LWVSJ Observer Corps: Friday Harbor Port Commission October 11, 2024

The commissioners reviewed the Saltwater Farms lease amendment and all site plans pertaining to the proposed new pickleball facility with three indoor and three outdoor courts and a restaurant and bar. The canopies covering the outdoor courts will have non-reflective, non-glare solar panels and special pickle glass will help screen the courts from wind. Current road access will be from Weber Way and project construction is planned for next summer with a fall/winter opening. The Executive Director suggested that the Port enter into a shared maintenance agreement for the access road. The Commission decided the project meets the goals and mission of the Port and authorized work documenting the lease amendments

The commission approved the change order for the northwest taxi lane construction project.

The Kiwanis of Friday Harbor suggested that the Commission entertain the idea of combining the Rock the Dock and Pig War Picnic for future July 4 celebrations to provide a larger community celebration at the fairgrounds with food, vendors, games, and live music at one location. The Port can run a shuttle to bring boaters to and from the fairgrounds. The Executive Director proposed using some of the Rock theDock budget for a second community celebration at Jacksons Beach at the end of the season.

The IOSA tour was rescheduled on October 25 from 12 noon to 8.30am.

The Commission reviewed the third quarter operating budget and the preliminary 2025 operating budget. Staff will shop for lower priced insurance for next year. Winter moorage income is strong, and marina revenues will continue to hold solid into next year. All the projections are on the conservative side and finances look very healthy.

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.