Christine Cleland-McGrath

The council received a COVID-19 update regarding city operations, cancellations of festivals, the status of small business grant applications, and the coordination of a senior class parade and virtual graduation. Technical issues with the meeting streaming provider were addressed, with plans to use alternative platforms for future briefings. The Public Works Committee provided updates on the A Avenue dump site, ongoing fiber network deployment, and various construction projects, including roundabouts and water infrastructure. The council approved a consent agenda and received a detailed presentation on the Anacortes fiber internet service, noting current subscriber numbers, service expansion plans, and a proposed service suspension policy for residential customers.

The meeting featured the presentation of the mayor's proposed annual budget, which transitions from a biennial to an annual budget, and an update on COVID-19 case statistics and public health metrics. Committee reports covered strategies for outfall project procurement and water system infrastructure. The council held a closed record decision hearing and approved a conditional use permit for the construction of a private parking lot at 1015 18th Street. Furthermore, the council approved a significant payment of claims.

The Council meeting included an executive session regarding infrastructure and security for the city computer network. Various committee reports were presented, covering topics such as fire department staffing, FEMA grants, city infrastructure projects including restrooms and sewer overflows, affordable housing implementation, and municipal planning. Public comments were received regarding city street conditions and the neutrality of civil servants in ballot measures. The Council approved the consent agenda, including claims and various contract resolutions. Additionally, the State Auditor provided a report on IT security, and a discussion was held regarding the status of the Municipal Fiber network.

The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing focused on the Anacortes Shoreline Master Program. The Planning Manager provided a presentation regarding the program's background and the periodic update process. Representatives from The Watershed Company were present to address questions from the Commissioners and the public regarding the update procedure.

The City Council meeting included a COVID-19 update and several board and committee appointments, specifically for the Housing Authority Board, the Library Board of Trustees, and the Accessible Communities Advisory Committee. Various committee reports were presented, covering topics such as traffic safety, lodging tax projections, fiber optic lease agreements, parks and recreation projects, and tourism promotion. The Council authorized the Mayor to sign the First Amendment to a renewable energy service agreement. Additionally, resolutions were approved regarding a declaration of substantial need for property tax and setting the 2021 property tax levy. Preliminary discussions were held regarding the 2021-2026 Capital Facilities Plan update and the adoption of the 2021 city budget, with potential revisions proposed for pavement programs, IT staffing, and project funding.