Legislature(1993 - 1994)
04/12/1993 01:40 PM House FIN
| Audio | Topic |
|---|
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
APRIL 12, 1993
1:40 P.M.
TAPE HFC 93 - 100, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 100, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 101, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 101, Side 2, #000 - #076.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Ron Larson called the meeting of the House Finance
Committee to order at 1:40 P.M.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Larson Representative Brown
Co-Chair MacLean Representative Foster
Vice-Chair Hanley Representative Martin
Representative Parnell Representative Martin
Representatives Hoffman, Grussendorf, Therriault and Navarre
were not present for the meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Representative Cliff Davidson; Jerome Shelby,
(teleconference), Mayor, Kodiak, Alaska; Mary McBurney,
(teleconference), Executive Director, Cordova District
Fishermen United, Cordova, Alaska; Dave Crane,
(teleconference), Mayor, Seward, Alaska; Wayne Carpenter,
(teleconference), Director, Chamber of Commerce, Seward,
Alaska; Nancy Lethchoe, (teleconference), President, Alaska
Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association, Valdez,
Alaska; Ronald Kuczer, Assistant General Manager,
(teleconference), Municipal Light and Power, Anchorage,
Alaska; John French, (teleconference), Fishery Industrial
Technology Center, Kodiak, Alaska; Dave Daisey, CRRC,
Anchorage, Alaska; Bobby Pool, (teleconference), Design,
Cambridge Seven Associates, Director of IDEA, Cambridge,
Massachusetts; Willard Dunham, Chairman of the Seward
Association for the Advancement of Marine Development,
Seward, Alaska; Dr. A.J. Paul, Assistant Professor of Marine
Science, University of Alaska - Fairbanks, Alaska; Mary
Forbes, (teleconference), Chair, Kodiak Autobahn Society,
Kodiak, Alaska; Ann Tastalina, Superintendent, National
Park, Seward, Alaska; Alan Phipps, (teleconference), Alaska
Center for the Environment, Anchorage, Alaska; Nancy Bird,
(teleconference), Self, Cordova City Council, Cordova,
Alaska; Chip Dennerline, (teleconference), Cook Inlet
Region, Seward, Alaska; Jack Babcott, (teleconference),
1
Self, Cordova, Alaska; Ray Rolande, MAP, University of
Alaska Marine Advisory Program, Aquaculture Specialist,
Anchorage, Alaska; Tyler Jones, (teleconference), City
Manager, Seward, Alaska; Carl Becker, (teleconference),
Self, Cordova, Alaska; Diane McBride, (teleconference),
Self, Homer, Alaska; Kenneth Blatchford, Chugiack Regional
Resource Committee (CRRC), Seward, Alaska; Margaret Branson,
Alaska Shellfish Growers Association, Juneau, Alaska; Penny
Osfalt, (teleconference), Self, Cordova, Alaska; Donna
Fisher, (teleconference), Valdez City Council, Valdez,
Alaska; Charles Cole, Attorney General, Department of Law;
Chris Gates, Director, Division of Economic Development,
Department of Law; John Sandor, Commissioner, Department of
Environmental Conservation; Carl Rosier, Commissioner,
Department of Fish and Game; Bruce Campbell, Acting
Commissioner, Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
HB 269 An Act making special appropriations for
restoration projects relating to the Exxon Valdez
oil spill and for oil spill response projects; and
providing for an effective date.
HB 269 was held in Committee for further
discussion.
CONSENT AGENDA
HB 170 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Marine Pilots.
HB 170 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development dated 3/31/93.
HB 268 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Dispensing Opticians; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 268 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 270 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Examiners in Optometry; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 270 was reported out of Committee with a "do
2
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 271 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Public Accountancy; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 271 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 272 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Chiropractic Examiners; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 272 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
CONSENT AGENDA
Representative Martin MOVED to report the Consent Calendar
out of Committee with individual recommendations. There
being NO OBJECTIONS, it was adopted.
HOUSE BILL 170
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Marine Pilots."
HB 170 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 268
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Dispensing Opticians; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 268 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and a zero fiscal by the Department of
Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 270
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Examiners in Optometry; and providing for an effective
date."
3
HB 270 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 271
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Public Accountancy; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 271 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 272
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Chiropractic Examiners; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 272 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a fiscal note by the Department of
Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 269
"An Act making special appropriations for restoration
projects relating to the Exxon Valdez oil spill and for
oil spill response projects; and providing for an
effective date."
JEROME SHELBY, (teleconference), MAYOR, CITY OF KODIAK,
KODIAK, ALASKA, noted his disappointment with the proposed
legislation. He pointed out that Kodiak experienced over
50% of the damages from the oil spill although they are
scheduled to receive only 1% of the restoration fund. He
urged the Committee to find a way to fund Kodiak the $8.5
million dollars.
MARY MCBURNEY, (teleconference), EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CORDOVA
DISTRICT FISHERMEN UNITED (CDFU), CORDOVA, ALASKA, noted
that the proposed legislation disregards the needs of the
Cordova Sound area. She would not support the legislation
and would not support using funds for the oil spill ferry.
He pointed out that HB 411, HB 10 and SB 98 support the
needs of the people and damage created by the oil spill.
DAVE CRANE, (teleconference), MAYOR, CITY OF SEWARD, SEWARD,
ALASKA, noted his support for the proposed legislation. He
felt that the legislation provided long range planning with
inclusion of the Sea Life Center.
4
WAYNE CARPENTER, (teleconference), DIRECTOR, SEWARD CHAMBER
OF COMMERCE, SEWARD, ALASKA, noted his support of the
legislation. He voiced the need for marine mammal research
rehabilitation which the bill would accommodate.
NANCY LETHCOE, (teleconference), PRESIDENT, ALASKA
WILDERNESS RECREATION & TOURISM ASSOCIATION (AWRTA), VALDEZ,
ALASKA, questioned the feasibility studies provided by the
proposed legislation. She noted her support for SB 98,
pointing out that funds would be used for restoration rather
than construction projects.
RONALD KUCZER, (teleconference), ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER,
MUNICIPAL LIGHT AND POWER, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, addressed
Section VI of the proposed legislation. He stated that the
completed project would double the capacity of the sport
fishery hatchery. He added, Municipal Light and Power would
support Section VI.
JOHN FRENCH, (teleconference), DIRECTOR, FISHERY INDUSTRIAL
TECHNOLOGY CENTER, KODIAK, ALASKA, commented on Section X
which would enhance development of fish processing
techniques. Section X would directly affect the recovery of
the commercial subsistence and recreational fishery
services.
Representative Brown questioned the feasibility study and
the additional costs incurred by the University resulting
from the proposed expenditure. Mr. French noted that the
overall project will cost $15 - $20 million dollars. The
project will involve finding "other" funding sources.
BOBBY POOL, (teleconference), DESIGN AND TECHNICAL
DEVELOPMENT AT CAMBRIDGE SEVEN ASSOCIATES, CAMBRIDGE,
MASSACHUSETTS, commented that his company is the United
States premier developer of environmental cultural
institutions. He thought the facility would be popular
effecting the economics in the region where it is located.
The facility would become a self supporting institution and
would provide an increase to tourism and at the same time
would be an education research location for marine animals
in Alaska.
WILLARD DUNHAM, CHAIRMAN FOR THE SEWARD ASSOCIATION FOR
ADVANCEMENT OF MARINE DEVELOPMENT (SAAMS), SEWARD, ALASKA,
provided the Committee with a handout, ALASKA SEA LIFE
CENTER BUSINESS PLAN. [Attachment #2]. He pointed out that
the facility would be a self sustaining operational facility
providing research rehabilitation for public education.
DR. A.J. PAUL, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MARINE SCIENCE,
UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA - FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS, ALASKA, urged
5
the Committee to support the Alaska Sea Life project. He
provided the Committee with Attachment #1, illustrating
population decline to mammal sea life since the oil spill.
He added, the legislation is widely supported. Research
indicates that the facility would be a destination point for
Alaskan visitors and tourists.
Representative Brown asked if it would be necessary to have
all funding obtained before the conditions of the
appropriation would be met. Mr. Dunhan replied it would
not. Financial liability could be demonstrated with an
allocation of $12.5 million dollars. To fully fund the
project will cost $46 million dollars. The anticipated
"other" funding sources are general foundations. Mr. Dunham
pointed out, two hundred and ten thousand people visited
Seward last year.
(Tape Change, HFC 93 - 100, Side 2).
MARY FORBES, (teleconference), AUTOBAHN CONSERVATION CHAIR,
KODIAK, ALASKA, stated that her organization does not
support the proposed legislation, whereas, they do support
HB 10 and SB 98.
ANN TASTALINA, (teleconference), SUPERINTENDENT OF FIORD
NATIONAL PARK, SEWARD, ALASKA, noted support of the
legislation and the Sea Life Center facility. She pointed
out that there is no place in Alaska to do research on dying
birds and marine animals. Rehabilitation is an important
component for the State.
ALAN PHIPPS, (teleconference), ALASKA CENTER FOR THE
ENVIRONMENT, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, noted his support of SB 98
and HB 10. He emphasized that the proposed legislation has
no relationship between environment and restoration.
NANCY BIRD, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA CITY COUNCIL,
CORDOVA, ALASKA, expressed disappointment with so little
funding allocated to the Prince William Sound area through
the legislation. She added that the funds purpose was
clearly defined of which construction was not included. She
urged support of HB 10.
CHIP DENNERLEIN, (teleconference), COOK INLET REGION,
SEWARD, ALASKA, noted his support of the agreement with the
State.
JACK BABCOTT, (teleconference), SELF, PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND,
CORDOVA, ALASKA, advised that HB 269 does not affect the
actual oil spill impacted areas especially for fishery
related projects. He urged the Committee to reject the
proposed legislation.
6
RAY ROLANDE, AQUACULTURE SPECIALIST, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA
MARINE ADVISORY PROGRAM, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, spoke in support
of the portion of the bill which address the construction of
shell fish hatcheries. He pointed out that Alaska does not
have a facility to tap research already classified by other
organizations. He recommended the area be expanded to
include the Kenai Peninsula and added that Alaska only
needs one high quality hatchery facility.
DAVE DAISEY, VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT IN PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND OF
AQUACULTURE PROJECTS - OYSTER FARMS, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA,
pointed out that oyster development is a current resource to
many village areas. For these programs to work, it is
necessary that a hatchery provide a reliable supply of seed.
Section V provides the necessary allocation to operate a
hatchery for three to five years before it can sustain
itself. He urged the Committee's support.
Representative Brown questioned the overall costs of the
program. Mr. Daisey offered to provide the Committee
additional information.
TYLER JONES, (teleconference), CITY MANAGER, CITY OF SEWARD,
SEWARD, ALASKA, stated his support of the legislation,
pointing out that it would provide a location for research,
rehabilitation and education. He added, the City of Seward
has not received restoration funds to date.
CARL BECKER, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA, ALASKA,
testified against the legislation. Cordova supports HB 10
and SB 98 and added that money from the Exxon Valdez
settlement should go to restitution and damages of
resources.
DIANE MCBRIDE, (teleconference), SELF, HOMER, ALASKA, asked
that Section III remain in the legislation. Habitat
acquisition is important to the fisheries in Cook Inlet.
KENNY BLATCHFORD, CHUGIAK REGIONAL RESOURCE COMMISSION,
SEWARD, ALASKA, spoke in favor of HB 269, encouraging a
change to the site consideration. He asked that the Chugiak
Region and Kenai Peninsula receive funds for hatchery
development.
Representative Brown reiterated concern for the total cost
of the proposed project. Mr. Blatchford stated it would be
$1.2 million dollars for a portion of the facility. There
would be two separate projects. The technical research
facility would be administered by the Department of Fish and
Game. The hatchery would be administered by Mt. Marathon
Native Association. Representative Brown asked if the
7
current language in the bill would authorize the Department
of Fish and Game authority to allocate the project funds.
Mr. Blatchford stated that language was contained in the
original bill, although through committee substitute it has
been changed.
MARGARET BRANSON, ALASKA SHELLFISH GROWERS ASSOCIATION,
JUNEAU, ALASKA, provided the Committee with letters written
to the Governor addressing the growth in the technical and
shellfish hatcheries. [Attachment #5].
(Tape Change HFC 93-101, Side 1).
PENNY OSFALT, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA, ALASKA,
emphasized HB 269 would be unfair legislation to those
living in Prince William Sound. She stated that HB 10 and
SB 98 were more equitable to all communities affected by the
spill. She reiterated that construction would not be the
appropriate use of the fund.
DONNA FISHER, (teleconference), MEMBER OF VALDEZ CITY
COUNCIL, VALDEZ, ALASKA, testified in opposition to the road
construction recommended near Whittier.
Representative Brown requested backup material for Sections
intention of the Exxon Valdez Council Board of Trustees to
provide the $25 million dollars to make up the total
anticipated costs of $46 million dollars.
CHARLES COLE, ATTORNEY GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF LAW, stated
that the
Council consisted of the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development, the Department of Agriculture - federal,
Department of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental
Conservation, and the Department of Law. The Trustees have
not yet considered the application as it has not been
presented to date through the restoration team.
Representative Brown recommended that the appropriation be
conditioned until the entire balanced is obtained. Co-Chair
Larson asked if it would be a viable operation with a $12.5
million dollar appropriation. Attorney General Cole
recommended the matter be addressed by Seward residents.
CARL ROSIER, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME,
responded that less than $46 million dollars could provide a
viable program, although he did not know at what level.
CHRIS GATES, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,
DEPARTMENT OF LAW, stated that funds will be required for
both the financial feasibility study and the match grants.
8
Representative Brown noted her concern that the $12.5
million dollars would not provide the necessary resources to
finish the project. She felt that the proposal should be
conditioned to provide assurance that State monies are not
the only funds to carry the project. Dr. Paul refuted
Representative Brown's suggestion stating that most of the
money would come from the National Science Foundation.
Attorney General Cole reminded the Committee that the
Governor strongly supports the project.
JOHN SANDOR, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION, addressed Section IV. He stated there are no
plans for the Visitor Center although the proposal would be
consistent with what the Kachemak Bay State Park Citizens
Advisory Board has recommended. Representative Brown asked
if the board had specifically considered that project.
Commissioner Sandor replied they had not.
Representative Brown asked if the Department of Fish and
Game would respond to the operational costs listed in
Section V. Commissioner Rosier indicated there are two
parts to the project. The proposal in HB 269 addresses the
part of the facility which would be operated by the
Department. Currently, there is a proposal before the
trustees to fund a private hatchery facility in the Prince
William Sound area. The initial funding would require $300
thousand dollars annual operational expense.
Representative Brown asked how many hatcheries can Alaska
support. Commissioner Rosier noted that hatchery operations
for the shell fish industry are limited.
Co-Chair Larson questioned the $15 million dollar allocation
for design and construction of the Whittier access road.
BRUCE CAMPBELL, ACTING COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES, replied that the
environmental impact of the Whittier access road currently
is being studied from federal funds. Concluding the study,
a location determination will be made. The $15 million
dollars will be used to expedite environmental studies if
the road is not built. There will be no construction money
requested. Representative Martin recommended adding the
language "and match" to the $15 million dollar request.
Representative Brown asked the total cost of the road.
Acting Commissioner Campbell noted that cost could not be
estimated. Representative Brown asked if the balance of the
cost would be a federal expense. Acting Commissioner
Campbell stated that it could be funded with federal funds
9
and offered to provide the data requested.
Attorney General Cole provided the Committee with a
comparison of HB 411 (SB 483), HB 10, SB 98 and HB 269.
[Attachment #6]. He urged the Committee to adopt the
proposal provided by the Governor.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-101, Side 2).
Co-Chair Larson pointed out that the $5 million dollar
allocation for the oil spill ferry would no longer be
necessary in the proposed legislation.
HB 269 was HELD in Committee for further consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 3:50 P.M.
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
APRIL 12, 1993
1:40 P.M.
TAPE HFC 93 - 100, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 100, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 101, Side 1, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 93 - 101, Side 2, #000 - #076.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Ron Larson called the meeting of the House Finance
Committee to order at 1:40 P.M.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Larson Representative Brown
Co-Chair MacLean Representative Foster
Vice-Chair Hanley Representative Martin
Representative Parnell Representative Martin
Representatives Hoffman, Grussendorf, Therriault and Navarre
were not present for the meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Representative Cliff Davidson; Jerome Shelby,
(teleconference), Mayor, Kodiak, Alaska; Mary McBurney,
(teleconference), Executive Director, Cordova District
Fishermen United, Cordova, Alaska; Dave Crane,
(teleconference), Mayor, Seward, Alaska; Wayne Carpenter,
(teleconference), Director, Chamber of Commerce, Seward,
Alaska; Nancy Lethchoe, (teleconference), President, Alaska
10
Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association, Valdez,
Alaska; Ronald Kuczer, Assistant General Manager,
(teleconference), Municipal Light and Power, Anchorage,
Alaska; John French, (teleconference), Fishery Industrial
Technology Center, Kodiak, Alaska; Dave Daisey, CRRC,
Anchorage, Alaska; Bobby Pool, (teleconference), Design,
Cambridge Seven Associates, Director of IDEA, Cambridge,
Massachusetts; Willard Dunham, Chairman of the Seward
Association for the Advancement of Marine Development,
Seward, Alaska; Dr. A.J. Paul, Assistant Professor of Marine
Science, University of Alaska - Fairbanks, Alaska; Mary
Forbes, (teleconference), Chair, Kodiak Autobahn Society,
Kodiak, Alaska; Ann Tastalina, Superintendent, National
Park, Seward, Alaska; Alan Phipps, (teleconference), Alaska
Center for the Environment, Anchorage, Alaska; Nancy Bird,
(teleconference), Self, Cordova City Council, Cordova,
Alaska; Chip Dennerline, (teleconference), Cook Inlet
Region, Seward, Alaska; Jack Babcott, (teleconference),
Self, Cordova, Alaska; Ray Rolande, MAP, University of
Alaska Marine Advisory Program, Aquaculture Specialist,
Anchorage, Alaska; Tyler Jones, (teleconference), City
Manager, Seward, Alaska; Carl Becker, (teleconference),
Self, Cordova, Alaska; Diane McBride, (teleconference),
Self, Homer, Alaska; Kenneth Blatchford, Chugiack Regional
Resource Committee (CRRC), Seward, Alaska; Margaret Branson,
Alaska Shellfish Growers Association, Juneau, Alaska; Penny
Osfalt, (teleconference), Self, Cordova, Alaska; Donna
Fisher, (teleconference), Valdez City Council, Valdez,
Alaska; Charles Cole, Attorney General, Department of Law;
Chris Gates, Director, Division of Economic Development,
Department of Law; John Sandor, Commissioner, Department of
Environmental Conservation; Carl Rosier, Commissioner,
Department of Fish and Game; Bruce Campbell, Acting
Commissioner, Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
HB 269 An Act making special appropriations for
restoration projects relating to the Exxon Valdez
oil spill and for oil spill response projects; and
providing for an effective date.
HB 269 was held in Committee for further
discussion.
CONSENT AGENDA
HB 170 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Marine Pilots.
HB 170 was reported out of Committee with a "do
11
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development dated 3/31/93.
HB 268 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Dispensing Opticians; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 268 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 270 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Examiners in Optometry; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 270 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 271 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Public Accountancy; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 271 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
HB 272 An Act extending the termination date of the Board
of Chiropractic Examiners; and providing for an
effective date.
HB 272 was reported out of Committee with a "do
pass" recommendation and with a zero fiscal note
by the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
CONSENT AGENDA
Representative Martin MOVED to report the Consent Calendar
out of Committee with individual recommendations. There
being NO OBJECTIONS, it was adopted.
HOUSE BILL 170
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Marine Pilots."
HB 170 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
12
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 268
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Dispensing Opticians; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 268 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and a zero fiscal by the Department of
Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 270
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Examiners in Optometry; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 270 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 271
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Public Accountancy; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 271 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a zero fiscal note by the Department
of Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 272
"An Act extending the termination date of the Board of
Chiropractic Examiners; and providing for an effective
date."
HB 272 was reported out of Committee with a "do pass"
recommendation and with a fiscal note by the Department of
Commerce and Economic Development.
HOUSE BILL 269
"An Act making special appropriations for restoration
projects relating to the Exxon Valdez oil spill and for
oil spill response projects; and providing for an
effective date."
JEROME SHELBY, (teleconference), MAYOR, CITY OF KODIAK,
KODIAK, ALASKA, noted his disappointment with the proposed
13
legislation. He pointed out that Kodiak experienced over
50% of the damages from the oil spill although they are
scheduled to receive only 1% of the restoration fund. He
urged the Committee to find a way to fund Kodiak the $8.5
million dollars.
MARY MCBURNEY, (teleconference), EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CORDOVA
DISTRICT FISHERMEN UNITED (CDFU), CORDOVA, ALASKA, noted
that the proposed legislation disregards the needs of the
Cordova Sound area. She would not support the legislation
and would not support using funds for the oil spill ferry.
He pointed out that HB 411, HB 10 and SB 98 support the
needs of the people and damage created by the oil spill.
DAVE CRANE, (teleconference), MAYOR, CITY OF SEWARD, SEWARD,
ALASKA, noted his support for the proposed legislation. He
felt that the legislation provided long range planning with
inclusion of the Sea Life Center.
WAYNE CARPENTER, (teleconference), DIRECTOR, SEWARD CHAMBER
OF COMMERCE, SEWARD, ALASKA, noted his support of the
legislation. He voiced the need for marine mammal research
rehabilitation which the bill would accommodate.
NANCY LETHCOE, (teleconference), PRESIDENT, ALASKA
WILDERNESS RECREATION & TOURISM ASSOCIATION (AWRTA), VALDEZ,
ALASKA, questioned the feasibility studies provided by the
proposed legislation. She noted her support for SB 98,
pointing out that funds would be used for restoration rather
than construction projects.
RONALD KUCZER, (teleconference), ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER,
MUNICIPAL LIGHT AND POWER, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, addressed
Section VI of the proposed legislation. He stated that the
completed project would double the capacity of the sport
fishery hatchery. He added, Municipal Light and Power would
support Section VI.
JOHN FRENCH, (teleconference), DIRECTOR, FISHERY INDUSTRIAL
TECHNOLOGY CENTER, KODIAK, ALASKA, commented on Section X
which would enhance development of fish processing
techniques. Section X would directly affect the recovery of
the commercial subsistence and recreational fishery
services.
Representative Brown questioned the feasibility study and
the additional costs incurred by the University resulting
from the proposed expenditure. Mr. French noted that the
overall project will cost $15 - $20 million dollars. The
project will involve finding "other" funding sources.
BOBBY POOL, (teleconference), DESIGN AND TECHNICAL
DEVELOPMENT AT CAMBRIDGE SEVEN ASSOCIATES, CAMBRIDGE,
14
MASSACHUSETTS, commented that his company is the United
States premier developer of environmental cultural
institutions. He thought the facility would be popular
effecting the economics in the region where it is located.
The facility would become a self supporting institution and
would provide an increase to tourism and at the same time
would be an education research location for marine animals
in Alaska.
WILLARD DUNHAM, CHAIRMAN FOR THE SEWARD ASSOCIATION FOR
ADVANCEMENT OF MARINE DEVELOPMENT (SAAMS), SEWARD, ALASKA,
provided the Committee with a handout, ALASKA SEA LIFE
CENTER BUSINESS PLAN. [Attachment #2]. He pointed out that
the facility would be a self sustaining operational facility
providing research rehabilitation for public education.
DR. A.J. PAUL, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MARINE SCIENCE,
UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA - FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS, ALASKA, urged
the Committee to support the Alaska Sea Life project. He
provided the Committee with Attachment #1, illustrating
population decline to mammal sea life since the oil spill.
He added, the legislation is widely supported. Research
indicates that the facility would be a destination point for
Alaskan visitors and tourists.
Representative Brown asked if it would be necessary to have
all funding obtained before the conditions of the
appropriation would be met. Mr. Dunhan replied it would
not. Financial liability could be demonstrated with an
allocation of $12.5 million dollars. To fully fund the
project will cost $46 million dollars. The anticipated
"other" funding sources are general foundations. Mr. Dunham
pointed out, two hundred and ten thousand people visited
Seward last year.
(Tape Change, HFC 93 - 100, Side 2).
MARY FORBES, (teleconference), AUTOBAHN CONSERVATION CHAIR,
KODIAK, ALASKA, stated that her organization does not
support the proposed legislation, whereas, they do support
HB 10 and SB 98.
ANN TASTALINA, (teleconference), SUPERINTENDENT OF FIORD
NATIONAL PARK, SEWARD, ALASKA, noted support of the
legislation and the Sea Life Center facility. She pointed
out that there is no place in Alaska to do research on dying
birds and marine animals. Rehabilitation is an important
component for the State.
ALAN PHIPPS, (teleconference), ALASKA CENTER FOR THE
ENVIRONMENT, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, noted his support of SB 98
and HB 10. He emphasized that the proposed legislation has
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no relationship between environment and restoration.
NANCY BIRD, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA CITY COUNCIL,
CORDOVA, ALASKA, expressed disappointment with so little
funding allocated to the Prince William Sound area through
the legislation. She added that the funds purpose was
clearly defined of which construction was not included. She
urged support of HB 10.
CHIP DENNERLEIN, (teleconference), COOK INLET REGION,
SEWARD, ALASKA, noted his support of the agreement with the
State.
JACK BABCOTT, (teleconference), SELF, PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND,
CORDOVA, ALASKA, advised that HB 269 does not affect the
actual oil spill impacted areas especially for fishery
related projects. He urged the Committee to reject the
proposed legislation.
RAY ROLANDE, AQUACULTURE SPECIALIST, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA
MARINE ADVISORY PROGRAM, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, spoke in support
of the portion of the bill which address the construction of
shell fish hatcheries. He pointed out that Alaska does not
have a facility to tap research already classified by other
organizations. He recommended the area be expanded to
include the Kenai Peninsula and added that Alaska only
needs one high quality hatchery facility.
DAVE DAISEY, VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT IN PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND OF
AQUACULTURE PROJECTS - OYSTER FARMS, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA,
pointed out that oyster development is a current resource to
many village areas. For these programs to work, it is
necessary that a hatchery provide a reliable supply of seed.
Section V provides the necessary allocation to operate a
hatchery for three to five years before it can sustain
itself. He urged the Committee's support.
Representative Brown questioned the overall costs of the
program. Mr. Daisey offered to provide the Committee
additional information.
TYLER JONES, (teleconference), CITY MANAGER, CITY OF SEWARD,
SEWARD, ALASKA, stated his support of the legislation,
pointing out that it would provide a location for research,
rehabilitation and education. He added, the City of Seward
has not received restoration funds to date.
CARL BECKER, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA, ALASKA,
testified against the legislation. Cordova supports HB 10
and SB 98 and added that money from the Exxon Valdez
settlement should go to restitution and damages of
resources.
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DIANE MCBRIDE, (teleconference), SELF, HOMER, ALASKA, asked
that Section III remain in the legislation. Habitat
acquisition is important to the fisheries in Cook Inlet.
KENNY BLATCHFORD, CHUGIAK REGIONAL RESOURCE COMMISSION,
SEWARD, ALASKA, spoke in favor of HB 269, encouraging a
change to the site consideration. He asked that the Chugiak
Region and Kenai Peninsula receive funds for hatchery
development.
Representative Brown reiterated concern for the total cost
of the proposed project. Mr. Blatchford stated it would be
$1.2 million dollars for a portion of the facility. There
would be two separate projects. The technical research
facility would be administered by the Department of Fish and
Game. The hatchery would be administered by Mt. Marathon
Native Association. Representative Brown asked if the
current language in the bill would authorize the Department
of Fish and Game authority to allocate the project funds.
Mr. Blatchford stated that language was contained in the
original bill, although through committee substitute it has
been changed.
MARGARET BRANSON, ALASKA SHELLFISH GROWERS ASSOCIATION,
JUNEAU, ALASKA, provided the Committee with letters written
to the Governor addressing the growth in the technical and
shellfish hatcheries. [Attachment #5].
(Tape Change HFC 93-101, Side 1).
PENNY OSFALT, (teleconference), SELF, CORDOVA, ALASKA,
emphasized HB 269 would be unfair legislation to those
living in Prince William Sound. She stated that HB 10 and
SB 98 were more equitable to all communities affected by the
spill. She reiterated that construction would not be the
appropriate use of the fund.
DONNA FISHER, (teleconference), MEMBER OF VALDEZ CITY
COUNCIL, VALDEZ, ALASKA, testified in opposition to the road
construction recommended near Whittier.
Representative Brown requested backup material for Sections
intention of the Exxon Valdez Council Board of Trustees to
provide the $25 million dollars to make up the total
anticipated costs of $46 million dollars.
CHARLES COLE, ATTORNEY GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF LAW, stated
that the
Council consisted of the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development, the Department of Agriculture - federal,
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Department of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental
Conservation, and the Department of Law. The Trustees have
not yet considered the application as it has not been
presented to date through the restoration team.
Representative Brown recommended that the appropriation be
conditioned until the entire balanced is obtained. Co-Chair
Larson asked if it would be a viable operation with a $12.5
million dollar appropriation. Attorney General Cole
recommended the matter be addressed by Seward residents.
CARL ROSIER, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME,
responded that less than $46 million dollars could provide a
viable program, although he did not know at what level.
CHRIS GATES, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,
DEPARTMENT OF LAW, stated that funds will be required for
both the financial feasibility study and the match grants.
Representative Brown noted her concern that the $12.5
million dollars would not provide the necessary resources to
finish the project. She felt that the proposal should be
conditioned to provide assurance that State monies are not
the only funds to carry the project. Dr. Paul refuted
Representative Brown's suggestion stating that most of the
money would come from the National Science Foundation.
Attorney General Cole reminded the Committee that the
Governor strongly supports the project.
JOHN SANDOR, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION, addressed Section IV. He stated there are no
plans for the Visitor Center although the proposal would be
consistent with what the Kachemak Bay State Park Citizens
Advisory Board has recommended. Representative Brown asked
if the board had specifically considered that project.
Commissioner Sandor replied they had not.
Representative Brown asked if the Department of Fish and
Game would respond to the operational costs listed in
Section V. Commissioner Rosier indicated there are two
parts to the project. The proposal in HB 269 addresses the
part of the facility which would be operated by the
Department. Currently, there is a proposal before the
trustees to fund a private hatchery facility in the Prince
William Sound area. The initial funding would require $300
thousand dollars annual operational expense.
Representative Brown asked how many hatcheries can Alaska
support. Commissioner Rosier noted that hatchery operations
for the shell fish industry are limited.
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Co-Chair Larson questioned the $15 million dollar allocation
for design and construction of the Whittier access road.
BRUCE CAMPBELL, ACTING COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES, replied that the
environmental impact of the Whittier access road currently
is being studied from federal funds. Concluding the study,
a location determination will be made. The $15 million
dollars will be used to expedite environmental studies if
the road is not built. There will be no construction money
requested. Representative Martin recommended adding the
language "and match" to the $15 million dollar request.
Representative Brown asked the total cost of the road.
Acting Commissioner Campbell noted that cost could not be
estimated. Representative Brown asked if the balance of the
cost would be a federal expense. Acting Commissioner
Campbell stated that it could be funded with federal funds
and offered to provide the data requested.
Attorney General Cole provided the Committee with a
comparison of HB 411 (SB 483), HB 10, SB 98 and HB 269.
[Attachment #6]. He urged the Committee to adopt the
proposal provided by the Governor.
(Tape Change, HFC 93-101, Side 2).
Co-Chair Larson pointed out that the $5 million dollar
allocation for the oil spill ferry would no longer be
necessary in the proposed legislation.
HB 269 was HELD in Committee for further consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 3:50 P.M.
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