League of Women Voters Observer Corps notes

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, April 26, 2023

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization, encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.

Friday Harbor Port Commission, April 12

Jayson Schmidt gave an update on tiny houses being built at the airport. These dwellings must adhere to FAA regulations and were designed to blend into the landscape. They will be used for vacation rentals but there could be a consideration to have these types of houses built as affordable long-term rentals.

The Commission discussed more ideas on the future of the Aquarium, including having several smaller tanks which would house more types of plant life and sea creatures and lessen the burden on the staff. They build relationships with other aquariums which have similar exhibits. An interpretive center is still on the table. They decided to do a broader study on repurposing the center with the priority on keeping the center connected to the ocean. They will do a trial run of a digital/virtual wall and then continue the conversation.

The Citizens Advisory Committee has been chosen. Seventeen highly qualified candidates applied, making the final decision difficult. The CAC’s first task will be to provide analysis and recommendations on the master plan for Jensen’s, Shipyard Cove and land use. The Commission approved an addendum to the CAC decision on the term structure for committee members.

The Port signed and approved contracts for three upcoming projects: Drainage Improvement on Runway 16/34, Engineering Services during construction of this same runway and for the Island Oil Spill Association foundation. All three initiatives are funded 90% or 100% by the FAA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

The Commission discussed more ideas about the transfer of moorage with vessel sales at Jensen’s Marina but did not reach a consensus and this will be an action item on the next agenda. The rules and regulations for Jensen Marina, Shipyard Cove and the main marina liveaboard agreement were all open to edits and changes and the Commission decided to add new language into the sublet agreements. An important reminder is for all boaters and marina users to be water-wise and to use soap sparingly. A poster to remind people of the environmental issues and the policies will be posted.

The Executive Director and one other staff member will be training and getting their pilot certifications. This will improve their stewardship of the airport and its facilities.

Discussion of the main marina rules and regulations was postponed over to the next meeting.