Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:30am by Kevin Hoult. New member Beth led the flag salute.

Guests:

Jeff Monroe of Monroe House Moving.

Minutes:

Dr. Robins moved and Jack seconded acceptance of the minutes for August 22, 2017. Motion carried.

Announcements:

Dr. Robins gave a report on the recent active shooter drill. He also said that in general, local community college enrollment has been down for the past 3 years.

There is a City of PA Race Street changes hearing Sept. 12 at 4pm at the Senior Center.

Kevin announced that COIN – emeraldfunds.org/opportunity-zone/ will have their next meeting in the fall.

Jack brought up the Cook Aquaculture event. Any permitting is now on hold pending the investigation.

Travis Berglund spoke briefly about the EDC’s Affordable Housing forum last week and how it was a good way to start the conversation.

Program

Andrew May introduced Jim Moran, city Council candidate for position 1. He gave background information about himself and stated that his most important issues are the opioid epidemic, economic development and the Elwha water facility affecting PA water. Following are answers to member questions.

Q & A:

— Sanctuary City is not a priority to him, the burden should not be placed on the police force.

— Annexing and the UGA adds to the economic base but they need to look at the long term economic benefit. Jon F said there are a lot of septic systems in Gales Addition and that annexation could be better in the long run although residents probably wouldn’t like the increased cost. The City bypassed the chance to hookup to sewer when they extended to Walmart.

— He would be interested in the Mayor position. It shouldn’t be a ceremonial position but if he is Mayor he would be out advocating for the city.

— We have the correct form of government for our size. Continuity is important.

— Jamestown vision statement for developing the waterfront and he would work with Ron Allen. They city has plans for the site as well, but it is important to move forward. Astoria, OR has an example that could be followed by PA, it is a designated Coast Guard City and brownstone Grants were used there to help clean up a site.

— People are worried about growth and gentrification, however growth is needed to aid in maintaining utility rates in the city. Small/medium businesses are needed to grow steadily. Large businesses can have a big impact if they decide to leave. How do you not leave people behind? You keep having events like the EDC forum. The building industry can’t feel threatened and reluctant to take risk due to fees and zoning.

— Dr. Robins commented that the city works well with the college. They were responsive with the student housing issue and the college was able to be creative about the storm water mitigation.

— Jim M. talked about his involvement in museums and how maintaining them and meeting regularly is a good way to share ideas.

He also said that he would support a plaque for veterans in general, but not a separate one only for draftees.

Upcoming Meeting:

Sept. 5:  No meeting

Sept. 11:  Board Meeting @ 7:30am.

Sept. 12:  changed to Wednesday, Sept. 13 at noon to join the Chamber of Commerce

Meeting adjourned at 8:35am.