Friday Harbor Port Commission November 14, 2025

The commission approved the 2026 operating budget and a resolution for the property tax levy. They also approved the 2026 capital budget and plan for harbor improvements with some scheduling changes. They approved the payment for The Cannery and dealt with the FAA rescinding the transfer of seaplane activity funds used to the airport.

The Economic Development Commission presented their funding request for 2026. The Port will look at several options at could provide funding in creative ways next year.

In public comment Mike Byrne suggested potential uses for the Cannery building, which he would like to see as a center for the sailing community. The Executive Director said all options will be considered when putting together the strategic plan.

 The commission agreed to use Port labor to build the new Solar Canopy in the upper marina parking lot to save money and allow the Port to phase the construction to mitigate parking issues. Project costs will be tracked and reviewed to inform future decisions about using in-house staff vs. subcontracting.

The commission approved clarifications of paid time off rules in the Employee Handbook. The approved the assignment of Hangar V2 and a change order to the HB Hansen contract to allow building a retaining wall and vehicle access ramps to manage the embankment at the rear of the hangar. 

The Executive Director reported on plans to remove the derelict docks at the Cannery in compliance with direction from the Department of Natural Resources. The Port will work with the tribes on project details.

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