Port of Friday Harbor working on derelict vessel turn-in event
LWVSJ Observer Corps:* summary of Friday Harbor Port Commission, November 8, 2023 meeting
The Commissioners reviewed the 2024 budget. Past commissioner and EDC Director Victoria Compton updated the Commission on EDC training courses and thanked the Port for their partnership. The Commission approved the property tax levy and adopted the Port of Friday Harbor’s 2024 Budget and Scheme of Harbor Improvements.
Jason Knott from Essential Sailing (ESI), which operates out of Jensen’s Shipyard, presented elements of their 5-year plan to be a net zero polluter and eliminate toxic run off. They use Silic One Bottom Paint which is better for the environment and increases fuel economy. They use vinyl wrapping around the hull of a boat instead of paint.
The Commission discussed a request from the San Juan Island Food Hub for a facility for dry, refrigerated, and frozen storage. The Executive Director will work with them to explore potential locations for short-term options and a permanent solution.
Head of Marina Operations Adam Parrott reported on conferences attended, including speaking at four in the last year. He led discussions on marine industry electrification from a facilities manager’s perspective. The biggest challenge is the disconnect between the manufacturers and what marine facilities can make available to electrified vessels. The power required is not always available in the right dock locations and is used differently by permanent customers and transient vessels. Friday Harbor port can allow vessels to charge at the commercial dock. It is not easy to plan for the long term with the industry changing so quickly.
Adam is a sub-committee lead on the county Marine Resources Committee and is working on a vessel disposal program and a derelict vessel turn-in event. He recommends reaching out to the derelict vessel owners in the marina to make them aware of this opportunity. The piling removal at Jacksons Beach is now complete.
The Commission is interested in partnering with other marinas to apply for a state grant to get appropriate electric stations in place.
The Executive Director reported the boathouse demolition is complete and the boat shed demolition is underway. The Shipyard Cove barge landing replacement will start construction this month.
The recent port election will be certified on November 27th with Rich Goodhart receiving the most votes. The Commission thanked Steve Carlton for serving as an interim commissioner.
Gib Black updated the commissioner on talks with the Sailing Foundation to formalize their use of the net shed and which will be on the next meeting agenda.
*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 members.