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

Saltwater Farms gave a presentation on a proposed pickleball and restaurant facility on land they lease from the port requesting a modification of the lease to move the lease boundary to accommodate the facility, amending the site plan and legal description. The commission will review and discuss this in view of the larger site plan.

Photon Marine made a presentation on the WSDOT Port Electrification Grant which they have applied for to partner with ports in advancing electrification. They shared details of their company and programs. They build electric outboard motors for commercial boat fleets and the benefits of becoming electrified. Photon Marine is working with boat builders on three vessels that could be used by the Port, which could get funding for energy conservation projects and connect with local stakeholders. Photon proposed to partner with the Port to develop an electric ecosystem to support Port decarbonization and electrification. The project would take an estimated 2.5 – 3 years to complete.

The Commission discussed current Lease Policy provisions. The transfer to the new owners of the remaining two years on the San Juan Canvas lease was approved. A lessee requested modifications to the Westwind Hangar lease; the commission approved those changes that complied with current policy.

Commissioner Goodheart displayed a map and drafts of proposed signage at the Port to points of interest in the wake of a request from the San Juan Art Museum. The commission discussed some potential sign locations and suggested a QR code for cell phone access to map details. The Port office will carry a handout for the art museum and copies of the map for distribution at the Marina Office.

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.