The Cordova City Council convened on April 5 to discuss agenda items and recognize different city officials and agencies.
City Manager Helen Howarth shared in her report during the meeting that “staff continues to pursue improvements to city’s financial management systems and is working to transition to new cloud-based accounting software on Jan. 1, 2024. City’s audit is scheduled for early May and will be completed in advance of City’s budget preparation process for FY24.”
Howarth praised the Cordova Police Department for its continued efforts in keeping the community safe, highlighting the way the department handled the recent jail break of inmate Andrew Johnson, who is back in custody.
“I wanted to praise the police department for the work that they have done all year, but specifically the way they addressed and handled a convict that escaped from the jail,” said Howarth. “It was a rather traumatic event for the officers involved, but they were highly professional in the way they responded to it, so I wanted to commend them for that.”
Howarth shared that Mimi Briggs, longtime city employee, museum director, and convener of events at the Cordova Center, will be retiring at the end of April.
“I want to give a shoutout to her for stepping up in every way, and making things happen in this building in a pretty remarkable way,” said Howarth.
Lastly, Howarth recognizes that firefighter and medic Chris Iannazone has announced his resignation from the fire department, but will continue to serve the City of Cordova in different capacities, including on the city boards and commissions at the Cordova Community Medical Center.
“He has been a critical member of the city’s response team and an active volunteer in community organizations. Thankfully he is not leaving town and we wish him well in his new pursuits,” said Howarth.
Howarth shared a brief update on the South Harbor Rebuild Project, stating that it is “still actively going forward and we are still seeking funding” for the project. The city, Howarth shared, is applying for grants hoping to accrue funding in the amount of roughly $3.9 million for the project.
The city council had previously said the balance to get the project started would be “close to $4 million.” The design elements for the project are at about a 65% completion rate, with a 95% completion slated for late May or early June.
During the meeting Anne Schaffer was nominated by the council to serve as vice mayor. No audience comments were submitted nor were there any guest speakers in attendance. The consent calendar was approved.
