Unalaska, AK – Last night, City Council met to discuss the current tideland leasing situation, the preferential use agreement with Horizon Lines, and an addition to the Carl E. Moses small boat harbor.

This meeting marked the start of the municipal term. All three having won reelection in the October 5 contest, Mayor Shirley Marquardt and council members Roger Rowland and David Gregory renewed their oaths of office at the start of the meeting.

Council then segued to discussion of the community's tideland property. At issue were the current rental rates and the prices being charged to Magone Marine and Kloosterboer. When the city first began leasing the property, it charged below-market rates in order to spur development. Now, the city is considering readjusting the way rates are appraised.

City council also discussed its preferential use agreement with Horizon Lines. While council had intended to handle a resolution that would authorize the city manager to renew the agreement -- which expired this October -- that resolution was tabled.

Department of Public Works head Nancy Peterson also offered a presentation on a new facility that would be constructed near the Carl E. Moses Small Boat Harbor. The facility is to contain space for a workshop and two restrooms. The project has hit a slight snag, however, as construction bids are high above the budgeted amount, coming in at $900,000.

Following the discussion portion of the work session, council moved on to new business. Council unanimously approved a resolution that identifies the city's priorities for the year. Projects identified as major priorities include the wastewater treatment plant, the water treatment plant construction, expansion of the landfill, and the Ballyhoo Road project.

Council also unanimously approved a resolution that would authorize Mayor Shirley Marquardt to renew the employment agreement with city manager Hladick.

Council members David Gregory, Dennis Robinson, Roger Rowland, and Zac Schasteen were all present at the meeting.