LWVSJ Observer Corps: Port Commission February 9, 2024

Citizen Richard Grout asked the Commission not to accept new proposals at the airport that would include accommodations. Gib Black said the Commission wanted to respond to community needs. Any projects approved would not threaten the pilot community. They have a two-touch rule when implementing plans and this would be a discussion item at a future meeting.

The Commission approved the FlyGuys Construction lease for the property at the corner of Argyle and Mullis streets. They will develop the corner per their original site plan.

The Port is planning a staff workshop on land use of Airport Non-aeronautical Lands immediately following the first Port Commission meeting in March.

The Commission discussed reviewing the current lease policy and lease proposal system. Barbara Marrett noted the commission historically has not agreed to seasonal workforce housing at the airport nor entertained proposals that have a housing element and suggested this become written policy. Gib Black would like each application weighed on its individual merits with no blanket policy. The Commission plans to put this on a future agenda for public comment and discussion and then bring it back for a Commission vote.

Airport energy efficiency projects are underway. The Director will provide progress reports at future meetings. An environmental study and wetland evaluation will be published in May and provide more data to inform these projects. The Port has agreed to pay for remodeling two of the hangers that will undergo renovations. FAA funds will cover the cost to renovate the remaining hangers.

The Commission will continue to be involved in hiring top level staff i.e. The Executive Director, Airport Manager, Harbormaster, and the appointment of the Auditor. All other hiring is handled by the Executive Director.

The staff reported on potential legal issues with a partnership with the non-profit Sailing Foundation such as leases, insurance, and maintenance responsibilities. One option would be for the Commission to pass a resolution to use the Port’s insurance and cover the costs and risks. The Port’s attorney has advised that the Port should protect itself as much as possible. This will be added to the next agenda for discussion.

Rich Goodhart shared a presentation by the Department of Natural Resources on the Cascadian Subduction zone with projections on how earthquake and tsunami activity will affect our communities and environment. The presentation is available at: dnr.wa.gov/geology

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.