Legislature(1995 - 1996)
1995-03-20 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf1995-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0698 SB 136 SENATE BILL NO. 136 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act making appropriations for capital project matching grant funds and to capitalize funds; making, amending, and repealing capital appropriations; and providing for an effective date." 1995-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0699 SB 136 was read the first time and referred to the Community and Regional Affairs, State Affairs and Finance Committees. Governor's transmittal letter dated March 20: Dear President Pearce: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am pleased to transmit my proposed capital budget for FY96. I feel that we have succeeded in exercising budget discipline by keeping the administrations budget at $135 million while still addressing the basic needs of Alaskans. Maintenance of existing roads, schools and facilities and construction of such essentials as water, sewer, and transportation projects are some of my administrations highest priorities. This bill provides $57.9 million in state and federal funds for village and municipal water and sewer projects. This should go a long way to deal with the health hazards that exist in many areas of our state. $383.9 million in state and federal funds is included for roads, airports, facilities maintenance and other transportation related projects. There were no funds in the FY95 budget for school construction or maintenance, yet safety hazards and neglect of our schools continue. This bill includes $13.7 million to repair existing K-12 school facilities and $7 million to deal with the immediate maintenance, fire safety and code compliance needs on our university campuses. As I stated in my state of the budget address in January, it is time for our state government to regain its technological edge. To attempt to get closer to that goal, I have included funds for integrating and updating the criminal justice information system and extending our statewide communication technology. In order to maintain stability for local communities and assist them in funding their highest priority capital projects, I have included $20 million for the capital matching grant program. This program has attained a great deal of support for its ability to provide funding for all communities throughout Alaska in a manner that addresses their real needs. 1995-03-20 Senate Journal Page 0700 SB 136 I am also transmitting to you the Alaska Court Systems three top priorities for your review. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor