Salem Harbor Port Authority

MEETING MINUTES: September 1, 2022 A public meeting of the Salem Harbor Port Authority was convened at 5:00 pm via Zoom web conference. Members present: Michael Rutstein (Chairman), Councilor Bob McCarthy, Fred Atkins, Kathy Winn Others Present: Capt. Bill McHugh – Harbormaster, Seth Lattrell – Port Authority Deputy/Planner, Hannah Mori from Senator Lovely’s office, and Christine Petryszyn – Recording Clerk Call to Order Chairman Rutstein called the meeting to order at 5:07 pm and outlined the format for the meeting, indicating that members of the public may provide comments during the period of the meeting designated for public comment. Offshore Wind Funding Update Mr. Lattrell stated that the $45M in expected state funding for Salem through the economic development bill has still not been passed through the state legislature. Ms. Mori added that informal session is expected to reconvene in late September once there is clarification on the impacts of the 1986 tax law. Mr. Lattrell reported that there was no update on the Port Authority legislation he recently circulated to the members. He said they are still working to determine the best vehicle to attach that legislation to. He added that the City should find out in the next month or so if they will be awarded the infrastructure grant that was submitted, and that the federal grant is under review and awards will be announced in late September/early October. CBA/Conveyance Mr. Lattrell reported that he is working with Crowley on the CBA. The closing is scheduled for September 30th. The existing Footprint CBA requires the conveyance of land back to the City. It is expected there will be a successor document that lays out the requirements, addresses the bankruptcy filing, etc. Final details are being worked on now. This document will be recorded at the time of the conveyance. The land slated to be conveyed to the City will maximize the connection to Blaney Street. Harbormaster McHugh agreed that this approach is in the best interest of the City. He added that it will allow the City to access the berth. Schedule Updates There were no major updates to report on schedule; everything is on track. The closing is scheduled for the end of the month. An expanded MEPA filing will be used to streamline the permitting process. On September 15th, Crowley will be meeting with City staff and the City Council to inform future public meetings and better understand City issues. Engagement Mr. Lattrell notes that they are still on track with community wide engagement. Public meetings will take place in November when there is more refined information on the plan and construction. Smaller workforce meetings, meetings with the Mayor, North Shore Chamber of Commerce, and more are expected. The team is also advancing FAQ, flyers, website development, etc. Workforce Development The City is working in partnership with MassHire, the Essex County Community Foundation and UMass Amherst on an equitable workforce plan. They have applied for $50k in funding for this effort with the Clean Energy Center and hope to hear back early in September. It will examine what the industry needs for skills, reach out to EJ centers to help make those connections, and build those jobs. In response to Ms. Winn’s question, Mr. Lattrell said the City will be hiring consultants to assist with this undertaking. Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan Mr. Lattrell noted that the City still needs clarification on the South River area. They have comments back from CZM. Once finalized the plan will go in front of the Harbor Plan Committee, then back to the state for final approval. Blaney Street Parking Mr. Lattrell reported that the signs have been delivered that a work order has been submitted. Salem Ferry Terminal Building Mr. Lattrell reported that the FTA grant is due September 9th and that most of the grant is ready to be submitted. The grant includes construction and design. There are four rounds, and the City needs a $1.2M match. If the City is not successful for this round, he wants to be ready for the next round. He expects the City’s application will be very competitive. Letters of support from legislators, the MBTA, and local stakeholders are in hand. Harbormaster Report Harbormaster McHugh noted that he and Mr. Lattrell met with marine operators and Crowley. He said it was a great first meeting and described the need for a port master plan to meet everyone’s needs. He stated that getting input from stakeholders will be key to project success. He reported on the need for additional signage for fishing and he is working to secure and post what is needed. A replica schooner recently used the north berth on its way to Gloucester. Harbormaster McHugh reported that Yacht Insider continues to be very helpful. The cyber assessment was submitted to the USCG. Harbormaster McHugh noted that Salem’s facility does not rely on the internet and the assessment requirement was a broad stroke that did not well fit Salem’s use. Harbormaster McHugh noted that new marine gear is arriving on November 1st and that the successful bidder for the new propulsion unit is being notified. He stated that the ferry has been very busy, particularly in light of the recent issues and construction with the MBTA. He reported that they are almost back at pre-pandemic use levels. Asked about the possibility of a year-round operation, Harbormaster McHugh felt that it would require significant support from the city and state. It would require a sheltered area for commuters to wait in the winter season. Public Comment The meeting was opened for public comment. Bob Blair, Rowley, MA noted that the updates provided were excellent. He inquired as how updates could be tracked by the public in an effort to stay transparent. Mr. Lattrell noted that the team recognizes the need for that and will post updates on the website once they are a little further into the process. Harbormaster McHugh said communication will be needed between Crowley and marine operators. Approval of Minutes Meeting minutes from the August 4th meeting were unanimously approved by all members present Adjournment Salem Harbor Port Authority adjourned at 5:55 pm