Kodiak Island Borough approves lobbying contract, fairgrounds lease and several housekeeping measures; advances childcare zoning to hearing

The Kodiak Island Borough Assembly on Oct. 16 unanimously approved multiple routine and policy items, including a two-year lobbying contract, a negotiated ground lease for the Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair, adoption of the 2026 meeting calendar, certification of the Oct. 7 local election results and the advancement of a zoning amendment on childcare uses to public hearing.

Why it matters: The contract and leases set short-term spending and land-use expectations for the borough; certifying the election completes the post-election legal process; advancing the childcare amendments begins the formal ordinance process that could change where licensed child-care providers may operate in the borough.

The assembly authorized contract FY2026-27 with Hickey and Associates for lobbying services, describing the proposed agreement as a two-year contract at $45,000 per year (a $90,000 total term). Borough staff said Hickey has worked for the borough since 2000. Assemblymember Jared Griffin moved to authorize the borough manager to execute the contract; the motion passed unanimously on roll call.

The assembly also adopted Resolution FY2026-7 to authorize a…