ACL-American Cruise Lines (the largest USA-flagged cruise company) intends to operate small-ship cruises through Southeast Alaska starting in late-July. However, Skagway’s assembly wants to see a more robust COVID mitigation plan before ACL docks in town, even if that means waiting until next year.
Assemblymember Dustin Stone continues working with the cruise company to create acceptable protocols for docking but to ask American Cruise Lines to leave Port Skagway AK off the current itinerary.
According to assemblymember Steve Burnham, Skagway should not participate in a “trial run that could jeopardize the health, safety, and next year’s season."
Assemblymember Dave Brena agreed that the assembly shouldn't rush safety protocols for such a small influx of passengers.
The motion passed in a 5 to 1 vote.
Businesses leasing a property from the municipality can negotiate deferred payments. The assembly approved the measure recommended by the finance committee. The goal is to mitigate the pandemic's impact related to economic hardship.