A resolution to declare South Point Higgins Beach as a borough park is in front of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly on Monday.
The resolution also calls for the borough to accept operation and maintenance responsibilities. However, according to the agenda statement, the resolution would not require the borough to increase its current maintenance level.
The borough now spends about $1,000 a year on trash removal at the beach.
The site is borough land, but is not formally recognized as a park. Without that designation, the borough would not be able to make improvements in the future.
Some residents have commented to the borough’s Planning Commission in support of restroom facilities and parking improvements at the beach. Borough staff members recommend that, if the resolution is approved, the borough start a master planning effort with the public. That would determine what improvements, if any, are wanted in the future at South Point Higgins Beach.
According to the agenda statement, the resolution also would ensure that the beach is reserved for recreation.
Also Monday, the assembly will consider a second and final vote on a slight language change for the borough’s tobacco-tax ordinance. The change would exempt e-smoking devices from the tax if they are sold without nicotine products.
Monday’s meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. in borough assembly chambers at the White Cliff building. Public comment will be heard at the start of the meeting.
