Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Rv Park Management topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Tourism director, committee weigh short‑term fixes and long‑term plan for RV parks, laundromat
Summary
Tourism Director Jamie Bricker proposed short‑term repairs and 24/7 access to the Garden City laundromat while staff studies longer‑term RV‑park infrastructure and budget needs; the committee recommended that Garden City RV Park continue operating for the 2026 season and asked staff for cost estimates for washers, dryers and picnic amenities.
Skagway's tourism director told the Public Works Committee on Nov. 18 that staff has identified short‑term options to keep the Garden City laundromat functional next summer while the municipality evaluates longer‑term RV‑park needs.
"Our plan is to keep the laundromat open 24/7," Jamie Bricker said, explaining that the department can pursue a repair technician to salvage some of the seven broken washers to yield a workable set of machines for next season. Bricker said dryers pose a different challenge because adding electric dryers would require an electrical upgrade; propane dryers are an option but staff needs clarification from Public Works on feasibility.
Bricker and others flagged current equipment shortages: "We are currently at 3 working washing machines and 2 dryers," Bricker said. Committee members discussed interim solutions including buying several washers and dryers, contracting a portable laundry trailer (estimated around $100,000), or sharing repair costs with private operators. Committee members also raised cost and electrical‑service unknowns for adding electric dryers.
Bricker presented RV‑park operational data showing declining revenues and occupancy over several years and urged that the municipality adopt a longer‑term plan. She suggested that if Garden City RV Park is expected to continue serving visitors, staff should estimate costs now and, if needed, propose a budget amendment. Bricker also urged clearer communications to recurring RV caravan groups about site sizes and availability if spaces are reduced in future years.
Committee member Potter moved that the committee recommend to the Assembly that Garden City RV Park continue to operate as an RV park for the 2026 season; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Bricker said she will provide cost estimates for picnic tables and for two washers and two dryers and will return if a budget amendment is required.
The committee asked staff for updates on Pullen Creek restroom work and on Garden City design choices. Members signaled interest in scheduling another Public Works meeting to consider attorney‑reviewed ordinance language and budget figures before year end.
