Public Meetings - Valdez, Alaska

The Parks and Recreation Commission of Valdez met on November 13, 2025, at 6:32 PM in Council Chambers. All members were present except Commissioner Johnson (absent unexcused). The meeting covered officer elections, a review of 2025 goals, a director's report, and planning for 2026. The meeting adjourned at 7:31 PM. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously by consent with no objections. Public Comments & Testimony - Elisa, a deputy clerk, provided a training presentation on commission basics, including roles, ethics (financial interest conflicts), the Open Meetings Act, and proper conduct. She reminded commissioners to avoid discussing commission business outside formal meetings and to use the chair for all conversation. She noted the commission does not handle quasi-judicial hearings and rarely goes into executive session. Discussion Items - Election of PRCS Chair: Commissioner Jorgensen Owen was nominated by Commissioner Rubida, seconded by Commissioner Rush. She accepted and was elected by a vote of 4-0. - Election of Chair Pro Tempore: Commissioner Rubida was nominated by an unnamed commissioner, seconded by Commissioner Rush. He accepted and was elected by a vote of 4-0. - 2025 PRCS Commission Goals Review: Commissioners reviewed five goals set earlier in the year (trail development, playground capital replacement, ADA compliance, innovative outdoor recreation, and relationships with community service organizations). Multiple commissioners (Jorgensen Owen, Rubida, Tran) expressed that many goals were too broad, fell outside commission purview, or were more appropriate for city departments. They advocated for smaller, measurable SMART goals. Specific discussion included: - Goal 1 (trail development): Some items like easements and right-of-way are city responsibilities; commissioners did trail reports but felt little was accomplished. - Goal 2 (playground capital replacement): Staff already working on it; commission role is to champion projects to council and public. - Goal 3 (ADA compliance): Will be addressed as playgrounds are replaced; commission can champion public input. - Goal 4 (innovative outdoor recreation): Commission can champion but implementation rests with department; director Rich noted need for guidelines for groups (e.g., disc golf) to show sustained interest. - Goal 5 (CSO relationships): Commissioners saw value in building relationships but noted economic development is the liaison; commission can receive reports and feedback without muddying roles. - Director's Report: Bridget Rich reported on the 2026 budget: Civic Center saw an increase for marketing; park maintenance decreased due to operational efficiencies; recreation saw a 13% decrease from bringing the compass activity guide in-house (saving $30k/year); library received an 8% increase focused on youth services. Rich announced she will be on maternity leave from January 15, 2026 for three months; Cole Beck will serve as interim director. She also highlighted upcoming holiday events: Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, tree lighting on December 4th, and cookies with the city manager. She proposed developing guidelines for groups seeking commission support. - Commission Business from the Floor: Commissioner Rabita raised several items: questions about Mules Hill trail surface and potential connectivity to the water tower (staff noted easement issues); discussion about moving the rope tow to a higher elevation due to unreliable snow at sea level; and a suggestion for a snow machine event in town. Commissioner Rush welcomed new Commissioner Jessica and thanked the chair. Key Outcomes - Officer Elections: Sarah Jorgensen Owen was re-elected Chair (4-0 vote). Jeremy Rubida was elected Chair Pro Tempore (4-0 vote). - 2026 Goals Work Session: The commission agreed to hold a work session in January 2026 (date TBD, likely January 13) to develop two to three measurable goals for the year. Commissioners will review the master plan beforehand. - Public Hearing: The chair encouraged commissioners to attend the city budget public hearing on November 18, 2025 at 6 PM in council chambers. - Next Regular Meeting: Scheduled for December 9, 2025 at 6:30 PM in council chambers.

The Valdez Planning and Zoning Commission met at 7:00 PM on November 12, 2025, in Council Chambers. All commissioners were present, with Commissioners Wade and Raditch attending by phone. The meeting began with a brief correction: the chair initially misspoke the date as October 15th, but it was corrected to November 12, 2025. The commission approved minutes from previous meetings, then moved to two new business items regarding gravel operations, followed by staff reports and a presentation on the regional economic development plan. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved the minutes for the Regular Planning and Zoning Commission meetings of October 22, 2025, and September 24, 2025, without corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to speak during the public business portion. Mr. Gray (representing Knik Construction Co.) was later invited to speak on a non-agenda item during discussion of the first new business item. Discussion Items 1. Gravel Lease for Knik Construction Co. on 21.3 Acres: The commission considered a recommendation to city council to authorize a gravel lease for Knik Construction Co. on a 21.3-acre portion of Parcel E1, Tract A, ASLS 79-116, according to Plat 2002-12, and Tract C-1, ASLS 79-116, according to Plat 2002-13. The applicant requested a 20-year term, but staff recommended a 5-year term per the adopted land use procedures from 2005. Commissioners discussed: - Commissioner Moulton noted that the area was inundated during high tides (a few times a year) but that the use had been ongoing for 23 years. - Commissioner Goodrow questioned the discrepancy between the 5-year staff recommendation for new leases and the existing longer lease (item 2). Staff explained the 5-year recommendation is standard for new gravel leases per adopted procedures, but city council can authorize a longer term, as they did for a previous applicant (Jesse Ason for Mega Trucking). Staff also noted that the 2005 procedures are due for an update in 2026. - Commissioner Raditch asked about volume limits. Staff clarified there is no explicit limit; contractors self-report amounts, and the city now conducts volumetric surveys every five years to verify. The lease area is moving north away from Glacier Stream, which staff recommended to avoid impacts. - Commissioner Wade raised concerns about potential large-scale gravel extraction if Knik ships material to other parts of the state. Troy Gray (Knik) responded that they expect volumes similar to historical extraction (Harris Sand & Gravel) and that shipping gravel long distances is not economically feasible. He stated the lease language about use in Prince William Sound and other areas is consistent with past permits. - A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Moulton and seconded by Commissioner Goodrow. The motion carried 7-0. 2. Lease Assignment and Amendment for 4380 McKinley Street: The commission considered a recommendation to city council to authorize a lease assignment and amendment from Harris Sand & Gravel to Knik Construction Co., Inc., for the use of 4380 McKinley Street, Parcel B, ATS 10, owned by the City of Valdez. Discussion included: - Commissioner Goodrow expressed support, noting it is a long-standing use. - A commissioner asked if an initial soil survey had been performed; staff confirmed that a phase one environmental assessment was not a condition of the lease. - Motion to approve made by Commissioner Betis and seconded by Commissioner Batroca. The motion carried 7-0. Reports - Community Development Director's Report (Kate): Kate provided updates on: - Housing Needs Assessment: Nearing completion; will be presented to city council in December 2025 or January 2026. It is a needs assessment, not an action plan, but will help target housing incentives and demonstrate demand for developers. - Title 16 Subdivision Code Draft: Being reviewed by city attorneys; expected release before Thanksgiving, with a public hearing likely in December 2025. - Hazard Mitigation Plan: An internal update was completed and sent to state/FEMA, but deficiencies were found due to new standards. A consultant will now help reformat the plan using the existing work; a public meeting will be held at a future commission meeting. - Robe Lake Property: The city’s municipal entitlement selection (Robe Lake south) is completed. Regarding recreation use near the lake, the area remains a DOT right-of-way; any permanent development would require vacating that right-of-way, but no action has been taken. - Army Corps Study on Corbin Creek: A study to reintroduce flow into Robe Lake was completed, but the city and VFDA decided not to pursue it due to public concern about insufficient data on flood impacts and the inability to regulate water flow under the grant terms. - Presentation by Kristen Smith (Prince William Sound Economic Development District): Kristen presented an overview of the upcoming Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for 2026–2031. The process includes a survey (targeting 100 responses), SWOT analysis, demographic data, and goal setting. The survey will open shortly, and she requested commissioners share it within their networks. The CEDS is expected to be completed by the end of January 2026. Commissioner Goodrow asked about the survey tool; Kristen clarified it will not use Flash Vote due to question limits. Key Outcomes - Gravel Lease Approval (Item 1): Motion carried 7-0 to recommend city council authorize the gravel lease for Knik Construction Co. on a 21.3-acre parcel. The recommendation will go forward with staff’s 5-year term suggestion, though council may approve a longer term. - Lease Assignment Approval (Item 2): Motion carried 7-0 to recommend city council authorize the lease assignment and amendment for 4380 McKinley Street from Harris Sand & Gravel to Knik Construction Co., Inc. - Housing Needs Assessment and Subdivision Code Update: Staff will keep commissioners informed of upcoming public meetings and presentations. - CEDS Survey and Public Involvement: Commissioners were encouraged to participate and distribute the survey from the Prince William Sound Economic Development District. Adjournment Commissioner Goodrow noted this may be her last meeting and thanked the commission for her service. The chair invited everyone to cake in honor of her service. The meeting was adjourned.

The Valdez City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Pro Tem Austin Love presided, with Mayor Fleming and Councilmember Lally excused on city business, and Councilmember Green attending online. The council approved the consent agenda, the Providence Valdez Medical Center 2026 budget, and two resolutions, and received the 2025 Economic Development Report and departmental reports. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0, with 2 excused) the consent agenda, including: - A proclamation recognizing National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week (November 2-8, 2025), honoring Valdez Animal Shelter employees: Animal Control Officer Michael Clupper, Shelter Manager Alyssa Schaefer, Attendant Briannon Pierce, and temporary attendants Jane Churchill, Caitlin Morgan, and Rebecca Inick. - Approval to enter executive session to discuss Trans-Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax revenue implications and litigation strategy, ongoing escaped property legal issues, and local regulation/assessment of oil spill prevention and response property. - The proclamation was read; animal shelter representatives publicly thanked the city and community, inviting residents to visit during the week. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made for non-agenda items. No public testimony was offered on agenda items other than the animal shelter representative's thanks. Discussion Items - Providence Valdez Medical Center 2026 Operating and Capital Projects Budget: Approved 5-0 (2 excused). Council discussion included: - Hospital administrator recruitment is in the final stage; two interviews were held, stakeholder feedback submitted, and an offer is being prepared, with an announcement expected within one to two weeks. - The 107 FTEs in the budget mostly represent already-open positions; the only genuinely new FTE is a physician. - PCR (patient charge ratio) was explained as the reimbursement rate: the hospital's PCR was cited as 77.5% in discussion, while the compiled financials showed 75.1% for the hospital and 55.8% for the counseling center, reflecting different reimbursement models (cost-based critical access vs. fee schedule). - Hospital reserves are approximately $14–15 million, about 250 days cash on hand, well above the 90-day contractual minimum. - Capital projects include a replacement slit lamp and an integrated nurse call system, which is multi-year and will require an additional estimated $2,000 in a later phase. The nurse call system will cover acute care and long-term care, but not the primary care clinic at this time. - Councilmember Foster thanked Providence and Interim Administrator Pauline Dusett. - 2025 Economic Development Report: Economic Development Director Martha Barbera presented. Highlights: - Child care: The city is assisting Sugar Bear Daycare with renovations and license application, Head Start is moving to the Royal Center with furniture funding, and the Valdez Preschool Co-op received an operating grant. Funding is being monitored through Graincoast Data and the governor's task force. The council discussed that child care is an ongoing adaptation, not a solved problem; efforts align with the task force's pillars, including thriving wages; Head Start is hiring roughly 15 people. - The second annual Small Business Conference is tentatively planned for May 12–13, 2026, again partnering with the Alaska Women's Business Center. - Wayfinding phase three will add old town signs, replace Richardson Highway signs, add public art at Kelsey Dock, replace Main Street banners, and incorporate pipeline storytelling with the museum; a grant application is pending until spring. - Business Builder Workshops were successful and will continue; workshop topics were based on local business input. - Workforce development: CDL class efforts face hurdles; the city is working with a new contact. The city is also coordinating with PetroStar, Aliaska, Silver Bay, and Wilson Brothers on workforce needs. Resolutions - Resolution 25-51 – Authorizing a lease with Central Environmental, Inc. for an approximately 0.85-acre portion of USS 439 (Pipeyard) owned by the City of Valdez. Approved 5-0 (2 excused). Councilmember Foster supported it as adding scrap barging opportunities. - Resolution 25-52 – Authorizing the donation of two Matrice 210 drones to the City of Skagway Public Safety Department. Approved 4-1 (Councilmember Woody opposed; 2 excused). Councilmember Woody argued the drones should be sold online to recoup value for Valdez taxpayers, while Councilmember Green supported the donation as aiding another Alaska community. Reports & General Updates - City Manager: Energy assistance applications are open; nearly 200 were received in the first two days. - City Clerk: City holiday party December 19 at the Civic Center; additional electronic voting system tests will be scheduled; records manager and clerk attended ARMA Infocon; beautification matching grant applications will open in late November. - City Attorney: No public report; substance deferred to executive session. - Councilmember Foster highlighted the food bank's high demand period and encouraged donations at KCHU Public Radio. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 5-0 (2 excused). - Providence Valdez Medical Center 2026 Operating and Capital Projects Budget approved 5-0 (2 excused). - Resolution 25-51 approved 5-0 (2 excused). - Resolution 25-52 approved 4-1 (2 excused; Councilmember Woody opposed). - Executive session was scheduled for 7:50 PM. - Council directed that regular updates on child care task force pillars be provided.

This work session revisited prior topics (KCHU, Avalanche Center, VCVB), reviewed the Ports & Harbors Division budgets, discussed reserve funds, and wrapped up with CIP projects. No public comment was taken; public hearing set for November 18, 2025. KCHU AM Tower Funding - Jimmy Devons, speaking as a private citizen, requested a $50,000 CSO grant for a new AM tower. He presented quotes, fundraising progress ($28,561 raised), and matching grant plans. Council questioned the organization's financial health and project timeline. Council members Joe, Lester, and Austin voted to include $50,000 in the budget, with the condition that staff research the viability of using a memorandum of understanding (MOA) for matching funds. The appropriation was approved 3-0. Valdez Avalanche Center - Director Sarah presented a revised request of $99,500, which included a $20,000 audit fee. After discussion, the council agreed to fund $79,500 by removing the audit expense, as the request was under $100,000 and the audit was not required. The council confirmed this amount would still meet the required deliverables (five-day-a-week forecasts). All council members indicated support. Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau (VCVB) - Director Harris presented a $563,000 request, but failed to provide the requested 2024 audit and event revenue/expense breakdown. Council members expressed concerns about financial losses, lack of transparency, and reliance on events with unproven returns. Council member Love proposed limiting funding to $505,000 (the accommodation tax level), contingent on receiving the 2024 audit by January 1, 2026, submitting a revised budget focused on destination marketing, and providing quarterly financial and operational reports. The motion passed with all council members in favor (Joe, Lester, Austin, Jimmy, and the mayor). Ports & Harbors Division - City Manager Duval and Director Nelson presented the airport, harbor, and port fund budgets. Key points: airport operating subsidy of $229,000; harbor targeting a $63,000 surplus with a rate increase and expense reductions; port fund balance over $5 million, with a $300,000 average annual contribution to reserves. No objections were raised, and the budgets moved forward as presented. Reserve Funds & Permanent Fund Contribution - The council discussed the $3.4 million windfall from the escape properties court case. Council member Love proposed allocating $1.8 million from the repayment reserve to the permanent fund. The vote failed 3-3 (Love, Lester, and ?; Joe, Jimmy, and mayor opposed? Actually Joe and Lester opposed, mayor opposed? From transcript: Lester stuck with his position (opposed), Joe opposed, mayor opposed, so 3 against? Then Jimmy supported Love? Actually Jimmy initially proposed a lesser amount, then said he could support 1.8 if it was the difference. Then after failed, Jimmy proposed $867,150 (the amount over $1 million) to the permanent fund. This passed with all council members in favor. Wrap-up & Next Steps - The city manager presented the final budget picture with $73 million in total appropriations and a plan to transfer funds from the debt service fund to the CIP planning reserve. The work session concluded.

The Valdez City Council held a budget work session on October 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers to review proposed 2026 budgets for the Education, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services (PRCS), and Emergency Services divisions. Council members discussed funding requests, departmental adjustments, and long-term financial planning, including implications of the expiration of the Tap Settlement agreement. Education Division Valdez City Schools (VCS) - Superintendent Jason Weber presented a budget request of $11.7 million, in line with statutory funding. Key cost drivers included a 26% increase in bus contract costs, raising transportation expenses from $94,000 to $162,000. The district also requested an additional $300,000 from the city to cover inflationary costs and maintain programs. - Council members expressed support for the funding level. A council member noted that the school district's math curriculum update, funded by previous city support, led to a 9% proficiency increase in grades 3-9. - Superintendent Weber reported that the undesignated reserve fund remained under 10% and that funds were designated for security upgrades (doors and cameras) and high school elevator replacement. - Council member Jim questioned the school district's involvement in strategic discussions about community demographic shifts and enrollment. Superintendent Weber agreed to participate in such discussions. Prince William Sound College (PWSC) - The college requested a total of $950,000, including an additional $100,000 for shop and table facilities. Council members had questions about recruitment, dual credit programs, and the Jesse Whitney Museum's financial performance. - A council member proposed deferring the additional $100,000 to a later work session for more detailed discussion, while maintaining the base $950,000 in the budget. The council agreed to this plan. - College representatives highlighted successful enrollment growth, with a goal of double-digit annual increases. Recruitment efforts include in-state college fairs and expanded dual credit offerings. Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services (PRCS) Civic Center - City Manager Nate reported a planned increase in civic center promotion to boost revenue, including advertising at wedding expos and revising fee schedules. A sound panel replacement was noted as a capital expense. - The Memorial Day picnic event is being removed (savings estimated at $10,000–$20,000), with funds redirected to bolster the Coast Guard welcome event. Library - The library budget maintains status quo staffing at 4.98 FTEs, but City Manager indicated a review of operations, noting potential changes to hours and staffing to better meet community needs. Council members expressed interest in maintaining current service levels. Recreation Department - The recreation budget reflects a reduction in temporary wages due to difficulty hiring, but Director Rich assured no reduction in gym or pool hours. Staff will reallocate duties internally. - Council members noted the need to adapt programming to current trends (e.g., pickleball declining) and maximize facility usage. Parks Maintenance - The parks maintenance budget includes increases for replacement of deteriorating items (trash cans, awnings, grills) and a focus on sprucing up campgrounds. The skate park replacement is planned using major maintenance funds. - The lawn care contract will go out for bid; the city has taken on some in-house mowing. - The campground contract with MWR was revised to improve maintenance, oversight, and advertising. Council was informed of low occupancy (20% before Labor Day) and efforts to improve. Emergency Services Division Fire and EMS - The fire department budget shows a 3.9% increase, including $125,000 in additional ambulance revenue. Overtime reduced due to full staffing. Training budget increased for new hires. - Temporary wages fund a person to shovel fire hydrants in winter. Animal Control - The budget reflects a shift from one full-time temp to multiple part-time college students for better coverage. Increased intakes have been observed. Emergency Management - The emergency management budget reduced training costs by partnering with Coast Guard and State EOC. Focus shifts from supplies to staffing and team training. Police Department (COPPS 13) - The police budget reflects a net reduction of $50,000 in payroll due to vacancies. Recruitment efforts ongoing; one officer position was vacant for over a year. Body camera footage processing increased records workload. Public Safety (Dispatch) - Dispatch now handles Whittier and Girdwood calls (added without additional staff). Revenue from this contract is positive. Council noted challenges filling jailer/dispatcher positions, currently combined as corrections officers. Key Outcomes - Council expressed unanimous support for the school district funding at the requested level. - The council agreed to defer the additional $100,000 college request for a future work session and keep the base $950,000 in the budget. - No formal votes were taken on PRCS or emergency services budgets, but council members indicated support for the presented budgets and adjustments. - City Manager Nate recommended moving $5.1 million in debt service appropriation to the Meals repaving project in 2025 to ensure a clean audit. Council concurred with this recommendation. - The overall citywide appropriation could grow from $73 million to approximately $78–$80 million depending on capital project decisions, with potential revenue risks from state tax valuation and Tap Settlement expiration. Note: The meeting was a work session; no formal votes were recorded, but council members voiced consensus on several items.

The Valdez City Council held a budget work session on October 28, 2025, starting at 6:30 PM, to review the proposed FY2026 budgets for the Facilities, Fleet and Infrastructure Division, major equipment purchases, and capital projects. City Manager Nate and division directors presented detailed breakdowns of departmental expenses, revenues, and project options. Council members discussed utility rate adjustments, capital project prioritization, and equipment replacement, reaching consensus on several budgetary directions. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: City Manager Nate presented a high-level view of the division, noting that the budget is dominated by roughly half payroll and half supplies/services. He highlighted that the utility fund is a special revenue fund with its own insurance costs. Personnel costs include overtime and standby wages, particularly for snow removal in streets, solid waste, and building maintenance. - Building Maintenance: The budget increased 1.5% year-over-year. Highlights included a new fire alarm contractor, funds for outdated system upgrades, self-monitoring system integration with IT, and a slight janitorial increase. A council member asked about a heating reduction; staff clarified it was a correction from over-budgeting in 2023 due to high fuel prices. Temp staffing was added to backfill employees undergoing medical repairs. - Engineering Department: The new director position was filled. Budget essentially status quo, with some project manager support for the new director. - Solid Waste: Budget proposed a 0.5% reduction. A $92,000 reduction in dumpster purchases was offset by a $20,000 increase for parts. Discussion included the success of a temporary employee at the baylor (scrap metal program) and plans to professionalize recycling. The dumpster pod program was mentioned for future revival. - Street Shop: Budget remained flat year-over-year. Overtime and rural snow removal were reduced to reflect actuals, though the city manager promised to request additional funds from the budget variance reserve if a heavy snow year occurs. Public Works Director John Whitty noted trenching safety training was planned for the upcoming year. A $50,000 reduction in rural snow removal was based on historical highs, but the recent contract change (Harris vacating) may affect costs. - Utility Fund (Water & Sewer): The operating subsidy has hovered around $1.2 million annually, driven by fish processing usage (higher in odd years). Current rates were set in 2004. City Manager advocated a 5% rate increase applied universally, noting that a full CPI adjustment would require a 60% increase for larger commercial users. He recommended a future CIP project to install meters for all commercial users before making substantive rate changes. Council members expressed support for a gradual increase, with some noting the need to address the budget deficit. The budget was presented with current rates, but a future ordinance for a 5% increase was anticipated. - Sewer Department: Budget reduced by $72,000 (8%) due to removal of a permit renewal and other true-ups. Staff confirmed progress on NPDES renewal and compliance. - Water Department: Budget increased by $5,000 on a $1 million base. True-ups reduced overtime and electricity; leak detection services were obtained through Alaska Rural Water. Funds were added for pump and motor parts, categorized as major equipment. - Capital Projects: The FY2025 carryforward was $4.2 million, plus $5 million from debt service reserve, totaling $9.3 million in the planning reserve. City Manager presented three options: - Option A: Fully fund Meals Avenue paving (engineer estimate $9.8 million, budgeted at $8.6 million) and scrap barge removal. This would use nearly all funds, leaving little for other projects. - Option B: Fund rural roads ($2 million), radio tower ($1 million), nuisance abatement ($750,000), deferred maintenance ($500,000), and put the remaining $5 million toward a scaled-back Meals project (possibly without Rogue River Drive) or hold for future years. - Option C (developed during discussion): Fully fund Meals Avenue, scrap barge, radio tower, nuisance abatement, and deferred maintenance by reallocating $1.6 million from the rural roads line and funding the difference from the general fund unrestricted balance (or repayment reserve). Several council members supported Option C, with the condition that the city manager could find savings elsewhere. Councilmember Devons proposed deleting rural roads entirely to fully fund Meals. The council generally favored proceeding with as many projects as possible while deferring rural roads, with a plan to adjust based on actual bids. - Major Equipment: The total appropriation was $1.8 million, with $1.6 million from the 10-year average and $200,000 for other items. Replacement list included a single man lift, trackless sidewalk machine, two police vehicles, a loader (Cat 966), a vacuum truck (brand to be evaluated), a mower attachment, and fire decon equipment (roto decon extractor and hazmat tent). A council member asked about compatibility of brands; staff confirmed the loader would be Cat and the vacuum truck would be compatible with existing fleet. The snow grooming machines were discussed; a 20-year-old machine was overhauled and slated for replacement in 2030. The grand piano at the Civic Center was noted on the long-range list. - Late Item – KVAK/KCHU Presentation: A council member requested to bring back a presentation from KVAK/KCHU (public radio) that had a mix-up with presenters. Two council members supported adding it to the Thursday meeting agenda. No formal vote was taken, but direction was given to add the item. Key Outcomes - The council directed staff to proceed with Option C for capital projects: fully fund Meals Avenue paving (using the $8.6 million allocation plus an additional $1.6 million from rural roads and possibly general fund/repayment reserve), fund scrap barge removal, radio tower (one site), nuisance abatement, and deferred maintenance. The rural roads project was deferred. The city manager will seek to identify savings from existing project funds to minimize draws from reserves. - Staff will bring back a future ordinance for a 5% utility rate increase applied universally (residential and commercial), with a separate conversation about commercial metering. - All departmental budgets (building maintenance, engineering, solid waste, street shop, water, sewer) were moved forward as presented, subject to the overall budget adoption later. - The major equipment list was accepted as presented, with replacement of two police cars completing the 6-7 year cycle, and evaluation of a different vacuum truck brand. - The KVAK/KCHU presentation was added to the regular meeting agenda scheduled for October 30, 2025.

The Valdez City Council held a special meeting on October 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM to consider and approve a snow removal contract for Areas 1 and 3. The meeting was called to order with all members present except Council Member Green. The sole agenda item was approved unanimously. New Business - Approval of Snow Removal Contract for Areas 1 & 3 to Mega Trucking, LLC: Council Member made a motion to approve the contract, seconded by Council Member Foster. No discussion or public testimony was offered. The motion carried with six votes in favor (Council Members absent: Green). Key Outcomes - The snow removal contract for Areas 1 and 3 was awarded to Mega Trucking, LLC. The vote was 6-0-1 (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent). No further actions were taken, and the meeting adjourned immediately after the vote.

The Valdez Planning and Zoning Commission met on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 212 Chenega Ave., Valdez, AK. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Metroca (excused); Commissioner Wade attended by phone. The sole new business item was a recommendation to City Council for a lease with Central Environmental, Inc. for approximately 2 acres of the city-owned USS 439 (Pipeyard). The meeting also included a report from the Community Development Director and commission business from the floor. Public Comments & Testimony - One staff member indicated they did not wish to speak on non-agenda items; no public testimony was offered. Discussion Items - Lease with Central Environmental, Inc. (New Business): Commissioner Goodrow moved to approve the recommendation, seconded by Commissioner Beatis. Discussion addressed site conditions, environmental assessment, and land-use classification. - Commissioner Goodrow asked whether soil samples were taken before material was placed and whether additional samples could be taken afterward to check for residue from transformers or other materials. - The Community Development Director explained that the scrap metal storage was already in progress due to a planned fall barge shipment that was delayed. Staff encouraged a temporary land use permit but recognized the need for longer-term storage. A Phase I environmental assessment is required for leases on light/heavy industrial zoned city land, along with an appraisal for fair rental value. The applicant documented existing site conditions before moving materials, providing a baseline for the Phase I assessment. - Sean Holland, representing the applicant, confirmed that a full site characterization with pre-utilization sampling was completed and that post-utilization sampling will follow as good practice. He stated there are no transformers or petroleum/oil/lubricant residues on the stored metal components. - Commissioner Goodrow expressed satisfaction with the response. - Another commissioner asked when the site would become a salvage yard requiring fencing and whether long-term storage is a permitted use. The Director clarified that the use is "storage for shipment and barging," not processing, and is a permitted use under the zoning code. - The Director also noted an existing lease with the Valdez Motorsports Club at the same site; the club was notified and had no concerns, and the area will be well-marked to avoid conflicts. - Community Development Director’s Report: The Director provided a verbal update: - Title 16 draft subdivision code has completed legal review and management review; the draft is back with consultants and expected next week. Public review is being prepared, and the item will be brought to the commission at a November meeting. - Several lease applications are being processed and will be agenda items for November meetings. - Commission terms for three commissioners end at the end of November; the clerk's office is reaching out about reapplication. New or returning commissioners will join at the first meeting in December. Key Outcomes - The commission voted 6 yes, 0 no, 1 absent (Commissioner Metroca excused) to recommend approval of the lease with Central Environmental, Inc. to the City Council. Commissioner Wade participated by phone. - Commissioner Bates announced she will not be able to continue serving next year due to PhD comprehensive exams and travel, effective after the remaining meetings. - The commission will receive the Title 16 draft in November for review.

The Valdez City Council met on October 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine consent agenda items, approval of a community jail contract, reconsideration of a Parks and Recreation Commission appointment, a discussion on the disposal of the former Pipeline Club property, adoption of three ordinances, approval of three resolutions, and council business including a request for a revised CSO application from the Valdez Avalanche Center. The meeting also included a city manager report and ended with a recess prior to executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved Amendment 1 to the Care Management Service Agreement with Personify Health. - Approved an Exceptional Use Agreement for the Valdez Civic Center by Alyeska Pipeline Service Company. - Approved moving into executive session to discuss Trans-Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues, escaped property legal issues, and oil spill prevention and response property regulation. - Motion carried 6-0 (one absent). Discussion Items - FY2026 Community Jail Contract with State of Alaska: Approved unanimously 6-0. Councilmember Foster noted disappointment in funding reduction and emphasized continued lobbying for increased jail funding. City Manager noted the contract is status quo and that the state continued including electronic monitoring due to impracticality of state management. The budget reduction was across-the-board for all jail contracts. - Reconsideration of Parks and Recreation Commission Appointment: The City Clerk reported that a ballot counting error occurred at the previous meeting. A recount showed Benjamin Rush received the most votes, not Julian Reese. Councilmember Lally moved to reconsider; motion passed 6-0. Then a motion to appoint Benjamin Rush to a three-year term passed 6-0. - Disposal of Property at 120-142 Egan Drive (Former Pipeline Club Property): City Manager presented options: RFP, negotiated sale, auction, over-the-counter sale. Council discussed the history of two unsuccessful RFPs and the desire to spur housing development. Several council members expressed support for a negotiated sale with a housing component, avoiding overly prescriptive conditions. City Manager will draft a resolution authorizing negotiated sale, using prior RFP requirements as a starting point, including development timelines. The consensus was to proceed with a negotiated sale. - Ordinances: All three ordinances passed unanimously 6-0: - Ordinance 25-12: Zoning map amendment to change Tract C-1 to Heavy Industrial (second reading). - Ordinance 25-13: Amending Chapter 8.20 (Nuisances) (second reading). - Ordinance 25-14: Amending Chapter 1.08 (General Penalty) (second reading). - Resolutions: All three resolutions passed unanimously 6-0: - Resolution 25-48: Authorizing disposal of certain city records. - Resolution 25-49: Authorizing grant application to ASPCA for $61,000 for veterinary care. - Resolution 25-50: Amending animal shelter fees, including outsourcing cremations to a flameless process (Aquamation) with pass-through pricing. Private cremations remain available with ashes returned options. City Manager Report - City Manager highlighted a visit from Representative Rauscher to discuss legislative priorities. - A meeting with DOT Commissioner and Marine Highway Director is scheduled for Thursday to discuss the ferry terminal. - A snow removal contract was inadvertently omitted from the agenda; it will be added to the Tuesday work session. - Budget work sessions are scheduled for Monday through Thursday of the following week; Monday's session will be at the Civic Center. - City Manager recommended eliminating the Economic Diversification Commission due to lack of applicants and shifting priorities; an ordinance will be brought forward. - Welcomed new Capital Facilities Director Casey Walker and acknowledged retiring Public Works employee Dan Moller (11-12 years of service). Council Business from the Floor - Councilmember Lally requested that the City Manager work with the Valdez Avalanche Center to resubmit their CSO (Community Service Organization) application for funding between 50% and 65% of total program costs, with specific deliverables: minimum 5-day/week avalanche forecasts (Dec 1–Apr 30), special avalanche alerts, at least one age-appropriate education event at each Valdez City School, and forecaster exchanges with the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center. Councilmember Devons expressed concern about burdening the organization late in the process, but other council members supported the direction. The City Manager was directed to communicate this request. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 6-0. - FY2026 Community Jail Contract approved 6-0. - Reconsideration of Parks and Rec appointment approved 6-0; Benjamin Rush appointed 6-0. - Direction given to City Manager to draft a resolution for negotiated sale of the Pipeline Club property, with housing as a priority. - Ordinances 25-12, 25-13, 25-14 adopted unanimously. - Resolutions 25-48, 25-49, 25-50 adopted unanimously. - City Manager directed to contact Valdez Avalanche Center regarding revised CSO application with 50-65% city funding and specified deliverables. - The meeting recessed for executive session after council business.