MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 1 of 9
1. Call To Order: Mayor Schaefer called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. Roll Call: Present: Mayor: Mark Schaefer Assembly Members: Steve Burnham Jr., Tim Cochran, Angela Grieser, Gary Hanson, Spencer Morgan Absent: Dan Henry (excused)
3. Approval of Minutes: Minutes for the November 25, 2014, regular Assembly meeting was approved as presented by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
4. Approval of Agenda: The agenda of the December 4, 2014, regular Assembly meeting was approved by voice vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
5. Reports of Officials and Committees:
A. Mayor’s Report: Mayor Schaefer made the following appointments: Reappointed Gary Eagan as alternate to CVB Board, term 2017 Reappointed Jenne Gonzalez to Library Board, term 2016 Reappointed Becky Jensen to Clinic Board, term 2017 Appointed Marla Belisle to Skagway Traditional Council seat on Clinic Board, term 2015 Reappointed Laura Lowes to Historic District Commission, term 2017 Appointed Charles Stearns to Historic District Commission, term 2017 Reappointed Bruce Schindler to Museum Board, term 2017 Reappointed Mark Saldi to Harbors Advisory Board, term 2017
The Assembly had no objection to the appointments.
Mayor Schaefer indicated that a Port Commission and Assembly work session regarding port governance could be tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, 2015.
Mayor Schaefer reported that the negotiating committee is chipping away at the White Pass lease. Mayor Schaefer indicated that the Assembly should consider sending someone to Mineral Roundup in Vancouver, BC, at the end of January.
Mayor Schaefer indicated there is a draft letter at the table to Governor Bill Walker, congratulating him and mentioning the ferry float. The Assembly had no objection to sending the letter.
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Mayor Schaefer reported that former Mayor Stan Selmer fell and may need to go to Seattle for treatment; Mayor Schaefer asked that everyone keep him in their thoughts.
B. Finance Committee: Motion/Second: Burnham/Cochran
To approve General checks 106848 through 107626 and direct deposits totaling $592,301.48.
Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
Assemblyman Burnham noted that the Finance Committee discussed the Recreation Center expansion project and recommends looking at the Recreation Center’s long-term needs and the possibility of a separate building as an aqua health center. Assemblyman Burnham indicated that the committee discussed holding a work session with the Recreation Board on the subject; Mayor Schaefer indicated the Assembly could discuss it under Mayor and Assembly Discussion Items. Mayor Schaefer noted that the next Recreation Board meeting on December 8 is a little early and Mayor Schaefer would like all Assembly members present.
C. Public Safety Committee: Assemblyman Hanson indicated that the Public Safety Facility Committee will meet on December 9 with the architect to discuss the location of the water tank on the site, and also get an update from the architect.
Assemblyman Hanson reported that the Rapuzzi Committee continues to work on its protocols for dispersal and sale of collection items and is drafting a mission statement, both of which will be finalized at the December 9 committee meeting. Assemblyman Hanson indicated he would work with Rapuzzi Committee Chair Tim Bourcy on researching language regarding historic easements on the Rapuzzi House and the Commissary, which was a stipulation in the Rapuzzi Collection agreement; the easement would mean that if the structures are sold or rehabilitated, the historical façade of the buildings would not be altered.
D. Public Works Committee: Assemblyman Burnham reported that the Public Works Committee will meet on December 10 to draft comments regarding the reconstruction of State Street, and to discuss what municipal improvements should happen prior to the reconstruction. Assemblyman Burnham noted that the committee would at least consider doing work under the road for the Public Safety Facility prior to resurfacing.
Assemblyman Burnham indicated that the Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) met and discussed the brush pile at Seven Pastures and that it is closed, and how debris dumping can be handled in the future. Assemblyman Burnham noted that the Manager will finalize the items discussed by the committee. Assemblyman Burnham noted that one idea was to open the gate to the new property on the Klondike Highway in the morning and close it at the end of the day for residential dumping of brush and grass; the area could also be open on the weekends during Incinerator hours. Assemblyman Burnham indicated that Public Works can work on a fee schedule MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 3 of 9 for commercial dumping; Assemblyman Burnham indicated that the Manager will work with the Public Works Director on these logistics. Manager Hahn indicated the Municipality may also get rid of the chipper.
E. Civic Affairs Committee: Assemblywoman Grieser indicated that the committee had not met because they are waiting on completion of trapping maps.
F. Health, Education and Welfare Committee: Assemblyman Cochran reported that the Health, Education and Welfare Committee met on December 1 with the Clinic Executive Board to discuss the HRSA grant and language in code and the co-applicant agreement that may be out of compliance with HRSA regulations. Assemblyman Cochran indicated that the Clinic Executive Committee will present recommendations to the Assembly.
Assemblyman Cochran noted that there is an item on the agenda for a Clinic Accounts and Benefits Specialist; this is a granted position so there will be no additional financial burden on the Municipality.
Assemblyman Cochran indicated that the Port Commission and Assembly may tentatively hold a work session on January 7 to discuss port governance, and indicated that an Assembly member should travel to Mineral Roundup in late January. Mayor Schaefer indicated he thinks he will attend.
G. Parks and Recreation Committee: Assemblyman Morgan reported that the Parks and Recreation Committee will meet on December 10 to discuss established trails per the trapping ordinance, and will potentially discuss a memo from Lead Groundskeeper Gregg Kollasch regarding gun safety training and moving targets at the rifle range.
Assemblyman Morgan reported that Historic District Commission members who attended Newly Elected Officials training in Anchorage indicated that the training was long and they learned a lot about running meetings; it was money well spent.
H. Manager’s Report: Manager Hahn reported that the Recycling and Solid Waste Facility request for proposals (RFP) is out, and ten entities have requested the proposal package so far. Manager Hahn indicated that Water Superintendent Tim Gladden is looking into starting a few more projects, including well design, the design to extend water service across the bridge, the water tank, the lab building and odor control studies. Manager Hahn indicated he is working with Dr. Chad Gubala regarding geotechnical work for the foundation of the water tank at the Public Safety Facility site; this item will be forwarded to the Finance Committee. Manager Hahn noted that a hazardous materials survey is in the works for several historical properties, the Gateway Project is continuing and the StreamWalk project is moving forward.
MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 4 of 9
6. Communications to the Assembly:
A. Correspondence: No additional correspondence was received.
B. Hear Citizens Present: National Park Service (NPS) Superintendent Mike Tranel indicated that he would like to look back on the last couple of months because it presents a few good lessons. Mr. Tranel indicated he wanted to clarify the situation regarding the meetings on November 25; NPS had a variance for the Goldberg Building and an agenda item with the Assembly that evening. Mr. Tranel indicated that NPS had a good plan and an opportunity to make it even better, which was the reason the boardwalk item was on the evening agenda. Mr. Tranel indicated that what was determined will work fine and is a good solution.
Mr. Tranel indicated that accessibility is important and he will push for it whenever the opportunity arises; Mr. Tranel was on a national task force regarding accessibility in the national park system, and he committed to the NPS director that he will do everything possible to make the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (KGRNHP) as accessible as possible. Mr. Tranel indicated that NPS has brought in $1.5 million to improve accessibility in the park. Mr. Tranel noted that over the next couple of years the entire downstairs of the main NPS building will be rehabilitated and made accessible with universal design; these principles will carry through to the rehabilitation of the YMCA / Meyers Meat Market building.
Mr. Tranel indicated that the project that has caused a stir from time to time will be great thing, as it is an untold story and part of Skagway’s history. Mr. Tranel indicated that in regards to the concerns from the neighbors, with the finished product one can look from the Eagles deck directly to open space across the alley; unless one looks off in an angled direction the neighbor will still have its viewshed. Mr. Tranel indicated that some concerns regarding people invading the alley are a little overstated, and the project may bring more business to the farmers market which is a good thing. Mr. Tranel indicated that investing in training for Commission members is worthwhile, and noted that historic preservation is a challenging, expensive, difficult thing to do; however striving for authenticity is worthwhile. Mr. Tranel indicated that the reason Skagway is noted in the book, 1,000 Places to Go Before You Die is because Skagway is a charming town that preserves its Gold Rush history; NPS will continue to support that.
Mr. Tranel indicated that out of everything there is occasionally anti-federal sentiment, and that will continue; however he does not mind being the target. Mr. Tranel indicated that NPS has minimal political clout, and as a year-round employer, its first choice in hiring is always local. Mr. Tranel indicated that he cannot do enough to reach out to the public, so would like to mention a couple of events coming up.
Mr. Tranel indicated that next summer NPS will move the trail center from the Martin Itjen house to the Boss Bakery building right next to the Goldberg; the building has great retail space and NPS would like to lease it but has been unsuccessful; NPS cannot compete with the private sector because of cumbersome regulation. Mr. Tranel indicated he is working with the regional and MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 5 of 9 national offices to improve the regulations for historical leasing. Mr. Tranel indicated that moving the trail center will open up the Itjen house for other purposes, therefore NPS will move the museum store out of the visitors’ center and into that building. Mr. Tranel indicated that there was a concern in the past about the book store competing with private businesses; Mr. Tranel has talked to private businesses regarding this concern. Mr. Tranel indicated that the Itjen house is not desirable for retail as it has no windows but only portholes up high.
Mr. Tranel indicated that restoration continues of Soapy Smith’s to its 1960s appearance, and the YMCA / Meyers Meat Market project is longer term and will provide an opportunity to display the Itjen street car. Mr. Tranel indicated that the vacant lot across from the visitors’ center will be the future site of an outdoor ton of goods exhibit when the main building is remodeled in 2016. Mr. Tranel indicated that he has no intention to change the space at Fifth Ave. and Broadway Street, as it is a nice place for a park area.
Mr. Tranel indicated that he had visit from Willy Vinton, antique car restoration expert and manager of the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks, who recommended against driving the street car because of its fragility. Mr. Tranel indicated that Mr. Vinton is working on a replica for the Bobby Sheldon car; Bobby Sheldon came through Skagway during the Gold Rush and built the first car in Alaska without ever seeing an automobile. Mr. Tranel indicated that the car is in Mr. Vinton’s collection and Mr. Vinton wants to build a replica to send to Skagway; Mr. Tranel indicated that it would be appropriate to give the replica to the Municipality to display in the museum. Mr. Tranel indicated he asked Mr. Vinton if he could do an Itjen street car replica so it can drive around town; Mr. Tranel has requested a cost estimate and if there is a way to do it he will try to make happen. Mr. Tranel indicated that the replica can participate in the Fourth of July parade and other special events.
Mr. Tranel indicated that former Mayor Stan Selmer bent his ear about restoring Brackett’s Wagon Road, which is mostly on U.S. Forest Service and municipal land, and extends into the White Pass unit of the park. Mr. Tranel indicated that NPS should not have the lead on this project; however it provides excellent recreational opportunities and perhaps the Parks and Recreation Committee could work on the project with the U.S. Forest Service.
Mr. Tranel indicated that there are a lot of great things NPS and the Municipality can accomplish together, and he is optimistic. Mr. Tranel expressed his appreciation to the Assembly as public servants, as they do not often get compliments for what is done right, but always get reminders of what is done wrong. Mr. Tranel indicated that in all of his conversations with the Assembly, the Clerk and the Manager, despite differences that may occur, there is always a genuine attempt to understand and help when appropriate, and he appreciates that.
Jay Burnham indicated he was raised in Skagway without a pool and it is something he has wanted for a long time. Mr. Burnham indicated the project always comes down to its high costs; Mr. Burnham indicated he would like to learn how to swim and would like his children to learn as well. Mr. Burnham indicated he researched cost estimates for a 25-meter, six-lane pool, and it would cost approximately $1 million to $1.5 million to build, with maintenance costing about $100,000 to $300,000 annually. Mayor Schaefer noted that the Assembly and Recreation Board need to vet MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 6 of 9 the project more and bring it back to the table. Mr. Burnham indicated he attended the Newly Elected Officials training and it was very informative; he enjoyed it and it was time well-spent.
7. Ordinances, Resolutions & Proclamations: A. Consideration and Public Participation of Resolution No. 14-27R; in Support of Full Funding for the State of Alaska Harbor Facility Grant Program in the FY 2016 State Capital Budget Motion/Second: Burnham/Cochran
To adopt Resolution No. 14-27R.
Manager Hahn indicated that the resolution will remind the State of the need to fund the program.
Mayor Schaefer opened the discussion to the public. No comments were made; Mayor Schaefer closed the discussion to the public.
Assemblyman Hanson asked if the Municipality would submit a grant application this year. Manager Hahn indicated that the Municipality may apply in July; the list of applicants is long but it will get Skagway on the list.
Motion passed by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
B. Consideration and Public Participation of Resolution No. 14-28R; Amending the Municipality of Skagway Classification Review Ranking by Grade, to Add the Position of Clinic Accounts and Benefits Specialist at Grade 13 Motion/Second: Cochran/Hanson
To adopt Resolution No. 14-28R.
Mayor Schaefer opened the discussion to the public.
Clinic Administrator Shelly O’Boyle indicated that the position is fully funded through grants, and if the grant funding goes away the position does as well. Ms. O’Boyle indicated that the position will allow the Clinic to extend its summer hours, add a full-time provider and certified nurse and provide community outreach. Ms. O’Boyle indicated that the position will be required to have specialized training in programs such as the Affordable Care Act, and if the successful applicant does not have the training the grant will allow for the person to be trained.
No additional comments were made; Mayor Schaefer closed the discussion to the public.
Assemblyman Morgan noted that if the position is paid for by a grant the Municipality should proceed, as it will create a year-round job and provide value to the community.
Motion passed by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 7 of 9
C. First Reading of Ordinance No. 14-24; Authorizing the Municipality of Skagway to Lease Waterfront Property to Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) Beginning March 19, 2023 Motion/Second: Cochran/Burnham
To have first reading of Ordinance No. 14-24.
Mayor Schaefer indicated that the ordinance should be postponed pending discussion with the attorney in executive session on December 18; the attorney has suggested amendments to the lease and the Municipality should make sure it gets it right the first time. Assemblyman Morgan agreed.
Motion/Second: Cochran/Morgan
To postpone the motion to the first meeting in January.
Assemblyman Hanson noted that the lease specifies a 30-year term with a 10-year renewal option; municipal code specifies that the maximum lease term is 35 years. Clerk Deach indicated she will verify the maximum lease term with the attorney.
Motion to postpone passed by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
8. Unfinished Business:
9. New Business: A. Draft Gateway Design Review Request for Proposals Mayor Schaefer noted that this portion of the project may cost between $50,000 and $100,000. Assemblyman Hanson indicated that the Port Commission vetted the draft request for proposals (RFP) and recommends extending the submission deadline to the end of January.
Assemblyman Cochran noted that there will be several corrections to the RFP regarding the size and storage tonnage, and indicated that the Port Commission asked that proposers are given more time due to the holidays.
Manager Hahn indicated that the project has so many moving parts that he would want to consult with Dr. Gubala on the schedule. Manager Hahn indicated that the Assembly could allow him authorization to consult on the effect of a delayed schedule, make changes as necessary and issue the RFP.
Assemblyman Cochran indicated he discussed with Dr. Gubala the delayed drilling and the sampling analysis on the uplands; if there is upland contamination it will affect the engineering and peer review, however Assemblyman Cochran indicated that Dr. Gubala is optimistic about the sampling because of previous water samples.
Mayor Schaefer indicated that the timeline can be changed at a later date if needed. Assemblyman Cochran asked that the Port Commission be kept in the loop. MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY, ALASKA REGULAR ASSEMBLY MEETING December 4, 2014 Page 8 of 9
Motion/Second: Burnham/Cochran
To allow the manager to review the RFP and put it out.
Manager Hahn indicated that he can work under general approval and if the schedule can be pushed out he will do that. Assemblyman Hanson noted that the schedule is aggressive with the holidays; giving proposers two more weeks should be fine and will ensure the Municipality does not miss out on qualified candidates.
Manager Hahn indicated he will email the Assembly with updates.
Motion passed by roll call vote, 5 yes, 0 no, 1 absent.
10. Executive Session: None.
11. Mayor and Assembly Discussion Items:
Assemblyman Hanson indicated that the Outdoor Arts Facility project is still not done, and there is a punch list to be completed that is mostly landscaping. Assemblyman Hanson noted that the Skagway Arts Council discussed hiring a part-time person to do bookkeeping, schedule events and watch over the Outdoor Arts Facility. Mayor Schaefer asked if there was existing municipal staff who could do it. Assemblyman Hanson indicated he would discuss the idea with the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Assemblyman Burnham asked if a work session should be scheduled with the Recreation Board in January after Assemblyman Henry returns, and indicated that this will assure that the Municipality has time to get word out to the public. Mayor Schaefer indicated that the Assembly also has to reschedule the January 1 meeting. Assemblywoman Grieser indicated she should be back in town on January 6. Assemblyman Cochran suggested the first Assembly meeting of January 1 be rescheduled to January 8, and the second meeting from January 15 to January 22. Assemblyman Morgan noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of January 8 could be rescheduled for earlier. Assemblyman Burnham noted that the Assembly has a tentative work session with the Port Commission on January 7; regarding the Recreation Board work session with the Assembly, he is not sure when Assemblyman Henry gets back but the Clerk can check the schedule.
Assemblyman Cochran noted that the Seniors are not happy with the Senior Center conceptual design, and asked if an industrial kitchen could be installed in the Little Dippers building. Assemblyman Hanson indicated that a commercial kitchen could be installed without spending a lot of money. Assemblyman Cochran indicated that Little Dippers could also use the kitchen. Assemblyman Hanson noted that the Seniors informally discussed $10,000 for the church to offset the utility costs of hosting the Senior lunch program, and indicated he will meet with the Clerk when more specific information is received from the church. Mayor Schaefer indicated the Municipality should move forward with both options.