Legislature(1995 - 1996)
04/26/1995 08:40 AM 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 26, 1995
8:40 A.M.
TAPE HFC 95 - 98, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 95 - 99, Side 1, #000 - #486.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Richard Foster called the House Finance Committee
meeting to order at 8:40 A.M.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Hanley Representative Kohring
Co-Chair Foster Representative Martin
Representative Mulder Representative Navarre
Representative Brown Representative Parnell
Representative Grussendorf Representative Therriault
Representative Kelly
ALSO PRESENT
Nancy Slagle, Director, Division of Budget Review, Office of
Management and Budget; Karen Crane, Director, Libraries,
Archives & Museums, Department of Education; Joe McCormick,
Executive Director, Postsecondary Education Commission,
Department of Education; Janet Kowalski, Chief of Planning,
Office of the Commissioner, Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities; Nico Bus, Director, Division of
Administrative Services, Department of Natural Resources;
Kevin Brooks, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Fish and Game.
SUMMARY
HB 268 An Act making appropriations for capital project
matching grant funds and to capitalize funds;
making, amending, and repealing capital
appropriations; and providing for an effective
date.
HB 268 was HELD in Committee for further
consideration.
HOUSE BILL 268
"An Act making appropriations for capital project
matching grant funds and to capitalize funds; making,
amending, and repealing capital appropriations; and
1
providing for an effective date."
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
NANCY SLAGLE, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF BUDGET REVIEW, OFFICE OF
MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET, OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, referenced
the Permanent Fund Dividend request in the amount of $117
thousand dollars for the integrated voice response system.
The request would provide for the software/hardware
programming needs for personal computers currently used by
staff in that office. She added that it was anticipated
that the cost of the project would be recovered within a
year's time.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Ms. Slagle referenced the capital request for Mt. Edgecumbe
Boarding School renovations and equipment in the amount of
$214.9 thousand dollars. The funding would address the
critical health and safety concerns of that school including
bath and shower facilities.
Ms. Slagle continued, capital budget request for the
statewide library electronic doorway (SLED) access in the
amount of $383 thousand dollars. The funding would provide
public access to information in government. Ms. Slagle
noted that SLED is a statewide network which connects
libraries and individuals to libraries, government and local
communities and internet information resources.
Representative Brown questioned amount to be used for the
hardware/software upgrades.
KAREN CRANE, DIRECTOR, LIBRARIES, ARCHIVES AND MUSEUMS,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, responded that $40 thousand would
be used for the SLED component.
Ms. Slagle referenced the capital request for public library
construction grants in the amount of $140 thousand dollars.
The amount would be federal funds. Annual grants are made
available to the State to disburse libraries. Local
libraries must match at a 45% federal and 55% local level.
She added that there are no State match dollars involved
with the project.
Ms. Slagle noted that the next capital request would cover
expenses for Postsecondary Education Commission loan
servicing system enhancements in the amount of $1.4 million
dollars. The request would provide the capital needed to
insure that proper servicing is accomplished on student
loans.
Representative Brown asked if the request would result in a
2
replacement of an expensive system placed in service several
years ago which failed.
JOE MCCORMICK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION
COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, explained that a series
of poor judgments had been made in replacing the old system.
The result did not pan out and the system did not work
better. From 1991 through 1993 time period, students were
upset with the "new" system. Since that time, an analysis
has taken place as directed by the Legislature. The current
request is a result of that analysis.
Representative Brown asked if the system was on the
mainframe. Mr. McCormick noted that it was located within
the Department of Administration's mainframe.
Representative Brown inquired if there were other options
available to the Department of Education. Mr. McCormick
noted that four options currently exist:
1. Fix the current system;
2. Time share;
3. Out-sourcing-contracting with a student loan
servicing in the lower 48 states; and
4. Scrap the current system and redesign a piece
of software to install in the computer.
Discussion followed regarding the utilization and competing
with others for use time (CPU time) and cost effectiveness
in making the best use of the current machinery.
Representative Brown voiced her opposition to a new
development on the mainframe.
Ms. Slagle explained that the following six projects are
those taken off of the Department of Education's major
maintenance priority listing.
1. Golovin High School renovation - $1.87
million dollars;
2. White Mountain High School renovation -
$2.748 million dollars;
3. Elim High School renovation - $2.571 million
dollars;
4. North Slope Borough District-wide fuel tank
upgrade - $1 million dollars;
5. Teller High School renovation - $3.675
million dollars;
6. Klawock Elementary, Middle, High School code
upgrade - $1.594 million dollars.
Representative Martin noted his concern with the size of the
schools and the number of students served versus the size of
the request. He recommended building a "regional" high
3
school rather than continuing the small facilities. Ms.
Slagle clarified that the request was not for new schools,
rather maintenance to existing facilities and deteriorating
buildings.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ms. Slagle referenced the Economic Development Matching
Grant Program capital project request in the amount of $400
thousand dollars. She stated that this was an annual
request for the Department in order to provide State funds
to nonprofit corporations, cities, boroughs and other
eligible applicants to assist in matching economic
development project grant from the federal and other non
State agencies or private sector funds.
The following capital budget request of the Department would
be for the Alaska Small Business Assistance and Development
Program in the amount of $436 thousand dollars. She noted
that this was an annual request for two projects; $253
thousand dollars toward the University of Alaska's Small
Business Development Center with the remaining portion of
$183 thousand dollars to be used for the Procurement and
Technical Assistance Center.
Ms. Slagle concluded, the final request of the Department
was for a data processing system enhancement, Phase II, in
the amount of $350 thousand dollars program receipts. She
stated that this was the second and final stage of a multi-
year project to convert the Wang mini computer system and
acquire a new software/hardware system to complete the
conversion.
DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
Ms. Slagle spoke to the Department's capital budget request
for deferred statewide maintenance in the amount of $500
thousand dollars. She reminded the Committee that the
request was a small portion of the deferred maintenance
needs for that Department. The allocation would fund roof
repairs in Anchorage, Juneau and the Kenai armory.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Department's capital request for
the Bethel Army aviation operating facility in the amount of
$6.88 million dollars. She pointed out that $500 thousand
would be general fund dollars, whereas, $6.38 million would
be federal fund dollars for the design and construction of a
new hangar in Bethel.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Ms. Slagle stated that the first capital request for the
4
Department would be for the pad contaminated site assessment
and remediation in the amount of $300 thousand dollars.
Those funds would be used to provide clean-up of the Prudoe
Bay oil built complex site on Dead Horse lease tract #54.
The next request would be used for the forward Alaska pad
contaminated site assessment and remediation and would be in
the amount of $250 thousand dollars. She summarized that
this would be the same type of project as the first
requested by the Department. Legal action of the lessee has
been initiated to clean up the site.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Mental Health Trust lands
reconstitution implementation project request in the amount
of $538 thousand dollars. The request would continue the
title research in order to establish the convertability of
the parcels and then write the legal descriptions.
The Department's next capital request project would be for
the reforestation site preparation and replanting in the
amount of $100 thousand dollars.
Ms. Slagle continued, the capital project request for the
land status geographic information system project, Phase V,
in the amount of $300 thousand dollars would be used to fund
the project to automate the State's graphic land record and
the status plat.
Ms. Slagle continued, the capital project request for real
estate recordings - preservation and replacement in the
amount of $125 thousand dollars originating from program
receipt funds related to the recorder's office. The funds
would be used to convert land transfer records or
documentation which are in fragile condition to maintain a
complete record of them.
The following project request for the Department would be
used for oil and gas basin analysis and assessment programs
in the amount of $100 thousand dollars. The project would
provide continuing funds for an analysis report.
Representative Brown commented that the backup description
of the projects were confusing. She asked for further
information.
NICO BUS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, explained that the summary
information was incorrect; it had been mixed-up with the
royal accounting write-up description.
Ms. Slagle proceeded, the Department's next capital budget
request for the forest health initiative would be in the
amount of $325 thousand dollars. She added that $225
5
thousand dollars would be federal funds, and $100 thousand
dollars would be general fund monies. The allocation would
fund a two year program to survey spruce bark beetle
infested areas.
Mr. Bus commented that the request would cover a site
specific area, the Tanana Valley. The studies previously
done occurred on the Kenai Peninsula. Representative
Therriault asked if the $100 thousand dollar general fund
would be a required match. Mr. Bus replied that this was
the minimum match in order to qualify for the $225 federal
allocation.
Ms. Slagle continued, the forest inventory and mapping
project request in the amount $100 thousand dollars would
fund Phase III of the Tanana Valley forest inventory by
ground level sampling of a targeted 115 level plots.
She continued, the stream gaging network-collection of
stream flow data request in the amount of $300 thousand
dollars. The allocation would be the first of a six year
project to go forward, placing stream gauges in high
priority locations around the State. Mr. Bus commented that
the request would not be a required federal match.
Ms. Slagle continued with the Department's capital project
request for the national historic preservation fund in the
amount of $640 thousand dollars. She stated that the
allocation would be federally funded for the Division of
Parks and would be administered for planning and surveying
of archeological sites.
Representative Brown asked where the State money match would
originate from. Mr. Bus responded that those funds would
come from the operating budget.
Ms. Slagle addressed the next capital budget request for
land and water conservation fund federal grants in the
amount of $500 thousand dollars. The allocation of grants
would provide assistance on a 50/50 matching grant basis to
State and local communities for planning acquisition and
outdoor recreational facilities.
The next capital budget request for the Department would be
for the oil and gas royalty accounting-software/mainframe
interface in the amount of $150 thousand dollars. The
project would assist in more efficient collection and
auditing of oil and gas royalties.
The geophysical/geological mineral inventory capital budget
request in the amount of $100 thousand dollars would provide
funds for the fifth year of an eight year project to
identify and delineate mineral zones on Alaska State lands
6
which have major economic value.
Ms. Slagle continued, the oil and gas lease sales best
interest finding allocation request in the amount of $100
thousand dollars would allow the Division to contract with a
private consultant to write major portions of the required
best interest findings of areas subject to exploration
licensing.
Representative Brown voiced concern that private consultants
would be writing the "best-interest" findings for the
Department. Mr. Bus explained that the Department would
manage the project, although would consult the best-interest
findings. He pointed out that it would be necessary that
some of the work be contracted out as a result of the
downsizing of the Department's operating budget.
Representative Brown understood that money had been added to
the budget to complete that project. Mr. Bus stated at the
this time, no fiscal note had been passed.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-99, Side 1).
Ms. Slagle concluded with the final capital budget request
for the Department for repair and expansion of park
recreation and tourism facilities in the amount of $200
thousand dollars. The allocation would repair a select few
State park facilities which have deteriorated from years of
lack of maintenance.
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
Ms. Slagle explained the capital budget request for the
Department of Fish and Game. The first request would be in
the amount of $4 million dollars in order to cover
expenditures for a sport fish and wildlife conservation
facility in Fairbanks. She noted that half of the request
would be Fish and Game funds and the other half would be
federal receipts. The allocation would provide for new
construction and renovation of a ten thousand square foot
addition to an existing building for housing Department
staff and would provide offices for those employees.
The replace and enhance salmon escapement sonar systems
capital budget request would be in the amount of $500
thousand dollars and would be used to replace sonar
equipment used to count salmon escapement in silt laden
rivers.
The Department's capital budget request for the Rabbit Creek
rifle range improvements would be in the amount of $475
thousand dollars, of which $356 thousand dollars would be
federal funds and $119 thousand dollars would be from fish
7
and game funds. The allocation would be used for two
projects, paving a section of the parking lot and the
construction of a single story classroom to accommodate
forty students.
The statewide facility maintenance and repair projects
capital budget request in the amount of $806 thousand
dollars would be used for maintenance on offices,
bunkhouses, warehouses, cabins and other structures used by
the Department. The Department currently has facilities in
forty locations.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Snettisham Hatchery transfer
request in the amount of $400 thousand dollars would allow
for the transfer to a local regional nonprofit aquaculture
association and would provide operating support for the
first year of operation.
The Klawock Fish Hatchery repairs and renovation request in
the amount of $300 thousand dollars would provide for repair
and renovation projects needed to safely operate the
hatchery and meet OSHA standards.
Representative Therriault understood that the hatchery had
been transferred over to private industry. Ms. Slagle noted
that information was correct.
The following request would be for the fisheries resource
assessment vessel maintenance in the amount of $194 thousand
dollars and would be used for general maintenance for
vessels used in fishery assessment programs.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Alaska Peninsula chum salmon stock
assessment capital budget request in the amount of $175
thousand dollars would be used for the third year of data
gathering to provide information on the Western gulf of
Alaska fishery to help identify and quantify Alaska chum
salmon stocks.
The next capital budget request would be used to identify
salmon stocks at risk in the Endangered Species Act listing
in the amount of $200 thousand dollars. The allocation
would provide identification of salmon stock which may be at
risk of being listed as threatened or endangered under the
Endangered Species Act so that the stocks could be protected
and rehabilitated.
KEVIN BROOKS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME, explained that several species
of salmon in Alaska are being contemplated for a listing as
either endangered or threatened because of their migratory
natures. He reminded Committee members that this would
8
affect the fisheries in Southeast Alaska.
Ms. Slagle continued, the following capital budget request
of the Department would be used to assert and protect the
State's right to manage and utilize resources and would be
in the amount of $300 thousand dollars. The allocation
would continue the coordination efforts to protect the
State's wildlife and fisheries resources. The funding would
specifically support the Citizen's Advisory Committee
dealing with the Endangered Species Act.
Mr. Brooks responded to Representative Martin's concern of
continued funding of citizens lobbying groups. He commented
that a portion of the funding would provide for the
Citizen's Advisory Committee stressing the effectiveness of
each group. He added that because of the diversity of the
fisheries it is a difficult job and that the citizens
affected by those fisheries are brought together through the
advisory groups. Representative Martin stated that those
concerns should be addressed by the Department of Law.
Discussion followed among Committee members regarding the
issue.
Ms. Slagle continued with the Department's capital budget
request for the Bering Sea crab survey equipment purchase in
the amount of $150 thousand dollars. The equipment is
needed to detect crab available for harvest in the Bering
Sea area. She added that better data is needed to manage
the fishery.
Representative Navarre questioned how the survey was
performed. Mr. Brooks explained that the current survey was
done by the National Marine Fisheries Service through a
random count. He agreed a more systematic plan needs to be
in place in order to provide better management.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Department's capital budget
request for the Kenai River salmon habitat protection and
restoration in the amount of $850 thousand dollars federal
funds. She pointed out that the Kenai River was the State's
premier king salmon fishing river. Representative Mulder
understood that $1 million dollars had been allocated on the
federal level.
Mr. Brooks agreed, stating that the ground work had been
established in the FY95 budget and that $150 thousand
dollars had been spent to initiate that project.
Representative Mulder voice concern that the money might
have been used on other projects or studies. He asked for
further information regarding the $150 thousand dollars
already expended.
9
Representative Therriault asked if receipt authority had
been allocated through the FY95 budget. Mr. Brooks stated
that there had been excess authority within the special
projects component.
Ms. Slagle continued, the last capital budget request for
the Department would be for public access development in the
amount of $1.6 million dollars. The allocation would
consist of $1.2 million dollars federal receipts and $400
thousand dollars general funds to be used to construct
boating access facilities statewide.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Ms. Slagle addressed the Department of Public Safety's
capital budget requests. The first project would be the
fish and wildlife protection aircraft
equipment/overhaul/repairs request in the amount of $500
thousand dollars. The allocation would be used to replace
worn out or obsolete equipment and for overhauls and repairs
for the Department's airplanes and landing gear.
The following capital project would be for the fish and
wildlife protection vessel repair/overhaul/equipment request
in the amount of $500 thousand dollars.
Ms. Slagle continued, the motor vehicles license
plates/manuals/equipment capital budget request in the
amount of $400 thousand dollars for forty-one different
types of license plates, drivers manuals and for data
processing equipment at counters.
The next component request would be for trooper replacement
equipment in the amount of $250 thousand dollars to be used
to replace traffic radar.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Council on Domestic
Violence/Sexual Assault computer information system capital
project request in the amount of $50 thousand dollars to be
used to improve the access to domestic violence and sexual
assault information by assessing data processing needs,
redesigning the forms and software for demographic data
collected from twenty-one programs.
The following request would be for the Civil Air Patrol-
Merril Field roof repair request in the amount of $41.6
thousand dollars. She pointed out that the request had been
made in the FY95 Supplemental Request and that it had not
been funded so it was brought forward in the current capital
budget request.
Ms. Slagle continued with the North Slope Borough jail-
10
improve emergency access component in the amount of $45
thousand dollars. She added, that the request had also been
included in the FY95 Supplemental Budget and that it had not
been funded. The allocation would install electronic locks
in the North Slope Borough jail in order to improve the
emergency exists in case of fires.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
Representative Martin recommended cleaning up all old
project records existing since 1977 which continue to have
money remaining in the accounts. He surmised that those
monies would free up $9 million dollars to the State.
JANET KOWALSKI, CHIEF OF PLANNING, OFFICE OF THE
COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC
FACILITIES, stated that there are two issues on "back"
projects; the first are those projects in which there exists
remaining general fund match. Each year, in collaboration
with OMB, a report is provided on the CP3's monies which are
remaining and requesting a portion of those funds be
reallocated. The Department considers that they do have a
good handle on the availability of funds previously used and
she emphasized that the Department does not have a pot of
general fund money "hanging" out. She agreed that projects
must be completed in a timely manner in order that the
remaining funds be available for future projects.
Ms. Kowalski added, another issue is the projects which the
Department currently has as outstanding with the legislative
authority to spend money. Representative Martin stressed
that the Legislature must provide the authority for projects
undertaken by the Department.
Representative Brown asked if everything in the Statewide
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) program would be
authorized with the passage of the request. Ms. Kowalski
noted that FY97 projects had not been included in the
requested amounts.
Representative Mulder questioned what percentage of the
DOTPF budget would be allocated toward the Anchorage area.
Ms. Kowalski advised that approximately $20 million dollars
would be allocated for that area.
HB 268 was HELD in Committee for further consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 A.M.
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
11
APRIL 26, 1995
8:40 A.M.
TAPE HFC 95 - 98, Side 2, #000 - end.
TAPE HFC 95 - 99, Side 1, #000 - #486.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Richard Foster called the House Finance Committee
meeting to order at 8:40 A.M.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Hanley Representative Kohring
Co-Chair Foster Representative Martin
Representative Mulder Representative Navarre
Representative Brown Representative Parnell
Representative Grussendorf Representative Therriault
Representative Kelly
ALSO PRESENT
Nancy Slagle, Director, Division of Budget Review, Office of
Management and Budget; Karen Crane, Director, Libraries,
Archives & Museums, Department of Education; Joe McCormick,
Executive Director, Postsecondary Education Commission,
Department of Education; Janet Kowalski, Chief of Planning,
Office of the Commissioner, Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities; Nico Bus, Director, Division of
Administrative Services, Department of Natural Resources;
Kevin Brooks, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Fish and Game.
SUMMARY
HB 268 An Act making appropriations for capital project
matching grant funds and to capitalize funds;
making, amending, and repealing capital
appropriations; and providing for an effective
date.
HB 268 was HELD in Committee for further
consideration.
HOUSE BILL 268
"An Act making appropriations for capital project
matching grant funds and to capitalize funds; making,
amending, and repealing capital appropriations; and
providing for an effective date."
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
12
NANCY SLAGLE, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF BUDGET REVIEW, OFFICE OF
MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET, OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, referenced
the Permanent Fund Dividend request in the amount of $117
thousand dollars for the integrated voice response system.
The request would provide for the software/hardware
programming needs for personal computers currently used by
staff in that office. She added that it was anticipated
that the cost of the project would be recovered within a
year's time.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Ms. Slagle referenced the capital request for Mt. Edgecumbe
Boarding School renovations and equipment in the amount of
$214.9 thousand dollars. The funding would address the
critical health and safety concerns of that school including
bath and shower facilities.
Ms. Slagle continued, capital budget request for the
statewide library electronic doorway (SLED) access in the
amount of $383 thousand dollars. The funding would provide
public access to information in government. Ms. Slagle
noted that SLED is a statewide network which connects
libraries and individuals to libraries, government and local
communities and internet information resources.
Representative Brown questioned amount to be used for the
hardware/software upgrades.
KAREN CRANE, DIRECTOR, LIBRARIES, ARCHIVES AND MUSEUMS,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, responded that $40 thousand would
be used for the SLED component.
Ms. Slagle referenced the capital request for public library
construction grants in the amount of $140 thousand dollars.
The amount would be federal funds. Annual grants are made
available to the State to disburse libraries. Local
libraries must match at a 45% federal and 55% local level.
She added that there are no State match dollars involved
with the project.
Ms. Slagle noted that the next capital request would cover
expenses for Postsecondary Education Commission loan
servicing system enhancements in the amount of $1.4 million
dollars. The request would provide the capital needed to
insure that proper servicing is accomplished on student
loans.
Representative Brown asked if the request would result in a
replacement of an expensive system placed in service several
years ago which failed.
13
JOE MCCORMICK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION
COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, explained that a series
of poor judgments had been made in replacing the old system.
The result did not pan out and the system did not work
better. From 1991 through 1993 time period, students were
upset with the "new" system. Since that time, an analysis
has taken place as directed by the Legislature. The current
request is a result of that analysis.
Representative Brown asked if the system was on the
mainframe. Mr. McCormick noted that it was located within
the Department of Administration's mainframe.
Representative Brown inquired if there were other options
available to the Department of Education. Mr. McCormick
noted that four options currently exist:
1. Fix the current system;
2. Time share;
3. Out-sourcing-contracting with a student loan
servicing in the lower 48 states; and
4. Scrap the current system and redesign a piece
of software to install in the computer.
Discussion followed regarding the utilization and competing
with others for use time (CPU time) and cost effectiveness
in making the best use of the current machinery.
Representative Brown voiced her opposition to a new
development on the mainframe.
Ms. Slagle explained that the following six projects are
those taken off of the Department of Education's major
maintenance priority listing.
1. Golovin High School renovation - $1.87
million dollars;
2. White Mountain High School renovation -
$2.748 million dollars;
3. Elim High School renovation - $2.571 million
dollars;
4. North Slope Borough District-wide fuel tank
upgrade - $1 million dollars;
5. Teller High School renovation - $3.675
million dollars;
6. Klawock Elementary, Middle, High School code
upgrade - $1.594 million dollars.
Representative Martin noted his concern with the size of the
schools and the number of students served versus the size of
the request. He recommended building a "regional" high
school rather than continuing the small facilities. Ms.
Slagle clarified that the request was not for new schools,
rather maintenance to existing facilities and deteriorating
14
buildings.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ms. Slagle referenced the Economic Development Matching
Grant Program capital project request in the amount of $400
thousand dollars. She stated that this was an annual
request for the Department in order to provide State funds
to nonprofit corporations, cities, boroughs and other
eligible applicants to assist in matching economic
development project grant from the federal and other non
State agencies or private sector funds.
The following capital budget request of the Department would
be for the Alaska Small Business Assistance and Development
Program in the amount of $436 thousand dollars. She noted
that this was an annual request for two projects; $253
thousand dollars toward the University of Alaska's Small
Business Development Center with the remaining portion of
$183 thousand dollars to be used for the Procurement and
Technical Assistance Center.
Ms. Slagle concluded, the final request of the Department
was for a data processing system enhancement, Phase II, in
the amount of $350 thousand dollars program receipts. She
stated that this was the second and final stage of a multi-
year project to convert the Wang mini computer system and
acquire a new software/hardware system to complete the
conversion.
DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
Ms. Slagle spoke to the Department's capital budget request
for deferred statewide maintenance in the amount of $500
thousand dollars. She reminded the Committee that the
request was a small portion of the deferred maintenance
needs for that Department. The allocation would fund roof
repairs in Anchorage, Juneau and the Kenai armory.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Department's capital request for
the Bethel Army aviation operating facility in the amount of
$6.88 million dollars. She pointed out that $500 thousand
would be general fund dollars, whereas, $6.38 million would
be federal fund dollars for the design and construction of a
new hangar in Bethel.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Ms. Slagle stated that the first capital request for the
Department would be for the pad contaminated site assessment
and remediation in the amount of $300 thousand dollars.
Those funds would be used to provide clean-up of the Prudoe
15
Bay oil built complex site on Dead Horse lease tract #54.
The next request would be used for the forward Alaska pad
contaminated site assessment and remediation and would be in
the amount of $250 thousand dollars. She summarized that
this would be the same type of project as the first
requested by the Department. Legal action of the lessee has
been initiated to clean up the site.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Mental Health Trust lands
reconstitution implementation project request in the amount
of $538 thousand dollars. The request would continue the
title research in order to establish the convertability of
the parcels and then write the legal descriptions.
The Department's next capital request project would be for
the reforestation site preparation and replanting in the
amount of $100 thousand dollars.
Ms. Slagle continued, the capital project request for the
land status geographic information system project, Phase V,
in the amount of $300 thousand dollars would be used to fund
the project to automate the State's graphic land record and
the status plat.
Ms. Slagle continued, the capital project request for real
estate recordings - preservation and replacement in the
amount of $125 thousand dollars originating from program
receipt funds related to the recorder's office. The funds
would be used to convert land transfer records or
documentation which are in fragile condition to maintain a
complete record of them.
The following project request for the Department would be
used for oil and gas basin analysis and assessment programs
in the amount of $100 thousand dollars. The project would
provide continuing funds for an analysis report.
Representative Brown commented that the backup description
of the projects were confusing. She asked for further
information.
NICO BUS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, explained that the summary
information was incorrect; it had been mixed-up with the
royal accounting write-up description.
Ms. Slagle proceeded, the Department's next capital budget
request for the forest health initiative would be in the
amount of $325 thousand dollars. She added that $225
thousand dollars would be federal funds, and $100 thousand
dollars would be general fund monies. The allocation would
fund a two year program to survey spruce bark beetle
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infested areas.
Mr. Bus commented that the request would cover a site
specific area, the Tanana Valley. The studies previously
done occurred on the Kenai Peninsula. Representative
Therriault asked if the $100 thousand dollar general fund
would be a required match. Mr. Bus replied that this was
the minimum match in order to qualify for the $225 federal
allocation.
Ms. Slagle continued, the forest inventory and mapping
project request in the amount $100 thousand dollars would
fund Phase III of the Tanana Valley forest inventory by
ground level sampling of a targeted 115 level plots.
She continued, the stream gaging network-collection of
stream flow data request in the amount of $300 thousand
dollars. The allocation would be the first of a six year
project to go forward, placing stream gauges in high
priority locations around the State. Mr. Bus commented that
the request would not be a required federal match.
Ms. Slagle continued with the Department's capital project
request for the national historic preservation fund in the
amount of $640 thousand dollars. She stated that the
allocation would be federally funded for the Division of
Parks and would be administered for planning and surveying
of archeological sites.
Representative Brown asked where the State money match would
originate from. Mr. Bus responded that those funds would
come from the operating budget.
Ms. Slagle addressed the next capital budget request for
land and water conservation fund federal grants in the
amount of $500 thousand dollars. The allocation of grants
would provide assistance on a 50/50 matching grant basis to
State and local communities for planning acquisition and
outdoor recreational facilities.
The next capital budget request for the Department would be
for the oil and gas royalty accounting-software/mainframe
interface in the amount of $150 thousand dollars. The
project would assist in more efficient collection and
auditing of oil and gas royalties.
The geophysical/geological mineral inventory capital budget
request in the amount of $100 thousand dollars would provide
funds for the fifth year of an eight year project to
identify and delineate mineral zones on Alaska State lands
which have major economic value.
Ms. Slagle continued, the oil and gas lease sales best
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interest finding allocation request in the amount of $100
thousand dollars would allow the Division to contract with a
private consultant to write major portions of the required
best interest findings of areas subject to exploration
licensing.
Representative Brown voiced concern that private consultants
would be writing the "best-interest" findings for the
Department. Mr. Bus explained that the Department would
manage the project, although would consult the best-interest
findings. He pointed out that it would be necessary that
some of the work be contracted out as a result of the
downsizing of the Department's operating budget.
Representative Brown understood that money had been added to
the budget to complete that project. Mr. Bus stated at the
this time, no fiscal note had been passed.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-99, Side 1).
Ms. Slagle concluded with the final capital budget request
for the Department for repair and expansion of park
recreation and tourism facilities in the amount of $200
thousand dollars. The allocation would repair a select few
State park facilities which have deteriorated from years of
lack of maintenance.
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
Ms. Slagle explained the capital budget request for the
Department of Fish and Game. The first request would be in
the amount of $4 million dollars in order to cover
expenditures for a sport fish and wildlife conservation
facility in Fairbanks. She noted that half of the request
would be Fish and Game funds and the other half would be
federal receipts. The allocation would provide for new
construction and renovation of a ten thousand square foot
addition to an existing building for housing Department
staff and would provide offices for those employees.
The replace and enhance salmon escapement sonar systems
capital budget request would be in the amount of $500
thousand dollars and would be used to replace sonar
equipment used to count salmon escapement in silt laden
rivers.
The Department's capital budget request for the Rabbit Creek
rifle range improvements would be in the amount of $475
thousand dollars, of which $356 thousand dollars would be
federal funds and $119 thousand dollars would be from fish
and game funds. The allocation would be used for two
projects, paving a section of the parking lot and the
construction of a single story classroom to accommodate
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forty students.
The statewide facility maintenance and repair projects
capital budget request in the amount of $806 thousand
dollars would be used for maintenance on offices,
bunkhouses, warehouses, cabins and other structures used by
the Department. The Department currently has facilities in
forty locations.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Snettisham Hatchery transfer
request in the amount of $400 thousand dollars would allow
for the transfer to a local regional nonprofit aquaculture
association and would provide operating support for the
first year of operation.
The Klawock Fish Hatchery repairs and renovation request in
the amount of $300 thousand dollars would provide for repair
and renovation projects needed to safely operate the
hatchery and meet OSHA standards.
Representative Therriault understood that the hatchery had
been transferred over to private industry. Ms. Slagle noted
that information was correct.
The following request would be for the fisheries resource
assessment vessel maintenance in the amount of $194 thousand
dollars and would be used for general maintenance for
vessels used in fishery assessment programs.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Alaska Peninsula chum salmon stock
assessment capital budget request in the amount of $175
thousand dollars would be used for the third year of data
gathering to provide information on the Western gulf of
Alaska fishery to help identify and quantify Alaska chum
salmon stocks.
The next capital budget request would be used to identify
salmon stocks at risk in the Endangered Species Act listing
in the amount of $200 thousand dollars. The allocation
would provide identification of salmon stock which may be at
risk of being listed as threatened or endangered under the
Endangered Species Act so that the stocks could be protected
and rehabilitated.
KEVIN BROOKS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME, explained that several species
of salmon in Alaska are being contemplated for a listing as
either endangered or threatened because of their migratory
natures. He reminded Committee members that this would
affect the fisheries in Southeast Alaska.
Ms. Slagle continued, the following capital budget request
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of the Department would be used to assert and protect the
State's right to manage and utilize resources and would be
in the amount of $300 thousand dollars. The allocation
would continue the coordination efforts to protect the
State's wildlife and fisheries resources. The funding would
specifically support the Citizen's Advisory Committee
dealing with the Endangered Species Act.
Mr. Brooks responded to Representative Martin's concern of
continued funding of citizens lobbying groups. He commented
that a portion of the funding would provide for the
Citizen's Advisory Committee stressing the effectiveness of
each group. He added that because of the diversity of the
fisheries it is a difficult job and that the citizens
affected by those fisheries are brought together through the
advisory groups. Representative Martin stated that those
concerns should be addressed by the Department of Law.
Discussion followed among Committee members regarding the
issue.
Ms. Slagle continued with the Department's capital budget
request for the Bering Sea crab survey equipment purchase in
the amount of $150 thousand dollars. The equipment is
needed to detect crab available for harvest in the Bering
Sea area. She added that better data is needed to manage
the fishery.
Representative Navarre questioned how the survey was
performed. Mr. Brooks explained that the current survey was
done by the National Marine Fisheries Service through a
random count. He agreed a more systematic plan needs to be
in place in order to provide better management.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Department's capital budget
request for the Kenai River salmon habitat protection and
restoration in the amount of $850 thousand dollars federal
funds. She pointed out that the Kenai River was the State's
premier king salmon fishing river. Representative Mulder
understood that $1 million dollars had been allocated on the
federal level.
Mr. Brooks agreed, stating that the ground work had been
established in the FY95 budget and that $150 thousand
dollars had been spent to initiate that project.
Representative Mulder voice concern that the money might
have been used on other projects or studies. He asked for
further information regarding the $150 thousand dollars
already expended.
Representative Therriault asked if receipt authority had
been allocated through the FY95 budget. Mr. Brooks stated
that there had been excess authority within the special
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projects component.
Ms. Slagle continued, the last capital budget request for
the Department would be for public access development in the
amount of $1.6 million dollars. The allocation would
consist of $1.2 million dollars federal receipts and $400
thousand dollars general funds to be used to construct
boating access facilities statewide.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Ms. Slagle addressed the Department of Public Safety's
capital budget requests. The first project would be the
fish and wildlife protection aircraft
equipment/overhaul/repairs request in the amount of $500
thousand dollars. The allocation would be used to replace
worn out or obsolete equipment and for overhauls and repairs
for the Department's airplanes and landing gear.
The following capital project would be for the fish and
wildlife protection vessel repair/overhaul/equipment request
in the amount of $500 thousand dollars.
Ms. Slagle continued, the motor vehicles license
plates/manuals/equipment capital budget request in the
amount of $400 thousand dollars for forty-one different
types of license plates, drivers manuals and for data
processing equipment at counters.
The next component request would be for trooper replacement
equipment in the amount of $250 thousand dollars to be used
to replace traffic radar.
Ms. Slagle continued, the Council on Domestic
Violence/Sexual Assault computer information system capital
project request in the amount of $50 thousand dollars to be
used to improve the access to domestic violence and sexual
assault information by assessing data processing needs,
redesigning the forms and software for demographic data
collected from twenty-one programs.
The following request would be for the Civil Air Patrol-
Merril Field roof repair request in the amount of $41.6
thousand dollars. She pointed out that the request had been
made in the FY95 Supplemental Request and that it had not
been funded so it was brought forward in the current capital
budget request.
Ms. Slagle continued with the North Slope Borough jail-
improve emergency access component in the amount of $45
thousand dollars. She added, that the request had also been
included in the FY95 Supplemental Budget and that it had not
21
been funded. The allocation would install electronic locks
in the North Slope Borough jail in order to improve the
emergency exists in case of fires.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
Representative Martin recommended cleaning up all old
project records existing since 1977 which continue to have
money remaining in the accounts. He surmised that those
monies would free up $9 million dollars to the State.
JANET KOWALSKI, CHIEF OF PLANNING, OFFICE OF THE
COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC
FACILITIES, stated that there are two issues on "back"
projects; the first are those projects in which there exists
remaining general fund match. Each year, in collaboration
with OMB, a report is provided on the CP3's monies which are
remaining and requesting a portion of those funds be
reallocated. The Department considers that they do have a
good handle on the availability of funds previously used and
she emphasized that the Department does not have a pot of
general fund money "hanging" out. She agreed that projects
must be completed in a timely manner in order that the
remaining funds be available for future projects.
Ms. Kowalski added, another issue is the projects which the
Department currently has as outstanding with the legislative
authority to spend money. Representative Martin stressed
that the Legislature must provide the authority for projects
undertaken by the Department.
Representative Brown asked if everything in the Statewide
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) program would be
authorized with the passage of the request. Ms. Kowalski
noted that FY97 projects had not been included in the
requested amounts.
Representative Mulder questioned what percentage of the
DOTPF budget would be allocated toward the Anchorage area.
Ms. Kowalski advised that approximately $20 million dollars
would be allocated for that area.
HB 268 was HELD in Committee for further consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 A.M.
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