The Ketchikan City Council postponed its regular meeting to Monday night to allow its members to attend the Alaska Municipal League meeting in Anchorage.
Monday’s Council meeting begins with a public hearing on an ordinance amending telecommunications service and rates. This is the second reading.
The Council also will hear a presentation on marijuana issues from Planning and Community Development Director Chris French. Councilmember Bob Sivertsen suggested the Council hear from the Borough on its progress with ordinances and zoning related to the commercial sale of marijuana. At the last City Council meeting, Sivertsen suggested the Council consider mirroring the Borough’s plan.
The Council will also consider changing the start times of meetings. Meetings currently begin at 7:00 pm. Councilmember Julie Isom suggested that the meetings start earlier, possibly 6:00 pm.
Councilmember Judy Zenge requested a discussion on the need for disabled-access taxicabs. After participating in the “Roll-In-My-Wheels” event, where she experienced what it is like getting around Ketchikan in a wheelchair, Zenge says it is apparent there is not enough transportation for persons with disabilities.
Also Monday night the Council will hear an update on the compliance order between Ketchikan Public Utilities and the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation regarding the city’s municipal water system. The order addresses disinfection byproduct requirements and elevated levels of coliform bacteria in the raw water supply.
City Manager Karl Amylon will report on the appointment of a new Assistant Fire Chief. John Dorman resigned effective October 30th. Scott Brainard of Klamath Falls, Oregon was hired to replace him. Brainard’s effective date is November 30th.
The Council is also scheduled to meet in executive session to review a wireless network business plan. Under the plan, KPU Telecommunications would deploy a 4G/LTE wireless network and construct a microwave radio link between Ketchikan and Prince Rupert, British Columbia.
The meeting begins at 7:00 pm Monday (tonight) in City Council Chambers. There will be time for public comment following the public meeting.
