Port of Friday Harbor: Renewable diesel may be available at port in future
LWVSJ Observer Corps* Notes Friday Harbor Port Commission, March 08, 2023: The Gathering of the Eagles Canoe Journey group attended the meeting and gave a presentation on their heritage and the special place that the islands represent to their culture. They are looking for a safe place on San Juan Island to land their canoes and build a fire as they stop over on their journey in late May.
Jay Julius of the Lummi Nation presented ideas for approval to bring a totem to be placed at the marina and a virtual reality interpretive center in the clock building. The interpretive center will be an educational destination to connect people to the stories of the local indigenous people. The motion to accept the offer of the totem was approved, though the concern was raised with there had not been usual public input. Timing and logistics need to be worked out.
The Commission approved a motion to contract with Reid Middleton as on-call Marina Engineer after evaluating the qualifications of four companies.
The Commission approved the AIP44 Airport Energy Assessment Study Grant Application to the FAA.
The Commissioners authorized the Executive Director to award the Taxiway A contract to the lowest responsive bidder. Most of the costs will be covered by insurance and the balance will be covered by the port.
Though the competition will strong, the outlook for getting congressional funding for a state-of-the-art travelift looks promising.
The Commission discussed the possibility of having renewable diesel available on the island. Cherry Point offers this alternative. Although not available now, the Port hopes to offer it in the future.
Spring maintenance projects are underway and include dock remediation, shower improvements, replacing water lines and other general upgrades.
*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 members.