Legislature(2003 - 2004)
2003-05-06 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2003-05-06 House Journal Page 1354 HB 301 HOUSE BILL NO. 301 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act establishing the Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority and relating to that authority; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation and Finance Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Fiscal, Dept. of Transportation & Public Facilities The Governor's transmittal letter dated May 5, 2003, follows: "Dear Speaker Kott: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill establishing the Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority and relating to that authority. This bill establishes an independent authority to build and operate a toll bridge over Knik Arm. The authority would be able to receive federal money and issue revenue bonds to finance the toll bridge and its appurtenant facilities. The authority would design, construct, and operate the bridge and its facilities. The authority would be a public corporation that, although an instrumentality of the state within the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, would have a separate independent legal existence from the state. The revenue of the authority would not become part of the general fund and the property of the authority would be exempt from taxation. 2003-05-06 House Journal Page 1355 The bill establishes a three-person board to govern the authority. The commissioners of revenue and transportation and public facilities would serve on the board, along with a member of the public appointed by the governor for a five-year term. Construction of a Knik Arm bridge is a cornerstone of my public transportation development plan. A Knik Arm bridge will unite Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough to enable growth throughout southcentral Alaska. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Frank H. Murkowski Governor"