Council approves Coast Guard lease; council signs off on Harbor Master preconstruction work

At its July 13 meeting the Seward City Council approved Resolution 2026-060, authorizing the city manager to enter a 20-year lease with the U.S. Coast Guard for city docks at 3207 Sorrell Road (Fisherman’s Float) at an annual rate of $21,664.20.

Wanda Hubbard, speaking during the public hearing, said she was not necessarily opposed but urged the council to ensure the Coast Guard’s use would not displace commercial fishing or the businesses that serve the seafood industry. "It seems ironic now that we are looking to take what is called Fisherman's Float away from being a real fisherman's float," Hubbard said, asking the council to leverage negotiations to require the Coast Guard to be "good neighbors" and minimize encroachment.

Harbor Master Tony described ongoing negotiations and a changing timeline: plans originally called for a separate Coast Guard facility and gangway, but the Coast Guard has proposed leasing and using existing floating dock space while pursing longer-term construction. Tony said the Coast Guard recently accelerated its schedule and that city staff have discussed possible land swaps and dock-layout options to preserve commercial access while accommodating federal needs.

Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution 2026-060. The clerk recorded affirmative votes from Barnwell, Draper, Calhoun, Osinga, Kreitz and Mayor Sue McClure; one council member (Warner) was excused.

Closely related, the council moved Resolution 2026-063 from consent to new business and approved a preconstruction services contract with Cornerstone General Contractors to support the Harbor Master office and uplands development. Deputy City Manager explained the RFP and said Cornerstone proposed a $0 fixed fee for preconstruction services; the overall construction estimate remains in the $13–15 million range and the next step is to finish design work and return with a guaranteed maximum-price construction contract.

Deputy City Manager said the preconstruction phase allows the contractor to help align design decisions with the budget, potentially reducing later change orders. Council members asked about alternatives, possible land swaps, and how the port will manage dock space during the Coast Guard’s short-term use. Tony and staff said they will continue to engage stakeholders and explore options to minimize impacts on commercial operators.

Both harbor-related measures passed on unanimous votes of those present. The council directed staff to continue public outreach and to return with further design, schedule and cost details as the preconstruction work proceeds.