The Ketchikan City Council met for not quite half an hour Thursday, finishing its regular meeting in what might be record time.
The primary item on the agenda was a vote to move forward with a policy to encourage the city to use local businesses.
The policy was suggested by the Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce as a way to support the
local economy. City Finance Director Bob Newell drafted language to add local procurement to a list of exemptions that allow purchases of up to $50,000 without City Council approval.
Council Member Judy Zenge says she’s pleased with the suggested language.
“I’m happy that the manager and Bob met with the Chamber and I think it’s a good idea that we move this forward,” she said.
The motion was approved 5-0. It directs city officials to draft an ordinance that will come before the Council at a later meeting.
Council Member Dick Coose was absent, and Council Member KJ Harris has resigned his seat. The city has been advertising for applicants interested in filling in for Harris for the next year. The Council will interview candidates and make an appointment sometime in November.
