Mayor Dixon evaluates Russian River impacts with local conservation representatives

Kodiak Island Borough officials are actively addressing community concerns regarding the shifting Russian River and its impact on local residents. During the Assembly Regular Meeting on February 6, 2025, Borough Manager Amy O’Connor reported on a recent meeting with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and local organizations to evaluate the river's changes, particularly affecting the Belsflez area. While NRCS is exploring long-term solutions, the borough is also pursuing short-term measures, including the potential granting of an easement on Kodiak Area Borough (KAB) property.

In addition to environmental concerns, the borough is making strides in financial management and community development. O’Connor noted that the 2024 foreclosure process is underway, with a list to be published in local newspapers. The borough is also working on a property assessment and taxation implementation project, with a go-live date set for June 25, 2025.

The meeting highlighted the importance of the multi-jurisdictional multi-hazard mitigation plan, which is set for final review on February 27 and approval on March 6. This plan aims to enhance community resilience against various hazards.

In personnel updates, the borough has made job offers for two planning positions, which are expected to be accepted soon. The Assembly also discussed the ongoing Tyler software implementation, which has faced challenges but is progressing, particularly in the assessing department.

The meeting concluded with discussions on property assessments, emphasizing the need to maintain assessed values above 80% of market value to avoid costly state interventions. The borough is committed to ensuring compliance and transparency in its financial practices, with further updates expected in the coming weeks.