Kodiak Island Borough Assembly approves $88K pool repair contract amid funding debates

The Kodiak Island Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on December 19, 2024, where key discussions centered around funding allocations for community projects, including pool repairs and environmental concerns regarding underground storage tanks.

One of the primary topics was the proposed contract for the design of necessary repairs to the community pool, with a budget of $88,900 allocated to Water Technologies Incorporated. Assembly members debated the urgency and funding sources for the pool repairs, particularly in light of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Some members expressed concerns about the appropriateness of using ARPA funds for the pool, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the project's costs and responsibilities before proceeding. Despite differing opinions, the assembly ultimately voted in favor of the contract, passing it with a 5-1 vote.

Another significant discussion involved the decommissioning of nonregulated underground storage tanks. An assembly member criticized the estimated cost of $80,000 for removing such a tank, suggesting that it should be treated as a regulated storage tank to better identify future liabilities. The assembly agreed to postpone the motion regarding this issue indefinitely, allowing for further negotiation and rescoping.

Additionally, the assembly reviewed other funding needs, including the purchase of PFAS-free firefighter turnouts, which was also approved. The discussions highlighted the assembly's ongoing efforts to prioritize community needs while managing limited financial resources effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the allocation of ARPA funds and other community projects, ensuring that the borough addresses both immediate and long-term needs.