Public can submit proposals for Marine Passenger Fee proceeds starting December 2

The City and Borough of Juneau will accept public proposals for projects to be funded with 2025 Marine Passenger Fee proceeds from December 2, 2024 through January 2, 2025. This annual process ensures that all members of the community can have a say in how fees from the cruise ship industry are reinvested in local business and services.

This year, all submissions may be made via a webform that provides more information about the restricted nature of these funds and aims to encourage more successful submissions.

The Marine Passenger Fee, a $5 fee per cruise ship passenger, was established in 1999 by Juneau voters. The fees are designated to fund projects directly related to the visitor industry that enhance the tourism experience in Juneau and offset community impacts created by the cruise ship industry.

The public, including businesses and the visitor industry, are encouraged to submit project proposals to be funded with MPF proceeds. Projects must address an impact made on the community by the cruise ship industry or an aspect of the tourism experience for cruise ship passengers. For a full description of project eligibility, please see CBJ 69.20.120.

The City Manager will develop a draft recommendation list of projects to be funded by Marine Passenger Fee proceeds, followed by a 30-day public comment period. The draft recommendation and all proposals will available at the Marine Passenger Fee Program website.

All Marine Passenger Fee project proposals and comments will be forwarded along with the City Manager’s recommendation list to the Assembly Finance Committee for review, and then to the Assembly for consideration during the upcoming budget cycle.

Proposals must be submitted by January 2, 2025 on the webform or the City Manager’s Office, attention Alexandra Pierce, 155 S. Seward Street, Juneau, Alaska 99801.

For more information, contact CBJ Visitor Industry Director Alexandra Pierce at alexandra.pierce@juneau.gov or visit the Marine Passenger Fee Program webpage.