Three Assembly Committees to take up a variety of issues

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Sunday, May 9th, 2021 3:03pm

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Juneau, Alaska (KINY) - The proposed fireworks ordinance is back before the Assembly of Whole Monday evening.

Assemblymember Michelle Bonnet Hale said this is the fourth time the committee has taken up this issue.

She said the time frames would remind the same, but members are interested in banning the big mortars in neighborhoods.  One ordinance would allow the Assembly to designate CBJ property for fireworks use by resolution.   A separate draft ordinance would clarify that the sale of fireworks is taxable.

Ordinances dealing with fireworks are scheduled for introduction at Wednesday's special Assembly meeting.  Public comment would be taken during the next regular Assembly meeting on May 24.

Rules of procedure for in-person meetings which are returning May 24  will be discussed.   The resolution up for discussion would stipulate that certain CBJ public meetings continue to be broadcast in a way that maximizes public participation.  It also stipulates that public seating would need to be in compliance with laws, including public health laws like social distancing.
        
Members will be presented the survey conducted by the Juneau Economic Development Council on behalf of the Juneau Commission on aging.

The committee will also discuss the Docks and Harbors Department's proposed purchase of the fisheries terminal area now owned by the University of Alaska between the Harris and Aurora Harbors.  The purchase is under consideration since the lease feel is increasing dramatically.

The Committee of the Whole is scheduled to convene at 6 p.m.

The Lands, Housing and Economic Development Committee convenes an hour earlier.  Members will take up a lease for a communications tower to Vertical Bridge at Lena Point.

The committee will listen to a staff report on progress of the Off-Road Vehicle Working Group meetings and a recommendation for use of a parcel of land at Mile 35.  

Development of a master plan for use of  Montana Creek area will be the subject of another staff report.

The Assembly Public Works and Facilities Committee meets beginning at noon Monday.

Bonnet-Hale, who chairs the panel, says they will be updated by staff on the possibilities for underground utilities as part of the Calhoun Avenue reconstruction project.  

The panel will be asked to approve the installation of ground source heat pumps for the downtown and Glacier Fire Stations.

Members will also listen to a presentation from the Docks and Harbors Department on the small cruise ship infrastructure plan.

City Manager Rorie Watt is scheduled to provide an update on a site for elections that would be required if the Assembly ultimately approves an expenditure for the equipment that will be needed.

The panel will also discuss the next steps that need to be taken to deal with the community's solid waste.

 

 

 

 

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