LWVSJ Observer Corps: Friday Harbor Port Commission July 23, 2024

A citizen asked about Port policy for hangar lease terms. He noted the investment that he has made in a hangar and suggested a 25-year lease period at a reduced rate for those operating a business and for universal standards applied to all buildings. The commission will discuss this at the next meeting.

The commission approved the lease conversion from Island Air to Cannery Leasing Ltd. With a longer lease as part of the economic development component of the Port. The Port applied for a WSDOT sustainable aviation grant (solar) for the Port to build covered parking at the airport with rooftop solar panels to power a battery back-up for the airport terminal lighting. It will take a couple months to learn if they get the grant. The Commissioners approved a series of contracts for the aircraft fueling system expansion, the south apron expansion engineering design and bidding services, and hangar 80 replacement engineering design and bidding services. All work will be covered by FAA grant funds. The Commission approved a contract with HB Hansen Construction for replacement of Hangar C (Hangar 80).

The Executive Director reviewed the protocols around concept proposals from two companies that had expressed an earlier interest in leasing property. The companies did not submit proposal details within the six-month deadline, so the properties will be advertised as available in the next leasing round.

The Port had some requests from members of the public about installing directory maps to local landmarks like museums and public facilities at the main pier or Spring Street Landing. Commission. The Commissioners present had some reservations but will review concept drawings from Commissioner Goodheart at the next meeting.

The Commission reviewed the Five-Year Airport Capital Improvement Plan and amended dates to accommodate the extended period of the National Fisheries Stormwater Review. They postponed the review of the 2025 preliminary budget until the next meeting as Commissioner Goodheart was absent.

The Commission decided not to pay for insurance coverage of an art exhibit at the airport terminal. The Executive Director will address the maintenance and care of the Spring Street Landing aquarium with staff and look at improving the lighting and signage.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.