LWVSJ Observer Corps summary Friday Harbor Port Commission, August 28, 2026 meeting
The Commissioners approved assignments and consents for transfer of ownership on Hangars K-11 and F-3 and an ownership change transaction for Hangar N-2 from Skytrails to Drury to FHR Hangar LLC.
The Swinomish Tribal Harbor Master appeared before the Commissioners and outlined the tribe’s efforts to build strong regional partnerships with the Port of Skagit and Port of Friday Harbor.
The Port has an opportunity to purchase the property at 687 Airport Center Road (the Kilpatrick building). The FAA will provide funds through the FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP). The Port benefits from AIP funds which will eliminate using Port capital for a new administration building. The Director will update the current Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). This acquisition will delay the Southwest hanger development area. The acquisition will commence once the FAA has accepted the updated CIP.
The Port negotiated a new agreement with American Cruise Lines, with ACL’s promise to fund a new 600-amp electrical shore power installation for their vessels. The agreement will increase the Port’s dockage revenue drive tourism into Friday Harbor businesses, and eliminate use of generators and their emissions. Construction is scheduled for winter. The Commissioners approved the agreement, with an amendment for Port Director authority for minor changes relating to sewer, water and power charges.
The Commissioners accepted the MOU between the Town of Friday Harbor and the Port, with terms for water and sewer connections to the south side water system.
The commission approved Resolution 26-014 to authorize proceeding with the WSDOT grant for barge access road improvements. According to the grant terms, the Port pays for the construction and will be reimbursed by WSDOT.
The Commissioners approved updates to the Travel Reimbursement Policy, including mileage reimbursement rates tied to IRS official rates and meal/tipping reimbursement rates.
The Commissioners approved termination of Jolly Trolley’s long-term lease , effective December 31, 2026. The Port will compensate JT for its permanent land improvements to the site.
The Economic Development Council has requested that the Port maintain its past funding contribution, which will be part of the formal evaluation of the discretionary fund during the October/November budget cycles.
The Commissioners recognized the summer seasonal staff’s efforts in maintaining the Port’s buildings and grounds. The Port’s seasonal scholarship program is effective in retaining staff during the busy summer season.
Transient moorage metrics are trending upward, with a surge in activity due to favorable weather in July and August. A final report of summer operations will be available at the end of September.
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 membership