January 13, 2014
Monday PM

I recently went to the Ketchikan Borough Assembly meeting where one of the topics addressed the issues that have been compounding at Herring Cove over the years. I was very shocked and upset when my statements were incorrectly reported by one of our local papers. After a couple of phone calls no corrections have been made. First of all, I have never worked for a taxi company, I have worked for the same local tour company every summer since 2009, and several others before.

I believe the overcrowding at the Cove will only increase as time passes. One year I counted over 13 companies in one day visiting the area, on top of the local fishermen and wildlife viewers.

It is a very public place surrounded by private owners who struggle with their right to property and peace. Unfortunately there is no way to prevent visitors. I believe the best option is to improve the infrastructure by making public parking, beach access, and viewing places.

I don't think having a liaison running around will be a nuisance and ineffective, and a permit to visit the area will be ineffective. I also believe it is NOT the responsibility of the property owners and tour companies to pay for these improvements. Tourists already pay just to get off the boat, and tour companies pay thousands just to sell tickets to tourists. Plus landowners at the Cove pay taxes.

I believe our borough needs to take a lead and provide the funding and grants that are needed to make the Cove safe for all who visit -- the locals, visitors, tourists, and wildlife.

Marie Zellmer
Ketchikan, Alaska

Received January 13, 2014 - Published January 13, 2014

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