Assembly approves Huna Totem tidelands lease for Auk Landing after hours of testimony and amendments

The Juneau Assembly voted 8–1 on April 7 to authorize the manager to negotiate and execute a tidelands lease with Huna Totem Corporation for the Auk Landing cruise dock and associated uplands development, an applicant-funded project proponents say will disperse summer visitors and create jobs.

The ordinance authorizes CBJ to grant a tidelands lease for land known historically as the Subport (Parcel ATS 3) and related uplands. Assembly member Byron Bryson moved the ordinance; after amendments and debate the motion as amended passed on final roll call with eight votes in favor and one opposed. Mayor Beth Weldon presided; Council Member Hughes Candice cast the lone “no.”

The measure matters because it clears the way for a private, $200 million-plus dock and cultural center project that proponents say will move some cruise ship activity out of downtown, spread motor-coach traffic, and create construction and long-term jobs. Opponents warned that the project could shift pollution, noise and congestion to nearby neighborhoods and urged conditions — notably timely shore-power availability and limits on ship sizes and scheduling — before construction began.

Proponents and tribal leaders made the case for the project during public comment. Bianca…