Port of Allyn votes to refund care center deposit

Port of Allyn commissioners unanimously approved a $25,000 refund of a deposit paid by a memory care center for an application of determination of water quality.

“It’s a formality at this point,” Commissioner John Sheridan said.

Ronald and Debra Jamerson were developing the assisted living facility in Allyn.

“We are unable to proceed with the project,” Ronald Jamerson wrote in a letter to the port requesting the refund.

The port discussed returning the money at July’s meeting when Executive Director Travis Merrill said the port doesn’t have a refund policy for connection or development fees.

Commissioners tabled a vote on the request last month to do more research.

Merrill advised commissioners to issue the refund “after consulting with the Port’s legal counsel,” according to his August executive director report.

Sweetwater Park receives negative feedback

During public comments, Belfair resident Ken VanBuskirk questioned the port’s continued support of Sweetwater Creek Waterwheel Park.

VanBuskirk reminded the commissioners that former Executive Director Lary Coppola, who died last year, said in 2022 that the cost of the project had doubled, and in 2023 said the cost had tripled.

The port should consult with their attorney regarding a 2022 memorandum of agreement with the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group, VanBuskirk said.

“The port’s obligated to take title ownership of that property. And it’s my opinion that the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group has breached the agreement and the confidentiality clause in that agreement is bogus. There has been an attempt to cover up and I hope that none of you are involved,” Van Buskirk said.

He also recommended commissioners nullify HCSEG as the representative for Recreation and Conservation Office grants.

“There has been questionable requests and documentation in those grants,” VanBuskirk said.

Two long-term port projects get funding

Funds for emergency pier repair and relocation of the Oyster House are now available, Merrill said.

Up to $499,550 is available on the state portal for Commerce appropriation funds for reimbursement “to resurrect the Port’s iconic dock,” according to Merrill.

Commissioners signed off on a $3,366.60 down payment for a contract with Marine Floats to start working on dock repairs.

$432,648.42 is available “to resurrect the Oyster House and move it to its permanent location,” Merrill’s report states.

“Next step with the Oyster House is to secure new bids on getting the footing & foundation designed,” according to the report.