Nome’s City Council could make the final decision on a controversial ordinance regarding Port tariffs during tonight’s regular meeting.
At their last meeting in Council Chambers, the general consensus in the room was to wait to amend the Port tariff rates until tonight, during the second reading of the ordinance. One marine operator business, Vitus Energy, has now weighed in on the ordinance through a letter to the City Council. President of Vitus Energy LLC, Justin Charon, said, “If the proposed tariff is passed, Vitus will only be quoting services offshore. A single customer that opts not to go to Nome will cost the City more in lost sales tax than a whole year of Vitus wharfage fees.”
According to Vitus Energy’s letter, they are urging the Council not to create regulations that could cause the City to lose sales tax revenue. If the Port tariff ordinance were passed as it currently stands, it would slightly increase tariff rates and regulate over the side transfers.
Also on the Council’s agenda for tonight’s meeting is an ordinance to authorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to dispose of roughly two acres in City property through a lease agreement.
Though this is not an item of official business, the City has also been notified of three liquor license renewal applications received by the Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office (AMCO). Nome’s VFW, the Soap & Suds Bar, and the Anchor Tavern have all submitted completed renewal applications to AMCO.
Tonight’s regular City Council meeting begins at 7pm in Council Chambers.
Image at top: file photo: an aerial view of Nome’s small boat harbor and port. Photo: Joy Baker, City of Nome.
