Legislature(2007 - 2008)SENATE FINANCE 532
03/11/2008 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB221 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| *+ | SB 221 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
SENATE BILL NO. 221
"An Act making appropriations, including capital
appropriations, supplemental appropriations, and
appropriations to capitalize funds; and providing for
an effective date."
9:28:37 AM
Co-Chair Stedman explained that the committee was beginning
hearings related to SB 221 and would be working on the FY
09 capital budget financed by the FY 09 revenue stream.
The presentation would take place by departments, depending
on the number of items submitted. The Governor's FY 09
capital budget was just over $2 billion, a substantial
scope increase over the previous year. Co-Chair Stedman
thought the Governor's budget should be evaluated and
prioritized along with other needs of the state, as brought
forth by different communities.
Co-Chair Stedman said the capital budget would be zero-
based and there would be a Committee Substitute (CS). The
CS would look at items that are federally funded and
require a state match. If there was a state match that was
a substantial percentage of the overall value, that project
was dropped from the CS. The CS will have federal projects
added. Numerous departments will give presentations and
will be bringing forward projects no longer in the capital
budget that have been requested by the Governor. As the
clock allows, the committee will attempt to get to the
federal match items.
9:31:31 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman MOVED to ADOPT the work draft for SB 221
(FIN), 25-GS2007\C, Kane, 3/8/08. There being NO OBJECTION,
it was so ordered.
MILES BAKER, STAFF, CO-CHAIR STEDMAN, provided an overview
of the contents of the two binders containing capital
budget detail. He pointed out the binder beginning with
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities that the
committee would begin with. The project review at the
front of the binder lists all the projects that each
department has submitted, and is followed by project
detail.
Mr. Baker explained that when the Governor submits the
original budget, the bindings are put together. The green
sheet is the amended project list; the white, the original
project list. The project lists are put together
alphabetically by project title within general fund source
categories, with state-funded projects first, followed by
federally-funded projects. The old amendments are left in
for comparison.
Mr. Baker referred to the yellow sheets of paper which are
the amendments from the Governor after the 30-day cut-off.
Those amendments were funds source changes that did not
affect the projects, for the most part. The chairman has
asked for those to be set aside for the time being.
9:36:22 AM
Mr. Baker pointed out a tab at the back of the second
binder contents labeled FY 08 TS. The Governor submitted
about $42 million of IT technology projects that were
spread across several departments with 08 appropriation
effective dates. The administration has been asked to talk
about those as a group.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
FRANK RICHARDS, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF HIGHWAYS & PUBLIC
FACILITIES, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC
FACILITIES, began his presentation with the Airport
Deferred Maintenance Project.
Project #30633
Airport Deferred Maintenance
$1,000,000 General Fund
Mr. Richards reported that on an annual basis, the
department asks for funding to cover deferred maintenance
needs that are above and beyond the ability of the
department to accomplish work activities on the rural
airport system. This includes such things as pavement
repairs, building repairs, and bird and animal control. It
has varied over the past several years from $850,000 to
$750,000, but in overall totals, it is anticipated that
around $25 million will go toward deferred maintenance
needs on the rural system. These are necessary in order to
keep rural airports in good operating condition.
Project #45568
Alaska Marine Highway System-Facility Deferred Maintenance
$565,000 ASLC Bonds
NANCY SLAGLE, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC
FACILITIES, explained that the department is requesting
money to deal with terminals in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway,
Hoonah, Petersburg, Wrangell, and Sitka. Specifically,
fire alarm and suppression systems and underground storage
tank replacements are needed.
Ms. Slagle explained that originally the projects were
requested from the Student Loan Corporation Project Bond.
An amendment submitted later switched the fund source to
the Alaska Capital Income Fund.
Project #45587
Fire Alarms and Suppression Systems
$50,000 ASLC Bonds
Project #45588
Underground Storage Tank Replacement
$515,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle reported that the projects are also Alaska
Marine Highway System Vessel and Facility Deferred
Maintenance projects and deal with facilities repairs that
have not been kept up. The difference is the fund source.
The appropriation will be used to deal with facility
maintenance, as well as vessel deferred maintenance,
including recoating underwater body paint on the MV Aurora,
replacing exterior handrails on the MV Columbia, installing
a new liner for the main engine on the MV Matanuska, and
replacing the electrical system transformers on the MV
Malaspina. These are DOT's top priorities for dealing with
vessels, from a lengthy list of deferred maintenance needs
totaling around $5 million for immediate priority needs.
9:42:20 AM
Co-Chair Stedman encouraged Ms. Slagle to go through each
item.
Ms. Slagle delineated the $50,000 for fire alarms and
suppression systems and terminal repair and $515,000 for
underground storage tank replacement.
Project #42001
Alaska Marine Highway System Vessel-Facility Deferred
Maintenance
$2,000,000 GF
Co-Chair Stedman queried why the item remains the same over
the years. Ms. Slagle responded that the department does
not know what the number will be. The need for the top
priority list is about $5 million. Ms. Slagle talked about
a balance between general overhaul monies needed, and major
refurbishment money from the federal government. The items
listed here are not covered by either source.
Co-Chair Stedman requested the history of the request. Ms.
Slagle replied that 2007 was the first time DOT received
money for deferred maintenance for the vessels and
facilities. The department has not received deferred
maintenance money for around 10 years. The department
typically receives GF overhaul money or federal capital
improvement project (CIP) major project money.
9:46:19 AM
Project #30624
Marine Highway System Vessel-Terminal Overhaul and
Rehabilitation
$9,900,000 General Fund
Mr. Richards explained that DOT receives money annually to
deal with basic overhaul of the vessels, which is required
for re-certification by the Coast Guard. It provides for
the annual inspection repair and maintenance that cannot be
performed while the vessels are underway because the
vessels must be dry-docked and inspected. The overhaul
includes making sure systems are functioning and equipment
meets requirements. It also includes money for other
equipment replacement in the terminals and ferries, such as
computers or passenger service items.
Project #6391
Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Projects
$500,000 GF
Mr. Richards continued with the request for items that need
to be done to comply with the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA), such as removing barriers to state buildings.
He said the Department has not received significant money
for this in the past, but there are compliance issues that
must be addressed.
9:48:40 AM
Mr. Richards reported that the allocation would be used to
take care of such things as ramps and rest room upgrades
and automatic doors.
Senator Thomas had a question regarding deferred
maintenance.
Ms. Slagle answered that the amount allocated provides for
maintenance of immediate needs and does not allow for
catching up on the backlog of deferred maintenance needs.
Senator Huggins thought the AMHS was a ship afloat without
an anchor and without a captain at the wheel". He wondered
why he should have confidence in the proposed numbers. He
questioned if anyone was in charge of the system currently.
Mr. Richards referred to Deputy Commissioner Dennis Hardy
in the audience.
Senator Huggins wanted to be involved in the conversation
regarding long-term solutions.
Co-Chair Stedman noted concern when looking back at
overhaul costs on aging ships without replacement plans.
Mr. Richards replied that deferred needs are continuing to
be requested because the budgets have not been able to
address backlog needs.
9:52:56 AM
Project #45294
Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan Update
$200,000 GF
Mr. Richards explained that the plans are old and need to
be upgraded to remain ADA compliant. This funding would
specifically address building and harbor needs which are
not eligible for federal funds.
Project #32534
Capital Improvement Program Equipment Replacement
$1,500,000 CIP Rcpts
Ms. Slagle related that the allocation allows AMHS to use a
portion of the money for equipment needed for construction
projects. The Department cannot specifically charge that
equipment directly to construction projects.
Co-Chair Hoffman noted he would find out from his staff how
the 2007 and 2008 money was spent.
Project #AMD43010
Chignik Lagoon: Airport Safety Improvements
$4,000,000 GF
Mr. Richards explained that the project would use money
from last year to do a design effort for Chignik Lagoon
Airport. He said it would normally be a federal project,
but that would entail more expense and have significant
environmental concerns. The airport currently has
significant safety concerns.
9:57:32 AM
Project #39907
Coffman Cove Maintenance Station
$980,000 AK Cap Inc
Mr. Richards reported that the allocation would upgrade
Coffman Cove Highway and would construct a small
maintenance station in Coffman Cove.
Co-Chair Stedman noted that the truck and loader are
requested under a separate capital request. He asked why
the equipment can't be shifted from the old station to the
new station.
Mr. Richards replied that the equipment at the Klawock
station and airport is currently being used there. Taking
the equipment to Coffman Cove would cause disparity between
existing crew needs and responsibilities.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if there were any trucks that could
be re-deployed. Mr. Richards said that many of the trucks
were worn out and needed to be replaced.
Senator Elton referred to the language "will assume
maintenance responsibility for the 22 mile long Coffman
Cove Highway". He wondered who would provide the
maintenance. Mr. Richards explained that it became a DOT
road after it was built with U.S. Forest receipt monies for
the state.
Senator Elton inquired if the "right of way acquisition
estimated at $200,000", is the right of way to the new
facility. Mr. Richards assumed the cost was for land
purchase. He offered to find out. Senator Elton assumed
it was Forest Service land. Mr. Richards did not know.
Co-Chair Stedman thought there was municipal land around
Coffman Cove. He asked Mr. Richards to get back to the
committee on that. He inquired if it was the intent of the
department to relocate an employee to Coffman Cove. Mr.
Richards said that was correct.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if it was adding an employee or
redeploying an employee. Mr. Richards said an employee
currently working in Klawock will re-deploy to Coffman
Cove.
10:02:35 AM
Project #42968
Community Harbor Deferred Maintenance and Transfer Program
$2,580,000 GF
Mr. Richards explained that the funding is used for
maintenance of harbors now owned by municipalities such as
Jakalof Bay, Baranof Warm Springs, and Kake.
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered if those three communities were
willing partners in the transfers. He noted that Bethel
feels pressured to take responsibility for what they feel
is a regional port. The department was not going to
provide assistance to them and they feel at odds with the
department. He asked if the communities are doing this
with the full knowledge of the responsibility it will
entail and not being pressured to do so.
Mr. Richards explained that the department received
resolutions from each community and there was no pressure
placed upon them. Co-Chair Hoffman hoped that was the
case.
10:04:49 AM
Co-Chair Stedman recalled that the communities he
represents have succumbed to DOT and have taken over most
of the harbors. He said that Baranof Warm Springs is
listed at $1.3 million and last year the Governor vetoed
it. He wondered if that would happen again. Mr. Richards
thought the Governor would stand by the current capital
budget.
Co-Chair Stedman suggested giving back $1.3 million to
Sitka. There was additional information on cost changes
and continued deterioration and the total was now $1.7
million. He noted a resolution sent from the Sitka
Assembly, a letter, and other correspondence. He suggested
that if the project is funded, it stay funded.
Mr. Richards said the department would correspond with
Sitka about cost increases. The challenge is that the
department's operating budget for floats and harbors has
not included deferred maintenance needs, and these
facilities have fallen into disrepair. It is a goal to
transfer those facilities to the community after being
upgraded.
Co-Chair Hoffman thought it was a matter of priority, and
DOT making sure they are prioritized and funded. Bethel
serves 15 communities, so Bethel should not be responsible
to maintain the port on behalf of all the communities. He
thought it should be the state's responsibility. He wanted
DOT to make that a priority.
Mr. Richards thought that in Bethel the issue was a
tideland transfer to the city.
10:09:17 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman emphasized that all of the tidelands were
being utilized by the villages and there should be a
cooperative agreement between the city and the state.
Mr. Richard understood that there was a cooperative plan
between Bethel and the state. He thought $600,000 was
appropriated for the facility.
Co-Chair Stedman gave an example of the difference between
an allocation and an appropriation. He noted the
appropriation request for $2.58 million and an allocation
within that amount. He wondered if separate appropriations
were needed. Ms. Slagle thought it would be fine to have
allocations within the appropriation.
Co-Chair Stedman explained that an appropriation has hard
boundaries and allocations are more flexible. He noted
concern with legislative intent being misconstrued within
DOT in the past.
10:11:54 AM
Project #43056
Connect Anchorage
$23,500,000 GF
Mr. Richards related that this was also an appropriation
with sub-allocations. It is a long-range plan to address
congestion and upgrade facilities within Anchorage. The
th
two allocations under the appropriation are the 40 Avenue
Extension and the New Seward Highway.
Co-Chair Stedman asked for an overview of the process the
department went through.
Mr. Richards explained that the department utilizes state,
federal, and local funds. It looks at projects based on
how long they will take and how successful it would be to
get environmental permits. He gave Elmo Road as an
example. The new road was analyzed to see if it would be
more efficient to utilize state funds, which would result
in less costs overall. For existing roads such as the
Seward Highway or the Glenn Highway, it is easier to use
federal funds.
10:16:00 AM
Senator Elton summarized that Connect Anchorage was a 10-
year program that began in 2006 with $35 million identified
for FY 09 and FY 10. He wondered what the out years would
cost.
Mr. Richards referred to an agreement signed between then-
Governor Murkowski and Mayor Begich to identify the
projects in Connect Anchorage, which included a highway to
highway connection for $600 million, the Dowling Road
extension for $95 million, and the new Seward Highway
upgrade for $210 million, plus lesser projects, for a total
of $1.16 billion.
Senator Elton assumed the department was working with
Juneau on a similar cooperative agreement to construct
transportation projects. He wondered if there were other
municipalities that also have transportation agreements
with the department.
Mr. Richards replied that he was not aware of any.
10:18:05 AM
JEFF OTTESEN, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES,
reported that he was not aware of any such agreements. The
Connect Anchorage project was initiated by the Governor's
office, not the department, and was an exception.
Senator Elton emphasized that it was an exception that
would cost about $1.2 billion over ten years. Mr. Ottesen
agreed.
Senator Dyson suggested that Anchorage was unique because
of a mix of state and municipal roads. He spoke of his
experience as an apprentice to the Anchorage Assembly
watching the transportation problem evolve over time. He
explained the current negotiated maintenance agreement for
Anchorage roads. He spoke of the goal to make the
north/south transportation route more rational and
eliminate congestion. He commended the process by which a
reasonable agreement was reached.
Senator Elton noted that the model that has been used by
the department in the past with harbors was not used during
this project.
Co-Chair Hoffman did not have a problem with a ten-year
earmark for Anchorage, but agreed with Senator Elton that
fairness is needed for all communities. He brought up an
example of a priority given to Anchorage rather than to a
rural project or to the Mat-Su Valley. He did not see
major assistance with long-term plans for smaller
communities.
Co-Chair Stedman recognized that Anchorage has half the
population in Alaska, but maintained that remote area
general fund requests are not treated fairly and there is a
question of parity.
10:24:52 AM
Mr. Richards reiterated the goal of Connect Anchorage and
pointed out that the community is putting money into the
project through bonding. Federal funding within Anchorage
must go through the municipal planning organization for
transportation improvement programs. Congestion flow into
Anchorage impacts a considerable number of people. He
maintained that the department was not unfairly designating
money to Anchorage.
Senator Elton thought that nothing in the signed agreement
with the municipality of Anchorage forces the legislature
to fund the project. Mr. Richards agreed.
10:28:06 AM
Project #45438
th
New Seward Highway 36 South 6 Lane
$13,500,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards turned to the second allocation within Connect
Anchorage. He explained that the project would widen the
Seward highway from four lanes to six lanes. It is a
safety concern that should be addressed.
Project #30648
Coordinated Transportation and Vehicles
$800,000 General Fund/Representative Hawker
$300,000 MHTAAR
Ms. Slagle reported that the allocation would help provide
funding for coordinated transportation services for Mental
Health Trust beneficiaries and for purchasing vehicles
through a grant for non-profits.
10:30:08 AM
Project #36453
Corps of Engineers Harbor Program
$2,250,000 G/F Match
Ms. Slagle reported that the funding would be used for
feasibility studies.
Project #41390
Dalton Highway Including Surfacing Materials
$5,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards discussed the multi-year Dalton Highway
allocation. He explained the progress of the project so
far and the intended use of the funds for highway
maintenance.
10:32:20 AM
Co-Chair Stedman commented on the importance of the Dalton
Highway as it relates to the gas pipeline. He requested
comments on that project. Mr. Richards described the
planned improvements to the road. Co-Chair Stedman
inquired about trucking LNG to Fairbanks. Mr. Richards
replied that the impact of the LNG tankers is not yet
known.
Co-Chair Hoffman noted that in the past the AK Capital
Income Fund has been used to fund this item. He wondered
how the decision was made whether to use general funds or
AK Capital Income Funds. Ms. Slagle replied that those
decisions are made by OMB in the Governor's office.
Senator Elton asked what inflation factor is use for the
out years' $22 million. Mr. Richards said that the dollar
figure does not include inflation-proofing. Senator Elton
thought the inflation rate was at 10 percent over the past
seven years. He questioned what the request would be in
2010 with inflation factored in. Mr. Richards thought the
request would not be escalated due to an inflation factor.
The request is for heavy maintenance projects, not for
reconstruction. Ms. Slagle added that there is $14 million
in the Governor's bond proposal for the Dalton Highway
resurfacing.
Senator Elton reported on the increase in earth moving
costs and speculated that additional funds would be needed.
10:38:33 AM
Senator Thomas echoed the same concerns about the Dalton
Highway due to the importance of the gas pipeline. He
thought a long-range, sustainable plan would be better.
Project #45200
Dust Suppression Project Water Trucks and Trailers
$650,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards explained that the goal of this project is to
provide equipment to control the dust in villages in
western Alaska. The challenge is that there could be
problems with air quality standards and the EPA could
direct funds to be used to solve this problem. The plan is
to address this issue before it happens.
Senator Dyson said it is an example of unintended
consequences because of clumsy government regulations.
10:42:55 AM
Project #30634
Emergency and Non-Routine Repairs
$500,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle explained that the funding is for repairs to
transportation facilities due to natural disasters and are
not eligible for federal dollars. Mr. Richards provided an
example of a bridge repair above and beyond the ability of
the operating budget.
Co-Chair Hoffman commented on flooding in coastal
communities due to global warming. He suggested that the
request might be underfunded.
Project #45567
Facilities Deferred Maintenance
$13,273,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle listed the projects in categories.
Project #45575
Exterior Door Repair or Replacement
$490,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle explained the allocation for exterior door
repair or replacement in various communities.
Project #45572
Exterior Siding Repair and Replacement
$1,952,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle talked about the exterior siding repair and
replacement request in numerous communities.
10:47:41 AM
Project #45578
Major Facility Maintenance or Replacement
$1,050,000 ASLC Bonds
Co-Chair Stedman requested a comparison between Projects
#45567 and #45578 regarding facility maintenance. Ms.
Slagle replied that the first one is an appropriation and
the second is an allocation within it.
Project #45579
Miscellaneous Interior Repairs
$440,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle explained the various repairs needed.
Project #45577
Oil/Water Separators and Fuel Tank Replacement
$1,431,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle discussed the allocation for oil/water
separators and fuel tank replacements.
Project #45570
Roof Repair and Replacement
$3,952,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle explained the roof repair and replacement
projects.
Senator Elton thought that the allocations for Projects
#45570 and 45576 were not DOT functions in that they
included court houses. He wondered why the buildings were
not part of the pool where the agency within the building
is in charge of maintenance.
Ms. Slagle explained that the reason they were not included
in the Public Building Fund was because the funding source
for maintenance comes from the general fund. Senator Elton
asked if the Department of Law pays for the Dimond Court
House. Ms. Slagle was not sure if it is included in the
Public Building Fund or comes under the Department of
Administration. She explained the history of the Public
Building Fund.
10:54:26 AM
Project #45576
Upgrade and Repair Heating, Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning Systems and Utilities
$3,958,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Slagle talked about the upgrade and repair of heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning systems and utilities
allocation. She listed the areas maintained.
Project #30632
Facilities Deferred Maintenance and Critical Repairs
$2,000,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle explained that this appropriation is for items
not dealt with in the previous allocation.
Mr. Richards pointed out that the money has to be spread
over 700 buildings statewide. The need for deferred
maintenance keeps growing.
Project #45195
Galena Maintenance Building Efficiency Modifications
$156,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards said that this building would be transferred
to the state from the US Air Force, which has been in
Galena and will be closed.
Project #45659
Glenn Highway Rut Repair
$11.5 million Gen Fund
Mr. Richards pointed out the need for this repair due to
the heavy commuter traffic. He described the lanes to be
repaired.
10:58:41 AM
Senator Dyson wanted an update on the lighting project on
the Glenn Highway. Mr. Richard responded on the status of
the project. Senator Dyson hoped for money to fix the
drainage problems north of Farm Avenue. He also wanted to
coordinate the projects. Mr. Richards answered that a
priority is to use public money wisely.
RECESSED: 11:01:31 AM
RECONVENED: 2:36:40 PM
Ms. Slagle returned to a question regarding the Coffman
Cove maintenance station right of way acquisition. She
corrected that the allocation should have been for the land
purchase of the site from the city of Coffman Cove.
Senator Elton asked if there was any possibility of "doing
a deal" with Coffman Cove, since they are gaining a
maintenance station. Ms. Slagle replied that they try to
work closely with the communities. She used Seward as an
example.
Project #7090
Harbor Deferred Maintenance
$650,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle discussed the appropriation which would address
backlogged deferred maintenance for state-owned harbors.
She listed the top priorities. Co-Chair Stedman mentioned
privatization of harbors and grant programs. He wondered
if some of the harbors would be able to generate revenue
and if the department had any plans to that effect. Ms.
Slagle replied that the department does not have the
infrastructure to do that. Co-Chair Stedman provided two
examples of how that could be done: Funter Bay and Port
Alexander. He wondered why the harbors do not require a
fee for usage.
Mr. Richards thought it would take monitoring and
assessment of fees to put that plan into effect. It would
also take a large amount of traffic to make it worthwhile.
Co-Chair Stedman thought it would be about $6,000 to $8,000
per harbor. He argued that the current situation is not
equitable. Mr. Richards offered to work on this issue
during the interim in order to find a system that would
work.
2:46:20 PM
Project #AMD7091
Harbor Program Development
$400,000 G/F Match
Ms. Slagle reported that part of the funding is for a match
for the Denali Commission and part is for the management of
the program.
Co-Chair Stedman questioned the amount for a state seaplane
dock found on the second page of the Harbors Deferred
Maintenance DOTPF Inventory 2007 Update.
2:48:44 PM
MICHAEL LUKSHIN, STATE HARBOR ENGINEER, DIVISION OF DESIGN
& ENGINEERING SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND
PUBLIC FACILITIES, explained that the money would be for
maintaining the float dock and the seaplane float at
Baranof Warm Springs.
In response to a question from Co-Chair Stedman, Mr.
Richards replied that the city of Sitka would maintain both
floats. Ms. Slagle explained that if the money is approved
for the transfer of the floats, then the $628,000 on the
deferred maintenance list would not be needed. Co-Chair
Stedman asked where the money would go. Mr. Richards said
that the maintenance money and the transfer money are
separate funds.
Ms. Slagle explained an item from last year's deferred
maintenance list which is no longer a priority. She listed
the priority items and offered to discuss them at a future
time.
2:52:09 PM
Project # 30631
Highway Deferred Maintenance
$3,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards addressed the current backlog of deferred
maintenance items such as surface and embankment repairs,
drainage culverts and ditch repairs, guardrail repairs,
marking and sign repairs, and brushing. Co-Chair Stedman
asked for more information about Sitka's guardrail request.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about Nome's road dust control. He
wondered why it was not included in the section about air
quality. Mr. Richards reported that the projects on the
list are funding allocations from FY 07. Co-Chair Hoffman
requested more information about dust control
appropriations. Mr. Richards offered to provide that list.
2:55:06 PM
Project #45198
Highway Maintenance Vehicle Replacement and Safety
Equipment
$2,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards said that the request is for additional
funding to supplement the Highway Equipment Working Capital
Fund for equipment (22 units) that needs to be replaced in
FY 09. He talked about attenuators and warning devices for
dump trucks.
Co-Chair Stedman asked how the attenuator attachments work.
Mr. Richards described their function.
2:58:18 PM
Project #39900
Jim River (Dalton Highway) Maintenance Station Replacement
$6,000,000 AK Cap Inc
He elaborated on the full replacement that is needed.
Project #AMD45297
Kenai Borough Road Projects
$2,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards described the work included in the projects.
3:00:19 PM
Project #45197
Measurement Standards and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement
Equipment Replacement
$516,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle reported that the request will provide funds for
the purchase of scale testing equipment and volumetric
provers for the MSCVE division.
Project #45192
Nome State Office Building Design Study, Land Purchase
$1,900,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle explained that the request is for the
preliminary design and land purchase. The department will
come back later to request construction funds.
Co-Chair Stedman asked how much will be requested. Ms.
Slagle estimated about $18 million. Co-Chair Stedman said
that was $450 per square foot. Mr. Richards agreed that it
would be between $400 and $500 per square foot.
3:04:06 PM
Project #42935
Parks Highway Weight Restrictions
$2,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards described the problems with the unsuitable
road from Milepost 241-262 of the Parks Highway.
Senator Elton asked about other funding for this project.
Mr. Richards reported that there was money in the bond
package for the Parks Highway at Milepost 72-90. This
request is for a part of the road north of that.
Project #39356
Resource Development Roads
$3,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards commented that the allocation was in order to
promote revenue and employment opportunities. The funds
would be used to improve and develop roads to mines and
timber.
Co-Chair Stedman questioned the $3 million amount and the
large number of projects. He wondered if it was enough
money. Mr. Richards replied that some of the roads are
already in place and just need upgrading.
Senator Elton thought they used to be called the Pioneer
Roads and they didn't meet federal highway standards. Mr.
Richards said that was correct; they are now called Roads
to Resources. The allocation has been used to work on
existing roads, as well as new access roads in the North
Slope.
Senator Elton noted that none of the projects go through a
public process to prioritize them. Mr. Richards explained
how the projects are selected. Senator Elton pointed out
that the list consists of roads and projects that have been
done. He wondered if there were any that had yet to be
done. Mr. Richards gave several examples. Senator Elton
requested a list of future projects.
3:12:29 PM
Project #AMD41146
Richardson Highway, Shaw Creek Bridge
$4,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards related that the bridge needs to be replaced
to accommodate heavy module movements needed for
construction of the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline.
Project #45193
Seward Highway Maintenance Station Replacement
$3,200,000 AK Cap Inc
Mr. Richards explained that the goal is to relocate and
construct a new facility. Senator Dyson thought the land
was very valuable and wondered about cost recovery. Mr.
Richards reported on the potential results of the sale.
Project #45651
Seward Highway: Milepost 86 Kern Creek Culverts
$3,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards detailed the project description and
justification. He talked about meeting environmental
regulations. Senator Elton asked if it is a shared
project. Mr. Richards said it is a DOTPF request.
3:17:33 PM
Project #30628
State Equipment Fleet Replacement Request
$15,000,000 Hwy Capitl
Ms. Slagle explained about the replacement and/or
refurbishment of equipment and vehicles.
Co-Chair Stedman questioned if $15 million is an accurate
number in light of cost increases. Mr. Richards agreed
that the cost of equipment is going up. He reported that
as more HEWCF funds are captured, more could be expended.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked what type of equipment was purchased
during the last two years and where they were sent. Mr.
Richards offered to provide that information. He spoke of
savings on the purchase of 91 dump trucks that were spread
statewide.
Co-Chair Stedman reiterated a request for more information
regarding bonding package items. Mr. Richards said that
would be forthcoming.
3:20:18 PM
Project #41394
Statewide Anti-icing Program
$500,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards described the request to purchase storage
tanks and application equipment. He spoke of warming
trends and an extended shoulder season.
Project #45202
Statewide Emergency Bridge Repair
$1,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards reported on the statewide emergency bridge
repair needs. This repair work is not eligible for federal
bridge funds.
3:22:37 PM
Senator Dyson requested a list of the bridges in this
allocation.
Senator Thomas asked what happens if someone damages a
bridge whether insurance is collected. Mr. Richards
replied that insurance is collected and used for
replacement purposes.
Project #42072
Statewide Rural Airport Safety Improvements
$3,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards talked about the statewide rural airport
safety improvements request. He described the details of
the projects. He spoke of barging gravel to rural areas.
3:25:35 PM
Project #45207
Striping and Marking Performance Improvement
$1,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards reported on the striping and marking
performance improvements request for the Glenn and Parks
Highways from Anchorage to the Mat-Su Valley. He described
the project in detail.
Project #33853
Surfacing Materials
$1,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards detailed the request for funds for surfacing
materials for major roads and as surface course on gravel
roads.
Project #AMD45392
Trunk Road Phase 1
$20,000,000 Gen Fund
Mr. Richards discussed the Trunk Road Phase 1 is a
request for $20 million. The road section is between the
Parks Highway and the Palmer-Wasilla Highway.
Mr. Richards reported that this ends the discussion on
general fund requests.
RECESSED: 3:30:48 PM
RECONVENED: 3:31:46 PM
Project #6764
Statewide Federal Programs
$57,500,000 Fed Rcpts
$51,838,000 G/F Match
$100,000 Gen Fund
$32,000,000 Stat Desig
Co-Chair Stedman suggested the department rank all of the
projects. Mr. Richards asked if that request extends to
the general fund projects also. Co-Chair Stedman said all
projects not in the capital budget committee substitute.
RECESSED: 3:33:15 PM
RECONVENED: 4:37:30 PM
Ms. Slagle noted that the following allocations are for
federal programs.
Project #42960
Advanced Project Definition for Denali Commission
$100,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Slagle said the appropriation would provide assistance
to the Denali Commission by developing project scopes,
schedules, and budgets for projects to be nominated for
funding.
Project #39893
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety, Infrastructure Protection
and Security
$3,300,000 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Slagle turned to the commercial motor vehicle safety,
infrastructure protection and security request, which are
FMCSA grants. Senator Elton thought that this request was
an operating budget request, not a capital request. Ms.
Slagle reported that it was easier to administrate this way
and it allows for a third-party billing system. Senator
Elton asked if were in the operating budget, if it would
allow unfunded liabilities in the retirement system to be
reduced by charging jobs out. Ms. Slagle replied that
personnel costs are being charged to the grants.
4:41:39 PM
Project #34752
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Program
$1,400,000 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Slagle reported that this is an ongoing program that
provides funds for commercial vehicle enforcement.
Project #AMD31375
Cooperative Reimbursable Projects
$1,500,000 Fed Rcpts
$32,000,000 Stat Desig
Ms. Slagle pointed out the revised request for cooperative
reimbursable projects. The statutory designated program
receipts are for projects approved for the Denali
Commission Transportation Program.
Co-Chair Stedman suggested the department move to
appropriations.
Project #6896
Federal-Aid Aviation State Match
$9,200,000 G/F Match
Ms. Slagle referred to the appropriations that require a
state match beginning with federal-aid aviation, federal-
aid highway, and the other federal program match.
Project #AMD32609
Federal-Aid Highway State Match
$40,600,000 G/F Match
Ms. Slagle said the monies would support federal funds
received from the Federal Highway Administration State
Transportation Improvement Program.
Project #41923
Other Federal Program Match
$2,038,000 G/F Match
Ms. Slagle explained that the project matches funds from
the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration,
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the
Federal Transit Administration.
Project #7470
Airport Improvement Program
$283,026,500 Fed Rcpts
$19,165,000 Int Airprt
$29,577,055 IntAptCons
Ms. Slagle said the request was for the authority to
receive federal funds in order to use international airport
revenue funds, and international airport construction
funds. She referred to the lengthy list of projects
included.
4:48:37 PM
Project #32610
Surface Transportation Program
$400,000 CIP Rcpts
$238,605,650 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Slagle described the allocation as funding for the
statewide transportation improvement program (STIP).
Senator Dyson asked when the Glenn Highway construction
project would begin. Mr. Richards offered to provide that
information.
4:50:45 PM
Project #40557
Congressional Earmarks
$450,000 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Slagle referred to the allocation on page 11 of the
Project Review Listing. It consists of the Hoonah
Intermodal Ferry Dock and the Wrangell Ferry Infrastructure
and requests receipt and expenditure authority for federal
funds.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if any communities were left off the
list. Ms. Slagle explained that earmarks have to come
through the department. Those listed were overlooked and
not listed previously. Co-Chair Stedman asked if the
department requests expenditure authority rather than
declines such earmarks. Ms. Slagle said yes.
4:52:42 PM
Mr. Richards summarized that the requests on the list have
gone through the state's scoring system, criteria have been
worked internally, and they are ready for funding. He
requested the committee's support.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if there have been any public
hearings on the capital requests. Mr. Richards replied
that the STIP process is a public process. He mentioned
the challenges related to the STIP process. Co-Chair
Stedman commented that there are some concerns about the
STIP process.
Co-Chair Stedman noted that the administration was going to
reallocate funds for the Gravina Island project in
Ketchikan. He requested more information about the status
of that project. Mr. Richards reported that the project is
currently undergoing a supplemental EIS. Co-Chair Stedman
asked how the federal receipts would be handled. Mr.
Richards addressed what might happen if the funds were
reallocated.
Co-Chair Stedman asked why DOT did not request an
appropriation for the Gravina Access. Mr. Richards
reported on the supplemental EIS process related to that
project.
4:57:37 PM
Senator Elton wondered if the question pertained to the
Juneau Access Project. Co-Chair Stedman said it was
relevant to both projects. Senator Elton shared his
understanding of the funding status of the Juneau Access
project.
Mr. Richards clarified that he was specifically addressing
the Gravina project.
Co-Chair Stedman commented about the need for forward
funding for these projects.
4:59:48 PM
Senator Dyson commented on the public process not being
optimal on a project in his district. He opined that DOT
was not responsive to this issue. Co-Chair Stedman agreed.
Co-Chair Hoffman also agreed.
RECESSED: 5:02:51 PM
RECONVENED: 5:04:58 PM
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
LETA SIMONS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF SUPPORT SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, reported on the
department's requests.
Project #45278
Reservoir Studies to Evaluate Oil and Gas Resources on the
North Slope
$4,000,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons explained that the request would enable the
Division of Oil and Gas to evaluate the best use of gas
resources on the North Slope. It will help the state
determine the amount of gas that should be delivered
through the pipeline, as opposed to the amount that should
be used to maximize oil production.
Project #45279
Contract Auditors for Reducing Royalty and Net Profit Share
Lease Audit Backlogs
$200,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons reported that this item on the House side was
moved into the operating budget.
Co-Chair Stedman pointed out the magnitude of dollars being
spent in the oil basin. He thought that the department
should provide more information about legal, reservoir, and
road issues at a later time.
Project #31371
Oil and Gas Royalty Valuation
$1,000,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons noted that the item had also been moved into the
operating budget. The project would fund the cost of
outside legal counsel and outside experts in case it is
needed for reopener arbitration on the three primary
contracts with ExxonMobil, BP, and ConocoPhillips.
Project #43300
Alaska Energy Inventory Project Completion of Phase 1
$350,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons said that the project would identify resources
that can be developed to meet local area energy needs.
Project #38886
Land Sales-New Subdivision Development
$2,614,000 State Land
Ms. Simons explained that the project authorizes DNR to
spend revenue from previous land sales that has been
deposited in the Land Disposal Income Fund (LDIF) to
propose, design, develop, survey, and build roads for new
subdivisions sales.
Project # 33955
Wildland Fire Truck Replacement - Phase 1
$625,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simmons related that the project was for replacement of
critical fire fighting equipment. It will purchase Type 3
and three Type 6 engines.
Project #6843
State Park Emergency Repairs
$400,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons reported that the funding will upgrade and
replace basic facilities that present safety risks at
parks.
5:09:31 PM
Project #45485
Department of Natural Resources Deferred Maintenance
$6,323,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Simons explained that there were four allocations
within the request.
Project #38878
State Parks Deferred Maintenance
$5,228,000
ASLC Bonds
Ms. Simons said the request will help address the $52
million backlog in deferred maintenance needs.
5:10:51 PM
Project #42878
DNR Northern Region Office Building Deferred Maintenance
$545,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Simons highlighted the funding request to upgrade the
DNR office in Fairbanks.
Project #45267
Forestry Buildings Deferred Maintenance
$400,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Simons explained that the project is for building
repairs in Delta Junction, Soldotna, Palmer, and Delta.
Project #45252
Plant Material Center Deferred Building Maintenance
$150,000 ASLC Bonds
Ms. Simons explained the request to upgrade the main
building at the plant material center in Palmer.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if there was a list of buildings
in need of repair and how decisions were made to repair
them. Ms. Simons replied that the divisions make requests,
most of which are on-going and cover several years. The
most pressing issues are addressed first.
5:12:50 PM
Project #6852
Airborne Geophysical and Geological Mineral Inventory
$850,000 Gen Fund
$350,000 Stat Desig
Ms. Simons pointed out that the item was moved into the
operating budget on the House side.
Project #45255
Architecture and Engineering for a New Geologic Material
Center in Eagle River Phase 1.
Ms. Simons reported that it was critical to the success of
energy and resource development in Alaska to store,
protect, and provide access to the state's geologic core
samples. The existing facility is crowded and inadequate.
Co-Chair Stedman asked why the request was included this
year and not last year. Ms. Simons replied that it was a
matter of priorities. She explained the prioritizing
process. Co-Chair Stedman asked if the list of requests
had been prioritized. Ms. Simons said it had been.
5:15:32 PM
Project #45283
Implementation of Electronic Document Recording
$120,000 Rcpt Svcs
Ms. Simons explained that the project would allow the state
to electronically submit and record real property
documents.
Project #45264
Reforestation in Southcentral and Interior Alaska
$370,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons described the request as an on-going, periodic
activity to plant trees on timber harvest sites in Kenai,
Mat-Su, Fairbanks, and Delta areas.
5:16:26 PM
Project #41426
BLM 2009 State Support for Public Access
$300,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons noted the request was moved to the operating
budget on the House side.
Project # 41415
Gas Pipeline Corridor Geologic Hazards and Resources
Phase 2
$600,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons explained that the request would allow
continuation of geologic mapping, hazard assessment, and
resource evaluation along the proposed natural gas pipeline
corridor from Delta Junction to the Canadian border.
Project #45260
CO2 Sequestration Assessment Phase 1
$200,000 Fed Rcpts
$100,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons said the project is a collaborative effort
between DGGS, Division of Oil and Gas, DEC, UAF, industry
including oil and gas producers and electrical power
utilities, the Federal government and WESTCARB, a U.S.
Department of Energy co-funded research partnership. It
will ensure that assessment and utilization of CO2 storage
is based on sound science.
Project #42062
Statewide Digital Mapping Initiative Year 3
$2,000,000 Fed Rcpts
$2,000,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons explained that the project would result in a
digital map of Alaska and allow users quick and easy
access. No disaster preparedness or emergency management
system will work in Alaska without this base map.
5:18:19 PM
Co-Chair Hoffman asked what has been accomplished so far on
prior appropriations. Ms. Simons explained that little has
been spent so far. So far, a USGS topographical map and
NOAA charts have been compiled. She listed a web site,
Alaskamapped.org, as a reference.
Co-Chair Hoffman requested a priority list of areas that
will be mapped. Ms. Simons offered to do so.
Co-Chair Stedman pointed out that it is a public service to
have this survey information online, especially for
historical purposes.
5:19:48 PM
Project #43321
State Park Sanitation and Safety Projects
$850,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons stated that the project would replace the worst
of the toilets in the state park system and address other
safety needs.
Project #6865
National Historic Preservation Fund Federal Grant Program
$1,000,000 Fed Rcpts
$50,000 G/F Match
Ms. Simons pointed out that this item is federal funding
included in the CS.
Project #45259
Geologic Materials Center Deferred Maintenance, Repairs,
and Operational Upgrades
$65,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons reported that this request would fund the most
critical repairs and maintenance of the Geologic Materials
Center in Eagle River. The funds would be used for leaky
roofs and a sprinkler system.
5:22:39 PM
Project #45256
Cook Inlet Energy Assessment
$260,000 AK Cap Inc
Ms. Simons reported that the assessment would provide
information for resource development by the private sector
for a Cook Inlet industry sponsorship program.
Project #41432
Fire Fighting Equipment Replacement Phase 2
$500,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons explained that the request would replace pumps,
chainsaws, portable generator, banding equipment and fire
engine tools.
Senator Thomas referred back to the Cook Inlet Energy
Assessment. He asked if Prudhoe Bay is being handled
better at this time than Cook Inlet has been in the past.
Ms. Simons offered to provide that information.
5:24:11 PM
Project #45257
Geologic Hazards Associated with Climate Change Phase 1
$330,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons described the project as identification of
potential hazards due to climate change and consistent with
the DGGS statutory mission. The end result of the project
will be a hazards map and report.
Co-Chair Stedman asked why this was a low priority. Ms.
Simons did not know, but offered to find out.
Project #37769
Federal and Local Government Funded Forest Resource and
Fire Program Projects
$2,200,000 Fed Rcpts
$800,000 Stat Desig
Ms. Simons described the project as having continuing
federal funding. It includes education and prevention
components.
Project #40082
AK Coastal Management Federal Pass Through Grants
$1,360,000 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Simons noted that it is funded by NOAA.
Senator Olson asked what the department is doing to
cooperate with the Bering Straits Coastal Management
Program. Ms. Simons offered to find out.
5:26:27 PM
Project #38480
Remote Recreational Cabin Sites Surveys and Appraisals
$1,011,500 State Land
Ms. Simons summarized that the request authorizes DNR to
appraise and contract for surveys of Remote Recreational
Cabin Site properties.
Project #32553
Alaska Boating Safety Program
$1,000,000 Fed Rcpts
$200,000 Veh Rcpts
Ms. Simons said the request may be moved to the operating
budget.
Co-Chair Hoffman requested to know how the money was spent
in past years. He wanted information related to drownings
in Western Alaska. Senator Olson also requested that
information.
5:28:19 PM
Project #32552
Land and Water Conservation Fund Federal Grant Program
$600,000 Fed Rcpts
Ms. Simons reported that the request is a 50/50 matching
grant program that provides funding for the development of
outdoor recreation areas and facilities.
Project #6854
National Recreational Trail Grants Program
$1,500,000 Fed Rcpts
Co-Chair Stedman requested more information. Ms. Simons
deferred to DNR.
CHRIS DEGERNES, FIELD OPERATIONS, DIVISION OF PARKS AND
OUTDOOR RECREATION, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES,
explained that the program receives federal funding for
competitive grant programs throughout the state. It
supports trail projects and educational programs.
5:30:24 PM
Project #33690
Snowmobile Trail Development and Program Grants
$250,000 VehRcpts
Ms. Simons noted that the funds are from snowmobile
registration fees and are spent: 69 percent for direct
grants for trail development, 17 percent for safety and
education programs, and 14 percent for grant administration
and support of the Snowmobile Trails Advisory Committee.
Project #45250
Plant Material Center Deferred Equipment Replacement
$465,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons reported that the request is in order to replace
a combine, a dozer, and other equipment.
Co-Chair Stedman requested only non-federal items be
addressed.
Project #AMD37762
Cooperative Water Resource Program Division of Mining,
Land and Water
$300,000 Stat Desig
Ms. Simons explained that the request was split between the
Division of Land and Water and the Office of Habitat,
Management, and Permitting.
Project #45274
RS2477 Surveys
$100,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons described the project as funds to continue
survey work.
Project #45272
Mat-Su Borough Hydrogeology Assessment Phase 1
$295,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons reported that the goal is to provide DNR with
knowledge to effectively manage Mat-Su's groundwater
resources.
5:32:30 PM
Project #45282
Kenai River Public Use Study
$200,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Simons said the study would implement recommendations
in the Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan by
evaluating recreational use and environmental impacts.
Project #45262
EVOS Restoration Acquisition of Small Parcels Anchor
River, Kiliunda Bay, Soldotna, Valdez
$1,513,000 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Settlement (EVOS)
Ms. Simons reported that the EVOS Trustee Council is
pursuing acquisition of five small parcels to contribute to
the restoration of resources and services injured by the
Exxon Valdez Oil Spill.
Project #45263
EVOS Parcel Acquisition Afognak
$10,000,000 EVOSS
Ms. Simons related that the request would fund the purchase
of 6,200 acres on Northern Afognak Island to contribute to
the restoration of resources damaged by the oil spill.
Co-Chair Hoffman inquired who presently owns the property.
Ms. Degernes replied that the property was owned by a
village cooperation called Afognak Joint Ventures.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if the sale price was the appraised
value of the property. Ms. Degernes thought it was the
fair market value appraisal. Co-Chair Hoffman asked who
did the appraisal. Ms. Degernes offered to find out.
5:34:46 PM
Project #6853
Mental Health Trust Land Development
$650,000 MHTARR
Ms. Simons explained that this was authorization to use
funds for an on-going activity the management of Mental
Health Trust lands.
Project # 40474
Mental Health Trust Facilities Maintenance
$350,000 MHTAAR
Ms. Simons reported that the request was for major
maintenance, property management, snow removal, and repair
of Mental Health Trust facilities.
RECESSED: 5:35:47 PM
RECONVENED: 5:37:16 PM
Co-Chair Stedman requested that Department of Environmental
Conservation items be prioritized.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked that information about how
department funds are being spent throughout various
election districts in Alaska.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
MIKE MAHER, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, presented the
requests.
Project #45210
Monitoring of Dust Control Technologies in Rural Alaska
$224,107 Gen Fund
Mr. Maher explained that request is for funds to monitor
the success of the dust control program.
Project #41376
Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Projects
$78,728,511 Fed Rcpts
$22,909,504 G/F Match
$18,966,870 Gen Fund
$500,000 Stat Desig
BILL GRIFFITH, FACILITIES PROGRAMS MANAGER, DIVISION OF
WATER, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, explained
the request for multiple allocations for statewide water
and wastewater capital improvement projects.
5:44:25 PM
Mr. Griffith provided a 3-year priority list for larger
projects for village safe-water funding. Federal funding
requirements must be used for large, multi-year projects.
Such projects are funded over several fiscal years.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if such projects can be prefunded.
Mr. Griffith explained that federal funding agencies
require using the 3-year priority list, so to not put a
large amount of money into a several-year project. It is
done in phases so money is not just sitting around.
Co-Chair Stedman noted that page 21 contains the 3-year
priority list. He asked how much of that list is to be
funded this year.
5:47:40 PM
Mr. Griffith said that approximately $77.6 million would go
toward projects on the list; however, the list does not
reflect who gets what when. The request for funds is in
order to keep the projects moving.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that he would like to see a grid
that shows the status of the projects. He asked about the
$24 million for projects with federal funding that are not
on the 3-year priority list. Mr. Griffith explained that
those are smaller design and construction projects that can
be completed over a single season which were requested
earlier in the year by communities.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if $24,549,310 was being requested.
Mr. Griffith said that was correct.
Senator Thomas inquired if similar projects share a similar
general design.
5:50:21 PM
Mr. Griffin reported that the department works with
consultants to develop some standard designs, but also
develops customized designs.
Senator Elton referred to the projects with federal funding
that are not on the 3-year list. He wondered how they get
federal funding if they are not on the priority list. Mr.
Griffith related that the department works closely with
federal funding agencies, which includes EPA and USDA World
Development.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|