Amanda Diehl

The assembly meeting included detailed discussions regarding capital planning and budgeting, focusing on the risks associated with inflation (estimated at 15% per year for multi-year projects) impacting project funding estimates. Key topics involved reviewing the approved capital appropriation listing, differentiating between capital projects (which add life to an asset) and maintenance, and discussing funding sources such as undesignated working capital and the public infrastructure sinking fund. Assembly members debated setting targets for rate increases, particularly for the electric department, while balancing the need to avoid deferred maintenance and fund critical projects, such as the expensive, regulatory compliance-related wastewater effluent disinfection project which requires matching grant funds. The process for developing future budgets and resource proposals for the next fiscal year was outlined.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. A significant portion of the session involved a report from Mr. Clement, who provided an update on CERH activities, highlighting successes in increasing access to special care services, including the expansion of physical therapy and infusion services. The report also detailed the organization's robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including significant testing capacity enhancements following the acquisition of new laboratory equipment. Furthermore, updates were provided on the progress of the commitment to construct a new hospital, which is currently in the design phase with a projected groundbreaking in 2021. Discussions also covered ongoing land swap deals with the Indian Health Service (IHS) related to the new hospital site and housing commitments, as well as efforts to remediate and repurpose old sites like the Totten building and Penrod Hall. Board members commended the organization's unparalleled testing capacity.

The assembly meeting included discussions on staffing levels within the police department, clarifying the difference between sworn officer counts and police officer counts, totaling nine police officers allotted plus administrative sworn staff. There was discussion regarding the potential establishment of a police auxiliary volunteer program. A department report focused on tourism updates, including the open 2025 end-of-season tourism survey, which seeks feedback on the season and operational matters like Lincoln Street. The deadline for this survey is October 26th, with results expected on November 13th. Additionally, the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Visit Sitka services was highlighted, noting key changes from the previous RFP, allowing for applications for individual services rather than an all-or-nothing approach, and providing flexible contract terms. Public participation included comments concerning safety issues at the Kimsham baseball and softball fields, citing injuries due to poor field conditions, incorrect base installation, and the presence of animal waste, requesting better security and maintenance. Assembly members also discussed the status of airport land lease and future infrastructure improvements, specifically an access road required by the state and long-term taxiway expansion plans which will affect a seven-day parking lot.

Key discussions during the meeting included updates from staff regarding the memorial and street naming policy subcommittee, the Historic Preservation Plan recommendation to the Assembly, and the ongoing cemetery rezoning effort. New business involved the unanimous recommendation to write a letter of support for the nomination of 103 Cathedral Way to the National Register of Historic Places. The Commission also reviewed and recommended approval for a mariculture facility at 1332 Seward Avenue, contingent upon visual impact concurrence and the placement of an observer during digging activities. Furthermore, the Commission recommended against moving a cell tower on wheels at 1332 Seward Avenue to mitigate adverse effects on the viewshed of a National Historic Landmark. Regarding a seaplane base at 1190 Seward Avenue, the Commission requested further discussion on the draft Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), specifically seeking preservation of a watch post structure and detailed interpretive materials. Finally, the Commission commented that an 80-foot monopole cell tower at 404 Sawmill Creek Road would have a visual effect, but not a major impact, on historic properties.

Key discussions during the meeting included the status of the GPIP Haul Out Development Discussion, noting that the RFP has not yet been sent to the Assembly pending completion of zoning information. Efforts were also detailed regarding securing temporary insurance options for uninsured boats requiring haul-out services. The board reviewed and discussed the draft Commercial Vessel Movement Operation Regulations, specifically concerning Pacific Jewel Marine's request to transport vessels. The board recommended Assembly approval contingent on further investigation into pollution insurance costs and the establishment of standard implementation procedures. Additionally, the board discussed the request from Pacific Jewel Marine for a non-competitive long-term lease amendment for Lot 9b to ensure unobstructed access to a future boathouse. Concerns arose regarding proposed accessory uses potentially violating non-competitive bid criteria, leading to a motion to postpone finalizing lease terms until the December meeting.