LWVSJ Observer Corps: Friday Harbor Port Commission, September 11, 2026 meeting
Michelle Herko, Friday Harbor Labs Program Director, reported on the program she oversees allowing fifth grade students to perform water testing at the Friday Harbor Marina. They share their results with the Port. She emphasized the program’s value and submitted a funding request to offset the program’s cost.
Future of Cannery property: The County Planning and Building Departments has toured the Cannery facility and grounds and discussed the requirements for public access to the property. Port staff will work with the county to authorize specific short term uses, with a proposal to relocate the fencing boundary to open unused property for public access, with possibilities of picnic tables or opening natural trails. The Port will prioritize short term uses that do not require major utility retrofits.
The Port supports the Sailing Foundation use for parking their boats and docks inside the building for this winter while they seek a permanent home. Long term priorities include industrial aquaculture use, tribal interpretive space, small boat use and community space. Future physical infrastructure requires zoning changes and updates to the waterfront master plan.
Construction on Hangar 80 is complete with occupancy permits in place so that Island Air can move in. The Commission granted Island Air’s request for a three-year rent abatement due to the FAA backlogs. They will be expanding their maintenance business and are training two mechanics to meet certification requirements.
The Commissioners reviewed the preliminary 2027 Capital Budget, with grant funds and expenses for airport and marine projects, infrastructure and electrical projects. Also included in the budget are equipment purchases, property operations and in-house maintenance.
The Executive Director gave updates on equipment purchases and facility relocation plans if the Kilpatrick building if the acquisition is finalized. The current CPI index of 4.4% will be applied to tariffs, hangar lease rates and moorage rates. American Cruise Lines will submit engineering plans for the terminal gear, electrical layout and work for the OPALCO transformer. Alchemy Art Studio is working on the mural, with installation scheduled for late summer 2027.
Jacksons Beach: Trash management events will be reviewed, with a policy added to all rental agreements. Environmental representatives and the county are working on a compromise to allow soft shore restoration while preserving the industrial barge landing’s long-term viability.
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