Haines Borough manager Bill Seward started on the job this week, though he got a taste of local politics sitting on last week’s assembly meeting.
“My first impression is that the citizens of Haines should be proud of their assembly’s selfless dedication and willingness to discuss and solve big issues,” Seward said.
Seward said the assembly actively listened to critics of the Small Boat Harbor expansion project.
“It is apparent there is a lot of momentum behind this project and there are several passionate folks on both sides of the aisle,” he said. “Tourism and fishing are two pillars within our local economy and we have to be careful not to develop one at the expense of the other; this will be key as we proceed forward.”
Other issues Seward said he has identified so far are borough staff turnover, beautification of historic landmarks, the wastewater treatment plant, potential repeal of the 1 percent tax for tourism and economic development, and the Lutak Dock.
Seward said he hopes to wrap up negotiations with incoming police chief Heath Scott this week.
Seward’s contract stipulates an annual salary of $95,000 with an automatic 3.5 percent bump on Dec. 20 and another 3.5 percent increase on June 20 of next year. “Further increases shall be considered on June 20 of each year thereafter, subject to an annual review by the borough assembly when the salary may be increased dependent upon favorable evaluations,” the contract reads.
Seward will earn 30 days of personal leave per year plus an additional five days of “executive” leave. He is also entitled to the 11 holidays all regular, year-round borough employees are allotted.
The contract also includes an item for “professional development,” which states the borough will budget for the dues and subscriptions for Seward’s participation in the International City/County Management Association, Alaska Municipal Management Association, the Alaska Municipal League and ongoing certifications.
“The borough shall make available the funds needed for Mr. Seward to obtain a certificate as a certified borough (city) manager through ICMA,” the contract reads.
The contract states Seward will be reviewed after six months and at least once per year thereafter. It also stipulates the borough and Seward define goals and performance objectives annually to establish a priority list that will be set down in writing.
The contract is for an “indefinite” period, though the manager is an “at will” employee and can be terminated at any time. Termination without cause would trigger four months of benefited salary.