Author: kfskadmin

A new report released this month outlines 33 recommendations for creating new jobs in the forest products, seafood, visitor and renewable energy industries in Southeast Alaska. The recommendations were developed by four groups of industry, government and stakeholder representatives, called “cluster groups.” The report is part of an ongoing U.S. Department of Agriculture strategy called the “transition framework” aimed at diversifying the economy in the region.

Seven months ago Petersburg voters passed an ordinance banning smoking in all public spaces including bars, restaurants, clubs and workplaces. Despite initial concerns about the impact on businesses, community members seem to be happy with the change.

Petersburg voters will have a chance to vote on construction of a new library this fall. Petersburg’s city council Monday night agreed to put a bond issue for up to $1.5 million on the October ballot. Supporters of the project say the local bond issue is one of the last pieces of funding needed to construct the 6.7-million-dollar building.

Supporters of Petersburg’s assisted-living facility, the childrens center and local mental health services last night made their case for funding before Petersburg’s City Council. The council is considering a city budget for next year that includes funding for the childrens center and continued funding for mental health along with drug and alcohol services. Councilors made no changes to the proposed spending for community organizations but still may tweak the budget at a meeting later this month. Councilors did approve an increase in the property tax rate for next year that will help pay off debt for construction of the assisted-living wing at Mountain View manor.

The privately-owned marine railway used for hauling vessels in Petersburg is back in action this month. Piston and Rudder Services pulled its first vessel the 58-foot seiner “Defiant” from the waters of the Wrangell Narrows at high tide on Thursday afternoon. Piston and Rudder this spring purchased the shipyard formerly called Petersburg Shipwrights, after that business closed for the winter. The closure temporarily left larger vessel owners no place in town to haul boats for maintenance and repair work. Joe Viechnicki stopped by the shipyard Thursday to watch the re-opening.