Kodiak Assembly Approves Replacement of Aging Enterprise Storage from USI Corporation

The Kodiak Island Borough assembly convened on August 29, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including changes to assessment procedures, a significant technology upgrade, and updates to local ordinances.

One of the primary topics was a proposed change to the Board of Equalization's assessment process. The new rule would prevent the board from raising an assessment in the current year unless requested by the appellant. Additionally, if an appellant submits a long-form fee appraisal and the board does not rule in their favor, the board will be required to provide specific findings to support its decision.

The assembly also reviewed a contract for the purchase of enterprise storage from USI Corporation. The current storage system, an HP Nimble Storage array, is over seven years old and has reached the end of its life. The proposed replacement will cost $52,786 and is expected to last another seven years. Assembly members expressed interest in ensuring the new system is robust and secure.

Further discussions included amendments to the Kodiak Island Borough code regarding compensation for the Board of Equalization. The board chair requested an increase in compensation from $100 to $175 per meeting, noting that the last adjustment was made in 2008.

The assembly also addressed updates to the process for good cause appeal hearings and the correction of assessment roles, aiming to clarify the roles of the assessor and borough clerk. These changes are intended to streamline the appeal process and ensure that procedures are codified for public reference.

In other business, the assembly discussed a protest against the renewal application for Southern Glaziers Wine and Spirits of Alaska. The licensee will have the opportunity to defend their application before the assembly, following a prior protest voiced by members.

The meeting concluded with plans for an executive session to discuss a pending appeal related to property tax issues involving the Lutic Heritage Foundation. The assembly is expected to continue addressing these matters in future meetings, ensuring transparency and clarity in local governance.