Public Meetings - Valdez, Alaska

The Valdez Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Moulton (excused) and Commissioner Wade (participating by phone). The primary agenda item was approval of the preliminary plat for the Spruce Tree Subdivision, along with a report on code revision projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 13, 2025): The minutes were approved with a minor correction to add the rezone number 2502 in the headings for easier tracking. No objections were raised. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the commission on non-agenda items during the public business from the floor segment. Discussion Items - Preliminary Plat for Spruce Tree Subdivision (Lots 2A, 2B, 2C): The commission considered the preliminary plat for a subdivision of Lot 2, Tract 3, US Survey No. 3538, Plat No. 2003-7. Staff explained the difference between preliminary and final plats, noting that the preliminary plat includes more detail (e.g., existing buildings and zones) that will not appear on the final plat. The subdivision does not dedicate any new right-of-way. Key discussion points: - Snow Storage Lot: A commissioner questioned how the city would guarantee continued use of a snow lot on the property. Staff responded that the city currently leases the area, but the plat action does not require addressing snow storage because no right-of-way is dedicated. The city manager will separately discuss lease options with the applicants (the McKay family). - Access to Lot 2A: Access is available via Skidder Street (not yet developed) or via an existing shared access from the Richardson Highway. The plat does not change existing access. - Zoning Violation: Staff noted a known zoning violation related to storage of conex boxes on the property, which predates the current owners. The violation existed under both old and new zoning codes and is not a legal non-conforming use. The applicants acknowledged the issue and stated their long-term plan (within five years) is to develop residential uses, which would remediate the violation. Staff is also considering whether RV/boat storage might be appropriate as a conditional use in the neighborhood mixed-use district. - Future Development: Applicants Jim and Magdalena McKay shared that they have “dream works” ideas for residential homes or condos on Lot 2B, but no firm plans are in place. - Community Development Director’s Report (Code Revision Updates): The director provided an update on two major code revision projects: - Title 15 (Building Code): An update from the 2009 International Building Code to the 2021 codes will be presented in November/December 2025. Most local amendments will be removed as the new codes address previous concerns. Additional projects include an engineering form extending snow load/seismic tables and exploring a local code for mobile home replacements. - Title 16 (Subdivision Code): Following a joint work session with city council, a draft from the consultant team has been received. The goal is to adopt both updated codes by the start of 2026, simplifying the platting process for simple lot line adjustments. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Preliminary Plat: Motion by Commissioner Goodrow, seconded by Commissioner Betis. The vote was 6 in favor (including Commissioner Wade via phone) and 1 absent (Commissioner Moulton). The motion carried. The final plat will be brought back to the commission for final approval after any necessary corrections are made. - No further commission business or public comments. - Meeting was adjourned.

The Valdez City Council held a work session on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers to discuss snow removal operations for the 2025-2026 season, a personnel request for an additional lead mechanic, and the 2026 Economic Development Department work plan. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a discussion and information-gathering meeting for the upcoming budget. Snow Removal Operations for 2025-2026 Season - Triggers for action: Snow removal begins at 4 inches of accumulation (2–4 inches for wet snow). Crews are called out as early as 2 AM, typically on streets by 3:00–3:30 AM, with berms created by 8 AM. The 2026 goal is to have roads passable by 8 AM. - Clearing priorities: Hospital routes, school and bus routes, city hall, fire and police, then residential streets. - 2024-2025 concerns: A delay with the contractor on Corbin Loop (began only after 10–11 inches of snowfall) was addressed with no repeat. Freezing rain reduced sand effectiveness despite daily sanding. - Changes for 2025-2026: Better contractor coordination (street foreman will call contractors during emergencies), improved communication via Facebook and website, a rough draft of a snow management plan in 2025, and a final plan for policy review in 2026. - Challenges: New neighborhoods without added crews or equipment; insufficient snow storage capacity; residents (including private ATVs/skid steers) storing large piles of snow from side yards in the street, which code currently allows but creates operational difficulties. Potential code revision to prohibit storing snow from areas other than driveways/walkways in the street. - Enforcement: Police data for 2022-2025 showed few tickets issued (one ticket of $20 in 2023-2024). Council members supported increased public education, stronger fines, and proactive enforcement, especially regarding parked vehicles obstructing plowing. Personnel Request for Lead Mechanic in 2026 - Current fleet and staffing: Public Works Director John Whitty presented a full fleet audit showing 217 vehicles (weighted count 191.5). Current staffing: 2 mechanics + 1 fleet manager (who also serves as 0.5 mechanic). Mechanic-to-fleet ratio is 1:76, far from the industry benchmark of 1:50. - Request: One additional full-time lead mechanic to support operational readiness, prevent burnout, and meet growing demands. The position would cost approximately $200,000 including benefits. - City Manager’s approach: Nate Duval stated the position would be offset by attrition – not an overall increase in city FTE count – but no specific backfill position has been identified yet. - Benefits cited: Extending equipment lifespan (e.g., a 2-year extension on a 10-year cycle more than pays for the FTE), reducing downtime (currently 1–2 pieces of equipment down regularly), and preventing catastrophic failures (e.g., nearly lost two vehicles due to low oil). - Council support: Several members expressed strong support, noting the heavy workload, the upcoming retirement of fleet manager Joe Russell, and the value of proactive maintenance. Councilmember Olivia noted the financial commitment but acknowledged the necessity. 2026 Economic Development Department Work Plan - Presentation by Director Martha Barberio: Focus on child care expansion (helping Sugar Bear Daycare get licensed, supporting Valdez Preschool Co-op, converting elementary school into a child care facility), small business growth (annual small business conference, fall business builder workshop), cruise ship marketing, working with the Civic Center to recruit conferences and business retreats, and exploring economic incentive districts and site selection assistance. - Priorities from City Manager: Nate Duval emphasized two starred areas from the economic strategic plan: child care and promoting Valdez (using city facilities like the Civic Center and port, not destination marketing). - Workforce development: Ongoing efforts on CDL licensing, marine training, and collaboration with the local college. Council members asked about engagement with current industries (e.g., Alyeska, Coast Guard) and the college’s child care program – a $30,000 scholarship fund has not yet been used. - Council feedback: Mayor Plumbing stressed filling vacant lots in town. Councilmember Lou requested a summary of deliverables from the past year to accompany the budget. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; discussions will inform the 2026 budget process. - The mechanic FTE request will be considered for inclusion in the 2026 budget, with the understanding it will be offset by attrition elsewhere. - The snow management plan will be drafted in 2025 and finalized for policy review in 2026. - A code revision to prohibit residential storage of snow in streets from non-driveway areas will be explored. - Public education campaigns on snow removal rules, parking, and enforcement will be strengthened. - A follow-up work session on housing (from the housing subcommittee) was scheduled for September 11, 2025, at 6:30 PM.

The Valdez City Council met in regular session at 7:00 PM on August 19, 2025. The meeting included the swearing‑in of newly appointed Councilmember Lester Green (to serve until the May 2026 municipal election), unanimous approval of a seven‑item consent agenda, three new business items, three resolutions, and multiple staff reports. Key actions included approval of revised child care grant programs, acceptance of the 2024 financial audit (clean opinion with no findings), discussion of a proposed purchase for snow storage, renaming the container terminal in honor of Ryan J. Sontag, and adoption of the 2026 budget priorities with a 6‑1 vote. Consent Calendar - Appointments to the Valdez Consortium Library Board: Carl Oberg and Michael “Jay” Stevens. - Acceptance of resignation of Library Board member Sadie Blancaflor. - Liquor license renewals: BPO Elks Lodge 2537, Valdez Food Cache 5612, Growler Bay Brewing Company 5634, and Nat Shack 5932. (Councilmember Fleming disclosed his role as treasurer of Elks Lodge 2537 but stated no conflict; council concurred.) - Marijuana dispensary license renewal: Herbal Outfitters LLC 10173. - All consent items approved by a vote of 7‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council during the “Public Business from the Floor” period. - On the snow storage discussion item, Director Whitty presented operational details; no public testimony was given. Discussion Items - Revised Child Care Start‑up and Operating Grant Programs / INNOVATION Grant Expense Categories - Staff explained that approximately $500,000 in grant funds remain, with $200,000 allocated for furniture, fixture, and equipment assistance through Head Start. Existing local grantees will be prioritized. - Councilmember Love expressed appreciation for creative use of funds. - Motion to approve passed 7‑0. - Approval of the 2024 Financial Audit - City Manager reported another clean audit with no findings. Councilmembers commended the finance department and Altman Rogers. - Motion to approve passed 7‑0. - Discussion: Purchase of Lot 3, Tract K – Mineral Creek Industrial Park for Dedicated Snow Storage (no formal vote) - Directors explained that new developments on West Egan have reduced snow storage capacity; the city faces a critical 1,000‑foot section with no dedicated storage. The 1.5‑acre parcel (appraised at $385,000) would be cheaper than purchasing new equipment and hiring additional staff. - Councilmembers asked about funding sources (likely Land Development Fund reserves) and code implications. - A resolution authorizing negotiation of a purchase agreement is expected at the next regular meeting. Resolutions - 25‑34 – Amending the 2025 City Budget: Transfer $4,500,000 of 2022 General Obligation Bond proceeds to the Municipal Well 5 project. - Motion to approve passed 7‑0. - 25‑35 – Renaming the Valdez Container Terminal as the “Ryan J. Sontag Valdez Container Terminal” - Councilmembers shared remarks honoring Sontag’s lifelong service. Discussion on the full name (including “Valdez”) for commercial clarity. - Motion to approve passed 7‑0. - 25‑36 – Establishing Council Priorities for the 2026 Operating Budget - An amendment was proposed to change “minimize utilization” to “discontinue utilization” regarding the 1.5% Permanent Fund draw. After debate about charter language, the amendment was adopted 6‑1 (Councilmember Lally dissenting). - The main resolution, as amended, passed 6‑1 (Councilmember Lally dissenting). Reports - Monthly Treasury Reports (May and June 2025) – Accepted without discussion. - 2025 ADEC Solid Waste Program Inspection – City of Valdez Landfills – Received a 98% rating; council praised the solid waste crew. - Temporary Land Use Permit 25‑09 (Granite Construction) – Noted. - Monthly Projects Update (Verbal) - Key milestones: Sewer force‑main bypass connections complete; Mill Hill trail 90% done (grand opening September 11); Pioneer Drive phase 3 paving finished (street to open before school August 26); Library window replacement (substantial completion August 31); Scrap barge processed 850 of estimated 1,400 tons; Well house 5 out to bid; School contaminated soil investigation ongoing. - Councilmember questioned scrap volumes; staff confirmed quantities are meeting expectations and a Phase 2 may involve partnering with neighboring communities. - City Manager Report - Reeve Air (operated by Kenai Aviation) now selling tickets with three daily flights to Anchorage from the international terminal; Fairbanks route expected in October. - Puppy adoption event (“Puppy Party on PAW”) Tuesday, 1‑3 PM at the shelter; adoption fee $5. - Upcoming: Housing subcommittee meeting Thursday, and quarterly check‑in with subcommittee. - Met with Coast Guard and congressional staff in Anchorage; November D.C. trip planned to advocate for Coast Guard presence. - City Clerk Report - Announced new electronic voting system (pilot testing soon). - Reminded council to register early for the Alaska Municipal League conference (December 8‑12) and that hotel blocks are open. - City Attorney Report - Escape Property Trial: Prevailed on the main issue – five tugs deemed taxable, yielding approximately $4.5 million additional annual revenue. Appeal expected to the Alaska Supreme Court. - VMTC Plan: New hydraulic secondary containment inspection method proposed by Alyeska; city reviewing. - BMC 3.30 Issues: Board of Equalization hearing stayed pending appeal; ordinance clarifying direct appeal rights passed. - Wrongful Termination Complaint (Abels): Insurance carrier assigned trial counsel; settlement discussions pending. - Executive session scheduled tomorrow (August 20) at noon to discuss legal implications and settlement matters. - Mayor’s Report - Attended Coast Guard fundraiser, ATC banquet (fast‑charging station discussed), and toured Copper Valley Electric’s facility. - Hosted Senator Murkowski’s staff for a site visit. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 7‑0. - Revised Child Care Grants: Approved 7‑0. - 2024 Financial Audit: Approved 7‑0. - Snow Storage Discussion: No vote taken; resolution authorizing negotiations to be placed on next agenda. - Resolution 25‑34 (Budget Amendment): Approved 7‑0. - Resolution 25‑35 (Container Terminal Renaming): Approved 7‑0. - Resolution 25‑36 (Budget Priorities): Approved 6‑1 (Councilmember Lally opposed). - All reports accepted as presented.

On August 19, 2025, the Valdez City Council and Ports & Harbors Commission held a joint work session to review and discuss the commission's proposed goals for the 2025-2026 period. The meeting was led by Ports and Harbor Director Jeremy Talbot and included introductions from commissioners and council members, each sharing their waterfront background. The session focused on six commission goals, budget challenges, safety concerns, and long-term waterfront planning. Introductions - Commissioners and council members introduced themselves, noting their maritime experience (commercial fishing, tour operations, pilot services, Coast Guard, recreational boating). - Jeremy Talbot highlighted the department's mission, safety culture, and a record of 479 days without a lost-time workplace injury. Discussion Items - Revenue Review & Budget Challenges: Jeremy Talbot presented Goal 2 (annual revenue review). He noted that the harbor budget faces significant pressure due to declining fish tax revenue (projected $100,000 next year) and rising costs. The city manager emphasized the code requirement for the harbors to operate as an enterprise fund, stating, "You can only cut so much... at some point you gotta get revenue." Several council members and commissioners expressed support for diversifying revenue streams beyond raising rates, including potential campgrounds, lease opportunities, and better utilization of waterfront assets. Commissioner Colleen Stevens argued against being the cheapest harbor in the state, saying, "I don't know why we pat ourselves on the back for being the cheapest... we have beautiful waterfront facilities." Director Talbot cautioned that the harbor cannot sustain another significant rate increase but agreed that rates may need adjustment. - Safety & Congestion (Goal 6): The goal to increase safety and decrease congestion was discussed at length. Colleen Stevens, champion of this goal, described the harbor as unsafe during peak pink salmon season due to oversized tenders (exceeding the original 100-foot design limit). She stated, "If you're the little boat while he's trying to turn, it's gonna get squished like a grape." Director Talbot noted that the new harbor reduced rafting depth but created new challenges with larger vessels. Ideas included adding a fuel slip, moving fish offload to deep water, and facilitating discussions with Silver Bay Seafoods. - Waterfront Master Plan & Sea Otter Project (Goal 3): The commission aims to update the waterfront master plan and prioritize infrastructure projects. The Sea Otter project was highlighted as a potential site for Coast Guard icebreakers, a third fish processor, or industrial boatyard expansion. Director Talbot noted that a planning grant for PIDP (Port Infrastructure Development Program) is being submitted in September. Council member Lester Green asked about break down projects into smaller phases (e.g., $5–10 million increments) to make them more achievable. City Manager Nate Deval (mentioned indirectly) and others stressed that the master plan update should be actionable. - Kelsey Dock Dolphin Replacement: A question from council about the status of the Kelsey Dock dolphin replacement. Director Talbot reported it is still pending with DOT; a temporary use permit is expected. Long-term options include dredging and extending the dock, but state land availability is uncertain. Lightering cruise ship passengers into the harbor is a current backup plan. - Cruise Ship Growth & Community Character: Council member Jamie Pierce expressed a desire to avoid becoming like Juneau or Skagway, saying, "I want cruise ships to meet our community where we're at, not grow our community to meet cruise ship demand." Director Talbot and others agreed, noting that Valdez's unique appeal (access to nature, no diamond shops) is valued by high-end cruise lines. Data sharing with local businesses about cruise passenger demographics was discussed as a way to help them prepare. Key Outcomes - Commission Goals Approved: The six goals were presented and received informal approval (four head nods from council members). They include: (1) strengthen meeting consistency, (2) annual revenue review, (3) manage waterfront master plan priorities, (4) align commission activities with strategic plans, (5) focus on seasonal operations and continuous improvement, (6) increase safety and decrease congestion. - Next Steps: - The commission will compile a list of top infrastructure priorities (short-term), with Harbor Master's office replacement, Kelsey Dock project, and CR (likely container dock) mentioned as frontrunners. - Director Talbot will pursue the PIDP grant and update the waterfront master plan with an appendix for the Sea Otter project. - Staff will schedule a meeting with Silver Bay Seafoods to discuss partnership opportunities and offload alternatives. - The revenue review will include a rate comparison and expense analysis presented to the commission in January 2026. - No Formal Votes: As a work session, no binding votes were taken; the council will formally consider commission recommendations at a future regular meeting.

The Beautification Commission held an informal work session on August 18, 2025, to evaluate the future of the Beautification Matching Grant Program and explore outreach strategies. Commissioners discussed program limitations, potential revisions, and ways to increase participation, with no formal votes taken. Discussion Items - Grant Program Challenges: Commissioners noted low application numbers (3–4 in 2025) and concerns about projects that are removable (e.g., flower pots, food truck improvements) or considered maintenance (e.g., roof replacement, same-sign replacement). Non‑completion by applicants without penalty was highlighted as a problem. - Proposed Changes: Ideas included moving the application period to early fall (rather than March), introducing rolling applications, conducting direct phone outreach to businesses, and sending a survey (via Google Forms) to gather input. A strong preference emerged for funding only permanent installations (fixed landscaping, permanent structures) and excluding mobile businesses or itinerant vendors. - Mural Funding: Commissioners discussed creating a separate mural category with a higher matching percentage (e.g., 75/25 split) to encourage murals as a marketing tool. Concerns about artist availability, maintenance, and quality control were raised; referencing successful programs in other communities (e.g., Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program, Anchorage) was suggested. - Outreach Strategies: Plans to mail postcards and physical applications to all core‑area businesses in early fall, followed by phone calls to non‑participants. A community‑wide flash vote or survey was also proposed. - Other Topics: The discussion touched on city‑owned lots (e.g., former Three Bears lot), derelict properties and code enforcement, the town plaza concept for Fairbanks Drive, potential art installations at Mills Hill (e.g., movable wood carvings), and upcoming grant opportunities (T‑Mobile community grant, Our Town grant). Key Outcomes - Staff will draft a revised grant application for the September meeting, incorporating the following direction: focus on permanent/fixed installations (no movable planters, furniture, or mobile food trucks); consider a separate mural category with a higher match; include penalties for non‑completion. - Outreach materials (postcards/letters) will be sent to all core‑area businesses in early fall 2025, with a follow‑up phone call campaign. - Commissioners agreed to explore a community survey to gauge interest and collect ideas. - Quorum for the September meeting was uncertain (two commissioners likely absent); remote participation would not count toward quorum per council rules.

The Ports and Harbor Commission of Valdez held a special meeting on August 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included the election of officers, a unanimous recommendation to rename the Valdez Container Terminal after Ryan J. Sontag, discussion of the 2025-2026 commission goals and calendar, and a staff report on harbor operations. Election of Chair and Chair Pro Tempore - Commissioner Colleen Stevens was elected Chair by a unanimous vote. - Commissioner Kelly was elected Chair Pro Tempore by a unanimous vote. New Business - Resolution to Rename Valdez Container Terminal: The commission reviewed and formally recommended to the Valdez City Council that the Valdez Container Terminal be renamed the Ryan J. Sontag Valdez Container Terminal. Staff noted that the family supported the name and that the existing sign needs replacement. The motion was made by Commissioner Kelly, seconded, and passed unanimously. - 2025-2026 Ports & Harbors Commission Goals and Meeting Calendar: The commission discussed goals and top capital priorities, including Kelsey Dock and C Otter projects, and a pending port infrastructure development grant due September 10. An agreement with the state regarding internal matters remained stalled. Consensus was reached to forward the goals to the city council for a work session on the following Tuesday. No formal vote was taken; staff will include the goals in the packet. Reports - Ports and Harbors Staff Report: Staff reported on harbor cleanliness, cruise ship traffic, fish activity, and an ongoing inquiry about a necropsy of a marine animal (rumored to be missing its tongue). No significant operational issues were raised. Key Outcomes - Colleen Stevens elected Chair, Commissioner Kelly elected Chair Pro Tempore. - Unanimous vote to recommend to the City Council the renaming of the Valdez Container Terminal to the Ryan J. Sontag Valdez Container Terminal. - Consensus to present the 2025-2026 goals and calendar to the City Council at the work session on August 19, 2025. - No public comments or commission business from the floor.

The Valdez Planning and Zoning Commission met on August 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Metroca (excused), with Commissioners Vetis and Wade participating by phone. The commission approved minutes from prior meetings, held a public hearing on a proposed rezone for 1800 Richardson Highway, and voted unanimously to recommend the rezone to the City Council. Commission business included a code enforcement referral and scheduling updates. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the July 9, 2025, and July 23, 2025, meetings without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments from the floor on non-agenda items. - During the public hearing on Rezone 25-02, applicant Brad Barnett stated that Bill Harris is selling Harr Sand and Gravel, and that he (Barnett) and Harris are working on a potential Ace Hardware store at the site, though nothing is finalized. Commissioner Goodrow expressed strong support for keeping Ace Hardware in the area, saying, "If we lose that Ace Hardware store out there, it's gonna bust us." Discussion Items - Rezone 25-02 (1800 Richardson Highway): The public hearing was opened and closed with only the applicant testifying. The commission then considered a motion to recommend the rezone to the City Council. Commissioner Raditic noted that the property's elevation had been raised significantly by previous owners, correcting the record. The Community Development Director clarified that the rezone to General Commercial (G) would permit all allowable uses under that district, regardless of specific future plans. Key Outcomes - Vote on Rezone Recommendation: Motion by Commissioner Goodrow, seconded by Commissioner Moulton. The vote was 6 in favor, 0 opposed, with Commissioner Metroca absent. The motion carried. The commission recommends that the City Council authorize the rezone of Lot 2, A.S.L.S. 78-139, Plat 98-2 (1800 Richardson Highway) to General Commercial (G). Commission Business from Floor - Commissioner Raditic reported that a long-standing RV/trailer at 135 Hanaguita had been removed, leaving debris. He requested code enforcement action to prevent similar extended stays in the future. The Community Development Director agreed to refer the matter to code enforcement. - Commissioner Vidas (Vetis) noted that the fall semester begins August 25 and that he will be able to attend meetings in person.

The Parks and Recreation Commission of Valdez, Alaska, held a regular meeting on August 12, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting lasted approximately 25 minutes, adjourning at 6:55 PM. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Carter (absent, excused). The agenda included approval of minutes, a commission assessment of trail reports, a director’s report, and commission business. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the July 8, 2025, meeting were approved without objection or changes. Discussion Items - Commission Assessment of Trail Reports – Chair Sarah led a discussion on the trail reports submitted by commissioners. She emphasized that the reports are voluntary observations, not mandates, and that the department already has its own priorities. She noted that the trail maps are being updated (with Slate Communications) and that the commission should avoid ‘tunnel vision’ on trails, as the department covers many areas. Commissioner Heidi expressed that the trail walks are enjoyable and the reports are just personal opinions. Commissioner Ben asked about the property at Mineral Creek Bridge (state land) and the issue of free camping. The commission decided to continue with the remaining four trails, with the next trails to be assigned by the department. - Director’s Report – Director Bridget reported that the Meals Hill project is not yet complete, but is expected by the end of August. A grand opening is tentatively scheduled for September 11, but the public will be allowed access as soon as it is safe. Summer recreation camps have ended. The new Compass guide will be released soon, and fall program registration opens August 19. The Civic Center green room and downstairs remodel begins August 18. The ARPA (Alaska Recreation and Park Association) conference will be held September 10–11, with registration costing $400 for non-members and $300 for members. Cole provided a status update on Meals Hill’s mountain bike loops: Forest Flow is nearly complete, and Alder Flow still has some work. Finishing touches include signage, trash cans, paving, and striping. - Commission Business – Commissioners expressed appreciation for the department’s work. Chair Sarah informally polled the commission about the value of short meetings with light agendas, suggesting that if there is only one item, it might be better to push it to the next meeting. Commissioners generally felt that the current format is fine and that communication with staff is open. The September meeting is canceled due to the ARPA conference. Key Outcomes - The July 8, 2025, meeting minutes were approved. - The commission will continue trail assessments, with the next set of trails assigned by the department. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025. - No formal votes were taken; all actions were consensus-based.

The Valdez City Council held its regular meeting on August 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included approvals of minutes, consent agenda items, several major contracts, a zoning ordinance adoption, and appointment of a new council member. Public comments were heard from applicants for the vacant council seat. The council also received updates on litigation, a federal grant, and other municipal matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the Proclamation declaring August 11–15, 2025 as Safe and Sound Week 2025 in Valdez. The proclamation cited more than 5,000 U.S. worker deaths annually and $170 billion in occupational injury/illness costs. Mayor Fleming noted the city's injury rate dropped from 1.13 to 0.7. - Approved an executive session to discuss qualifications of applicants for the City Council vacancy. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael J. Stevens (Jay), a nearly 30-year resident, spoke in favor of his application for the council vacancy. He emphasized workforce development, attracting young professionals and families, housing development, childcare, economic diversification, and infrastructure improvements, including harbor and dock projects. - Jason Tippitz, a resident for one year, expressed interest in the vacancy, citing his political science background and willingness to serve the community. He noted he would seek other opportunities if not selected. Discussion Items - Memorandum of Understanding with Valdez Avalanche Center: Following postponement from July 15, councilmember Devons confirmed receipt of needed weather observation attachments and clarification from the city manager, as well as discussions with executive director Sarah Carter. The MOU was approved unanimously (6-0, with one absent and one vacancy). - Beautification Commission Appointments: Applicants were Magdalena McCay, Libby Connor, Paula McCann, and T.C. Greene. Paula McCann was appointed to a two-year term and T.C. Greene to a three-year term. Approved unanimously. - Professional Services Agreement with DOWL, LLC: Approved a $170,357 contract for Rural Roads Repairs Design Phase 1. Motion carried 6-0. - Orion Construction Contract: Approved a Guaranteed Maximum Price contract of $2,357,316.31 for Valdez City Schools District Offices Tenant Improvements. Council questioned the $471 per square foot cost; capital facilities director Scott Benda confirmed this is in line with current costs, noting the need to work during the school year. Orion was selected over two other firms due to familiarity with the building and past performance. Motion carried 6-0. - Ordinance 25-10: Second reading and adoption of a zoning map amendment changing Lot 2, Tract 3, USS 3538, Plat 2003-7 to Neighborhood Mixed Use. Councilmember Devons thanked the applicant and staff for collaborative work. Ordinance adopted 6-0. Reports - The temporary land use permits (25-05 to Fireweed 400, Inc. for 5.6 acres; 25-08 to Central Environmental, Inc. for 2 acres for six months) were reported and not pulled for discussion. City Manager / Clerk / Attorney / Mayor Reports - City Manager (Scott Devos): Reported receipt of a $5.5 million Community Discretionary Grant (formerly earmark) from Senator Murkowski for the radio project. Scheduled a work session for August 26 at 6:00 PM for Public Works and Economic Development. On Essential Air Service, DOT is proceeding with Option Four: three flights daily to Anchorage and one daily to Fairbanks using a 9-seat King Air; Devos sent a letter of concurrence but reserved rights to increase passenger capacity in future RFPs. Also noted an application for a $700,000 Alaska Housing BHFC grant for potential workforce housing. - City Clerk (Sherry): Distributed a letter from former Governor Walker regarding naming of the BCT; council directed placing it on the next agenda and seeking input from the Ports and Harbor Commission. Announced scheduling of budget work session and her vacation from August 11–19. - City Attorney (Jake): Provided litigation updates: Escape Property oral arguments scheduled for August 18; awaiting decision for 2019-forward years; Board of Equalization hearing on August 20 at noon; AK Ventures lawsuit on BOE authority being negotiated; T plan renewal awaiting ADEC supplemental info; TAP settlement negotiations to be discussed in executive session, possibly September 3 or 4 (councilmembers Foster and Lally confirmed availability; councilmember Devons had conflicts). - Mayor and Council: Thanked staff, volunteers, and applicants; acknowledged Gold Rush Days success and praised the federal grant and EAS developments. Executive Session and Appointment - The council entered executive session to discuss applicants for the vacant council seat. After returning, Councilmember Lally moved to appoint Lester Green to fill the vacancy for a term ending May 19, 2026. Motion passed unanimously (ayes). Councilmember Devons thanked all applicants for their willingness to serve. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent agenda items and proclamations. - Approved MOU with Valdez Avalanche Center; $170,357 DOWL contract; $2,357,316.31 Orion Construction contract. - Adopted Ordinance 25-10. - Appointed Paula McCann and T.C. Greene to Beautification Commission. - Appointed Lester Green to the vacant City Council seat. - Directed clerk to schedule items for next meeting (BCT naming, budget work session, executive session on TAP).