Petersburg Assembly approves $1M budget for American Cruise Lines dock project

The Petersburg Borough Assembly convened on June 3, 2025, for its third and final reading of the borough budget ordinance. The meeting focused on key financial decisions impacting the community, including amendments to the fiscal year 2026 budget.

The assembly discussed an appropriation of $1 million from harbor reserves to support a dock facility project by American Cruise Lines at Petersburg Harbor. The assembly directed the borough manager to engage with American Cruise Lines to explore potential agreements on the proposed facility, specifically considering design concept number 7. Any expenditure from this appropriation will require prior assembly approval of a written agreement.

Assembly member Stan Greger moved to approve the budget ordinance, which was seconded by member Newman. During the discussion, member Lynn raised two significant points. First, he noted that the upcoming budget does not include funding for snow plowing on roads frequented by school children, emphasizing the lack of a contract for this service.

Lynn also proposed an amendment to the budget, seeking to allocate up to $6,000 from the property development fund for Harari and Associates to create revised concept drawings for repairs and improvements to the Papaleas Landing Facility. He suggested forming a committee, led by himself and including the borough manager, to collaborate with engineers and the Alaska Department of Transportation on this initiative. Future funding for the project may be sought through the Dingle Johnson Act.

The amendment was seconded by Greger, prompting further discussion. Greger requested Lynn to elaborate on his rationale for the amendment, which Lynn indicated could be detailed but aimed to address community needs for the facility.

The assembly's discussions highlighted the importance of budgetary decisions and their direct impact on local services and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with a focus on ensuring that the borough's financial plans align with community expectations and needs.