ITEM TITLE:
#25-35 - Renaming the Valdez Container Terminal as the “Ryan J. Sontag Valdez Container Terminal”
SUBMITTED BY: Jeremy Talbott, Ports and Harbor Director
FISCAL NOTES:
Expenditure Required: N/A
Unencumbered Balance: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Resolution 25-35.
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
On August 14, 2025, the Ports and Harbors Commission reviewed the attached resolution to change the name of the Valdez Container Terminal honoring the late Ryan J. Sontag and recommends its adoption by City Council.
This action follows formal correspondence from former Governor Bill Walker supporting the renaming in honor of Mr. Sontag’s decades of service and contribution to the City of Valdez, particularly in port development, emergency response, and community leadership (letter of support attached).
The family was contacted and is also in support of the purposed resolution.
The commission has determined that the resolution is consistent with the goals of honoring community legacy and reinforcing positive community engagement.
Fiscal Impact: The renaming involves signage but the terminal is long overdue for a new entrance sign and staff will work with all involved to incorporate the name change into the 2026 work plan and budget.