Unalaska, AK – Tonight, city council met to discuss utilities bills, construction projects, and taxes.

The meeting opened with a public hearing concerning the tax exemptions for out of town sales and the definition for resale and retail sales in Unalaska. The main resource the ordinance concerns is rock. The purpose of the ordinance is to make the tax code more consistent and potentially close existing loopholes. In previous sessions, questions and concerns about potential tax complications and double taxation were addressed and assuaged. The ordinance passed unanimously.

The other major topic covered last night involved an ordinance that would reduce the delinquency period for unpaid utility bills, meaning that the grace period would be shortened. There was discussion about amendments to the ordinance, and the ordinance - which was discussed in the previous meeting - was reintroduced as new business. The ordinance is moving forward after a split vote in which Mayor Shirley Marquardt had to break a tie.

Council also laid out its legislative priorities for the year in preparation for a lobbying trip to Washington. Among the items: completion of the Carl E. Moses boat harbor, repaving of the Ballyhoo road, and installation of new water treatment and waste water treatment facilities.