Closest to the Fish

News & Updates for Pelican Residents

February 6th, 2025 -

City of Pelican, Public Works & Utilities

MEMORANDUM

To: Residents of Pelican

From: Adam Pool, Director of Public Works and Utilities

Subject: Explanation of oil sheen from the garbage truck

Dear Residents,

We want to address recent concerns regarding an occasional oil sheen observed near the garbage truck. After careful review, we want to assure the public that this sheen is not hazardous or toxic.

The residue causing the sheen comes from non-toxic mineral oils seeping from metal pipes that are being removed from the freezer building. These oils were previously used as a protective coating and are now naturally surfacing as the pipes are handled and transported.

This is a harmless occurrence and does not pose any risk to public health, drinking water, or the environment. Our team is monitoring the situation and will take necessary steps to minimize any visible residue.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Public Works Director at adampool@pelicancity.org

Thank you for your understanding.

Adam Pool

Director of Public Works and Utilities

City of Pelican, Alaska

Important Dates:

• Pelican Health Clinic: February 8th: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., February 9th - 10th: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., February 11th: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

• Regular City Council Meeting: Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

• Allen Marine Catamaran: Friday, February 14th, 2025.

• President’s Day: In observance of President’s Day, all city businesses will be closed on Monday, February 17th, 2025. Pelican Fuels will not be available for callouts and will reopen during regular business hours on Wednesday the 19th. Garbage service will be performed on Tuesday, February 18th.

Friendly Reminders:

• Proposition 2024-1, authorization to increase the general sales tax from 4% to 6% from may to September went into effect on January 1, 2025. Please note that sales tax will increase from 4% to 6% effective May 1st - September 30th each year.

• With freezing temperatures expected in the coming days, it’s essential to take preventive measures to protect your water pipes. Uninsulated or poorly maintained pipes are at risk of freezing or bursting, which can lead to water loss, flooding, and costly damage to your home or business. To help prevent frozen pipes, we recommend the following:

  -Keep a small, steady stream of water running from a faucet to maintain water flow.

  -Close crawl space vents to reduce exposure to cold air.

  -Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from freezing.

  -Check heat tapes to ensure they are plugged in and working properly

  -Turn off and insulate hose bibs and disconnect any attached hoses.

  Taking these precautions now can help prevent costly repairs and water service disruptions.

Winter Snow Reminders:

With the snow season under way, please remember these key guidelines to keep our community safe and accessible:

• Keep Pathways Clear: Remove any construction materials or bulky items from the boardwalk, floats, and fingers to ensure emergency vehicles and snow-clearing equipment have unobstructed access.

• Shovel Promptly: Clear your porches and walkways within 24-hours after snowfall to maintain safe passage for everyone.

• Dispose of Snow Properly: Do not shovel snow into public rights of way, as it can create hazardous conditions.

• Help Your Neighbors: Be a snow angel! Check in with neighbors who may need assistance clearing snow or ice.

• Join Our Efforts: If you’re interested in helping with city snow removal, let us know — we’d appreciate your support

• Stay Prepared: Monitor temperatures and activate your circ pumps if needed to prevent freezing issues.

Thank you for working together to keep our community safe and winter-ready!