Friday Harbor Port Commission September 26, 2025

The San Juan Economic Development Commission (EDC) made a presentation in support of their annual funding request. Their programs support services that are seeing state and federal funding levels cut. From September 2024 - June 2025 the EDC served over 370 county businesses through one-on-one support and classes. They provided 14 business support workshops. Business and worker surveys identify workforce training as a critical need in the county. The port may reduce funding to the EDC and instead find other ways to support them. The commissioners will also review port funding to the Chamber of Commerce for the fireworks.

The 20,000 square foot building at the recently acquired cannery site will offer opportunities for public and business facilities. Boyd Pratt is writing a history of the cannery which will support historical exhibits at the facility.  Community feedback has been largely positive with concerns about contamination, cost and the possibility of housing at the location. The commission will hold workshops to assess opportunities, risks, and obstacles then determine uses and plans for the site to inform zoning adjustments. Broader community conversations will begin around the new year to get public input on cannery site plans.

The port reviewed the personnel policy and updated it to align with current employment laws. Items addressed military and maternity leave, alcohol and drug-free workplace policies, and basic benefits for Washington state. A “no firearms” policy might be added and extended to lease agreements.

The Commissioners reviewed their discretionary funding. Costs for the newsletter will determine if there will be one or two issues per year. The commission approved a 3% merit raise for the Port Executive Director. The port has hired a social media content creator to provide brand development and implement a strategy of consistent posting on different platforms to inform potential visitors.

The port staff is working to simplify the complicated tariff structure for the new 2026 tariffs. It will use the consumer price Index and maintain a lower rate for smaller slips.

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