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Skagway Assembly roundup: wastewater pay-grade change, busking rules, KPFF contract approved; compensation ordinance sent to committee
Summary
At its Aug. 7 meeting the Skagway Assembly approved a wastewater-operator classification change (Res. 25-19R), introduced a busking-code update allowing limited amplification (Ord. 25-08), approved a KPFF Phase 1 wave-barrier inspection contract ($71,544), and sent a proposed elected-official compensation ordinance (Ord. 25-09) to Civic Affairs for further review; two license-protest motions failed.
The Skagway Assembly on Aug. 7 approved several administrative and regulatory items in a meeting that combined committee reports, public comment and multiple formal votes.
Wastewater operator classification: The Assembly adopted Resolution 25-19R to allow growth within the water/wastewater operator classification based on experience and certification. Manager Dietch said the change creates incentive and flexibility: hire at a lower grade if certification is not yet obtained, and bump the employee two grades upon receipt of the wastewater certification. Assemblyman Ray Hansen, speaking for finance, said the change clarifies expectations and helps retain and develop staff. The resolution passed on roll call, recorded as 6-0.
Busking-code update: The Assembly held the first reading of Ordinance 25-08 to amend SMC 5.20.050 (busker permits), adopting an amendment and allowing some amplification within a 50-foot radius. Civic Affairs recommended the change; the introduction/first reading passed on roll call 6-0.
Elected-official compensation: Members debated proposed increases in meeting stipends for elected officials—arguments focused on optics, phased increases and public perception. Vice Mayor Potter moved to send Ordinance 25-09 to Civic Affairs for review; the motion passed 6-0. Several members said a phased approach and committee review would better manage public optics ahead of a possible future vote.
Contracts and scheduling: The Assembly approved a KPFF proposal for a Phase 1 inspection of the wave barrier and ORDOC anodes for $71,544 after confirming the amount and record-keeping; the motion passed. The Assembly also scheduled a special meeting for Thursday, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. to certify October election results.
Licensing motions: Two motions to protest license-renewal applications — for Skagway Spirits LLC (liquor license) and Coyote and Toads Garden LLC (limited marijuana cultivation) — failed on roll call. The clerk recorded votes against the protests and both motions failed.
Finance action: Earlier in the meeting the Assembly approved the check run totaling $3,713,375.80, which included insurance payments, bond payments, port items and several engineering contracts.
What’s next: Items referred to committee (including the compensation ordinance) will return for additional review; the Assembly did not adopt the compensation measure at first reading but directed committee consideration. The manager will proceed with contract administration for the wave-barrier inspection and implement previously adopted personnel updates.
