LWVSJ Observer Corps: FH Port Commission, Special Meeting June 2, 2023 The Commission accepted the Jensen Boatyard historic insurance settlement for $683,500. The Commission rescinded the mandatory Covid 19 vaccine requirement for Port employees.

The Commission authorized a Travel-Lift Pier Design task order and authorized the purchase of precast concrete planks for the barge landing.

The Commission amended the Whale Totem placement from the Clock Tower to Jackson Beach. The non-profit who made the initial offer of the sculpture had requested the Clock tower but the tribal nations, and especially Lummi requested the Jackson Beach where is could be incorporated into canoe journey ceremonies. The tribe hopes to take the sculpture on occasional journeys, and the Jackson Beach Location will make that easier and less costly.

A commissioner proposed that they start to take steps to develop a plan and process to better use the Clock Tower building and surrounding location. They want to get public input and to think about what potential uses they would be interested in, while keeping in mind the need not to interfere with passenger ferries that use the area, and which can get shoreline permitting approval. In the meantime, they will renovate the existing aquaria and put out tables and umbrellas for the public to use for lunch and possibly as an event space.

Three people have applied to be the interim Port commissioner for the current vacancy, none of whom are one of three candidates who filed to run for the open position. The Commission will have a Special Meeting the week of June 5-9 to interview the applicants and make a selection.

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.