Kathleen Thomas

The meeting included a work session on department restructuring and a comprehensive agenda for the Borough Assembly. Key actions included the approval of a 25-year land lease for a solar energy and battery storage project with the Southeast Alaska Power Authority, as well as several resolutions related to budget amendments, fee adjustments, and local business licensing. The assembly also considered property transactions, discussed various municipal code amendments, and addressed reports from the Borough Manager, Clerk, and the Nolan Center Director.

The commission reviewed several new business items including lease and conditional use permit applications for the Southeast Alaska Power Agency regarding a grid reliability and stability solar project. Variance applications for front yard setbacks, short-term rental permits, and multiple preliminary and final plat reviews for subdivision development were discussed. The commission also addressed zoning ordinance amendments concerning Timber Management designations and reviewed director reports regarding utility infrastructure software and town hall schedules.

The meeting included a proclamation for Municipal Clerk's Week and public input regarding municipal code changes, specifically concerning heat rates and community market peddler rules. The Assembly discussed and approved various budget amendments, grants for library services, and final plat approvals for local subdivisions. Public hearings were held to approve sales tax-free days, borough-wide fee and rate schedules, and the repeal of code sections related to peddlers. Additional business included the authorization of public land conveyance, approval of a Memorandum of Understanding for project structures, first readings for ordinances on sales tax and local business licenses, and a contract award for a school boiler replacement. Furthermore, the assembly addressed financial transfers for port planning, cost-of-living adjustments, employee handbook updates regarding parental leave, and the authorization of a small shipyard grant application.

The Port Commission received a report from the Harbormaster regarding dock maintenance and harbor preparation. Commissioner reports included discussions on water valve maintenance, appreciation for winter snow removal efforts, and considerations for trash can options at the Marine Service Center. The commission approved the amended fee and rate schedule for the upcoming fiscal year and discussed the future possibility of adding kayak racks and storage rates to harbor facilities.

The assembly discussed public concerns regarding proposed business license ordinances and held a public hearing on permanent vehicle registration, which was subsequently approved. Additional actions included the first reading of an ordinance to repeal regulations for peddlers and itinerant merchants, approval of multiple budget amendments for fiscal year 2026, and the authorization of a timber sale agreement. Furthermore, the assembly passed a joint resolution supporting the creation of a maritime prosperity zone and approved a nondisclosure agreement with the State of Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority.