The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on July 21, 2025, focusing on key updates regarding education and infrastructure projects in the borough. The meeting began with discussions on the current challenges facing the education sector, particularly in hiring qualified personnel. The superintendent expressed concerns about a lack of candidates in the pipeline and the impact of recent changes to the retirement system on recruitment efforts. Despite these challenges, the superintendent assured the assembly of their commitment to supporting the school board and ensuring a successful start to the school year.

A significant point raised was the need for transparency regarding the school district's financial status. The assembly requested detailed reports on fund balances and repayment plans to better understand the district's financial health, especially in light of uncertainties in state funding. The superintendent acknowledged the importance of these reports and committed to providing them.

Following the education discussion, the assembly received an update on the Ketchikan Airport ferry berth project from David Lowell of the Alaska Department of Transportation. He reported on the project's progress, which began in 2020 with a budget of $51 million. The project has faced challenges, including site conditions and construction issues, but substantial completion of the uplands and passenger facilities was achieved in 2022.

Lowell detailed the ongoing work to address issues with vehicle clearance at the new berths, particularly for emergency vehicles. A solution involving a topping slab to improve the transition from the bridge to the dock is set to commence in August, with completion expected by September. The assembly expressed concerns about the structural integrity of the project, particularly regarding the piling work, but Lowell reassured them that all necessary inspections and modifications had been made to ensure safety and functionality.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, although none were received. The assembly's discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to navigate financial uncertainties in education and the progress of critical infrastructure projects, setting the stage for future developments in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough.