PORT OF COUPEVILLE: The Current – News for May 2023 (PoC)
The Port of Coupeville publishes an electronic newsletter for the community to stay updated on events, news, and projects at both the Coupeville Wharf and Greenbank Farm. Click here to receive future issues as well as important dates and information on upcoming events and meetings. Ed. Note: We reprint those portions of The Current pertinent to the activities of the Port Commission. For the full contents of the current edition of the newsletter, click this link.
Port of Coupeville News
Coupeville Wharf
New Wood Benches
In April, we installed several new wood benches at the entrance area to the Coupeville Wharf.
The handcrafted benches were constructed from historic barn timbers by Whidbey Millhouse, with some metalsmith accents.
Thank you to the Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association for their partnership on this project.
And thanks to Tekla and David Cunningham for donation of the historic timbers!
Port of Coupeville Purchase of Oak Harbor Airport
The Port of Coupeville is in the process of purchasing the AJ Eisenberg Airport in Oak Harbor via an Assignment through a Right of First Refusal. The airport has been under private ownership since its inception, which has proven to not be a sustainable way to maintain an airport that can service the Whidbey Island community.
There has been much discussion and debate about this, but what hasn’t been clear is the many benefits of public vs private ownership of the airport. If you’re interested in participating in a public hearing, please see information below.
One problem with private ownership is that the airport cannot access state and federal infrastructure funding. A municipal entity such as a Port can apply for these valuable grants. As a result, the airport is in poor condition and cannot function without significant upgrades including replacing many buildings.
The Port of Coupeville’s interest in the airport stems from the many benefits a fully functioning airport can offer Island County residents. This is a collective effort, with the Port utilizing its many community partners, in addition to its ability to seek state and federal funding.
Our goal is to revitalize the airport and apply funds for improvements is to create jobs, new economic development opportunities, transportation access, county disaster support, tourism opportunities, business office space, as well as many other benefits to Island County.
Information about this project including a draft business plan is available on the Port website Port Projects
Oak Harbor Airport Public Hearing
May 17th, Wednesday
Time: 12 PM
Location: Barn A Greenbank Farm
ZOOM capabilities will also be available.
Agenda will be published at: https://portoc.org/commission-meetings/meeting-agendas-2/
Wharf Building Major Rehab Underway
After a significant planning period, the Port of Coupeville is beginning a major rehabilitation of the Coupeville Wharf. There will be several phases of work over the coming year. Some of the improvements will repair aging infrastructure, and some projects will safeguard the wharf against weather and seismic events.
Work is now beginning on replacing the wharf roof, which will be done before the busy summer season. This fall, a Pile Cap project process begins to increase the wharf’s stability by reinforcing the foundation. The diesel tanks at the Wharf are it the process of being replaced so there not be diesl fuel for a short time.
Upcoming Events
Port of Coupeville Board Meetings
Zoom Conference Call. For instructions on participating, visit the Port website here: https://portoc.org/commission-meetings/meeting-agendas/
- Wed, May 10, 10 a.m.
- Wed, May 24, 1 p.m.
- Wed, June 14, 10 a.m.
- Wed, June 28, 1 p.m.
On the Ballot in November 2023
| PORT OF COUPEVILLE |
| Commissioners. One of the three commissioner positions is scheduled to be on the ballot. In addition, due to a resignation, a second position will also be on the ballot. District 1: David Day. Candidates for district 1 must live in commissioner district 1; see the map at this link. No candidates, including Commissioner Day, filed to run for this seat. The Island County Auditor will have to open a special filing period to allow for candidates to come forward. District 3: John Callahan. Commissioner Callahan was appointed after the resignation of Patrick Kennedy. The position will be on the ballot in 2023 to fill the remainder of Kennedy’s term, which expires on Dec. 31, 2025. Mr. Callahan filed to retain his seat during Filing Week; Angela Ewart filed to challenge for the seat. |
