Tour operator reports 10 guests fell from Berth 3 dock; harbor board urges safety barrier

A Ketchikan tour operator told the Ports and Harbors Board on Tuesday that at least 10 guests have fallen into the water from an unprotected section of Berth 3 dock over recent years.

David Lethin, owner of Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour, said he has pulled guests from the water after they fell from the outboard side of the 400-foot long dock, which has no bull rail or safety barrier where passengers disembark. One person fell from a hovercraft last year.

Lethin asked the city to install aluminum fencing at least 12 feet long where guests exit the gangway. He said the city previously denied his request, citing policy against dock modifications.

The board voted unanimously to recommend the city council approve safety barriers. Ports and Harbors Director Speaker B said any modification would require review by the city's engineering department and consultation with the planning and development department.

Board member Speaker F said the city could face liability if someone is injured or dies. Board member Speaker H said the dock is not set up for elderly people or those with disabilities.

Lethin also said his monthly electrical bill jumped from $250 to $1,600 this year because the city now charges based on vessel length rather than consumption.

Speaker B said the city gave Lethin a special pass-through rate in prior years that was not authorized by ordinance. All transient vessels at Berth 3 now pay the daily harbor rate and daily electrical rate based on vessel length, as required by city code, he said.

The board agreed to place the electrical billing matter on a future agenda. The safety barrier recommendation will appear on a future city council agenda.