Port Commission holds off on rate increase, eyes security

The Wrangell Port Commission has decided to hold off on plans to increase space rates for work and storage at the Marine Service Center. At the recommendation of the Harbor Department, a 50 percent raise to 75 cents per square foot was being considered. But after the latest public workshop held on March 9, commissioners decided now would not be the best time to roll out the proposed increase.

“It’s been basically put on hold,” said Clay Hammer, chairing the commission at its March 11 evening meeting. Over the past several months’ meetings, vendors had largely appeared to be opposed to the rate...