Borough of Skagway

The meeting agenda was approved unanimously. Communications included a presentation from Selkirk Copper Mines representatives regarding their former Minto mine project update, discussing development timelines targeting 2028 production, potential shipping volumes, trucking frequency, and loading methods for concentrates. Port Director updates covered port signage replacement, wave barrier safety messaging, and town map updates. The Board recommended unanimous Assembly support for full funding of the Alaska Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Program and for increasing the maximum grant per project to $7.5 million. Conceptual plans for the Welcome Garden were supported, specifically including a gravel pathway while excluding the fountain. The draft 2026 meeting schedule was approved. Additionally, an overview of the mid-April community water safety event, Taiya Days, was provided, and a report confirmed that previously recommended tariff updates were adopted.

This Comprehensive Plan aims to guide Skagway's growth over the next 10 to 20 years, focusing on balancing economic growth with residents' quality of life and environmental health. The plan addresses key areas such as Quality of Life, Economic Development, Transportation, Recreation, Housing, Land Use and Future Growth, Public Utilities, Public Safety, and Public Services, outlining goals, objectives, and actions to achieve a resilient and thriving community.

The meeting included approval of the agenda, following a note that the minutes from February and March 2025 could not be approved and would be tabled. Discussions centered on a new business item: the first reading of an application for replat No. 2025037 by Vondette Development, LLC, which involves combining two lots to facilitate the construction of a shop with five apartments, requiring clarification on previous environmental status. A resolution (No. 25-10R) was adopted, approving a Conditional Use Permit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit above an existing garage for Rodney and Stanislava Fairbanks. A public hearing was held regarding an application for Setback Nonconforming Status (No. 2025038) for James Higgins, which involved directing staff to prepare a resolution based on documentation verifying the structure's pre-existing status relative to the October 1, 2024, cutoff date. The meeting concluded with commission discussion and adjournment.

The Ports & Harbors Advisory Board meeting included discussions on citizen concerns regarding moorage rate increases, budget clarity, and wharfage charges, with a report detailing the formation of a Yukon-Alaska user group exploring bulk mineral shipping. The Port Director's report summarized updates on grants, dredging, permitting, Ore Dock projects, infrastructure work, and Yukon coordination. New Business involved discussion and approval of Resolution No. 25-30R, which amends Port Tariff No. 3, aiming to support long-term capital replacement and enterprise fund sustainability through harbor rate increases. Discussion items covered Yukon relations, commitment to cooperation, updates from the Marine Ad Hoc Committee, and public comment encouragement for the Cascade Point ferry terminal.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, noting a potential quorum issue related to a specific item. Key discussions involved a request from the Civic Affairs Committee for guidance on updating the Historic District code. Unfinished business focused on Permit for Development Application No. 24-65 for Skagway Jewelry Co., LLC, concerning alterations to the building, specifically relating to bay windows and exterior finishes. The commission ultimately approved Option A for the permit with several conditions, including the removal of the awning and skylights, and replacement of stucco with historic siding. New business included the postponement of a Demolition Application (No. 24-64) and the consideration and adoption of the 2025 Historic District Commission meeting schedule, which involved canceling the December 30, 2024, meeting. Discussions also covered recruitment efforts for a vacant commission seat.