Parks committee backs concept for Twin Coves public cabin, votes 5–1 to sign support letter

The Haines Borough Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee voted 5–1 on Feb. 11 to sign a draft letter of support for a concept‑level proposal to explore a public‑use cabin at Twin Coves.

Nate, representing Haines Huts & Trails, told the committee the group had received community requests for a water‑accessible, public cabin that would be reachable by hikers and kayakers, and said the idea is intended to serve elders, families and school groups. “We are proposing… the Twin Coves,” he said, and added that State Parks supports advancing concept approval and permitting before any site is chosen.

Members pressed for more details about location, fees and wildlife protections. Tom cautioned about placing permanent structures in a major wildlife area and asked for clarity on whether signing the letter would lock in a specific site. Nate responded that the request is meant to advance a feasibility and permitting process and that state parks had advised the proponents not to pick an exact location until cultural‑resource checks were completed.

Darcy moved that PRAC sign the draft letter of support; Deborah seconded. The committee discussed requests for a map, a list of state and federal agencies to be consulted (including ADF&G and cultural‑resource review), and clearer public outreach so neighbors understand the potential impacts. Following the discussion, the chair called the question; the motion carried, 5–1. The committee agreed that further review, public comment opportunities and agency coordination should follow before any site is finalized.

The committee also discussed how the cabin would likely be managed and priced if the project proceeds. Nate said State Parks would handle reservations on its platform and described examples in other communities where local groups helped fund and build cabins while the state managed operations.

Officials directed staff and proponents to provide additional materials — a map of proposed areas, the list of agencies to be consulted, and clearer community notification — and said the proposal would go next to the State Parks regional advisory board and the borough assembly for additional vetting.

The committee’s vote advances the concept to the next permitting and public‑input stages but does not authorize construction, select a final site, or commit funding.