Meet the Candidates

Clay Hammer, running uncontested for re-election to the Port Commission, three-year seat

Occupation: Electrical superintendent for the City and Borough of Wrangell

Why would you like to sit on the commission again?

"I enjoy sitting on the Port Commission as it gives me a chance to give back to a community that has given me so much. I have four children, all born here, and I hope that as they 'leave the nest' that they and all our children will have as good a chance at making it here as we all have had. A strong, vibrant community and a well-run port is an important part of that. We all need to step up to the plate and help at some point, so I see this as just helping pay it forward and do my part."

In light of continuing budget concerns at the state level, which upcoming infrastructural project do you feel is the most attainable, and so should remain a top priority for Wrangell's Harbor Department?

"With the current budgetary woes facing the state right now I suspect that we better get used to being self-reliant. That said, I would like to see the Shoemaker Harbor rebuild completed before money dries up completely. As our Marine Service Center grows I can easily see more boats being attracted to the area due to access to service plus reasonable moorage rates. As state and federal money dries up I don't foresee a lot of brand-new harbor projects coming online elsewhere. We can rebuild Shoemaker and provide a nice place for moorage at a fraction of what it would cost another community to accomplish the same thing starting from scratch. Rebuilding Shoemaker would position us very well to meet current and future demand."

In the next three years, what can the commission do to foster continued development in the boatyard?

"The best thing we can do to foster growth in The Marine Service Center is to continue to work closely with the vendors in an effort to maintain a level playing field for all parties concerned, while at the same time giving them the freedom to do what they do. They have all demonstrated their ability to put out a good product and in that sense their work is one of the best forms of promotion there is. We have a limited amount of space available to work with though, and juggling the needs of the different users can be a challenge. We are still learning; I think it's important that we keep an open mind and continue to do the best we can."

John Martin,

running uncontested for re-election to the Port Commission,

three-year seat

Occupation: retired school teacher.

Why would you like to sit on the commission again?

"I feel I have acquired a good picture of the operation, assets and future of the Port of Wrangell. The present

commission is a good team; it is committed and active. I feel I can contribute to its decision making process and help it move forward."

In light of continuing

budget concerns at the state level, which upcoming infrastructural project do you feel is the most attainable, and so should remain a top priority for Wrangell's Harbor Department?

"Without a doubt, our

first priority is the Shoemaker

Bay facility replacement. We

must focus our time and energy towards its completion.

Its potential financial resources may not be around too long."

In the next three years, what can the commission do to foster continued

development in the boatyard?

"Over the next three years

we must commit to our port and harbors' future. It appears that state and federal monies

could dry up and we must adjust our rates to provide for our future. We must continue to deliver quality and timely

service at fair and reasonable rates. Attracting new clients is always a priority as is

maintaining a base of satisfied returning customers. We have a exciting plan for the Mariners Memorial, and we must put together a team to spearhead

its fundraising and

construction. Continual

development of our

relationship with Meyers Chuck is important as we help them address their needs."