Newscasts
Bad cell phone service, increased family leave, ocean floor mapping and environmental contaminants were all discussed at Skagway’s last assembly meeting. The session was brief but the topics were diverse.
The commercial fishing season has started in the Lynn Canal. The catch was high, the prices similar to last year’s. The fish are healthy. Biologists expect strong runs this year, but, it could be a difficult year for the industry.
The Skagway Shuffle: Episode 2
Approximately two weeks after a vehicle fire on the Klondike Highway, the Skagway Fire Department was called to a structure fire. There were no injuries and the fire was contained. And, it’s not a jewelry store. It’s not a restaurant. You’ll never guess the newest business headed to Skagway’s Historic District.
Carbon Credits are a new way of getting revenue from forests by leaving trees in the ground. The state of Alaska is setting up its own program, and the Haines state forest could be included. But, as KHNS’s Alain d’Epremesnil reports, the local timber harvest plan will have to be updated to accommodate the new program.
Like many Alaska towns, Skagway has been dealing with a housing shortage for years. Unlike other towns, Skagway has little room for expansion and the number of housing units available doesn’t change much year over year, even as the ships get bigger, and more seasonal employees are needed to serve them. Recent changes have residents unsure how much longer it can go on. Molly McCluskey is a former reporter for The Skagway News, and she returned to report on Skagway’s housing challenges and some possible solutions. Tune in to the KHNS local News Wednesday Evenings and Thursday Mornings for this limited series; “The Skagway Shuffle”
Last Thursday’s Skagway Assembly meeting discussed problem bears and drivers on the Klondike Highway and a possible study to understand the impacts of tourism. A surprise visitor with deep Skagway roots delighted participants.
After a lengthy investigation, an arrest was made in two overdose deaths in Skagway. And, it was a busy week for culture in Skagway with drag performers and award-winning authors.
