Public Meetings - Valdez, Alaska

The Valdez City Council held a work session on January 20, 2026, to review and refine state and federal legislative priorities for 2026. The meeting included updates from federal lobbyists Jack and Eric of CHCG Capitol Consulting Group on recent appropriations victories, and state lobbyist Kim Hutchinson on the challenging fiscal environment in Juneau. Council members discussed streamlining priority lists, setting a date for the annual DC fly-in, and focusing on key items such as Coast Guard development, secure rural schools, housing, child care, outdoor recreation, and state-level issues like the gas line tax holiday and education funding. Public Comments & Testimony - Ralph Fry, the new Legislative Information Officer for Valdez (six-month role), introduced himself and offered to assist with legislative communication and committee monitoring. Discussion Items Federal Priorities - Eric from CHCG reported that the $5.5 million earmark for the radio tower was included in the Commerce Justice Science bill, which passed both chambers and now goes to President Trump for signature. The remaining half will be requested in FY27. - Updates on other federal issues: Secure Rural Schools (SRS) funding passed through FY26 with back payments; housing legislation (Road to Housing Act, Housing for the 21st Century Act) is being tracked; health care provisions including $4.6 billion for community health centers; highway reauthorization expiring September 30, 2026; and the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) as a potential funding source. - Councilmember Love suggested adding outdoor recreation as a federal priority, referencing the Meals Hill Master Plan and potential EDA grants. Councilmembers generally supported condensing the federal list to a shorter, actionable set. - City Manager Nate Divalics recommended focusing on Coast Guard/sea otter development as top priority, followed by SRS, then aligning with existing council priorities: housing, child care, and recreation/tourism. - Jack from CHCG noted the need to schedule the DC fly-in and secure high-level Coast Guard meetings. State Priorities - Kim Hutchinson highlighted the coming fight over the gas line tax holiday (permanent property tax exemption), which could put Valdez’s 20-mill rate under scrutiny. She also identified the residential property tax exemption as a priority with a good chance of passage. - Councilmembers raised the need for a park ranger at Thompson Pass, maintaining DOT staffing (especially Thompson Pass road crews), supporting Prince William Sound College (noting its nursing, millwright, and marine programs), and advocating for the public employee retirement system bill (passed House but stalled in Senate). - City Manager noted additional opportunities: rural health care funding ($500 million/year for 10 years), co-utilization of the ferry terminal, and protecting local education funding from legislative changes. - Councilmember Jim emphasized the value of a robust but targeted list; others agreed to keep the state list longer due to greater influence opportunities. Fly-in Date - The group agreed to target the week of March 2, 2026, for the DC fly-in, as that week both chambers are in session (House not in session the week of March 9). Key Outcomes - Council reached consensus to streamline the federal legislative priority list to focus on: Coast Guard development (including feasibility study for icebreakers), Secure Rural Schools reauthorization, and the three council priorities (housing, child care, and recreation/tourism). - For state priorities, the city will maintain a broader list but emphasize local control over taxation (resisting the gas line tax holiday), education funding, and specific requests: park ranger for Thompson Pass, Prince William Sound College support, and Thompson Pass DOT staffing. - The DC fly-in was tentatively scheduled for the week of March 2, 2026, pending confirmation. A draft document reflecting the updated priorities will be prepared for council review and formal vote.

The Beautification Commission held a special meeting at 12:02 PM on January 15, 2026, to establish a working group to draft a public art policy for the City of Valdez. Commissioners Green, Weaver, and Nielsen were present. The sole agenda item was the creation of a Public Art Policy Working Group. Discussion Items - The commission discussed forming a working group to write and submit a public art policy. Participants were identified: Karen Ober as a member, Magdalena Rouquet as an ex officio member, and an additional member who is expected to return from leave on February 20, 2026, and will be kept informed of discussions. Key Outcomes - A motion was made and seconded to establish the Public Art Policy Working Group. With no further discussion, the motion carried, formalizing the working group with the composition discussed.

The Valdez City Council held a regular meeting on January 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine approvals, three resolutions, and reports from city staff. All resolutions were passed unanimously. No public comments were received from the floor. Consent Calendar - Appointment to VMHA Board of Directors: Martha Barberio was appointed to the Valdez Municipal Housing Authority Board of Directors by unanimous consent. - The item to go into executive session was pulled from the consent agenda after a council member stated no update was needed for discussion. Resolutions (Discussion Items) - Resolution 26-01: Amending the Housing Incentive Plan for new residential dwelling units and rescinding Resolution 24-14. Approved unanimously (7-0). During discussion, Councilmember Lally asked about the status of the housing needs assessment; City Manager DeVal responded that a final draft is expected by the first meeting in February. - Resolution 26-02: Authorizing purchase of a 5-acre parcel (Lot 2, Mineral Creek Industrial Subdivision, Tract K) from Port Valdez Company for $415,000. Approved unanimously (7-0). Councilmember Lally inquired about potential contamination or remediation issues; City Manager DeVal stated no known contamination, though poor silty soils are expected. The purchase also secures a permanent easement for water tower access, previously unwritten. - Resolution 26-03: Authorizing the sale of a 2011 Skidsteer Bobcat S100. Approved unanimously (7-0). Reports - Temporary Land Use Permit 26-01: Issued to Valdez City School District for temporary use of city-owned property; no discussion. - City Manager Report: - Update on earmark for the radio project: the prior earmark expired with the continuing resolution, but a new commerce bill is pending in Congress. - Fire department work session: an AFD union representative will be in town January 19-21; council agreed to add a Q&A discussion item to the January 20 regular meeting. - Federal lobbying RFQ: council consensus to proceed with CHCG (incumbent); negotiations will follow. - Communications ongoing regarding pipeline code property. - City Clerk Report: Reminded council to complete performance evaluations for the city manager and city clerk by January 8 at 5:00 PM. Also reminded of a work session with BCB on Thursday, January 8 at 6:00 PM. - City Attorney Report (Jake): - TOP settlement: awaiting response from TOP owners; a preliminary indication of value from the state assessor is expected in mid-January. - VMTC plan update (secondary containment): SPAR issued a letter on December 24 stating the proposed testing plan was not acceptable and required improvements (e.g., testing criteria, increased duration, additional monitoring, margin of error). Alyeska must submit a revised plan by January 13; city and PWSRCAC have until January 28 to comment. Testing for cells 1-4 is required in 2026, cells 5-7 in 2027. - ABLE's employment matter: appointed counsel confirmed that an offer of judgment would resolve all claims; city is working with insurance broker David Hale. Council Business from the Floor - Councilmember Lesser wished everyone a happy new year and expressed optimism. - Councilmember noted appreciation for snow and Valdez street maintenance, contrasted with Anchorage. - Councilmember announced Alaska will receive $1.4 billion over five years for federal rural health transformation programs and encouraged the city to tap into those funds; also noted the governor's proposed budget includes a $1.5 billion deficit. - Councilmember commented on the 4th of July fireworks display and wished everyone a happy new year. Key Outcomes - All three resolutions (26-01, 26-02, 26-03) were approved unanimously (7-0). - The consent agenda appointment was approved; executive session item was not moved forward. - Council directed staff to negotiate with CHCG for federal lobbying services. - Council agreed to add a Q&A session with an AFD union representative to the January 20 meeting agenda. - No other formal votes were taken; reports were received and noted.

The Valdez City Council met on December 16, 2025, at 4:00 PM. Key agenda items included an annual report from the Alaska Blue Economy Center (ABEC) and the T3 Alliance, approval of resolutions, and reports from city officials. The council also congratulated City Clerk Sherry Pierce on receiving the Vic Fisher Award for public service leadership. All council members were present except one who was absent and excused, but later corrected to all present. Consent Calendar - Approved a motion to enter executive session (item one was scratched; remaining items approved unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments on non-agenda items were made. Discussion Items - ABEC & T3 Alliance Annual Report: Tommy Sheridan, director of the Alaska Blue Economy Center, presented the annual report via video conference from Cordova. He highlighted ABEC's work in mariculture, workforce development, and outreach. Key points: The Alaska Mariculture Cluster grant ($49 million, ending May 2027) has directed approximately $1.6 million to Prince William Sound College's Marine Natural Resource Technician and Marine Service Technology programs, $2.3 million to regional proposals, and $2 million for statewide collaborations – totaling about $6 million for Prince William Sound. Spending has lagged behind other regions, but efforts are ongoing to advocate for more investment. A new NSF EPSCoR grant (Interface of Change, $20 million) is pivoting toward Valdez, funding students and T3. Sheridan also announced his personal intention to relocate to Valdez in 2026. Adam Lau, T3 Alliance coordinator, reported that Valdez has 13 active T3 students and the best makerspace in the Alaska network. The first Valdez T3 Steam Fest occurred in the past year, and an Engineering 100 class will be offered in Valdez – the first non-Fairbanks site to do so. Lau emphasized partnerships with DOT&PF and other entities for career pathways. Council members asked questions about grant spending, mariculture applications, and ways to support the programs at the state level. Sheridan discussed large-volume kelp applications (e.g., livestock feed, construction materials) and ongoing research. - Resolution 2564: Authorized a lease amendment and extension with the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive Association for the museum and museum annex. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2565: Amended the 2025 city budget by reallocating $171,100 in previously approved funds, primarily due to changes in the assistant city manager contract structure. City Manager Nate explained the reallocation puts the ACM salary in the appropriate administration budget. Approved unanimously. - City Manager Report: Nate reported on the Alaska Municipal League (AML) conference, including receipt of the Secure Rural Schools funding (check expected in six weeks), contributions to the Coast Guard Christmas party (movie tickets and popcorn), and the city's Christmas party on Friday. He also noted community concerns about tax dollar spending and business communication. - City Clerk Report: Sherry Pierce expressed gratitude for the Vic Fisher Award, noted the Coast Guard donation, and reminded of the Christmas party. - City Attorney Report: Jake Stacer provided an update on the VMTC secondary containment system issue – a conference with DEC SPAR scheduled for December 17. He also reported a final judgment issued for the 2019–2023 tax years in the Escape property case, triggering attorney's fees and costs filings. - Mayor's Report: Mayor Fleming reflected on the AML conference, noting a “doom and gloom” economic outlook for Alaska but emphasizing Valdez’s relative strength. He announced a delegation to Juneau in the last week of February to advocate for the Coast Guard base and other priorities. Council members Lester Green, Olivia, Austin Love, and others shared their AML experiences and praised staff. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 2564 and 2565 were adopted unanimously (7-0). - Executive Session: The council entered executive session to discuss a tax matter (Bollorum). The city attorney was directed to proceed as discussed. - Upcoming Actions: City manager to provide legislative updates; delegation to Juneau planned for February 23–27, 2025; continued advocacy for mariculture funding and T3 program expansion.

The Valdez City Council held a work session on December 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM to discuss the Valdez Convention and Visitors Bureau (VCVB) budget, audit results, and organizational direction. The session was led by VCVB Executive Director Faith Harris, who presented multiple budget scenarios and responded to council questions. Council members expressed concerns about the VCVB's fiscal health, the lack of clear performance metrics, and the sustainability of a $505,000 funding level. Discussion Items - Audit Presentation: Harris reported that the 2024 audit was completed with “flying colors” – no significant accounting policy issues, no unusual transactions, no indication of fraud, and no difficulties with management. The VCVB committed to a September 1 delivery deadline for all future audits. - Budget Scenarios: Harris presented an “a la carte” budget requested by the city, showing three main options: operating solely as a CVB (Visitor Center), solely as a DMO (Destination Marketing Organization), or a combined minimum/status quo. The $505,000 grant (approved by council earlier) was the baseline. Harris emphasized that a CVB-only operation could balance the budget with added sales, but a DMO or combined role would require additional funding to avoid net losses. She noted that the original $562,000 request had been reduced by council to $505,000, forcing significant cuts. - Financial Trends: Councilmember Love highlighted declining financial health: net assets fell from $178,000 in 2023 to $146,000 in 2024, and cash reserves dropped from $208,000 to $52,000 as of October 2025. Harris explained the drop was due to the cancellation of the boat raffle fundraiser (which had expected profit), prepaying the 2026 visitor guide ($85,000), and increased payroll costs after filling staff positions. She argued that nonprofits do not necessarily build savings, but Councilmember Love and others pushed for a balanced budget and rebuilding reserves. - Performance Metrics: Several council members (Devons, Green, Whitty) requested clear, measurable deliverables and annual reports. Harris noted that past reports were not always provided (e.g., no 2023 annual report existed). The council asked for quarterly check-ins, key performance indicators (e.g., guide distribution, website traffic, event attendance), and a written contract with defined deliverables. - Role of the VCVB: Council debated whether the VCVB should focus on both visitor center services (CVB) and destination marketing (DMO). Harris and board president Ms. Stronk argued both are essential, but the $505,000 budget can only support a CVB. The council majority (Mayor Fleming, Councilmembers Love, Devons, Green, Whitty) indicated support for $505,000 as the maximum, preferring a CVB focus with potential for future growth if metrics show success. Councilmember Whitty suggested reducing pay raises (from 4.something% to the city standard 3%) and moving more guide content digital to save costs, but Harris pushed back, stating staff are underpaid and paper guides remain popular. - Special Request: Councilmember Whitty asked Harris to recuse herself from all VCVB and public accommodations tax discussions due to a perceived conflict of interest (her other role). Council ruled the request invalid as there was no direct financial gain for Harris. - Statewide Context: Harris provided comparative data showing that similar organizations in Sitka, Homer, Seward, and Whittier have revenue in the $500k–$900k range and often operate at a net loss. She cited statewide declines in tourism occupancy (down 5-8%) and noted that the VCVB’s performance (occupancy down only 1.3%) was better than peers. She also highlighted the importance of the visitor guide (39,000 physical copies distributed worldwide plus 10x digital reach) and the growth of short-term rentals (approx. 100 Airbnbs in Valdez, generating potential tax revenue of $91,000). Key Outcomes - Council directed the VCVB to develop a final draft budget based on the $505,000 grant that balances to zero or builds a small reserve. The budget should clearly define what services (CVB, DMO, or combination) can be delivered at that funding level. - The VCVB must also produce a set of measurable deliverables and performance indicators (e.g., visitor guide usage, website analytics, event attendance, member satisfaction) to be presented at a future work session before any final budget resolution is adopted. - The council and VCVB agreed to hold quarterly meetings to review progress, discuss challenges, and adjust operations as needed. - No formal vote was taken; the council expects the VCVB board to approve the revised budget and bring it, along with proposed deliverables, to a subsequent work session (date to be scheduled). The final budget will be enacted via a council resolution. - Councilmember Devons suggested that if early quarterly results show success, a request for a small additional stipend later in 2026 could be considered, but other members (Green, Whitty) preferred to wait for a full year of performance data.

The Valdez City Council held its regular meeting on December 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All council members were present except Councilmember Raleigh (absent and excused). The meeting included approval of minutes, a consent agenda, new business items, public testimony on a proposed radio tower purchase, adoption of ordinances and resolutions (including the 2026 budget), and a subsequent executive session. Key actions included the adoption of a $73.03 million budget for 2026, approval of a $3.6 million water well contract, and several budget amendments. Consent Calendar - Proclamation: December 4, 2025, declared as the 43rd Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (5:30 PM). - Executive Session: Approved to discuss litigation strategy for Larry Ables lawsuit, TAPS ad valorem tax issues, escaped property legal issues, and oil spill prevention property assessment. - Resolution 25-60: Authorized the Valdez Fire Department to submit a 2026 Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant application (10% in-kind match). - Resolution 25-61: Amended the 2025 budget by accepting $2,205 in unbudgeted revenue and transferring $3,705 to the Animal Medical Reserve Fund. - Resolution 25-62: Amended the 2025 budget by accepting $11,870 in Book Basket Auction proceeds and transferring same to the Book Basket Auction and Donation Reserve Account. - Resolution 25-63: Established the 2026 Tax Calendar. - Note: Resolution 25-60 was pulled from the consent agenda and approved separately under New Business; all other consent items passed unanimously (6-0-1, Raleigh absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Lori Frox (Owner, KVAK Radio): Provided a 30-year history of KVAK, stating that the station is overbuilt for the community, sponsorships are down, and she is considering selling or shutting down. She proposed the city purchase the radio tower (estimated $210,000) to allow KCHU to relocate and preserve AM emergency broadcasting. She noted that if the AM signal is surrendered, the FCC will not relicense it, and that a voluntary transfer of license to a non-commercial entity is possible. She also noted that KCHU had received a $50,000 city grant for a new FM transmitter while KVAK did not receive similar support. - Jimmy Devons (KCHU Public Radio Representative): Expressed appreciation for KVAK’s services but argued that the voluntary transfer of license is highly unlikely (less than three dozen cases in FCC history). He stated that KCHU cannot use most of KVAK’s equipment (FM antenna, transmitters) and would need to spend $80,000–$100,000 to modify the tower for their use. He urged the council not to let the proposal affect the $50,000 CSO grant for KCHU, which is needed as matching funds for other grants. He also noted that KCHU has already collected $50,000 from other sources. - Jerry Devons (Private Citizen): Supported KCHU’s grant, stating that the city should not enter the radio business and that KCHU’s plan to restore AM and improve FM is achievable. He characterized the tower purchase proposal as a late addition that should not delay the budget decision. - James Smith (Private Citizen): Asked the council to keep the KCHU grant open to preserve matching fund opportunities. - Additional Speaker (Jimmy Devons, continued): Clarified that KCHU’s $50,000 is for a new tower, not equipment from KVAK, and that the tower proposal includes a root radial system (contrary to Lori Frox’s claim). He stated that KCHU prefers new construction for grantor confidence but that used equipment is not off the table. Discussion Items - New Water Well 5 Pumping Station (Contract with SD Construction LLC, $3,607,060): Approved unanimously. The well adds capacity and redundancy for the south side of town, especially during high-demand fish processing seasons. - Playground Equipment for New Childcare Center (Exerplay, Inc., $156,357.25): Approved unanimously. Equipment selection was made in consultation with the childcare provider (Chugachmiut), but the process was abbreviated due to expiring funds. - Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant (Resolution 25-60): Approved unanimously. The 10% match is in-kind (existing training budgets), not new cash. - Proposal to Purchase KVAK Radio Tower (Discussion Only): Council members expressed reluctance to have the city purchase the tower ($210,000) or enter the radio business. They encouraged KVAK and KCHU to negotiate directly and noted that the $50,000 CSO grant for KCHU should be handled separately. No action was taken; a future agenda item would require a formal proposal. - Ordinance 25-15 (Repeal Economic Diversification Commission): Adopted on second reading, removing Chapter 2.60 from the Valdez Municipal Code. - Resolution 25-56 (2026 Budget Adoption): Approved after extensive discussion. The $73.03 million budget includes $43.7 million for operations, $12.7 million for education, $7.9 million in reserve contributions, $6.5 million for debt service, $1.3 million for community support, and $867,150 to the permanent fund. Revenues are $60.25 million, with $48 million from oil and gas taxes and $7.6 million from non-oil and gas property taxes. The median resident tax burden is approximately $4,700/year (4.8% of gross median income), or $171–$175 per person per month for city services. The city manager found $1.7 million in savings through departmental efficiencies. - Resolution 25-57 (Lease Assignment from Harris Sand & Gravel to Knik Construction): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 25-58 (Gravel Lease for Knik Construction, 21.3 acres): Approved unanimously. The lease rate of $0.60/yard (last set in 1992) was discussed; staff recommended keeping it, noting that the city is a major gravel purchaser and that low rates help control construction costs. The lease term (5 years vs. 20 years requested by Knik) was debated; the resolution authorizes the city manager to negotiate terms, with staff recommending 5 years per current policy. A 20-year term could be negotiated but would require council approval of the final lease. - Resolution 25-59 (Budget Amendment for School Water Piping Reimbursement): Approved unanimously. Accepts $415,335.50 from Valdez City Schools as partial reimbursement for the Valdez High School and Herman Hutchens Elementary water piping projects (completed in 2021). The city has received the first half; the second half is uncertain due to state Department of Education accounting issues. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: All items except 25-60 passed unanimously (6-0-1). - New Business Approved: Water well contract ($3,607,060), playground equipment ($156,357.25), and fire grant (authorization to apply) all passed unanimously (6-0-1). - KVAK Tower Discussion: No action taken. Council directed KVAK and KCHU to continue negotiations and report back; the $50,000 CSO grant for KCHU remains in the budget but will require a separate resolution for release, similar to the $505,000 VCB contingency and $79,000 Avalanche Center funds. - Ordinance 25-15 Adopted: Unanimous (6-0-1). - Resolution 25-56 (2026 Budget) Adopted: Unanimous (6-0-1) with direction that certain funds (VCB, KCHU, Avalanche Center) will be released only upon council approval via specific resolutions. - Resolutions 25-57, 25-58, 25-59 Adopted: All unanimous (6-0-1). For 25-58, the city manager will negotiate the lease term with Knik Construction, subject to council approval of the final lease. - Reports: Quarterly financial summary (September 30, 2025), October 2025 monthly treasury report, and city manager written report were received and discussed. - Executive Session: Approved to discuss litigation strategy and TAPS ad valorem tax issues; Councilmember Raleigh absent; the session was held after the regular meeting.

The Valdez City Council held a work session on December 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM to review and discuss revisions to the city's Public Accommodation Tax (bed tax) ordinance. City Manager Nate and staff presented proposed administrative and clerical corrections, and the council debated policy issues including the tax's purpose, expanding the tax base to include RVs and tent camping, and the distribution of funds. No formal votes were taken, but council directed staff to draft an updated ordinance with expanded definitions and to conduct outreach to affected operators before public hearings. Discussion Items - Administrative Revisions: Staff outlined several amendments to Title 17: adding "rental cabin" to definitions (already covered elsewhere), removing a one-time-only waiver from 1994, updating confidentiality language to align with public records law, simplifying investigation authority, and correcting collection responsibility from "guest" to operator or hosting platform (e.g., Airbnb, VRBO). The distribution of funds section was revised to reflect current practice (100% of bed tax proceeds appropriated to the Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau (VCVB) for the last eight years, with no codified grant process), leaving future allocation at council discretion but noting funds are used for economic development. - Purpose of the Tax: Councilmember Austin Love argued the purpose should be more specific (e.g., tourism development) rather than broad "economic development" to provide clearer guidance. Other members (Councilmember Green, Lester, Olivia) supported adding specificity while maintaining flexibility. The current language directs funds to "economic development purposes." - Expansion of Tax Base: Councilmember Love proposed including RVs, tent camping, and potentially overnight charters under the public accommodation definition to achieve equity and eliminate "free riders." He noted that six percent on a $50 RV site (amounting to $3) would not deter visitors. Councilmembers Olivia, Lester, and Green agreed, citing equitable treatment of all visitors using city services. Councilmember Whitty expressed caution, citing the administrative burden on finance to track expanded collections and concern about potential loss of visitors, but was not opposed if tracking could be simplified. Mayor Whitty suggested pausing to better assess VCVB's performance before adding new taxes. Councilmember Love countered that the ordinance process provides two public hearings for input. - Data Presented: Staff shared historical bed tax revenues: historically around $400,000–$450,000, rising to $500,000–$550,000 post-COVID. Short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO) contribute an estimated $50,000–$100,000 annually. Economic development appropriations (VCVB, city events, beautification) have often exceeded bed tax receipts. A chart comparing Alaska municipalities showed Valdez's 6% rate is in the middle of the range (3%–12%), with Fairbanks corrected to 8%. - Distribution of Funds: Council agreed to keep the current ad hoc process (no codified distribution) for now, with plans to develop a more specific process later. Staff noted that bed tax revenues currently go to the general fund, not a dedicated account. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to draft a revised ordinance that expands the definition of "public accommodation" to include RVs, tent camping, and potentially other short-term rentals not currently captured. The goal is to present a first draft in January 2026 (first quarter), with both ordinance hearings completed before May 2026 (summer season). - Staff will reach out to affected operators (e.g., RV parks, campgrounds) to gather input before the draft ordinance is introduced, ensuring operators are aware of proposed changes. - No additional public meeting is scheduled before the ordinance process; council will rely on the two public hearings inherent in the ordinance process for community input. - An effective date for any new tax will be determined during the public hearing process, with discussion of possible grandfathering for existing reservations.

This work session, held at 6:00 PM in the Valdez Civic Center, focused on the 2026 budget for the Museum, Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau (VCVB), Valdez Fisheries Development Association (VFDA), sponsored events, and the Administration Division. Council reviewed appropriations, debated event funding, and discussed department budgets. No formal votes were taken; the session will continue the following day. Public Comments & Testimony - No designated public comment period. Event organizers and department heads presented and answered questions. Discussion Items Museum - April, museum director, presented a budget request flat from last year. The museum anticipates net revenue of $46,500. Councilmembers commended the museum's financial management and engaged in preliminary discussions about future direction. The budget was supported as presented. Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau (VCVB) - VCVB staff requested an extension until Thursday (next work session) to finalize a revised budget, citing ongoing identity challenges and an incomplete audit. Council granted the extension, requesting all outstanding documents (past audits, annual reports) by Thursday. VCVB indicated they will present the same budget as originally submitted, not a revised figure. Valdez Fisheries Development Association (VFDA) - Mike Wells, executive director, presented a reduced request of $73,000 for feed, down from $110,000 due to a $38,000 carryover from 2024 and lower feed costs. He reported an excellent pink salmon return (25.6 million), a strong coho run, and a new economic impact study expected early 2026. Council praised VFDA's financial stewardship and the program's contribution to tourism. A future capital ask for hatchery replacement (Solomon Gulch) was noted. Sponsored Events: Valdez Adventure Alliance (VAA) - VAA presented two events: Odyssey Off-Trail Race (year 2, $7,498 city ask, total $17,000) and Fat Bike Bash (year with low participation). Council debated: - Councilmember Woody opposed both events due to low participation (9 participants, 10 spectators for Odyssey; 28 racers, 17 spectators for Fat Bike) and cost per participant ($777 per person for Odyssey). - Councilmember Devons and Mayor supported another year, citing the need to build events and VAA's matching funds. - Councilmember Whitney supported Fat Bike but not Odyssey. - After discussion, no consensus to remove the Odyssey request; the events will be presented to the public hearing as proposed. - VAA director noted that marketing investment would increase and that the Fat Bike race had a 648% return on investment for city funds. Council encouraged better metrics for trail usage. Other Sponsored Events - All other events (Women of Distinction, Valdez Gold Rush Days, Valdez Motorsports Lions Club events, End of the Road Ren Fair, Valdez Follies, Oktoberfest) were moved forward as presented. Council noted the need to better track in-kind services and staff capacity. Administration Division - City Manager: Budget flat with increased travel for state/federal lobbying. Legal budget is $4.5 million ($4.05M for litigation). Council discussed legal cost trends, lobbying scheduling, and contingency plans. - City Clerk: Budget includes temporary wages for digitizing land records, reduced elections expenses (new voting booths purchased), and a proposed internship program. Council supported the initiative. - Council Budget: Includes $50,000 contingency, increased lobbying contracts (pending RFQ), $125-year celebration, and Coast Guard Foundation dinner. Council supported moving forward. - Community Development: Budget reflects payroll adjustments; major projects include code revisions (Title 15/16) and a mobile home replacement program. Council emphasized learning from other communities. - Economic Development: Martha presented budget with relocation of events to Parks & Rec. Includes $300,000 for civic center promotion. Mariculture contract eliminated. Council supported women's business development efforts. - Finance: Includes $100,000 for BMC 330 assessment contract and a professional grant management program. Debt service: GO19 bond will be paid off June 2026, but GO22 payments will increase. Insurance budget increased due to replacement cost escalation. - Human Resources: Expanded wellness program (gym memberships) and leadership development initiative. Council debated employee health insurance contributions; many expressed preference to avoid cutting benefits, supporting further discussion. - Information Technology: Budget status quo with payroll changes; tech reserve funded on a five-year average. Key Outcomes - Museum budget supported as presented. - VCVB granted extension to Thursday, November 22, to submit revised budget and required documents. - VFDA request noted; no action needed. - Sponsored events: All presented requests will go to public hearing without changes; no consensus to remove Odyssey Off-Trail. - Administration division budgets were discussed; no formal approval. The work session will continue the next day for facilities, fleet, infrastructure, and capital projects. - Council noted the need for future conversations on employee health insurance costs and in-kind service valuation.

The Valdez City Council held a regularly scheduled meeting on November 18, 2025, preceded by a public hearing on the 2026 City Budget at 6:00 PM. During the regular session starting at 7:00 PM, the council approved the consent agenda, a write-off of city fees, an ordinance repealing the Economic Diversification Commission, and three resolutions. The meeting concluded with reports from the city manager, clerk, attorney, and mayor, followed by an executive session to discuss TAPS ad valorem tax issues. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) to go into executive session regarding Trans-Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues, escaped property legal issues, and oil spill prevention property assessment. - Approved appointments to the Planning and Zoning Commission (Rhonda Wade and Don Haase) and the Valdez Consortium Library Board (Celeste Hurst). Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing on the 2026 City Budget (6:00-7:00 PM) was held but no spoken testimony is recorded in the transcript. No public comments were made during the regular meeting's Public Business from the Floor or on individual agenda items. Discussion Items - Write-Offs of City Fees: Approved unanimously (7-0). Director Nelson clarified that for properties acquired via foreclosure, the write-off clears the balance from the tax software but the city maintains an off-books calculation of fees and procedural costs associated with the property. - Ordinance 25-15 – Repealing Economic Diversification Commission: First reading and public hearing. Councilmembers debated whether to hold a work session with the remaining two commissioners. Several councilmembers (Love, Foster, Green, Devon, and the Mayor) opposed a work session, citing inability to achieve a quorum and noting the commission had accomplished its purpose. The ordinance was approved 6-1, with Councilmember Devon casting the sole nay vote. - Resolution 25-53 – Negotiated Sale of Pipeline Club Property: Approved 7-0. Councilmember Whitty initially voiced concern about accountability but was reassured by Section 5 of the resolution describing the original RFP terms. - Resolution 25-54 – Harbor Fund Transfer for Commercial Fishing Vessel Moorage Waiver: Approved 7-0. Councilmembers praised the program as a critical support for local fishermen during a poor fishing season. Clarified that the waiver was for the 2024 fishing season and tied to an economic disaster declaration. - Resolution 25-55 – Debt Service Fund Balance Transfer: Approved 7-0. Transfers $5,083,353 to the Projects Planning Reserve with no debate. - City Manager Report: Nate detailed a productive DC trip discussing Coast Guard funding and vessel of opportunity challenges. Announced a potential Senator Sullivan presentation, a work session with VCBB on December 3rd, a Providence presentation on doctor recruitment on December 2nd, and a housing needs assessment draft due December 4th. - City Attorney Report: Provided updates on VMTC plan renewal, including concerns about secondary containment testing methodology (pass/fail threshold of 160,000 gallons per hour deemed insufficient), granted adjudicatory hearing with a pre-hearing conference on December 5th, and a pending executive session on the TAPS settlement and wrongful termination suit. - Mayor’s Report: Thanked the finance department for budget work and highlighted productive DC meetings with congressional delegates and the Coast Guard. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Write-Offs: Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 25-15 (First Reading): Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Devon opposed). - Resolution 25-53 (Pipeline Club Property): Approved 7-0 (required six votes). - Resolution 25-54 (Harbor Fund Transfer): Approved 7-0. - Resolution 25-55 (Debt Service Transfer): Approved 7-0. - Executive Session: Held to discuss TAPS ad valorem tax issues and litigation strategy; council gave direction as discussed.