Output Tours employee) opposed the plan, calling it based on a small sample, with skewed season length (April–October, not May–September) and no mandated use of fee revenue. - Anne Marie LaPalme spoke in support, praising the thorough data collection and public input process. - On Persons to Be Heard: Austin Cranford commented on the Baranof Taxi & Tours, LLC v. Robert M. Baty litigation, noting a court ruling that the police chief lacked authority to create new interpretations of municipal code. Bethany Lowrance requested alignment with Forest Service per-season limits rather than weekly limits. Discussion Items Item D: ORD 24-29 – Supplemental Appropriations for Marine Vessel Haul Out and Shipyard Project (FY2025) - Engineer Michael Harman answered questions about the scope, including a heated washdown pad. Assembly member Carlson voted no, citing the $163,525 from the general fund for a 'nice to have' item. Other members debated the necessity of heating, with some citing support from Huna's administrator. Vote: 6-1 (Carlson opposed). Passed. Item F: ORD 24-31 – Supplemental Appropriations for Data Center Uninterruptible Power Supply (FY2025) - Approved unanimously (7-0). Item G: RES 24-18 – Second Annual Update to Sitka Strategic Plan 2022-2027 - Presented by Melissa Wilman (Public and Government Relations Director). Highlights included updates to goals, completion of actions (e.g., housing summit, asset manager hire), and improved staff vacancy rates. Assembly members praised the plan's utility for grants. Passed unanimously (7-0). Item H: RES 24-17 – Opposing Proposal 156 at Alaska Board of Fisheries (January 28 – February 9, 2025) - Co-sponsors Kevin Mosher and Thor Christianson introduced the resolution, noting that similar proposals have been submitted 10 times since 2005. Public testimony in support. Assembly member Chris Ystad recused himself due to board membership in two hatchery organizations. Vote: 6-0 (Ystad recused). Passed. Item I: 24-188 – Adopt the 2024 Commercial Land Use Plan - Amy Ainslie (Planning Director) and Kevin Knox (Parks and Rec Coordinator) presented the plan, developed from a 174-respondent survey, historic permit data, and alignment with U.S. Forest Service allocations. Proposed fees: $400 application fee, $5 per client (most areas), $10 per client for Goddard and Baranof Warm Springs. Group sizes and weekly limits were set at 2.5 times historic use. Exceptions included existing Forest Service permits and hardship for 2024 permit holders. - Public testimony was divided. Assembly debated numerous amendments: aligning Thimbleberry with Forest Service limits (group size 14 vs. 8), excluding Goddard from commercial use, delaying fees to 2026, and postponing implementation. - Motions: 1. Postpone to first meeting in January 2025 – failed (2-5). 2. Delay implementation to 2026 – failed (1-6). 3. Postpone to second meeting in January 2025 – passed (7-0). - Staff will revise the plan based on assembly comments, present it to the Parks and Recreation Committee (January 14, 2025), and return to the assembly on January 28, 2025. A clerk note subsequently indicated that staff later decided to submit a revised ordinance (2025-02) with an effective date of November 1, 2025, for implementation beginning in 2026. Item E: ORD 24-30 – Amending Title 14, Chapter 14.10 (Commercial Recreational Use of Municipal Lands) - Noted as intertwined with Item I. The assembly moved to postpone second reading to the second meeting in January 2025 (January 28, 2025) – passed unanimously (7-0). A clerk note later stated that staff decided to submit a revised ordinance (2025-02) to take effect November 1, 2025, for 2026 implementation. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved. - ORD 24-29 (Marine Vessel Haul Out) passed (6-1). - ORD 24-31 (Data Center UPS) passed (7-0). - RES 24-18 (Strategic Plan Update) passed (7-0). - RES 24-17 (Opposing Proposal 156) passed (6-0, Ystad recused). - Commercial Land Use Plan (Item I) postponed to the second meeting in January 2025 (January 28, 2025) for further revision and public input. Staff will incorporate assembly feedback and present to the Parks and Recreation Committee before resubmission. Subsequent staff action indicated that the plan and related ordinance will be revised for implementation in 2026. - ORD 24-30 postponed to the second meeting in January 2025; staff later submitted a revised ordinance effective November 2025 for 2026 implementation. - Executive session held to discuss legal matters (Wampler v. McGrath/CBS and Dick v. CBS). No public action taken. - Meeting adjourned at 10:11 PM.

The Sitka Assembly met on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers, with all seven members present (six in person, one remote). The meeting concluded at 8:19 PM. Major actions included approving supplemental appropriations for the Marine Vessel Haul Out and Shipyard Project (with a 6‑1 vote), advancing an ordinance to revise commercial recreation codes, and hearing updates on the SEARHC hospital construction and the school district. Consent Calendar - Approved three liquor/marijuana license applications: transfer to Totem Marina LLC (Marina Pizza & Grill), renewal for SOE LLC (Little Tokyo), and renewal for Jeremy J. Erickson (Vern’s Wicked Weed). Passed 7‑0. Board, Commission, Committee Appointments - Appointed Nicole D. Caraway to the Animal Hearing Board (three‑year term) and reappointed Amanda Roberts (Health Needs and Human Services Commission) and Leslie Young (Police and Fire Commission). Passed 7‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Persons to be heard (off‑agenda): Stephanie Weddle (Alaska Native Sisterhood) and Chad Tidal (Alaska Native Brotherhood) announced the upcoming holiday community dinner. They noted that last year they served over 350 in‑house meals plus meals to elders and disabled residents. They offered six uncooked turkeys to assembly members to cook and return for the dinner. - Persons to be heard (on‑agenda): Austin Cranford spoke on ordinance 24‑29, expressing support for the haul‑out project and emphasizing that the fishing industry is Sitka’s second‑largest economic sector. He also raised concern about three police officers reportedly leaving the Sitka Police Department before spring 2025, asking for a statement on current officer numbers. Discussion Items - ORD 24‑29 – Marine Vessel Haul Out and Shipyard Project supplemental appropriation (first reading): Municipal Engineer Michael Harmon presented the project update. The original charter (July 2023) prioritized six objectives. Escalating costs – driven by deeper‑than‑expected pile driving and higher subcontractor bids – had reduced the contingency to about 1.5%. The ordinance seeks $350,000 from GPIP working capital and $163,000 from the general fund to restore contingency to 5% ($350,000) and to add a $500,000 concrete washdown pad (including $100,000 for heated tubing). The pad would replace a temporary membrane (estimated $50,000 but needing frequent replacement). Heated components would allow year‑round use; about 68 days of below‑freezing temperatures occur annually. Assembly members discussed necessity, funding sources, and whether the heating element should be part of the first phase. Vice Deputy Mayor Carlson opposed funding the heated pad without a market study, citing lack of data on economic impact. Others (Tim Pike, Kevin Mosher, Thor Christianson) argued for doing the concrete pad now to avoid future costs. The motion passed 6‑1 (Carlson opposed). Second reading scheduled for December 17. - ORD 24‑30 – Commercial recreational use code revision (first reading): Parks and Rec Coordinator Kevin Knox explained that the current code does not allow capacity limits or clear permitting guidelines, especially at popular sites like Baranof Warm Springs. The ordinance would create a use plan (to be adopted yearly, first draft to assembly on Dec. 17), establish permit duration (one year initially), require operator identification (e.g., placard or badge), and add enforcement and appeal provisions. Public comment: Austin Cranford raised concerns about the ordinance applying to trails not entirely on municipal land (e.g., Cross Trail, Thimbleberry Lake on University of Alaska land). Assembly members discussed permit transferability, enforcement costs, and the need to see the use plan before final reading. The motion passed 7‑0 on first reading. - ORD 24‑31 – Data center uninterruptible power supply (first reading): IT Director Grant Turner stated that new virtual host servers installed after the FY25 budget require more power than the current UPS can provide redundantly. The $55,000 request was not in the budget because the power draw issue was discovered after installation. Passed 7‑0. Key Outcomes - ORD 24‑25 (Finance – Personnel/Contracts): Approved 7‑0 on second reading. - ORD 24‑26 (Marine Vessel Haul Out – Disaster Relief): Approved 7‑0 on second reading. - ORD 24‑27 (Solid Waste Vehicle): Approved 7‑0 on second reading. - ORD 24‑28 (Crescent Harbor Courts): Approved 7‑0 on second reading. - ORD 24‑29 (Haul Out supplemental): Approved 6‑1 on first reading; second reading December 17. - ORD 24‑30 (Commercial recreation code): Approved 7‑0 on first reading; second reading December 17 (with use plan presentation same evening). - ORD 24‑31 (UPS for data center): Approved 7‑0 on first reading; second reading December 17. - Special Reports: Bill Spivey (Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital Administrator) provided an update on the new 234,528‑square‑foot hospital construction (begun 2022). The building will include 66 geothermal wells that will supply about 30% of electric needs, with a 10‑year payback. Phil Burdick (School Board President) reported that October student counts exceeded projections, a budget work session is set for December 2, and he commended staff for handling a difficult start to the school year. - Officer departures: Austin Cranford publicly stated that three Sitka police officers are leaving soon. No official response was given at the meeting; the mayor indicated follow-up. - December meeting schedule: Changed to December 17 and December 30 due to the Alaska Municipal League Conference (December 8–11).

The Sitka Assembly met on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers, preceded by a joint work session with the Sustainability Commission. The assembly approved routine consent items, a school maintenance agreement, several supplemental appropriations, and directed the purchase of an EV transit van. Two items drew extended debate: a memorandum of understanding with Sitka Dock Company and the EV van procurement. Consent Calendar - Item A: Approved the minutes of the October 22 Assembly meeting by a 7-0 vote. Appointments - Item B: Appointed Robert Hattle to three-year terms on the Police and Fire Commission and on the Local Emergency Planning Committee (Category 6 – Members of the Public) by a 7-0 vote. Unfinished Business - ORD 24-24 (Airport Terminal Project supplemental appropriation, second reading): Approved 7-0. - MOU with Sitka Dock Company, LLC: Approved 4-3. The MOU outlines the city's use of community-owned lightering facilities and expresses intent to limit passenger volumes. Supporters, including Mayor Eisenbeisz, Kevin Mosher, Tim Pike, and Chris Ystad, called it a step forward, a statement of intent, and a way to avoid 10,000-passenger days. Opponents Thor Christiansen, JJ Carlson, and Scott Saline argued the agreement was one-sided, lacked enforceability, offered little benefit, and could not prevent supermax ships or shoulder-season sailings. Public comment: Leah Mason opposed the MOU, while Valerie Nelson supported it as a good step. New Business - MOA with Sitka School District for Facility Maintenance: Approved 7-0. Staff from both entities developed the agreement, which transfers four maintenance staff, equipment, and workspace, defines capital improvement planning and maintenance priorities. Assembly members praised the collaboration. - Promotion of Brooke Volschenk to Finance Director: Approved 7-0. Finance Director Melissa Haley will depart April 1, 2025; Volschenk has been mentored as part of a succession plan. - ORD 24-25 (Finance Department supplemental appropriation, first reading): Approved 7-0. Funds recruitment of a controller and a half-FTE position through June 30, 2025. - ORD 24-26 (Marine Vessel Haul Out and Shipyard Project, first reading): Approved 7-0. Accepts $336,475 in salmon disaster funding for the haul-out project. - ORD 24-27 (Solid Waste Vehicle, first reading): Approved 7-0. Approves about $20,000 to repurpose an ambulance chassis into a heavy-duty truck for solid waste. - ORD 24-28 (Crescent Harbor Courts, first reading): Approved 7-0. Accepts a $125,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant with a $125,000 match for court resurfacing, fencing, lighting, and restroom siting. - EV Transit Van for Parks and Recreation: Motion to direct purchase of an EV version passed 4-3. The Sitka Recreation Foundation donated $70,000–$75,000; an EV would require an additional $40,000–$45,000. Supporters cited lower life-cycle costs, environmental benefits, and paying the city's electric utility. Opponents questioned the higher upfront cost, carbon payback period, all-wheel-drive capability, and relatively low expected usage. The parks and recreation coordinator estimated usage at least four to five times per week during summer. - BABA Waiver Support: The assembly directed the mayor to sign the Alaska Municipal League's op-ed supporting a Build America, Buy America Act waiver for Alaska. No opposing votes were voiced. Public Comments & Testimony - Austin Cramford submitted a records request regarding controlled substances at the Jarvis Street shelter. He said the city stated records could not be located, and he asked for a response by the end of the week. - During persons to be heard later, Cramford spoke against the BABA waiver and raised questions about the city's legal representation in the Baranov Taxi lawsuit. - Leah Mason spoke twice: first opposing the MOU, then commenting on EV maintenance advantages and criticizing the MOU process. Reports - Mayor Eisenbeisz reported attending a GPIP meeting and emphasized that the haul-out project is for the community. - Administrator John Leach thanked the assembly for the strategic plan workshop and noted plans to bring updated goals to the December 17 meeting. - Attorney Rachel Jones gave a brief update. Clerk Jess Earnshaw noted board vacancies and rescheduled December meetings (Dec. 17 and 30). Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, appointment, and multiple appropriations. - Approved the Sitka Dock Company MOU on a 4-3 vote. - Directed Parks and Recreation to purchase an EV transit van on a 4-3 vote. - Directed the mayor to sign the AML BABA waiver op-ed. - School district maintenance MOA approved unanimously.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz was absent. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, multiple board appointments, supplemental funding for the airport terminal project, discussion on a draft Request for Proposals for Visit Sitka, and a memorandum of understanding with the Sitka Dock Company that was postponed. An executive session on pending litigation was held from 9:17 PM to 9:48 PM, followed by adjournment. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the October 8 Assembly meeting by a 6-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Austin Cranford (phone): Expressed concern about airport vendors and lack of police officer presence at the airport, asking for clarification on FAA requirements. - Lawrence Widmark (Sitka Tribal Chairman): Reported on tribal business, upcoming election, and Native American Heritage Month activities. - Amy Ainslie (Planning Director): Invited the community to an October 24 open house on commercial land use permit changes. - Deidre Jenson (School District Superintendent): Thanked the city for support, discussed the new Pre-K program, and assured it would not compete with existing preschools. - Eric Jordan (public): Supported Jeremy Serka for GPIP board and Devin Calvin for Tourism Commission. - Emily Scott (public): Supported Jeremy Serka for GPIP board and Devin Calvin for Tourism Commission, emphasizing youth representation. - Barbara Bingham (public): Urged the Assembly to consider applicants' values and conflicts of interest for the Tourism Commission; supported Martha Moses and Devin Calvin. Later commented on the MOU, arguing it lacks environmental protection and data. - Austin Cranford (phone, on Tourism Commission): Urged balance, stating his model showed pro-tourism bias if certain appointees were not selected. - Robert Hattle (public): Supported the MOU but recommended it be tabled for the new Tourism Commission's review. - Kent Barkhau (public): Opposed the MOU, calling it a wish list of the cruise industry, and asked for more community review. - Valorie Nelson (former assembly member): Urged caution, warned against a lawsuit, and recommended waiting for the Tourism Commission. - Larry Edwards (public): Detailed flaws in the MOU's capacity definitions and enforcement, argued for a regulatory approach. - John Murray (public): Criticized the MOU for lacking clarity and data, questioned 'sweet spot' of 5,000-7,000 passengers based on survey results. - Kami Hutchins (public, after postponement vote): Continued comments on tourism impacts. - Jimmy Froehlich (public): Clarified the definition of lower berth capacity. - Eric Jordan (second appearance): Called for action on climate change and cruise ship emissions, citing ecological changes in Sitka Sound. Discussion Items - Item F: ORD 24-24 – Supplemental Appropriations for Airport Terminal Project – Acting Public Works Director Amy Ainslie presented the $9 million grant (plus $300,000 working capital) for Phase 2 of the airport renovation, covering mechanical systems, furniture, and inflation. The grant requires a 5-6.25% city match. Assembly members expressed strong support, noting it is federal grant money not from the general fund. The ordinance was approved on first and final reading (6-0). - Item G: Draft RFP for Visit Sitka Convention & Visitor Services – Amy Ainslie outlined the RFP structure with core services (destination marketing, management, events) and optional services (public restroom at Visitor Center, street closures, pedestrian safety). Assembly discussed whether to move the public restroom from optional to core services. A motion to do so failed 2-4 (Yes: Christianson, Carlson; No: Mosher, Pike, Ystad, Saline). Direction was given to finalize and advertise the RFP. - Item H: Memorandum of Understanding with Sitka Dock Company, LLC – Administrator John Leach explained the MOU was a negotiated agreement to implement Tourism Task Force recommendations 1-5 (flatten the curve, peak removal, quiet days, shorten season) by coordinating city lightering policies with the private cruise terminal's berthing policy. Public testimony was heavily critical, citing lack of enforcement, environmental concerns, and insufficient data. Assembly debate centered on enforceability, risk to city revenue, and the need for community input. A motion to postpone to the November 12 meeting passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Board Appointments: Karen Lucas and Katie Riley were reappointed to various commissions (6-0). Nicole Fiorino was appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission (6-0). Chad Goeden was reappointed to the Gary Paxton Industrial Park Board of Directors (4 votes) over Jeremy Serka (2 votes). Seven members were appointed to the new Tourism Commission: Carol Bryant-Martin, Devon Calvin, Ian Dempster, Vaughn Hazel, Bethany Lowrance, Martha Moses, and Jeremy Plank. - Airport Supplemental Appropriation: Ordinance 2024-24 passed on first and final reading (6-0), authorizing $9 million in grant acceptance and $300,000 in city working capital for Phase 2 of the airport terminal project. - Visit Sitka RFP Direction: The Assembly voted 2-4 against moving the public restroom to core services; directed staff to finalize and advertise the RFP as drafted. - Sitka Dock Company MOU: Postponed to the November 12 Assembly meeting by a 6-0 vote to allow additional community review and potential fiscal analysis. - Executive Session: Held from 9:17 PM to 9:48 PM for attorney-client communication on litigation (Baranof Taxi & Tours, LLC, et al. v. Robert M. Baty). No action reported. - Administrator's Report: The city received $336,475 in fisheries disaster relief funds, which will be appropriated for the GPIP Marine Vessel Haul Out Project.

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly met in regular session on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers, adjourning at 10:19 PM. All seven assembly members were present. The agenda covered special reports, a proclamation, routine approvals, the swearing-in of elected officials, a re-appointment, a liquor license renewal, a water/sewer loan resolution, expansion of a school heat pump project, a detailed discussion on animal shelter operations, rescheduling of December meetings, and committee liaison assignments. Proclamation and Special Reports - Mayor Eisenbeisz read a proclamation reaffirming Indigenous Peoples Day. Representatives were invited to receive the proclamation. - Police Chief Robert Baty reported: 4 jail officer vacancies, 4 dispatch vacancies, and 5 patrol vacancies, with temporary experienced officers helping; recruitment has generated about 50 initial applications, with the transcript also stating 57, and 27 moving forward in the background process. Year-to-date there have been 10,661 calls for service generating 459 reports. The department completed archiving 40 years of records. - Sustainability Coordinator Bri Gabel presented on energy planning: Sitka is an islanded microgrid supplied by Blue Lake and Green Lake hydroelectric projects; Sitka typically uses about 70% of its potential generation, and year-over-year load growth averages about 2%. She described the Clean Energy to Communities project with Pacific Northwest National Lab and NREL, including hydropower analysis, risk assessment, microgrid modeling, and workforce development, plus a second ETIP project (SCRES) for community energy strategy with webinars and workshops planned for winter 2025. - Acting Public Works Director Amy Ainslie reported that street repair funds dedicated in this year's budget are actively being used, with a cityofsitka.com/roadrepairs website listing streets. Consent Calendar - The September 24, 2024 meeting minutes were approved on the consent agenda by a 7-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - In the first public comment period, Julia Nabua invited the community to the 2024 Salasalo celebration honoring Filipino American History Month on October 26 at Blatchley Middle School; Leah Mason thanked voters, congratulated new officials, and asked that filling the Public Works Director position be prioritized; Eric Jordan spoke in support of heat pumps and electric vehicles, citing personal savings; Arleigh Reynolds invited the community to the 28th annual Sitka Whale Fest, October 31-November 3. - In the later public comment period, speakers focused primarily on the animal shelter. Austin Cranford asserted the city was out of compliance with state shelter care laws and said an Article 5 investigation was active; Jim Rogers, former animal control officer, described shelter history and said volunteers had operated the shelter for a year without an ACO; Linda Behnken praised the assembly shelter discussion and urged that the boat haul-out serve the local fleet; Victoria O'Connell Curran urged direction to make the shelter work with full respect for volunteer groups; Dr. Tokoa Wolf urged immediate resumption of veterinary care and use of local veterinary expertise; Allison Brazel supported the volunteers and questioned the police department's narrative; Kate Johnson advocated for a care shelter meeting national standards with city funding; Sydney Stong asked for transparency on euthanasia numbers, saying she understood 10 cats were euthanized while Chief Baty later said five; Patricia Durham recounted decades of volunteer service; Tabitha Sutton disputed claims about volunteer access and cited adoption standards; Miriam Taylor expressed concern about euthanasia and decision-making; Leah Mason called the administration memo misleading and praised FOSAS efforts. Discussion Items - Project 90990 Heat Pump Replacement: Acting Public Works Director Amy Ainslie explained that the Blatchley heat pump replacement was complete with about $125,000 remaining, and two failed heat pumps at Sitka High School were estimated to cost $60,000-$70,000 to replace. Assemblyman Pike disclosed that the heat pumps are at his place of employment; no conflict was found. The assembly voted 7-0 to rename the project to School Heat Pump Replacement, allowing use of remaining funds and fast replacement by December. - Animal Control Facility Operations: Municipal Administrator John Leach outlined the facility's history, including a former vet lease, the formation of Friends of the Sitka Animal Shelter (FOSAS), multiple ACO turnovers, and code that defines animal control rather than shelter operations. FOSAS board members Kristina Tirman and Dusty Kidd described thousands of volunteer hours, their temporary role running shelter operations when the ACO position was vacant, and recommended allowing volunteers back in and pursuing long-term solutions such as code revisions. Police Chief Baty cited accountability, security, and liability concerns for restricting volunteer access, but said he was open to volunteers returning if duties are clearly delineated. The assembly consensus was to have parties meet collaboratively, develop a revised memorandum of understanding, restore volunteer access as quickly as possible, and pursue longer-term code revisions; no formal motion was made on this item. - December Meeting Rescheduling: The assembly rescheduled the two regular December meetings from December 10 and 24 to December 17 and 30 because of staff and assembly travel and the Christmas Eve holiday. - Liaison Assignments: After Deputy Mayor and Vice Deputy Mayor elections, the assembly assigned liaisons to the Gary Paxton Industrial Park Board, Health Needs and Human Services, Historic Preservation, Investment, Library, Local Emergency Planning, Parks and Recreation, Planning, Police and Fire, Port and Harbors, Sustainability, Tree and Landscape, SEDA, Sitka Tribe of Alaska, and School Board. Key Outcomes - Oath of Office: Kevin Mosher and Scott Saline were sworn in as assembly members for three-year terms, and Steven Eisenbeisz was sworn in as mayor for a two-year term. - Approved unanimously (7-0): consent minutes; ORD 24-23 supplemental appropriations for FY2025 Emergency Response Vessel Electronics/Harbor Department Equipment on second/final reading; acceptance of the October 1, 2024 Certificate of Election; reappointment of Gerry Hope to the Sustainability Commission; liquor license renewal for Dpjt, Inc. dba Nugget Restaurant; RES 24-16 authorizing the Municipal Administrator to apply for and execute Clean Water and Drinking Water loans (first and final reading); project scope rename to School Heat Pump Replacement. - Deputy Mayor: Timothy Pike was elected with 6 votes over Thor Christianson with 1. JJ Carlson was appointed Vice Deputy Mayor. - The Executive Session legal matter involving Baranof Taxi & Tours, LLC and Thaddeus & Melissa A. Lara v. Robert M. Baty was pulled because outside counsel was unavailable; it will be rescheduled. Reports - Mayor Eisenbeisz reported on Southeast Conference, including Sitka ranking second in lifestyle satisfaction in Alaska, about $470 million slated for ferry repairs, broadband redundancy discussions, and a potential state land transfer in the Indian River Valley. - Municipal Administrator John Leach reported he also attended Southeast Conference and noted Sitka will host it next year. He will be out of town later in the week, with Clerk Peterson acting. - Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones thanked staff for their support in her first days on the job. - Liaison Thor Christianson reported on the Parks and Recreation meeting, including the Crescent Harbor restroom project and online reservations for Tongyoung's cabin. - Municipal Clerk Sara Peterson thanked election workers and her staff for a smooth election.

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a regular meeting on September 24, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Assembly Chambers. Mayor Steven Eisenbeisz was absent, leaving six members present. The meeting covered a consent agenda, appointments, supplemental appropriations, a $4 million transfer to the Public Infrastructure Sinking Fund, and the approval of an employment agreement for the new Municipal Attorney. All votes were 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 6:32 PM. Consent Calendar - 24-142: Approved the minutes of the September 5, 10, and 13 assembly meetings. - 24-141: Approved liquor license renewal applications for Sitka Golf Association, Inc. dba Sea Mountain Restaurant & 19 Hole at 301 Granite Creek Road and Alejandro Vasquez (non-operational restaurant eating place license). Ceremonial Matters - Deputy Mayor Kevin Mosher congratulated the Sitka Little League Softball majors team on their summer State Championship title and their trip to California to compete. Special Reports - Sitka Tribe of Alaska Council Chairman Lawrence Widmark reported on recent tribal council meetings, including: - Approval of a resolution authorizing the 2025 annual funding agreement and reprogramming requests with the Office of Self-Governance for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. - Approval of a resolution authorizing Baranof Island Housing Authority to submit the FY24 Indian Housing Block Grant application. - A work session with the Park Service regarding the Kixadi survival march project, with a resolution passed to continue that project. - Approval of the middle of the 2023 financial audit for the federal clearing house. - Appointment of an election supervisor and designation of the community house as the tribal election location for the upcoming tribal council election in November. Board, Commission, Committee Appointments - 24-143: Appointed Bruce Gazaway to a three-year term on the Library Commission and Robert B. Moelder to a three-year term on the Local Emergency Planning Committee under Category 2 (Law Enforcement, Civil Defense, Fire Fighting, First Aid, Local Environmental/Hospital, and Transportation). Approved 6-0. Unfinished Business - ORD 24-22: Approved on second and final reading a supplemental appropriation for fiscal year 2025 for Recycling and Municipal Fleet Electrification (EECGB). The motion passed 6-0. Assembly members praised the grant acquisition effort. New Business - ORD 24-23: Approved on first reading a supplemental appropriation for fiscal year 2025 for Emergency Response Vessel Electronics and Harbor Department Equipment. This is a net-zero appropriation reallocating funds from supplies to fixed assets. The Harbor Department also requested a new Trimble handheld device for vessel inventory and billing. Approved 6-0. - 24-144: Discussion and decision on the Municipal Administrator's annual recommended transfer to the Public Infrastructure Sinking Fund. - Finance Director Melissa Haley explained that code requires a transfer recommendation 90 days after the fiscal year end. The recommended transfer for FY24 (retroactive to June 30, 2024) is $4 million. The general fund could support up to $7 million while maintaining a stable undesignated fund balance, but a lower amount was recommended due to potential needs for federally funded capital projects (e.g., seawall, airport) and a compensation study. - Assembly members expressed strong support, noting that the city only used 87% of the budget last year and that the unfunded project list (the "alligators") totals about $150 million. The transfer helps leverage federal and state funding. - A motion to transfer $4 million effective June 30, 2024, passed 6-0. - 24-145: Approved the employment agreement between the City and Borough of Sitka and Rachel Jones as Municipal Attorney. HR Director Josh Branthover presented, noting a nationwide search found the best candidate locally. The agreement balances stewardship of community resources with the need for legal guidance. Rachel Jones is expected to start October 7, 2024. Approved 6-0. Persons to Be Heard - No public comments were made on or off the agenda during the meeting. Reports - Liaison Representatives: - Scott Saline reported issues with the Library HVAC system being shut down. - Chris Ystad reported on the Planning Commission meeting (September 18) praising the board's professionalism and discussion of a short-term rental case. He also reported on the Port and Harbors Commission meeting (September 17), where a port study was presented. Key findings: harbor rates will likely need to increase annually unless new revenue streams are found; recommendations include a singular tariff (GPIP already has one) and potentially creating a combined port commission. Vessel hull insurance was also a major topic. - Clerk Sara Peterson reviewed upcoming municipal election details: early voting is ongoing at Harrigan Centennial Hall (M-F 8:30-4:30, Saturdays 9-noon); Election Day is October 1 with polls open 7 AM to 8 PM. Coordination with tour operators to move visitor activity to O'Connell Bridge lightering area to keep Harrigan Hall accessible for voting. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Bruce Gazaway (Library Commission, 3-year term) and Robert B. Moelder (LEPC, 3-year term) appointed unanimously. - Ordinance approvals: Supplemental appropriations for recycling/fleet electrification (ORD 24-22) passed on second reading; emergency vessel electronics/harbor equipment (ORD 24-23) passed on first reading. Both 6-0. - Transfer to Sinking Fund: $4 million transferred retroactive to June 30, 2024. Motion passed 6-0. - Employment Agreement: Rachel Jones hired as Municipal Attorney, start date October 7, 2024. Approved 6-0. - All votes were 6-0 with Mayor Eisenbeisz absent. The meeting adjourned at 6:32 PM.