Public Meetings - Valdez, Alaska

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of minutes, public hearings on two conditional use permits, and new business items including a subdivision plat, two conditional use permits, and an amendment to a temporary land use permit. All votes were 4-0 with three commissioners absent. Consent Calendar - Approval of the April 22, 2026 meeting minutes was approved unanimously with no corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - Alan Manish (Technical Services) announced his retirement, noting that the plat before the commission was his last for the Valdez recording district. Commissioners thanked him for his work. - During the public hearing for CUP 26-01 (Well House), no public testimony was offered; the hearing was closed. - During the public hearing for CUP 26-02 (Child Care Facility), no public testimony was offered; the hearing was closed. - During discussion of CUP 26-01, Michael Sims, a resident at 602 Cottonwood, expressed concerns about the visual impact and noise from the proposed well house, asking about the structure's appearance and generator noise. Staff provided information about the design and that noise would be minimal except during power outages. - No public comments were offered on the other new business items. Discussion Items - Final Plat of Mineral Creek Koch Subdivision: A re-plat of Lot 7A, Block 8, Mineral Creek Subdivision. The plat was straightforward and had already received preliminary approval. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit 26-01 (Well House): A request from the City of Valdez to allow a utility well house on Lot 7, Evergreen Vista Addition No. 1. Discussion included the status of the existing well (installed over a year ago), the purpose of supplying water to the other side of town and to fish processing plants, and a future fill station option. Commissioners noted the conditions were reasonable. After public comment from neighbor Michael Sims, the commission voted to approve. - Conditional Use Permit 26-02 (Child Care Facility): A request from the City of Valdez to allow a child care facility on the same lot. Discussion covered the background (child care task force, council approvals, consultant assessment), the operator (Chugach Miut, a nonprofit arm of Chugach Corporation), temporary location at the Royal Center, building capacity (49 boys and 49 girls based on toilet counts), year-round operation, and traffic concerns. Commissioners expressed strong support, noting the community need for child care. Approved unanimously. - Amendment to Temporary Land Use Permit 26-03 for Chugach Outfitters, LLC: An amendment to allow dog mushing tours on up to 25 acres of city-owned land at the Valdez Pipe Yard (USS 439) for up to 90 days from May to September 2026. Staff explained that the original location at Gold Fields was unsuitable due to snow melt and river erosion. The new location was coordinated with the Valdez Motorsports Club, which has a non-exclusive lease and supported the use. The permit would be temporary to allow summer operations while evaluating other permanent locations. The commission noted that the amendment addressed concerns from the previous discussion. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Approved. - Final Plat Approval: Motion carried 4-0-3 (Commissioners Fagerberg, Moulton, and Matroca absent). - CUP 26-01 (Well House): Approved 4-0-3. - CUP 26-02 (Child Care Facility): Approved 4-0-3. - Amendment to Temporary Land Use Permit 26-03: Approved 4-0-3. - Next Steps: Staff will continue working on a bathroom proposal and anticipate bringing a new separate temporary land use permit application for Chugach Outfitters for further evaluation.

The Valdez City Council held a regular meeting on May 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of minutes, public comment, a consent agenda item for executive session, certification of municipal election results, beautification grant approvals, first readings of three ordinances (public accommodation tax, subdivisions code, and Planning and Zoning Commission changes), three resolutions (property tax rate, harbor fees, budget amendment), and reports. All members were present except Mayor Fleming (excused). Councilmember Lally participated online but left during the ordinances. Consent Calendar - Executive Session Approval: Unanimously approved (6-0-1 with Mayor Fleming absent) to enter executive session to discuss implications for city revenues and litigation strategy regarding Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues. The executive session was held later in the meeting and covered only that topic. Public Comments & Testimony - Head Start Update: Sonia Ash Silanov, Head Start Center supervisor, reported the new center at the Royal Center will open soon after a delay for licensing; it has 32 slots for children 19 months to 5 years, and currently has 12 students waitlisted. The program is year-round, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. She encouraged enrollment and noted staffing needs. - Ordinance 26-03 (Public Accommodation Tax) – Public Hearing: Multiple business owners and residents spoke in strong opposition to extending the accommodation tax to RV parks and campgrounds. - Jeff Sachs (local business owner) urged the council not to tax businesses, arguing the city has a $72 million budget for 3,100 people and does not need more revenue; he warned it would drive tourists away. - Mary Barrett (manager of Eagles Rest) opposed the tax unless city facilities (harbor, Allison Point, campgrounds) are also included; she noted increased boondocking and damage at Middle Creek. - Rick Bull (local business owner) stated he supports taxation when necessary but believed this tax is unnecessary and would hurt tourism and local businesses. - Everett Bartlett (China RV Park) argued the city has a three-month window for tourism and that new taxes create a chain reaction of higher costs; he noted his land valuation disparity and said the city should focus on attracting visitors, not taxing them. - Judy Bartlett (China RV Park) said a 6% tax would increase monthly rates by $60, which she cannot pass on to customers, many of whom are Alaska retirees; she asked council to consider the impact on their own families if a 6% tax were imposed on them. - Additional public comments during the amendment stage reiterated opposition, including that RV parks already pay property taxes, water/sewer fees, and marketing costs; that RVers bring their own beds; and that city-owned facilities with beds (harbor, cruise ships) should also be taxed if equity is the goal. Discussion Items - Election Certification: The council certified the May 5, 2026 regular municipal election results. City Clerk reported 422 ballots cast out of 3,103 registered voters (13.6% turnout). Elected: Lester Green and James Devons (three-year council terms), Shannon Stitz (two-year term filling a vacancy), and Ryan Vincent and Carrie Wade (school board). The results were approved 6-0-1. - Beautification Grants: - Captain Joe’s Gas: Approved a $12,500 beautification matching grant. Councilmember Whitty asked about businesses that received prior funding but did not complete projects; staff explained the program is reimbursement-based and the deadline had passed, so they reapplied. The number of grants available depends on annual funding (target $250,000 reserve). - Valdez Brewing: Approved a $12,050 beautification matching grant. Councilmember Whitty noted the application lacked detail compared to Captain Joe’s; the motion passed without further opposition. - Ordinance 26-03 – Public Accommodation Tax (First Reading): The ordinance would amend Chapter 3.24 to include RV parks and campgrounds in the definition of public accommodation, subjecting them to the existing 6% tax. After extensive public testimony and council debate, Councilmember Devons moved to amend the ordinance by striking “recreational vehicle park or campground” from the definitions and deleting the effective date section for those types. The amendment passed 4-2 (Councilmembers Love and Foster opposed). The main ordinance as amended passed 6-0-1. The City Clerk noted the ordinance will return for a second first reading at the next meeting due to the major amendment. - Ordinance 26-04 – Subdivisions Code (Title 16) (First Reading): The ordinance repeals and reenacts Title 16. Discussion centered on snow storage provisions—staff recommended that new subdivisions deeding snow storage lots to the city, while the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended using “dedicated” language for flexibility. Council accepted staff’s recommendation. The ordinance passed 5-0-2 (Councilmember Lally left, Mayor Fleming absent). It will return for a second first reading at the next meeting due to amendments. - Ordinance 26-05 – Planning and Zoning Commission Code (Chapter 2.52) (First Reading): The ordinance amends the code to align with the new subdivision authority for the Community Development Director. Councilmember Devons successfully moved to add “for staggered three-year terms” to the commission membership description, which was added. The main motion as amended passed 5-0-2. - Resolution 26-28 – 2026 Real Property Tax Rate: Establishes the mill rate for municipal and school purposes. Councilmember Foster noted that $8.4 million in over-cap revenue will go to scheduled debt payments ($6.5M) and GO 22 (the sewer force main project, $1.9M). Passed 5-0-2. - Resolution 26-29 – Harbor Rates and Fees: Updates rates for harbor facilities and repeals prior resolution. Council discussed projected additional revenue of $138,000 annually with the new rates, which include an Anchorage CPI+1% adjustment. Councilmember Foster noted a typo (“stand” should be “Standard Stevens”). Passed 5-0-2. - Resolution 26-30 – Budget Amendment for Fire/EMS: Transfers $23,000 from the Budget Variance Reserve to the Fire/EMS Department for professional fees and services. The funds cover a contractor’s extra scope of work to obtain a Medicare supplemental reimbursement of $155,000. Passed 5-0-2. Key Outcomes - Executive Session: Approved to discuss TAPS ad valorem tax litigation strategy with counsel. - Election Certified: Results of May 5, 2026 election officially accepted. - Beautification Grants: Captain Joe’s Gas ($12,500) and Valdez Brewing ($12,050) approved. - Ordinance 26-03: Amended to exclude RV parks and campgrounds from the public accommodation tax; passed first reading. - Ordinance 26-04: Subdivisions code updated; passed first reading with snow storage deeded to city. - Ordinance 26-05: Planning and Zoning Commission code amended to include staggered three-year terms; passed first reading. - Resolutions: All three resolutions (tax rate, harbor fees, budget amendment) passed. - Next Steps: Both amended ordinances (26-03 and 26-04) will be brought back for a second first reading at the next regular meeting on May 26, 2026, when newly elected council members will be sworn in. The Board of Equalization meets May 14-15. The City Clerk’s office will attend the International Association of Municipal Clerks Conference during the week of May 17-21. - Meeting Adjourned: At 8:54 PM after returning from executive session.

The Valdez Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Metroca, who was excused. Commissioners Raditic and Moulton participated via phone. The meeting focused on the proposed repeal and reenactment of Title 16 (Subdivision Code) and a temporary land use permit for Alyeska Pipeline Service Company. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 8, 2026, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting were approved without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on Title 16: No members of the public appeared to address the commission during the public hearing on the proposed repeal and reenactment of Title 16. The hearing was closed. - Temporary Land Use Permit 26‑07: Peter Nagel, representing Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, spoke briefly. He confirmed that the winter work has concluded, mobilization for summer work is scheduled for May, and the specific permit activity is planned for August, extending slightly into September. Discussion Items - Temporary Land Use Permit 26‑07: The commission considered a motion to approve a temporary land use permit for Alyeska, covering an approximately 2.5‑acre portion of Tract B & E, Section 34, ASCS 98‑30 (Brown’s Creek), owned by the City of Valdez. The permit was described as similar to a previous approval. The motion passed unanimously (6‑0, with one absent). - Proposed Repeal and Reenactment of Title 16 (Subdivision Code): This was the main agenda item. Kate (Community Development Director) and Dave Whitfield (RM Consultants) presented a summary of the year‑and‑a‑half‑long process, highlighting key changes: alignment with the comprehensive plan and Title 17, improved clarity, administrative approval for minor plats (creating no more than two lots), a formal variance process, a process for public way vacations, updated snow storage standards requiring deeding to the city, and updated monumentation reflecting current survey practices. The consultants noted that the rewrite was reorganized to ease reading and that the public comment period included valuable input from a local surveyor. Commissioners raised several points: - Snow storage dedication vs. deeding: Commissioner Wade objected to the new requirement that snow storage lots be deeded (title transferred) to the city, preferring the original “dedicated” language. He argued that deeding removes property rights and summer use opportunities. Other commissioners, including Chair Hayes and Commissioner Goodrow, supported the clearer process to ensure adequate snow storage. After discussion, Commissioner Faggerberg moved to change “deeded” to “dedicated” throughout the code. The motion passed 4‑2 (Commissioners Wade, Faggerberg, Raditic, and Moulton in favor; Chair Hayes and Commissioner Goodrow opposed; Commissioner Metroca absent). - Cross slope maximum: Commissioner Goodrow noted that the code set a minimum road cross slope of 2% but no maximum for gravel roads, which can cause difficulties for snow plowing and grading. He proposed adding “and not greater than six percent.” The motion passed unanimously (6‑0). - Variance criteria: Chair Hayes expressed concern that the new criteria (including that the variance need not be self‑imposed) would be too restrictive compared to the existing code’s flexible waiver provision. He preferred the original language. The discussion did not result in a motion to change. - Timelines: Commissioner Moulton noted that the new code extended maximum review times (e.g., 10 business days for acceptance, 30 days for preliminary plat, 60 days before public hearing, 30 days after hearing), potentially increasing the total process from 90 to 130 days. He worried this could slow projects and allow favoritism. Staff explained that the times are maximums and that the intent is to provide flexibility, especially for public notice and complex cases. No motion to change was made. - Automatic approval: Commissioner Moulton pointed out that the old code had an automatic approval if the commission failed to act within 60 days, while the new code only provides a right of appeal. Staff stated this was intentional to ensure decisions are made by a reviewing body. No amendment was proposed. - Other minor points: Commissioner Faggerberg questioned the definition of “adjacent” (including lots separated by an alley or minor street), the meaning of “offense” for non‑compliance, and a semicolon in the draft. A typo in the variance criteria (“in accordance and is consistent”) was acknowledged. The date February 8, 1965, in the compliance section was noted as possibly related to the original subdivision code; staff agreed to research it further. Key Outcomes - Recommendation to City Council on Title 16: The commission voted (6‑0, Commissioner Metroca absent) to recommend that City Council repeal and reenact Title 16 as amended. The two amendments adopted were: 1. Add a maximum cross slope of six percent for gravel roads (carried 6‑0). 2. Change snow storage requirements from “deeded to the city” to “dedicated to the city” (carried 4‑2). - Temporary Land Use Permit 26‑07: Approved unanimously (6‑0). - Upcoming Items: The Community Development Director reported that the next code revision (Title 15 – Building Code) is nearing completion. Additionally, staff is working on a formal recommendation regarding desired bathroom locations at Rogue Lake and Valdez Glacier Lake, to be developed in coordination with the Parks and Recreation Commission. - Commission Business from the Floor: Commissioners expressed appreciation for the work on Title 16 and the consultants’ and staff’s efforts. The meeting was adjourned.

The Valdez City Council held a regular meeting on April 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included public appearances, consent agenda approvals, new business items including approval of the 2026-2027 school budget, multiple resolutions, ordinances, and reports. All members were present except Mayor Fleming (excused). Consent Calendar - Approved the Consent Agenda (5 items) unanimously: Proclamation for Public Service Recognition Month 2026; MOA with Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation for air quality monitoring; MOU with Alyeska Pipeline Service Company for firefighting/emergency response; liquor license renewal for Growler Bay Brewing Company; authorization to enter executive session regarding TAPS ad valorem tax issues. Public Comments & Testimony - Dave Tud spoke about the senior citizen and disabled veterans property tax exemption, requesting the item be placed on a future agenda for public input. Public Appearances - Oath of Office: Officer Chase Hudson was sworn in, reciting the law enforcement code of ethics. - Copper Valley Electric Association: Morgan Melton (Chief Communications Officer) and Barry Jackman (new COO, based in Valdez) invited the council to CVEA's annual meeting on May 5, 2026, at the Valdez Civic Center. They highlighted the 10-year anniversary of Allison Creek Hydroelectric Plant and a grand door prize (2011 Ford Expedition). - UAF T3 Program: Director Adam Low, with teachers Blair Bailey and Mr. Brian, introduced students from the Science Olympiad team. Students shared their experiences, including first-place finishes in several events and the team placing second overall in state. Low praised Valdez as a lead community. - Valdez Adventure Alliance: Executive Director Lynette Oliver reported on the 2026 Fat Bike Bash (March). Key stats: 189 total participants (increase of 129 over 2025), 34 tourists, 21 local businesses supported, $5,000 city grant leveraged into $4.80 return per dollar (480% ROI). New intern Imani Mineweaser was introduced. Goals for 2027 include increasing participation and making the event self-sustaining. Discussion Items - 2026-2027 Valdez City Schools Budget: Superintendent Weber presented a detailed budget overview. Highlights: insurance costs rose 20% (up $1 million over two years); budget uses $153,000 from reserves (9% of total); state funding flat for 16 years; city contribution critical. The district is cutting $30,000 from curriculum subscriptions, $40,000 from utilities, and removing a half-time preschool position due to conservative enrollment projections. The budget was approved 6-0-1. - Annual Operations Reports: City Manager DeVall presented the format for future department reports (two pages per department: overview and financials). Council requested additions: key performance indicators (KPIs), inclusion of issues/concerns/challenges, and a comparison of actual vs. budget for the prior year. The format will be refined before the July budget cycle. - Senior Citizen and Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Council discussed a report from finance and public testimony. It was decided to defer any action until after the June strategic planning session, pending clarity on state House Bill 13 and the city's overall financial picture. Key Outcomes - Approved: 2026-2027 Valdez City Schools Budget (motion carried 6-0-1). - Approved: MOA with Silver Linings Management, LLC for operation of Allison Point Campground (6-0-1). - Approved: City of Valdez Public Art Policy (6-0-1). - Approved: Contract with New Horizons Inc. for Radio Infrastructure Upgrade Project, $1,145,135.20 (6-0-1). - Adopted: Ordinance 26-02 (Firefighter Collective Bargaining) on second reading (6-0-1). - Approved: Resolution 26-24 (dispose of city records); 26-25 (appoint election judges/clerk for May 5 municipal election, set compensation); 26-26 (waive solid waste fees for Community Clean-Up Day on May 16); 26-27 (authorize lease for Visitor Center at 309 Fairbanks Ave) — all 6-0-1. - Vote: All consent agenda items approved. - Directives: City manager to send notification to RV park owners about proposed public accommodation tax ordinance (to include RVs, effective January 2027); first reading scheduled for next meeting. City clerk to send scholarship applications to council members for All America City Scholarship Committee. - Upcoming Events: Municipal election May 5, 2026 (polls open 7 AM at three precincts); absentee voting available at city hall. CVEA annual meeting also May 5. Community Clean-Up Day May 16. Sixth-grade class mock council meeting scheduled for April 22.

The Beautification Commission met on April 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, public testimony, discussion of decorative light maintenance, and approval of two grant recommendations for City Council funding. Commissioner Magdalena joined late and was sworn in. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the January 15, 2026 Special Meeting and March 16, 2026 Regular Meeting were approved by consensus. Public Comments & Testimony - Elise Sarmberg, representing the Gold Rush Committee, requested the commission consider judging the Golden Rock Awards. Commissioners expressed interest and agreed to take on the judging role. Discussion Items - Decorative Lights on Egan Drive: Dan, Director of Buildings Maintenance, presented an overview of maintenance challenges including weather damage, frequent replacement of seasonal lights, and high costs (e.g., $20,000 for four new arms). He noted ongoing efforts to find more durable, color-changing LED fixtures and a new supplier through Brown's Electric. Commissioner Weaver suggested checking with Anchorage about similar lights. No formal action was taken; staff will continue to explore options. Key Outcomes - Approval of Valdez Brewing Grant: Motion by Commissioner Weaver, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to recommend City Council fund Valdez Brewing's 2026 Beautification Matching Grant at $12,050. Approved by voice vote without opposition. - Approval of Captain Joe’s Gas Grant: Motion by Commissioner McCade, seconded by Commissioner Weaver, to recommend City Council fund Captain Joe's Gas 2026 Beautification Grant at $12,500. Approved by voice vote without opposition. - Commission Business: The commission discussed the new art policy and banner ordering procedures. Commissioner Magdalena arrived late and was sworn in by the chair. The meeting adjourned at 5:28 PM.

The City of Valdez Beautification Commission met on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Community Development Conference Room. The agenda included a presentation on the Flash Vote civic engagement tool, an update on the Wayfinding Phase 3 banner and art panel project, and a discussion about forming a working group to draft a public art policy. Commissioners Minor and Green were present, along with staff liaison Elise; Commissioner Avican was excused. No public comments were received, and no formal votes were taken. Flash Vote and Public Outreach Options - Sarah, the city’s Communications Manager, described Flash Vote, an anonymous civic engagement platform the city has used since 2022. Surveys are designed to take 1–2 minutes, close after 48 hours, and are reviewed by Flash Vote staff (Jeff and Kevin) to reduce bias. - The city targets a flash vote every other month (roughly 5–6 per year). Current subscribers number 288, about 7–8% of the population; Sarah’s goal is to double that. - Past flash votes informed the diagonal parking lines on North Harbor Drive, CSO event planning, city communications (leading to a weekly newsletter), and Parks & Recreation programming (including a new evening Mighty Mights program). - The next flash vote will run March 2, 2026, for community voting on the children’s “I Voted” sticker design. - Commissioners asked whether flash vote results could be used to identify topics needing deeper public meetings; Sarah confirmed that a flash vote could be followed by broader outreach and public meetings if a topic is divisive. Wayfinding Project Phase 3 - Martha (Economic Development) presented the project, clarifying it mainly involves public art panels and banners rather than signs. - Twelve 53" x 53" art panels will be installed in the Kelsey Dock breezeway, created by local artists Rhonda Wagner Taylor, Celeste Addison, and Heidi Frank. Panels are weather-resistant and will be removed and stored by Ports & Harbors in winter; no city maintenance is required. - Twenty 60" x 22" banners will replace existing banners around Kelsey and along Egan Street, with additional winter and summer banners at the airport (six each). Designs include locally created airplanes, boats, and other imagery. - Martha is also developing “Valdez Voices and Visions,” an oral history project with the museum (Kate Dugan) featuring earthquake and pipeline era interviews with QR codes. A T-Mobile grant was not awarded, but the Rasmussen Foundation indicated it could provide up to $50,000. - Martha committed to seeking commission input earlier in future projects. Options for Creation of a Public Art Policy Working Group - The commission discussed forming a working group to draft a public art policy that could be adopted by city council. Staff liaison Elise compiled model policies from other communities, including Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Homer. - The policy would cover definitions of public art, application and review processes, maintenance, ownership and deaccessioning, private vs. city property, funding (including the matching grant program), and possibly a future “one percent for art” requirement. - Participants favored a small working group, with no more than six members and four considered adequate. Potential members discussed included staff representative Mark, Karen (participating as a private citizen rather than as museum curator), April Basher Dean (Economic Development), and community member Magdalena. - The working group would be informal, with a target to present a draft policy at the April 2026 commission meeting. - The group agreed to meet first on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at noon in council chambers; a special commission meeting was planned immediately before to formally establish the working group. Key Outcomes - No formal motion or vote was taken; the public art policy item was listed only as a discussion item. - The commission gave general direction to create an informal public art policy working group (4–6 members) and aimed for a draft policy by the April 2026 meeting. - A first meeting was scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2026, at noon in council chambers, with a special commission meeting beforehand. - Staff will distribute a one-page summary of the discussion to commission members for feedback.

The Valdez Tourism Task Force met at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Council Chambers to discuss governance structures, board formation, and membership for a new tourism organization. Task force members reviewed the process for establishing a nonprofit corporation, debated board composition and membership tiers, and identified next steps for drafting articles of incorporation. Discussion Items - Governance process overview: Sherry explained that the task force's recommendation to form a corporation would begin with drafting articles of incorporation with legal counsel, which would name corporate members and the initial executive board. The first board meeting would include officer elections and appointment of a bylaws committee. Bylaws drafted by that committee must be approved by the membership. The task force can only make suggestions for bylaws, not draft them. - Bylaws vs. policies/procedures: Sherry clarified that policies and procedures are adopted by the board and can be changed dynamically without member votes, unlike bylaws. Colleen confirmed this understanding. - Corporate membership: Sherry stated that for this organization, the city council would automatically serve as the corporate member (as with the museum). The articles of incorporation define the number of board members; bylaws provide additional detail. - Membership structure: Colleen and others discussed creating a new membership for the new organization, not carrying over VCVB members. Colleen noted Martha compiled a list of past VCVB members from various sources, but it should not confer automatic membership. The group discussed: - A local membership tier for businesses with a Valdez business license, possibly free or low-cost, with voting rights. - A non-local/outside membership tier for businesses not based locally, likely paid and without voting rights. - A possible third tier for reciprocal DMO (destination marketing organization) memberships to trade guides and materials. - Colleen suggested that even if local businesses are eligible, they must still sign up to participate. Prices and specific benefits would be set in policies, while tiers would be established in bylaws. - Bylaw approval process: Sherry noted that articles of incorporation could state that the corporation approves bylaws, allowing initial approval by the city council, but amendments could be reserved for the membership once established. This was seen as a practical approach. - Board size and composition: Nate recommended a seven-member board (quorum of four) to ensure industry diversity; Colleen also favored seven, noting a five-member board might be too small. State law requires at least five board members. The group discussed whether a city council member should be a voting or non-voting member. Nate favored a voting seat; Colleen noted past non-voting council/staff liaisons had limited influence. Sherry reminded the group that the city council as corporate body already provides oversight. The suggestion was made to use 'may' instead of 'shall' for a council appointment, allowing flexibility. - Ex officio and non-voting members: Sherry clarified that under Robert's Rules, ex officio members have voting rights; if a non-voting role is intended, it must be designated as 'non-voting.' Non-voting members do not count toward quorum. The board could appoint non-voting advisors for specific expertise or terms. - Appointment process: The group discussed that the task force/organization would recruit and recommend board members, with final appointment by the council (corporation). Colleen proposed that board members must be from the local membership tier, and if the council rejects a recommendation, it should be sent back to the organization for a new candidate rather than the council substituting its own. - City staff role: Sherry expressed that city staff should not have voting roles but could serve as non-voting liaisons. Nate suggested the economic development director might be a standing non-voting member. - Organization name: A new legal name is required for the articles. Nate suggested 'Destination Valdez' but noted it's not outward-facing; the name could be separate from the marketing brand 'Discover Valdez,' which is trademarked by VCVB and proposed to be purchased. The group agreed to consider names. Task Force Member Comments and Next Steps - Zach offered feedback on membership, advocating for free listings for all businesses operating in Valdez (not just those in Valdez), paid membership for outside businesses, and concern about purchasing VCVB's media assets due to possible rights issues and perception that the new organization is just a rebrand. - The group agreed to hold a future meeting to categorize governance items into the appropriate documents (articles, bylaws, or policies). Key Outcomes - Consensus on recommending a corporation structure with a membership approval process for bylaws (with initial approval by the corporation possible). - Preliminary agreement on a membership structure with at least two tiers (local voting and non-local non-voting), potentially a third DMO reciprocal tier; details to be finalized in policies. - Preliminary agreement to consider a seven-member board of directors with a quorum of four. - City council will serve as the corporate member; a council member may be appointed to the board (voting or non-voting), but the wording 'may' rather than 'shall' was favored. - Board members would be recruited by the organization and appointed by the council; rejected recommendations would be sent back for new nominees. - City staff may serve as non-voting liaisons. - Next steps: Sherry and Elise will draft articles of incorporation (with legal review) and send them to the task force before the next meeting on April 29, 2026. Elise will summarize membership discussion, draft an initial mission statement, and gather examples from other Alaska DMOs. Task force members were asked to think about organization names and to categorize governance items into articles, bylaws, or policies.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on April 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. All commissioners were present except Commissioners Moulton and Metroca (excused). The meeting focused on approving a preliminary plat for a subdivision and receiving updates on community development projects and short-term rental regulations. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the March 25, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously without changes or comments. Discussion Items - Approval of Preliminary Plat for Mineral Creek Koch Subdivision (Replat of Lot 7A Block 8): A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Raditic and seconded by Commissioner Binrow. During discussion, property owner Brad Cook confirmed the new lot will be used for a residential home, not an Airbnb, though commissioners noted future use cannot be controlled. Concerns were raised about existing water services on the lot, but it was clarified that two separate stub-ups exist, which is adequate. Commissioner Raditic requested that the plat drafter verify lot numbers on the north side of Nabesna Street. The motion carried with 5 yes votes, 0 no votes, and 2 absent. - Community Development Director’s Report: The director reported that an update on bathrooms at Valdez Glacier Lake (raised at the previous meeting) is delayed, as the city manager wants involvement from the Parks and Recreation Commission. The final draft of Title 16 is expected to be received that week and will be prepared for the next meeting's agenda, with early publication to allow review. Only two public comments were received, both from engineers the director had contacted. The public hearing on Title 16 is scheduled for the next meeting. - Short-Term Rental Permit Update (Commission Business): Commissioner Raditch inquired about the status of short-term rental regulations. The director stated that the permit application is being finalized through new permitting software and is expected to be live in April. There is no cap on permits, though city council could set one later. The permit will help collect data on rental types (owner-occupied vs. not) and impact on housing. Enforcement will begin later in 2026 to allow a grace period for registration. Key Outcomes - The preliminary plat for Mineral Creek Koch Subdivision was approved (5-0-2). - The Title 16 draft will be presented at the next meeting (expected late April 2026) with a public hearing. - The short-term rental permit application will launch in April 2026, with public outreach and delayed enforcement to accommodate the busy season.

The Valdez City Council held a regular meeting on April 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including updates from the Valdez Snowmachine Club, presentation of the Tourism Task Force report, adoption of a public art policy, multiple budget amendments, and first reading of an ordinance establishing firefighter collective bargaining. The council also approved a consent agenda with seven items and went into executive session regarding Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues. Consent Calendar - Proclamations: Approved proclamations for Month of the Military Child and Purple Up Day (April 9), Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and Child Abuse Prevention Month. Representatives from local schools and Advocates for Victims of Violence spoke about the importance of these issues. - Appointments: Dorothy Moore appointed to the Regional Citizens' Advisory Council Board of Directors; Magdalena McCay appointed to the Beautification Commission. - Liquor License Renewals: Approved renewals for A Rouge's Garden (License 16039) and Valdez Brewing LLC (License 15248). - Executive Session: Approved to go into executive session to discuss implications for city revenues and litigation strategy regarding Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues. - All consent items were approved by a unanimous vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Ken Lares (Valdez Snowmachine Club): Reported on the successful 2025/2026 season. The Mayor's Cup race on March 21 attracted 110 racers, brought 406 visitors to town, and generated 242 cumulative nights of hotel and Airbnb stays. He thanked the city for sponsorship and in-kind support across multiple departments, and highlighted the upcoming Valdez Hill Climbs (April 16-19). - David Chusan (public comment): Requested that the council consider a discussion item regarding the senior citizen property tax exemption, noting he had sent a letter and email. He thanked City Clerk Sherry for her responsiveness. - Public comment on Ordinance 26-02: Brian Vincent (Valdez Fire Department) thanked the council for bringing the ordinance forward, stating it was the result of two years of work and would provide a collaborative path forward for firefighters. Discussion Items - Public Art Policy: The Beautification Commission presented a draft policy to guide the acquisition, maintenance, and ownership of public art. Council members discussed concerns about ongoing maintenance costs, sustainability in Valdez's climate (e.g., chainsaw carvings), and the need to avoid future