ITEM TITLE:
2025 Economic Development Report
SUBMITTED BY: Martha Barberio, Economic Development Director
FISCAL NOTES:
Expenditure Required: N/A
Unencumbered Balance: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive & file
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
In 2025, the City of Valdez Economic Development Department advanced key priorities in childcare, workforce development, business support, tourism, and transportation. Highlights include creating childcare start-up and operating grants, managing a $3 million HUD award for a new childcare facility, and hosting the successful Valdez Small Business Conference and Business Builder Workshop. The department strengthened partnerships with regional organizations, expanded workforce and STEAM initiatives with PWSC, Valdez City Schools, and T3 Alliance, and supported tourism growth through new interpretive signage in Old Town, visitor studies, and cruise line expansion. Eleven community service organization events were supported, and essential air service continuity was secured through coordination with USDOT and the State of Alaska. Collectively, these efforts strengthened Valdez’s economy, workforce, and visibility as a vibrant community and destination.