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Residents praise charter-boat rescuers and propose idling ordinance; chamber updates cruise-shuttle arrangements
Summary
Public commenters told the Seward City Council about a recent charter-boat rescue, urged commendations for two local captains, and proposed a vehicle-idling ordinance limiting idling to 15 minutes; the Seward Chamber gave updates on cruise-terminal disruptions and a temporary shuttle arrangement with Royal Caribbean.
Several members of the public used the council’s citizen-comment period to relay safety news, propose local rules and give community updates.
Amanda Sweeting, for the Seward Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, told council members that Royal Caribbean is providing complimentary shuttle service between Seward and Whittier for some affected sailings while dock construction continues. She said the Silver Moon is scheduled to visit Seward on Thursday the 28th and that other sailings remain subject to last-minute routing decisions by cruise lines.
Andy Mesereau of the Seward Charter Boat Association described a Saturday capsizing incident about six miles from Cape Resurrection in 41°F water. Mesereau named two local captains — Will Gentry and Nick Spurr — and credited their prompt response and seamanship with rescuing passengers, including a 10-year-old, and likely preventing fatalities. He encouraged the council to consider recognizing the captains with a commendation.
Peter Frank, a local resident, proposed that Seward adopt an idling ordinance limiting vehicle engine idling to 15 minutes; he said he has experienced repeated multi-hour idling by a postal semi outside his home and that other U.S. municipalities have enacted idling restrictions. Frank said he provided the council a draft ordinance.
Festival organizer El Zernia thanked volunteers, city departments including the harbor master, police, fire and public works, and local businesses for supporting the recent Mermaid Festival and announced plans for a 10th-anniversary event next year.
Council members responded by thanking speakers and indicating they expect to consider a proclamation for the rescuing captains and to follow up on the idling draft.
