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Commission Meeting Minutes
June 14th, 2010
COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
June 14, 2010
9:30 a.m.
PRESENT:
George Schoenfeldt, President Dave Hagiwara, Dir Trade & Dev.
Jim McEntire, Vice-President Doug Sandau, Airport/Marina Mgr.
John Calhoun, Secretary Pat Deja, Property/Mkrt Mgr
Jeff Robb, Executive Director Holly Hairell, Human Resources Mgr.
William James, Director of Finance Dave Neupert, Port Attorney
CALL TO ORDER – OPEN SESSION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
I. VOUCHERS
Commissioner Schoenfeldt stated he examined the vouchers, found them to be accurate and in order and made the motion for approval of vouchers REV #003147 through #003155, vouchers AP #029315 through #029465 and vouchers PR #010380 through #010481 for a total of $738,413.04. Commissioner Calhoun seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
II. MINUTES OF MAY 24, 2010 COMMISSION MEETING
Commissioner Calhoun stated he reviewed the May 24, 2010 Commission Meeting Minutes. He asked the Minutes be amended in Roman Numeral VI.A. to state that instead of “Ms. Turissini is a graduate of the program (PEAK Leadership)”, it should read that Ms. Turissini is a graduate of a similar program. With that amendment, Commissioner Calhoun made the motion to accept the minutes as written. Commissioner McEntire seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
III. EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT SESSION
None.
IV. COMPLETION OF RECORDS
The Master Policy Report is attached for information as directed by the Commission.
Commissioner McEntire noted for the record the huge jump in Kenmore Air enplanement numbers for the month of May 2009 in comparison to this year are strangely weird because of the Hood Canal Bridge closure which is the cause of the vast increase for that period. Airport Manager Doug Sandau noted a decline in enplanements since 2005 but that it is lessening. He anticipates that Kenmore will be on an uptick over the next months and he will keep the Commission informed.
Commissioner Calhoun observed that although the JWM continues strong with 94% occupancy, the vacancy rate at PABH is troubling particularly in the 20-29 foot class of boats. Discussion followed on the most recent construction reconfiguration of PABH and the possibility of reducing the number of slips in that size category. It was determined because of a lack of water depth in that area, the possibility of increasing the slip size is unlikely in the near future. Director Robb noted this area was mostly used for transient boaters.
V. PLANNING
A. ACTI Engineering Services - Zenovic
Dave Hagiwara, Director of Trade and Development, reported that as part of the 2010 Work Plan, the Port has been actively involved with Angeles Composite Technologies Inc. (ACTI) and other possible tenants, regarding expansion opportunities and infrastructure improvements at the Port’s North Industrial Park. He stated that due to Property Manager Pat Deja’s efforts, it has become apparent that over a two- to five-year period, there will be a demand for building structure and infrastructure improvements and development of additional lots. Mr. Hagiwara provided a site layout proposal from Zenovic & Associates for engineering services in the amount of $45,500.00 to provide engineering, design, permitting assistance, completion of bid package and construction management. The proposal for additional expansion is for a row of three 25,000 sq ft buildings similar to the current complex. It is only a concept at this time. He indicated that buildings in the 25,000 sq ft range are the “sweet spot” for industries the Port is working to attract and there are ongoing conversations with ACTI and others that have expressed interest in future expansion.
Mr. Hagiwara stated that under the Master Policy, this 2010 budgeted project is within the executive director’s authorization, but because of the importance, it is brought to the Commission for information, discussion and approval to move forward. A total of $615,000.00 was allocated in the 2010 budget for this entire project and this is the first phase. Commissioner Schoenfeldt said he thinks this is exactly what the Port should be doing to have shovel ready property available for possible tenants. Discussion followed.
The Commissioners concurred that Director Robb should proceed with the agreement with Zenovic & Associates in the amount of $45,500.00. Port Attorney Dave Neupert explained that a formal motion is not required to move ahead with this phase of the project because under the Master Policy, the Executive Director is authorized to sign contracts for less than $50,000 without Commission approval. Director Robb emphasized that this is the first step of a multiple step process and he noted that currently there is not a firm lease agreement with ACTI and that Mr. Deja will be working on this issue.
VI. MARINAS
A. Marinas Rates and Fees Program
Bill James, Director of Finance and Administration, explained that at the May 10 meeting, the Commission directed staff to bring a proposal to maintain basic marina rates at same level as 2010 with a provision for CPI adjustments as they occur. He suggested fees be adjusted January 1 each year which corresponds to budget changes. If January 1 is used, Mr. James indicated we will be looking at CPI decreases or increases from August to August of each year which is the way the budget is determined and the goal is to get marina rate adjustments in line with the budget. Any CPI adjustments up or down will be made during 2011 and 2012 budgets. He indicated that the actual marina rates for 2011 will be known in late September when the data is published by the federal government. Staff recommendation is to maintain basic marinas rates at current amounts with CPI adjustments to be made on January 1, 2011 and January 1, 2012 to reflect August 2010 and August 2011 movements.
Commissioner Calhoun commented that he is pleased this was brought back for Commission recommendation and he believes that syncing with the budget is good idea. He asked if there had been any input since the last meeting from tenants or others that have been tracking the Port’s work on this topic. Mr. James indicated that there has not been any input at all. The Commission agreed that this is the responsible thing to do that reflects current economic conditions and that it is not the time to revise rates upward.
B. Upland RV Parking Status Report
Doug Sandau, Airport/Marinas Manager, explained that at the May 10 meeting, Commissioner Schoenfeldt asked if it was feasible to allow recreational vehicle (RV) parking specifically along the east end of the Port Angeles Boat Haven (PABH). Staff met with City planners and Mr. Sandau indicated the City recognized the fact that there was a need for RV parking within easy access to the shoreline which would produce economic benefit to the community, but that they were quick to point out restrictions under the Shoreline Management Plan which also applies to Port properties. The City would temporarily allow RV parking on Port property limited to durations of the actual event and once the event was over the RVs would be required to vacate. Mr. Sandau reported that the City cautioned there was no guarantee to allow RV parking in the future. There is also a safety issue and the Port would have to provide shoreline fencing estimated at $5,500.00. Staff recommendation is not to pursue recreational vehicle parking at the PABH at this time due to permitting issues and also that this activity would compete with privately-owned RV parks. Discussion followed.
Commissioner Calhoun commented that he does not want to make too big of a deal out of this but he offered several observations. He feels the City should not hide behind the Shoreline Master Plan as a reason not to allow RV parking and that the Shoreline Master Plan is in the process of being revised. RV parking has been identified as a need along the shoreline and that if the Port can be a partner with the City, that should be pursued. Commissioner Calhoun also acknowledged that one of the five primary areas of enhancement that came out of the recent Economic Summit was tourism. He believes that providing RV space associated with our waterfront could be a positive impact for tourism and indicated the Port should be looking at ways to help develop tourism. He suggested keeping in touch with the City to see if there are opportunities to enhance RV activities. Director Robb asked the Commission what their feelings were in competing with private RV parks in the area because the Port has a competitive advantage of waterfront real estate. Commissioner Schoenfeldt pointed out that as a fisherman and boat owner he feels it is significant to be able to park close to your boat. In conclusion, Commissioner Calhoun remarked that it seems plausible to take advantage of developing amenities for waterfront activities and Commissioners Schoenfeldt and McEntire agreed. Commissioner McEntire added that it clearly is within the Port’s mission to build and operate tourism facilities and is authorized by the state legislature. He indicated that it could be franchised out similar to what the Port does with the Boat Haven and suggested there could be some potential co-venture opportunities with existing operators and owners of RV parks and he encouraged further inquiry along this line.
In conclusion, Commissioner Calhoun commented on a broader Port mission in participating in economic development and that the Port may have a unique role to play.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Resolution No. 10-997 – Wild Olympics Campaign
Executive Director Robb explained that Carol Johnson of NOTAC provided an overview of the Wild Olympics Campaign at the previous Commission meeting. He indicated that he personally attended two meetings about this campaign which represents ten special interest groups and their interest is in reducing private property and drawing them into the National Park. As background, the campaign is proposing purchasing 37,000 acres of private and DNR timberland to be included into new boundaries of Olympic National Park, 145,000 acres of wilderness designation for Olympic National Forest which circles most of Olympic national park and 200 miles of Wild & Scenic River designation. Director Robb indicated the Port wants no net loss of natural resources in the Port District and the Resolution is for discussion and consideration. Clallam County Commissioners have written a letter in support of this campaign.
Commissioner Calhoun said he feels this is a sound resolution and that it reflects his concern that there would be a significant reduction in timberland in Clallam and adjacent counties if this proposal would become law. He has been contacted by Congressman Dicks staff and indicated he will continue discussions with them. Commissioner McEntire said his question is what the group is seeking to protect these lands from. His understanding is that there is far more collateral negative effect than there is environmental effect at this time and he would like to understand more what the problem is. He commented that Olympic National Park was seeking additional lands and additional budget authority but they didn’t have enough money to manage what they already have. Discussion followed. The Commissioners agreed in their concern that the Clallam County Commissioners supported this campaign with a letter to Congressman Dicks.
Commissioner McEntire made the motion to accept introduction of Resolution No. 10-997, A Resolution In Opposition to the Wild Olympics Campaign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Calhoun. Commissioner McEntire made the motion to approve Resolution No. 10-997. Commissioner Calhoun seconded and both motions passed unanimously.
Commissioner Calhoun inquired if Director Robb’s intention was to widely circulate this resolution with letters. Director Robb answered in the affirmative and stated that there is a need to properly address what the actual issues of the campaign are. The letter will be sent this week.
VIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS SESSION
Carol Johnson, Executive Director of the North Olympic Timber Action Committee thanked the Commission for their action in adopting the Resolution in opposition to the Wild Olympics Campaign. She commented it appears there is layer upon layer of people who would rather protect everything rather than for anyone to have a job or to have an opportunity to recreate.
IX. ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
A. Executive Director Robb indicated that at the previous meeting, an amendment was brought forward for a 3-year extension for Border Protection at Airport property and the Commissioners requested staff to find out what their long-term goals are. Property Manager Pat Deja will continue to work with Border Protection to see if any adjustments are needed. Referring to a recent newspaper article regarding Homeland Security (Border Patrol) in which they were looking at two specific properties, Director Robb clarified that Border Protection is a Port tenant and that Border Patrol is looking for purchase of real estate and is going through the Army Corp of Engineers. With regard to ICE, the Port does not have space that would accommodate them as they are looking for a 4,000 sq ft space close to downtown and that the Port does not have that available space downtown. Director Robb reiterated that Mr. Deja is working with Border Protection.
B. Executive Director Robb announced he would be on vacation during the July 12 Commission meeting.
C. Commissioner McEntire reported he will attend the Propeller Club luncheon in Seattle this Wednesday.
X. MEETINGS
A. WPPA Commissioner Seminar - July 25-27, Leavenworth, WA
Commissioners Schoenfeldt, McEntire and Calhoun indicated they will attend the Washington Public Ports Commissioner Seminar July 25-27, 2010. Because this seminar takes place during a regularly-scheduled Commission meeting on July 26, Commissioner Schoenfeldt suggested canceling the July 26 meeting and making the decision at a later date whether a special meeting will need to be called. Commissioners McEntire and Calhoun concurred. It was noted that in the past, this meeting has been canceled so the Commissioners could attend the seminar.
XI. NEXT MEETING - JUNE 28, 2010
Commissioner Schoenfeldt indicated he would be on vacation during this time and unable to attend the meeting.
XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board of Commissioners moved into executive session at 10:20 a.m. to consider two items of property, no litigation items and no items of personnel. These items are discussed in executive session in accordance with title 42.30.110 of the Revised Code of Washington. Commissioner Schoenfeldt estimated the executive session will conclude in approximately 45 minutes and that no action will be taken.
XIII. ADJOURN
Commissioner Schoenfeldt reconvened the regular meeting at 11:35 a.m. and immediately adjourned with no action taken.
PORT OF PORT ANGELES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
____________________________
George H. Schoenfeldt, President
__________________________
John M. Calhoun, Secretary
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