Mayor Michiqui secures long-term lease for Kachemak Emergency Services communication tower

During the recent Kenai Peninsula Borough Finance Committee meeting held on May 20, 2025, key discussions centered around two significant resolutions impacting local emergency services and road improvement projects.

The first major topic was the approval of Resolution 2025-022, which authorizes a lease agreement with Skyline Towers LLC for the Kachemak Emergency Service Area's communication site. Mayor Michiki presented the resolution, highlighting that the agreement would secure a long-term lease for tower space essential for emergency communications. The lease is set for an initial five-year term, with options for renewal, ensuring continued support for emergency services in the region.

The second significant discussion involved Ordinance 2024-19-38, which proposes an additional appropriation of $150,029.03 to the special assessment fund for the Rollins Way Road Improvement Assessment District. Mayor Michiki and Finance Director Harbaugh explained that the costs for the project exceeded initial estimates, necessitating this supplemental funding. The committee discussed the implications of this increase, noting that the road service area board had not approved additional funding, which would shift the financial burden to the general fund. This change could lead to higher payment amounts for residents involved in the assessment district, with potential increases from $12,000 to over $16,000.

The committee also decided to postpone the public hearing on this ordinance until June 17, 2025, to allow for further discussions regarding payment mechanisms and to reassess the funding structure based on the road service area's decisions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the borough's commitment to maintaining essential services and infrastructure, while also navigating the financial challenges that come with unexpected project costs. The outcomes of these discussions will have lasting implications for both emergency services and local road improvements in the Kenai Peninsula Borough.