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Animal Control / Shelter

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1. Can I volunteer at the Animal Shelter?

Yes, volunteers are always welcome. Please call (907) 835-2286 for more information.

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Capital Facilities

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1. Are the current contracts out to bid available online?

Yes, current contracts out to bid are available on the Bid Postings Module bid postings page.

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Community and Economic Development

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1. Do I need a permit for a building project?

Yes, all construction projects within the City of Valdez require a building permit, whether you are building a new house, remodeling, adding to an existing structure, constructing a shed, placing a mobile home, making utility connections, or installing septic systems.

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Community and Economic Development - Floodplain Management

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1. Am I in a Special Flood Hazard Area?

For the purposes of the City of Valdez, a Special Flood Hazard Area is equivalent to a Zone A on our Federal Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) The City of Valdez will assist citizens in looking up where the property is in relationship to a mapped floodplain. Office hours are 8:30-12:00 and 1:00 – 5:00 pm at City Hall in the Community and Economic Development Department. Residents of the City may email lrobertson@ci.valdez.ak.us at any time with their property address to determine whether or not the property is in a Flood Hazard area. Residents can also click the Quick Link above entitled Map Service Center and type their physical address into a FEMA mapping system, which will pull up the correct panel of the FIRM for where the property is located (but a resident will have to find their approximate location on the map themselves). There are also professional mapping organizations that will examine the FIRM maps and declare a property in and out of the floodplain (these companies are often used by banks when financing mortgages and transferring property).

2. Why do I need Flood Insurance?

Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damages. Flooding can damage windows and roofing as well as the foundations, electrical systems and furnishings of a home. Fixing flood damage can cost thousands of dollars. According to FEMA records, since 1978 over a quarter of all flood claims have come from homeowners in areas with low or moderate flood risks. According to statistics gathered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), within a 30 year mortgage, a homeowner has a 9 percent chance of making a claim for fire damage, compared with a 26 percent chance of making a flood damage claim. And Remember - the NFIP imposes a 30-day waiting period following the purchase of flood insurance. This ensures that a policy is purchased and maintained throughout the year. Residents cannot purchase it in the wake of an impending flood or because they have heard very heavy rains are on their way. It has to be in place 30 days before a flooding event begins.

3. What kind of Information can I get from the City?

The City can assist you in determining whether or not your residence is in a mapped floodplain. The City can provide official letters or forms that homeowners can bring to their lending institutions or insurance companies designated the flood zone location. The City maintains information books and pamphlets in the hallway of City Hall by the Community Development office, which are free for residents to take 24 hours a day. The City also provides free technical advice for reducing the flood hazard to personal or commercial property. When requested, staff can review flood damage, review development in the floodplain, and provide information about how to retrofit drainage and other residential issues. City personnel have been trained by FEMA on flood-proofing techniques and are available to provide site-specific data concerning floor elevations and historical flood levels. For these and more services, please contact the City’s Community & Economic Development Department (834-3401).

4. What can I do to reduce my risk of flood damages?

The first thing to do is know where your property stands in relationship to a recognized flooding hazard. Flooding usually occurs from rivers and streams over topping their banks, when sheetflow forms across relatively impermeable surfaces during heavy rains, or when storm surges coupled with high tides bring more water than usual to the coastline. Keep in mind though, flooding can actually occur anywhere, even when you are far away from any of the usual flooding sources. There are all kinds of ways people who live in areas of low flooding risk can find water sneaking into their basements and the first floor of their homes - blocked culverts, dam breaches, levee breaches can all occur quickly and wreak large scale havoc on homes. After identifying the most likely source of flood hazard (but keeping in mind that floods can come from anywhere), purchase flood insurance for your home and valuables. Work on citizen preparedness – make a plan with your family that includes where to meet if cell phones aren’t working. Build an emergency kit and store it somewhere safe in your house. Make copies of all your very important documents and store them in a safe deposit box or somewhere offsite so you will not lose your valuable information. When building new structures – make sure the structures are elevated above the base flood elevation (if possible, make sure structures are elevated multiple feet above the base flood elevation for good measure). Keep all utilities and electrical boxes above the base flood elevation and safe from flooding. Keep a few sandbags on hand. In a mild flooding situation, one or two sandbags can divert a current away from the foundation of your home and absorb access water in the area.

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Finance

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1. When are property taxes due in 2012?

The first half is due on or before August 15, 2012, and the second half is due on or before October 15, 2012.

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Finance - Child Care Assistance Program

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1. Who qualifies for Child Care Assistance?

Anyone who meets financial eligibility.

2. If I share custody with my child’s other parent, can I still receive Child Care Assistance?

Yes. The other parent can also receive CCA for times when the child is in his or her care.

3. Can I qualify for Child Care Assistance while I am attending school?

To determine eligibility of an education or training program, the designee will review the course registration or training agreement. If eligible, Child Care may be authorized for class time, plus one hour per credit hour each week may be allowed for library / lab time. Additional lab or library time may be authorized upon verification from the instructor that is necessary.

4. Can I get help with child care while I am looking for work?

Seeking Work is considered an eligible activity when the parent is actively contacting prospective employers, completing and submitting employment applications, and attending job interviews with the intent of obtaining employment. It is limited to 80 hours of care in a calendar year.

5. What if I am working nights?

CCA can pay for child care for sleep time.

6. Does the program pay the provider directly?

Yes. The provider will bill CCA for those children on the program.

7. Do I pay anything to the provider?

Yes. Each family has a co-pay amount based on gross income.

8. Can I use a friend or relative as a child care provider?

Yes, if he or she is willing to become an approved provider. A background check is required. See the local administrator for more information.

9. Can I use more than one provider?

Yes. The providers you use are your choice, as long as they are approved by the program.

10. Will CCA pay a provider who works in my home?

Yes, as long as the person meets the requirements for approval.

11. What if I do not have full, legal custody of a child who is living with me during a transition such as a divorce?

You can receive Child Care Assistance if that child is in your physical care.

12. Does CCA pay an extra amount for children with special needs?

Yes. A supplemental amount can be paid.

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Fire / EMS

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1. How do I get a copy of a fire or EMS report?

For fire and EMS reports, a written request is required. Provide a name, address, date, and time (if known). All EMS reports must have a patient consent release signed prior to obtaining the report. Requests may be faxed to (907) 835-3420. Usually, reports can be made available within 24 hours after your request.

2. Does your department provide home safety inspections?

Yes, the department will do these inspections at no cost. Call (907) 835-4560 to set up an appointment to have your home inspected.

3. What is the cost for ambulance service?

• Basic Life Support Services - $350


• Advanced Life Support Services - $450


• Additional Mileage Charge - $5 per mile

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Harbor

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1. I’m thinking of buying someone else’s boat, and they have a slip in the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. Can I transfer their slip into my name?

Slips are not transferable upon the sale of the assigned boat. Once an owner loses qualifying interest in a boat with reserved moorage, that reserved moorage will be reassigned to the next person on the wait list.

2. What happens to my boat if I am a transient boater?

There are approximately 1000 feet of parallel or transient moorage available. During high use periods, boats may be rafted (tied outboard of each other) up to five boats deep. If tenant slip holders are absent for a significant period, the Harbormaster may temporarily assign a transient boat to a slip to better manage the space and congestion of the harbor.

3. If I want a tenant slip in the Valdez Small Boat Harbor, what do I have to do?

All the slips in the harbor are currently leased, so you would need to get on the wait list. Which means you would need to fill out the wait list form and pay a $50.00 per year non-refundable fee per listing.

4. I am a slip holder, and when I leave, you place boats in my slip and collect moorage from them as well. Isn’t that “double-dipping”, collecting twice for the same moorage space?

No, it isn’t charging twice for the same space. It is a space management technique to ease the burden on other boats and the docks by fully using the space available. The boat that temporarily occupies your slip is paying transient moorage when it is in your slip or not.

5. How do you determine the length of a boat?

The overall length of the boat is measured from the forward-most point to the after-most point, including all anchor pulpits, bowsprits, swim steps, outboard motors, davits and so forth.

6. If I am unsure of my boat length, what should I do?

You should measure the boat from the forward-most point to the after-most point, rounding up to the next whole foot. If you wish, bring your boat by the office and we will gladly measure the boat for you.

7. As a tenant, if I don’t like my slip, can I get a different one? How?

Yes, you just need to notify our office and you will be placed on the move list.

8. If I get a tenant slip, say for a 20’ boat, and then a few years from now decide to buy a bigger boat, will I automatically get a slip for a bigger boat?

If you are anticipating moving to a larger boat, we encourage you to get on the appropriate wait list as soon as possible.

9. If I want to leave my boat in the Valdez Small Boat Harbor or the boat yard in the winter what do I have to do?

Due to heavy amounts of snow during the winter it is strongly recommended that you have a caretaker look after your boat and provide the Harbor office with their name and phone number in case of emergency.

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Information Technology

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1. Is public internet access available within the city?

Yes, public internet access is available at the library.

2. Does the city provide computer support for the general public?

No, the Information Technology Department only provides computer support for internal city departments.

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Jobs

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1. How do I apply for a Job?

On the home page select Jobs on the right hand side of the screen, by the photo of the Coyote. This will list all open positions for the City of Valdez. You will need to download and print the appropriate application for the type of job applying for. The Standard application is to be used for jobs that are permanent within the City. The Temporary application is for jobs that are not permanent and short term in nature. Return the application to City Hall either in person or via mail to PO Box 307, Valdez, AK 99686 Attn: Personel.

2. What is the difference between the Temporary and Standard Application?

The Temporary Application is for work that is short term in nature and unbenefited. The Standard Application is for positions within the City that are permanent full-time or permanent part-time. These positions are benefited and are typically career oriented.

3. Do I have to submit an application or is my resume' good enough?

Yes. Applications are required to apply for ANY position in the City of Valdez. Resume's should accompany the application. Please remember to sign your application as well. Unaccompanied resume's will be returned.

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Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

You are eligible for a library card if you are a temporary or permanent resident of the City of Valdez. Residents must apply for a card in person at the library and have available a picture ID and proof of a local P.O. Box. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a library card. You must be 5 years old to receive a library card.

Visitors to Valdez may purchase a temporary card. There is a $5 cash fee and the card is active for three months. Temporary card holders may check out two items at a time.

2. Do you have internet and wireless services?

The Valdez Consortium Library has wireless and six computers with internet access available to the public. Internet and wireless services are free, but there is a charge of $0.25 per page for printing.

3. What is the Library Catalog?

This is a catalog of the combined holdings of the Valdez Consortium Library, University of Alaska Anchorage libraries, and Anchorage Municipal libraries.

4. If an item is not available at the Valdez Consortium Library, can it be requested from another library?

You may request an item from Library Catalog . Requests can be made at the library or online. You will need your library card number and PIN to request online. If an item is not available in the Library Catalog you may request it through our Interlibrary Loan Service.

5. What is the difference between placing holds in the Library Catalog and Interlibrary Loan?

The items found in the Library Catalog are owned by member libraries. Permanent card holders may request these items, and they will be mailed from the owning library once they become available. Available items generally arrive in five to seven days. If the item you are looking for is not in the Library Catalog, you may fill out an Interlibary Loan form. These are available at the front desk at the Library. Interlibrary loan requests take one to two months to fill, and are sent from libraries across the United States.

6. How many times may I renew an item?

You may renew most items up to two times if it is not requested by another patron. Renewals may be done at the library, via the phone, or online by accessing your patron account with your library card number and PIN.

7. Can I fax a document at the library?

The library does not have a fax machine for public use. Locations in town with fax machines include Valdez Office Supply and Safeway.

8. What does “consortium” mean in Valdez Consortium Library

It is a partnering agreement between The City of Valdez and the Prince William Sound Community College to provide services for the betterment of both entities.

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New Gilson Middle School Project

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1. What is the new Middle School Project?

The Valdez City School District and the City of Valdez have identified a need for a new more efficient and flexible middle school to replace the aging junior high school, which was constructed in 1965.

The new Gilson Middle School will be built at the same location of the existing George H. Gilson Junior High School, which will be demolished. An existing Wood Shops building will be demolished and wood working classes will be relocated within the new Middle School’s Career & Technical Education space.

Also, the existing Bus Barn Maintenance Shop will be demolished. The site will be regraded so that the floor elevation of the new School is as close to the existing High School floor level as possible, while still providing proper water drainage. The existing football field and track will be renovated and improved at its approximate current elevation and location.

The new 56,125 square foot, one-story tall Middle School has an occupancy of Group E, Educational, and is Construction Type II-B with automatic sprinklers throughout.

The key components of the design were formulated during the creation of the Educational Specifications which evolved through a series of planning labs lead by our consultant, DeJong-Ritcher. The planning labs were held with broad-based representation from the Valdez schools, as well as community members, parents, teachers, school administrators and students.

The project was designed within the following parameters:
a. The school will accommodate approximately 160 students.
b. The gross square footage of the new school is defined by Alaska Statute 4 AAC 31.020 and is based on an agreement with the State of Alaska D.E.E.D. for the replacement of the existing Valdez Junior High School.
c. The new school will be constructed on the existing combined Valdez Junior High and High School site, with the existing High School to remain in operation during the construction of the new Middle School.

Project Goals guiding the design process:
1. Clear Identity
2. Safe and Inviting
3. Adaptable
4. Flexible
5. Durable, Maintainable Materials and Systems
6. Energy Efficient
7. Provide Community Use/Accommodate Public Needs

2. When will it be built?

The new Gilson Middle School began sitework construction June 2013 and is scheduled to be complete December 2014.

3. How do I stay informed with the latest project news?

Subscribe to the News Flash "New Gilson Middle School Project News" Notify Me Subscriptions

4. What spaces will be included in the new Middle School?

The Gilson Middle School project is designed around four key areas:

1. A Welcome Center/Administration Space: Principal’s Office; Reception/Secretarial Area; In-School Suspension room; Conference Room; Cot Room; Mail/Work/Copy Room/Kitchenette; Restrooms; and Administrative Storage.
2. The Core Academic Neighborhood: Learning Commons space (Information Center/Library, Project Area/Business Center, Presentation/Event area, and Kitchenette adjacent to cafeteria and event space); Learning Labs/Classrooms (labs and classrooms; Wet Flex, Science and Math Labs); Career and Tech Ed; Teacher/Paraprofessional Planning Area; Small Group/Conference/Tutor room; Counselor’s Office; Special Ed Classroom; Cool Down Room; Kiln; and storage spaces.
3. Physical Education provides a Gym; Mat Room; Fitness Room/Multipurpose Room; PE Office; Coaches/Officials Locker Rooms; Student Shower/Locker Rooms; Laundry; Concession Stand/Student Store; and Storage.
4. Food Service: Serving Area; Warming Kitchen; Dry Food Storage; Cooler/Freezer; Washing space; Kitchen Manager’s Office; and staff Lockers.

5. How much will it cost? How is the project funded?

The project is estimated to cost $30,326,329 to construct, with a total project budget of $39,804,183. The project is funded by General Obligation Bonds approved by voters. 60% of the bonds will be reimbursed by Department of Education and Early Development (DEED).

6. Will my taxes go up to build the new School?

No, taxes will not be increased to pay for the new Middle School construction. The City does not anticipate any tax impact from construction of this project.

7. Will the pool be closed?

There will be periodic pool closures due to the construction project and related utility interruptions. The pool will be closed June 14 for annual maintenance and some construction activities. This closure may last for several weeks. We will do our best to keep the pool open when possible and keep the public informed. Please look for the most updated pool schedules (opened or closed) on the city website at www.ci.valdez.ak.us or call the hotline at 835-3200.

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Police / Public Safety

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1. Can I get a copy of my police report?

Yes. Although some information on police reports are confidential and will be blacked out. Report copies are provided once the case officer has finished the investigation and the report is closed. You will need to fill out a Report Request form and submit it to the Public Safety Administrative Assistant, Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm. The price is $.25 per page. If a report that is criminal in nature will not be released until the case is adjudicated by the District Attorney's Office.

2. What is the time frame to have studded tires?

Studded tires are only legal between the dates of September 15th – May 1st of each year.

3. What is the law on tinted windows?

State law requires that all passenger vehicles allow at least 70% light through the windshield and front side windows. The rear window and side windows must allow at least 40% of the light through. Violations carry a $150 fine.

4. What is the curfew law?

Anyone under the age of 18 is considered a minor. Minor curfew hours are as follows: Sunday through Thursday beginning at 11:01pm and ending at 5:00 am the following morning; and Beginning at 12:01am and ending at 5:00am on Saturday and Sunday morning. It is unlawful for any minor, during curfew hours, to remain in or upon any public place within the city, to remain in any motor vehicle operating or parked therein or thereon, or to remain in or upon the premises of any establishment within the city unless: The minor is accompanied by a parent; or the minor is involved in an emergency or the minor is engaged in an employment activity or is going to or returning home from such activity, without detour or stop.

5. I received a traffic ticket, where do I pay my fine?

You may pay your ticket at the Valdez Court House or use the envelope provided and send it in or pay on line @ www.courtrecords.alaska.gov/ep/

6. Does the Valdez Police Department have a ride-along program?

Yes, those wanting to ride along must fill out a Ride Along Request Form and bring it to the Police Department. You will be contacted later to schedule a date and time for the ride.

7. What are the rules for a driver with a provisional license?

The first license you will obtain is called a provisional license, which has restrictions on it until you reach the age of 18. While you hold a provisional license, you are not allowed to carry passengers younger than 21, except for siblings, and you may not drive a vehicle between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Of course, there are a few exceptions. If you must drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., you may do so if you are accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older, or if you are driving to or from your workplace. Once you turn 18, these restrictions will be removed.

If you violate the provisional license restrictions, you could lose your license and have to pay a $200 fine. You'll also receive two points against your driving record for breaking the restrictions. You must visit the DMV in person once the provisional period is up to have the restriction removed from your license.

8. What are the visiting hours for the Jail and how do I contact an inmate?

Visiting hours are as follows:

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday

3:00pm-4:00pm & 8:00pm-9:00pm

Visiting hours are dependant upon the availability of a Corrections Officer. The phone number to contact an inmate directly is 835-3734.

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PW Snow Removal

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1. What are the snow removal responsibilities of the City Shop?

The Public Works Department removes snow and ice from approximately 33.5 miles of city streets. The State of Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) removes snow on the state roadways. These roads include the Richardson Highway, Dayville Road, and Egan, Hazelet, and Ferry Way streets.

2. Which streets are cleared first?

The main goal is to open streets to the hospital, schools, school bus routes, City Hall (Fire and Police departments), and residential streets.

3. When are streets plowed?

Snow removal normally begins after accumulation 4 inches in depth. During a heavy snow event our crews are called out at 2:00 am. During these events our machinery will cause a snow berm in the middle of the roads. We realize that this may cause an inconvenience at times, our street crew will move the snow to the snow dumps as soon as possible. Please be patient.

4. When are streets sanded?

Streets are sanded as needed when conditions allow. Scarifier blades are used on the windy days.

5. Where can I put the snow from my driveway?

Snow must be placed as close to the sides of any roadway as practical and may not be placed in any manner that would inhibit the passage of vehicular traffic.

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PW Solid Waste

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1. Where can I recycle in Valdez?

At present, all recyclables have to be taken to the Baler Facility located at 500 South Sawmill Road.

2. What items can be recycled?

The following items may be recycled:

• Aluminum
  
• Antifreeze
  
• Brass
  
• Cardboard
  
• Clean Construction Lumber
  
• Copper
  
• Equipment Batteries
  
• Glass Bottles
  
• Newspaper
  
• Paint
  
• Used Oil
  
• White Paper

3. What about household hazardous waste?

Once a year, usually in August, the city holds a household hazardous waste event to remove dangerous material from our community. But, any time throughout the year you can bring your household hazardous waste to the Baler Facility at 500 S. Sawmill Road for proper disposal.

4. When can I bring items to the baler facility?

The baler is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

5. What can I do with old appliances, such as washer / dryer, refrigerator, freezer, and stoves?

These items are accepted at the Baler Facility located at 500 South Sawmill Road at no charge.

6. What can I do if I have temporary excess garbage from a holiday or hosting a party?

You can take the excess to either the baler facility or to a public use dumpster which are identified by being painted brown.

7. Where can I take brush or tree trimmings?

There is a large burn pit located next to the baler facility where these type of item may be placed for disposal.

8. What are the hours of operation on observed holidays?

The Baler Facility will be closed on city observed holidays and no residential pick-up will occur. Items may still be deposited to any public use dumpster or to the dumpster located outside the gate at the Baler Facility.

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PW Water / Wastewater

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1. How do I get my water tested?

Water samples MUST be submitted in a sterile sampling bottle obtained from the City of Valdez water laboratory, or from the Community Development office in City Hall. They will also provide you with instructions and form relating to your sample. You can also print out a copy of the form HERE. Water Sample Form

2. Where does my drinking water come from?

The city of Valdez water systems draw water from a groundwater source located approximately 60 feet below the surface. Learn more about our water systems
HERE- About our water.