Juneau residents react to vote rejecting Saturday cruise ship ban, potential implications if passed [Video]

JUNEAU, Alaska (KTUU) — According to preliminary results of Juneau’s city election this week, nearly 60% of voters are opposed to a ballot measure that would ban large cruise ships from docking in Juneau on Saturdays, starting next year.

Those supporting ballot measure No. 2 are concerned about the impacts cruise ship overcrowding is starting to have on Juneau. Those in opposition worry about the impact such a measure, if passed, would have on the local economy, including potential lawsuits.

If passed, the “Ship-Free Saturdays” measure would ban cruise ships with 250 or more passengers from docking in Juneau on Saturdays and the Fourth of July holiday.

As of Thursday, Prop. 2 was failing with 3,873 “no” votes to 2,586 “yes” votes, according to the City and Borough of Juneau.

Juneau retiree Karla Hart authored the initiative and was disappointed by its lack of support. She said she is concerned about the impact that shore excursions …