Legislature(2001 - 2002)
02/27/2002 09:08 AM Senate FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
MINUTES
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
February 27, 2002
9:08 AM
TAPES
SFC-02 # 19, Side A
SFC 02 # 19, Side B
SFC 02 # 20, Side A
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Pete Kelly convened the meeting at approximately 9:08 AM.
PRESENT
Senator Dave Donley, Co-Chair
Senator Pete Kelly, Co-Chair
Senator Jerry Ward, Vice Chair
Senator Lyda Green
Senator Gary Wilken
Senator Lyman Hoffman
Senator Donny Olson
Senator Loren Leman
Also Attending: BOB POE. Executive Director, Alaska Industrial
Development & Export Authority and Alaska Energy Authority,
Department of Community and Economic Development; KAREN REHFELD,
Director, Education Support Services, Department of Education and
Early Development; YVONNE CHASE, Deputy Commissioner, Division of;
ALISON ELGEE, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Administration;
DAN SPENCER, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Administration; JEFF BUSH, Deputy Commissioner,
Department of Community and Economic Development; TOM LAWSON,
Director, Division of Administrative Services, Department of
Community and Economic Development; BOB POE, Executive Director,
Alaska Industrial Development & Export Authority and Alaska Energy
Authority
Attending via Teleconference:
There were no teleconference participants.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
SB 247-REAPPROPRIATIONS & CAPITAL APPROPRIATIONS
The Committee heard testimony from the Department of
Administration, the Department of Education and Early Development,
and the Department of Community and Economic Development. The bill
was held in Committee.
SENATE BILL NO. 247
"An Act making capital appropriations and reappropriations,
and capitalizing funds; making appropriations under art. IX,
sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from the
constitutional budget reserve fund; and providing for an
effective date."
This is the Second hearing for this bill in the Senate Finance
Committee.
Department of Education and Early Development
Yuut Elitnaurviat People's Learning Center - Phase 1
$ 900,000 general funds
Reference No.: 36594
Project Type: Construction
Category: Education
Location: Bethel
Election District: Bethel, Dillingham
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2007
The Yuut Elitnaurviat, People's Learning Center, in Bethel is
requesting state support for construction of a vocational
training center to serve the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Region.
Phase 1 construction is estimated to cost $8.9 million.
Various funding partners, include the Department of Interior
($1.0 million) and the USDA-Rural Development ($3.0 million)
Phased project
KAREN REHFELD, Director, Education Support Services, Department of
Education and Early Development, explained that this request would
fund a comprehensive training program. She stated this would be the
first phase of a three-year $12.2 project, of which approximately
$7 million would be funded by regional and federal sources. She
noted that Phase 1 would provide boarding and training facilities
for 82 students, and upon completion of all three phases, 250
students would be served. She stated that training programs
conducted at the facility would be determined by industry needs and
could include construction, early childhood education, and health,
aviation transportation, technology and business careers. She
stated that the facility's operating costs would be assumed by the
current regional partners including: the regional Native
Corporation, area school districts, the Association of Village
Council Presidents, and health associations.
Senator Wilken asked what the City of Bethel is doing to support
the project.
Co-Chair Kelly stated that the City is contributing the land on
which the facility would be built.
Senator Hoffman informed the Committee that the land Bethel is
contributing is valued at $1.5 million.
Ms. Rehfeld stated that the Bethel region has committed to
providing in-kind support of approximately $2 million in
construction management and administrative support.
Senator Green asked if a statewide plan exists for vocational and
technical learning centers of this magnitude.
Ms. Rehfeld stated that the Alaska Human Resources Investment
Council (AHRIC) is developing a statewide training plan.
Senator Green inquired if this project is included in the AHRIC
plan.
Ms. Rehfeld affirmed it is.
Head Start Health and Safety Repairs
$500,000 ACPE Dividends
Reference No.: 32628
Project Type: Renewal and Replacement
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2001 - 06/30/2005
This project is requested to assist Head Start facilities in
meeting health and safety standards. Types of projects funded
would include replacing windows, stoves, sinks, fire
extinguishers, sprinkler systems, carpets, wiring, insulation,
etc.
On-going Project
Ms. Rehfeld informed the Committee that this project would assist
Head Start programs that operate in 100 Statewide locations, to
comply with federal and State health and safety standards, by
replacing and upgrading such facility items as carpets in addition
to purchasing playground equipment and transportation vehicles. She
noted this is an annual request and addresses a list of needs
identified by Head Start.
Senator Green commented that the federally funded Head Start
program has expanded its services to provide before-school and
after-school childcare in some communities. She asked the
Department whether private individuals or entities which provide
similar services, but who do not receive federal funding, might
qualify for State grant monies to assist their operations.
YVONNE CHASE, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Early Development,
Department of Education and Early Development, remarked that this
request is specifically for Head Start programs; however, there are
funding mechanisms being developed by the State to assist other
entities in complying with health and safety measures. She affirmed
that the Department intends to develop assistance programs of this
sort.
Senator Green voiced concern that as Head Start services expand, it
presents "unfair competition" to private daycare and childcare
providers. She inquired whether the State could develop programs to
assist private or non-profit childcare providers.
Ms. Chase responded that it is possible, provided the Legislature
supports funding for these efforts.
Department of Administration
DAN SPENCER, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Administration informed the Committee that the
Department has identified the funding requests in this presentation
as high priority, essential projects.
Payroll and Accounting System Replacement Analysis
$600,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35790
Project Type: Planning
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Funding will be used to hire a consultant to provide
replacement analysis and planning for the statewide accounting
and payroll systems (AKSAS & AKPAY) currently managed by the
Division of Finance. The level of funding included in this
request is an estimate and may not provide for a complete
analysis.
One-time project
Mr. Spencer stated this request would fund a study to determine the
appropriate design and cost of a new accounting and payroll system
to replace the antiquated systems used since 1985 and 1990,
respectfully. He stressed that the systems' old technology does not
integrate well with newer systems the State uses, and that the
payroll system, in particular, must be replaced as the manufacturer
is phasing out support for that program.
Driver License Testing Machines
$300,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35823
Project Type: Equipment
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
These funds will be used to replace existing malfunctioning
and nonfunctioning testing machines in locations where there
are no machines or where the number of working machines is
insufficient. 37,000 tests are given at 12 DMV locations in
Alaska. To meet this volume, 69 testing machines, 15 Examiner
Monitor Consoles, and 1 network management console are
required. Funding at this level will not be sufficient to
purchase all needed equipment.
One-time project
Mr. Spencer stated that the current inventory of machines used for
administering the State's written driver's license tests are 12
years old, replacement parts are no longer available, and the
remaining functioning machines require constant maintenance. He
stated that upgrading this system would result in lowering the
Department's operating costs and increasing efficiency.
Senator Ward inquired where the majority of the 37,000 driver's
tests are administered each year.
Mr. Spencer responded that the Department would supply that
information to the Committee.
Senator Wilken asked whether this could be a phased project rather
than a one-time project.
Mr. Spencer affirmed it could.
Senator Olson asked if 37,000 tests are administered annually.
Mr. Spencer responded that this number might be an average of
several years.
Labor Contract Negotiations
$461,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35796
Project Type: Planning
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
All twelve labor contracts expire June 30, 2003. The Labor
Relations operating budget does not include funding for most
labor contracts negotiating costs. This CIP request is
designated to cover unfounded costs of this negotiation cycle
regardless of timing.
One-time project
ALLISON ELGEE, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Administration,
emphasized that all twelve of the State's labor contracts would
expire by June 30, 2003.
Mr. Spencer reminded the Committee that in FY99, the Legislature
approved a $310,000 two-year funding request to address expiring
labor contracts. He conveyed that the negotiation process involves
a large amount of time, personnel, and travel.
Co-Chair Kelly expressed that it is "unusual" for this type of
request to be submitted in the capital budget.
Mr. Spencer responded that "the nature of the request;" the
unpredictability of the length of time the negotiation process
might entail, as well as the time involved in finalizing those
negotiated agreements, justify its being included in the capital
budget. He summarized that the negotiation process historically
encompasses more than one fiscal year.
Co-Chair Donley remarked that consideration should be given to the
fact that a new Administration would be in place before the
contracts expire, and that the new Administration might have a
different perspective on the negotiations than those held by the
current Administration.
Ms. Elgee commented that historically, labor negotiations have
extended into more than one fiscal year, and furthermore, if this
funding were delayed, the new Administration would be faced with
expiring contracts in its first term as well as a "tight" timeframe
in obtaining legislative approval for the contracts.
Co-Chair Donley asked, "what guarantee" is provided to ensure that
labor contract negotiation funding appropriated to this
Administration, would be available for the continuance of those
negotiations in the next Administration.
Mr. Spencer asserted that the Department has "no intent to expend"
all the appropriation during the remaining term of this
Administration, and rather that the specific nature of the request
dictates timeframes and expenses. He reiterated that the
negotiation process could be lengthy and the money would be
expected to cover more than one fiscal year.
Co-Chair Kelly asked for information about the role of the
"negotiation coordinator" in the labor contract process.
Mr. Spencer responded that the negotiator is the person who
oversees each bargaining unit's negotiating team. He stressed that
since there are twelve contracts to be negotiated, this would be a
full-time position.
Co-Chair Kelly reiterated that this request is unusual to include
in the capital budget.
Ms. Elgee recounted that in prior years, the State's labor
contracts expired at random dates. She stated that the current
situation whereby all the contracts expire at approximately the
same time has resulted in numerous savings to the State, but
stressed that the process "is still a lengthy one."
Senator Hoffman asked whether the funding request for travel
expenses includes expenses of the employee representatives' in
addition to the Department of Administration's negotiation
personnel's' expenses.
Ms. Elgee clarified that the State covers the expenses for the
Department's negotiating team, but not for the employees'
representatives. She stated that the Department would clarify what
other expenses have historically been funded in the negotiation
process.
Pioneers' Home Emergency Repair and Maintenance
$800,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35817
Project Type: Deferred Maintenance
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Funding is requested or Fire and Life Safety problems and for
continued maintenance and structural repairs of the six
Pioneers' Homes.
On-going Project
Mr. Spencer stated that this annual funding request would provide
for emergency maintenance needs such as bursting pipes, broken
boilers, and leaking roofs. He disclosed that separate funding of
projects on the Pioneer Homes' deferred maintenance list would
positively impact the level of this annual funding request.
License Plates, Tabs and Manuals
$281,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35826
Project Type: Renewal and Replacement
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This project has two separate pieces. The first provides
$216,000 for the purchase of license plates and tabs to
maintain statewide stockage levels necessary for their
required continued issuance. The Division is required by AS
28.10.161 to issue plates and tabs and cannot run out. The
remaining $65,000 provides for the purchase of the different
types of driver manuals and law books which must be available
at all DMV locations.
On-going project
Mr. Spencer clarified that this request is being submitted through
the capital budget because funding needs might extend beyond a
single fiscal year. He explained that demands on the Division of
Motor Vehicles' inventory are sporadic and unpredictable, but
stressed that sufficient quantities must be available.
Emergency Maintenance Projects for Facilities Outside the
Public Building Fund.
$800,000 general funds
Reference No.: 35802
Project Type: Deferred Maintenance
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2005
Funding will be used to begin to fix some of the facility
maintenance problems that are of critical concern now in the
buildings comprising the Non Public Building Fund facilities
group managed by DOA. These buildings are: the State Museum
and Annex in Juneau; the Diamond Courthouse in Juneau; the
rd
Governor's House in Juneau; the 3 Floor of the Capitol
Building; the Juneau Subport Building; and the Archives and
Records Center in Juneau.
Of immediate concern are leaking roofs, curtain walls that are
no longer water resistant, bursting domestic water supply
lines, inoperable HVAC systems, foundation failures, hazardous
material abatement, and unsafe, inefficient boiler and heating
systems.
On-going project
Mr. Spencer explained that the Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities recently transferred control of some facilities
in Juneau to the Department of Administration. He stated that these
facilities are not maintained under the auspice of the Public
Building Fund, and until a deferred maintenance procedure is
established for those facilities, there is a need for monies to
handle emergency repairs. He stated that monies for these
buildings' maintenance needs were previously included in the
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities' budget.
Senator Leman asked why responsibility for the Third Floor of the
Capitol Building was included in this transfer.
Mr. Spencer voiced that the Department of Administration is
responsible for the Third Floor of the Capitol as it houses
Executive Branch offices. He continued that when general
maintenance is conducted on the Capitol Building, the Department
contributes a percentage of the cost.
Ms. Elgee stated that the Department is primarily responsible for
any plumbing and wiring expenses required on the Third Floor.
Senator Leman asked what other agency is responsible for the
Capitol Building's maintenance
Ms. Elgee stated that the Legislative Affairs Agency is responsible
for the remainder of the building.
Adult Day Facility Modifications
$250,000 general funds/Mental Health
Reference No.: 35806
Project Type: Renewal and Replacement
Category: Housing/Social Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Twelve Adult Day Facilities need modifications to meet
standards that include health and safety issues and ADA
accessibility requirements. Modifications will more fully meet
the needs of clients who are physically and cognitively
impaired. These will include recommendations for modifications
to lighting, flooring, bathroom, dining, and activity areas.
This will benefit clients who are physically and cognitively
impaired, allowing them to be more independent, reduce the
risk of injuries from falls, and enhance their well-being by
decreasing confusion for the clients who are cognitively
impaired.
Mental Health Bill
Ms. Elgee stated this request would fund an on-going contract with
a facilities architect, who specializes in "dementia design," to
address adult facility needs throughout the State and to make
recommendations to better serve the needs of those users in terms
of upgrades to the facility and programs being offered.
Fixed Asset Accounting System
$255,000
$85,000 general funds
$85,000 Info Svc
$85,000 Public Bldg
Reference No.: 35791
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
The State needs a functional fixed asset accounting system.
The antiquated mainframe system operated by the Division of
General Services does not provide accountability over assets,
nor does it maintain the information necessary to prepare the
State's financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as required by AS
37.05.150.
Funding will be used for professional services for software
analysis, software purchases and installation and some
building appraisal work.
One time project
Ms. Elgee stated that this request addresses the current accounting
system's inability to properly account for fixed assets. She
informed the Committee that this concern was identified by the
Division of Legislative Budget and Audit several years prior, and
that new federal accounting regulations require that fixed assets
must "first be recognized at a cost basis and then depreciated on
financial statements," as opposed to the current system's method of
listing replacement value. She reminded the Committee that the
State could not provide the necessary information without a new
fixed asset accounting system; therefore, an adjustment must be
made annually to account for the "audit exception."
Senator Leman asked whether such information as the age of a
building as well as any modifications it has undergone would be
required to develop a cost basis for that fixed asset.
Ms. Elgee replied that the history of the building would need to be
reconstructed to determine the cost basis.
Senator Leman commented that this is a big project as some of the
State's buildings are "quite old."
Ms. Elgee concurred.
Public Defender Integrated Computer System
$175,000 general funds
Reference no.: 35827
Project Type: Planning
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2005
The Public Defender Agency needs to become integrated with the
technology and systems of the other state agencies in the
criminal justice process. The sharing of information
electronically will greatly improve the operations of a
cumbersome, information-laden system. The Public Defender
Agency is the only agency that will not have access to all the
information readily available to the other participants.
Without such access, as the rest of the state criminal justice
agencies share information and become more efficient, the
Public Defender will grind the entire process to a halt.
Phased Project
Mr. Spencer commented this is a repeat request that involves the
need to share pertinent information among a variety of criminal
justice systems. He stressed the importance of upgrading the Public
Defender Agency's (PDA) computer abilities to align with the
capabilities of other criminal justice agencies in order to allow
the PDA the ability to access and integrate information. He
emphasized that the PDA's current system undermines the
effectiveness of the entire justice system.
Senator Wilken asked whether the $175,000 indicated in this request
is the total cost of the project or for this phase of the project.
Mr. Spencer responded that the specified amount is for this phase;
however, the entire cost could not be determined until the project
began.
Senator Wilken asked for a total cost projection.
Sr. Spencer anticipated the entire project to cost less than $1
million.
Public Facilities Maintenance and Repairs
$2,500,000 Public Bldg
Reference No.: 35803
Project Type: Renewal and Replacement
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 07/02/2005
This project will provide authorization to spend depreciation
funds collected through the facilities rental rate charged
tenant agencies. The funding is used for renewal and
replacement repairs of major building systems. These projects
replace worn-out major building components and either replace
or retrofit obsolete or inefficient building systems in order
to maintain or extend the useful life of the building or
facility.
Facilities included are: the Robert B. Atwood Building; the
Fairbanks Regional Office Building; the Juneau State Office
Building; the Alaska Office Building; the Juneau Court Plaza
Building; the Juneau Community Building; the Douglas Island
Building; and the Juneau Public Safety Building.
On-going project
Mr. Spencer stated that this request would authorize the Department
to leverage non-general fund public building fund monies,
specifically those collected from depreciation charges to "occupant
agency" tenants, to provide for operating costs, on-going
maintenance, and depreciation costs to the buildings. He stated
that this involves extensive projects such as roof replacements
that might extend beyond a single fiscal year because work could
not begin until the spring and summer season.
Senior Services Data Integration Project - Phase 2
$238,000 MHTAAR
Reference No.: 35816
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: Housing/Social Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
The Division of Senior Services serves clients and providers
in multiple programs. Information should be shared by programs
for better client and provider service, for faster response
times, and for the electronic transfer of information. DSS and
the Alaska Commission on Aging have selected a SAMS/OMNIA
database and begun the integration of beneficiary data. This
request represents the amount necessary to complete the data
management integration effort.
Phased project
Mental Health Bill
Ms. Elgee stated that this is the final phase of a project, funded
by Mental Health Trust Receipts, to install a complete new computer
system that would provide an internal recordkeeping system and a
providers' interface system.
Alaska Gas Development Study
$500,000 AOGCC Rcpt
Reference No.: 35792
Project Type: Planning
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
The AOGCC needs to evaluate the conservation issues associated
with gas development in Alaska from areas such as Prudhoe Bay
Unit, Point Thompson Unit, The North Slope Foothills, and the
numerous prospects for Coalbed Methane (CBM). The issues
include what impact gas development will have on the recovery
of liquid hydrocarbons, appropriate development practices for
new fields and how to manage CBM development. CBM development
is technologically different than conventional gas development
and is the subject of much debate in the continental US. The
AOGCC does not have the resources to conduct this study.
One-time project
Ms. Spencer stated that this request asks for authorization to
expend industry-generated receipts to undertake a study on gas
development in the State.
Senator Leman voiced support for the project and urged the
Committee to approve it.
Electronic Permitting Initiative
$500,000 AOGCC rcpt
Reference No.: 35793
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2005
The AOGCC seeks to develop and implement a highly secure e-
commerce/e-permitting system for the handling of electronic
data. The Oil and Gas Conservation Act requires all operators
of oil and gas wells to provide significant amounts of data to
the AOGCC. The majority of this information is highly
confidential for at least two years. The regulated community
(oil & gas companies) manages their date electronically.
However, because the AOGCC is not set up to receive the
information in a secure manner, the companies convert the data
to hard copy and hand-deliver it to the AOGCC resulting in
added workload for both the regulated community and the AOGCC.
One-time project
Mr. Spencer informed the Committee that this project would allow
confidential information to be transmitted in electronic format
rather than the current "extensive paper transferal" to the Alaska
Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (AOGCC), thereby positively
"facilitating" the flow of information. He mentioned that
additional non-general fund receipts funding might be required;
however, the intent would be to implement the system as efficiently
as possible.
Senator Leman stressed the importance of upgrading to this
"firewall" system, as it should result in lowering operating costs
in other State agencies such as the Department of Natural
Resources.
Combined Retirement Benefits Calculation System
$436,000
$1,200 Jud Retire
$298,400 P/E Retire
$136,400 Teach Ret
Reference No.: 35819
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Funds will be used for consulting services for analyses,
design and programming of business software that will be the
Benefits Calculator. In addition, it would cover the cost of
any necessary hardware. Specific project tasks will include
Software Requirements Specification, Detail design and
programming; data conversion; testing; and implementation.
One-time project
Ms. Elgee stated that currently, State personnel access the
Division of Retirement and Benefits retirement benefits information
system through the use of high maintenance and difficult to use
calculators. She continued that this funding would allow the
Department to replace these limited-use calculators with machines
that would more efficiently communicate with modernized computer
programs and provide more expansive and reliable information.
Information Technology Group Equipment Replacement
$5,904,400 Info Svc
Reference No.: 35787
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2007
Funding will be used to purchase the highest priority
equipment, including hardware and software, to meet
anticipated customer demand.
On-going project
Mr. Spencer noted that this annual request seeks authorization to
expend "charge-back fund" monies garnered from users, to replace
equipment as "it breaks, wears out, or becomes obsolete." He
explained that the items identified in the request are presented in
a prioritized order; however, "might have to be re-prioritized if
something else breaks."
Senator Wilken asked what affect the State's telecommunications
agreement with Alaska Communications Systems (ACS) has on this
annual request.
Mr. Spencer responded that currently this project is not impacted
by that agreement; however, the ACS project would eventually allow
for the elimination of this request, as ACS would assume several
components of maintaining the State's telecommunications operation.
He informed the Committee that in the current year, ACS has
invested "in excess of $20 million" into the State's
telecommunications system, which otherwise, the State would have
been expected to invest. He stated that ultimately the State would
receive better service in addition to the economic savings.
Senator Wilken, noting that the back-up material indicates that
this funding request would increase over time from the current $6
million to $7 million, asked whether this amount would be higher if
the agreement with ACS were not in place.
Mr. Spencer responded that this particular request is primarily for
computers; therefore, no savings would be realized since the ACS
agreement pertains primarily to other telecommunication components
of the system. He noted that ACS would be assisting the Department
in determining a more efficient and effective means for maintaining
telecommunications sites for which the State would retain
responsibility.
Senator Wilken, referring to page 33 of the backup material, asked
whether the $2.76 million slated for satellite projects would
continue being an on-going responsibility of the State even though
ACS would utilize that system.
Mr. Spencer affirmed that the State currently owns and maintains
the satellite system. He informed the Committee that the $2.76
million would be used to replace lights on towers, assist in
keeping generators at the tower sites functioning, and other
maintenance needs, and that expenses of this sort would remain the
responsibility of the State. He summarized that this is a
complicated situation and he could provide more detailed
information to the Committee.
Senator Wilken voiced that years earlier, during initial
discussions about a telecommunications agreement between the State
and ACS, he understood that maintenance costs would be a shared
responsibility of both entities.
SFC 02 # 19, Side B 09:55 AM
Senator Wilken judged these early discussions to imply that all
maintenance expenses would be transferred to ACS, thereby resulting
in a reduction of maintenance funding requests from State
departments.
Mr. Spencer supported the expectation that telecommunication
requests from State departments to pay for expenses such as
routers, would diminish; however, stated that the maintenance of
satellite sites is a different component of the telecommunications
system.
Mr. Spencer expressed the need for the Department of Administration
to present a thorough overview of the ACS agreement to the
Committee.
Department of Community and Economic Development
Electronic Document Imaging, Storage and Retrieval System
$1,125,000 Rcpt Svcs
Reference No.: 35664
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This project will develop a departmental document scanning,
storage and retrieval system. This system will improve and
increase timely access to information by the public, staff,
other agencies; reduce the amount of storage space required,
provide for a disaster recovery system for documents and allow
for a more timely and efficient purging of documents which are
no longer required.
One-time project
JEFF BUSH, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Community and
Economic Development noted that the Division of Insurance and the
Division of Banking, Security and Corporations would equally fund
this project. He stated that replacing hard copy files with
electronic documents would eliminate approximately 2,000 feet of
hard copy files in the Juneau Division of Insurance office. He
continued that this would allow for better and quicker public
access to documents via the Internet and would additionally reduce
the retrieval of information "burden" on staff for public record
requests in addition to providing needed floor space. He expressed
that these improved efficiencies would offset the projected
maintenance expenses the new system would incur.
Loan Servicing Software Replacement
$550,000
Reference No.: 35665
Project Type: Information Systems
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This project replaces the existing loan servicing software
Mortgage Loans Extended (MLX) currently in use by the Alaska
Division of Investments (ADI), It also adds additional
functionality not presently available in the area of loan
origination (application tracking, document creation and
management).
One-time project
Mr. Bush stated that the current system was purchased in the early
1980's, last upgraded in 1984, and is "antiqued by today's
standards." He stated that the development of a new system would
provide better access to account information, would provide for
more efficient new loan processing, and more efficient tracking of
loan borrower information. He stated that this proposal and the
accompanying maintenance contract would be fully funded by the
State Loan Program, and that the Division of Investments would
absorb any additional labor costs attributed to a new system.
Federal Community Development Grants
$3,280,000
$3,000,000 Fed Rcpts
$ 280,000 G/F Match
Reference No.: 33925
Project Type: Health and Safety
Category: Housing/Social Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
The Department receives federal funding from several different
programs, including the Flood Mitigation Assistance grant
program, USDA and the Denali Commission. This project combines
the various federal project funding under one appropriation.
State Match Required
On-going project
Mr. Bush noted that this is the second consecutive year the
Department has combined various Alaska Industrial Development and
Export Authority (AIDEA) Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Denali Commission
grant programs into one request. He informed the Committee that
some of the grants have provided assistance for the development of
flood plain management and flood mitigation programs for
communities as well as providing USDA mini-grants for developing
community economic development strategies and new economic
activities in non-forest related industries.
Mr. Bush noted that these USDA economic programs have historically
received Denali Commission funding assistance of approximately
$500,000. He stated that several miscellaneous and the estimated
amounts for, as-of-yet, undetermined Denali Commission grants are
included in this request, and explained this is a normal occurrence
as the amount of the grants is never determined in advance. He
shared that, historically, federal receipts for this program have
been as high as $6 million.
Co-Chair Kelly asked the amount of State general funds required to
match Denali Commission grant money.
Mr. Bush responded that the Denali Commission grants require a ten
percent State match. He continued that the estimate for the State
matching funds is $150,000 as the Denali Commission grants total is
projected to be approximately $2 million, of which $500,000 is
designated for mini-grants that do not require any State match.
Co-Chair Kelly specified that $150,000 of the $280,000 State
general funds specified in this request is designated as a match
for Denali Funds. He voiced opposition to committing State funds to
match Denali Commission funding as the Denali Commission monies do
not come under the auspice of the Senate Finance Committee;
therefore the Committee has no "say over them."
Co-Chair Kelly continued that the Denali Commission has voiced
concern that its' funding may be "used to supplant" State general
funds. Co-Chair Kelly voiced support of treating Denali Commission
grant money entirely as a separate and independent entity as the
State has no control over how those funds are distributed, and he,
therefore, does not support matching Denali Commission projects
with State general funds.
Senator Leman concurred with Co-Chair Kelly's comments and stated
that if State general funds are to be matched with Denali
Commission projects then the State should have some say in how
those monies are spent.
Senator Leman noted this request states, "the aggregate general
fund match is 14 percent of the total;" however, he pointed out
this does not compute with the numbers presented.
Mr. Bush clarified that 14 percent is incorrect and is actually
between seven and ten percent.
Senator Wilken asked for a list of the Denali Commission
communities' priorities program construction-ready infrastructure
projects that received $4.5 million in FY02 and is referenced on
page eight of the backup material.
Senator Green asked whether the Legislature receives a final budget
summary detailing the mini-grants projects funded during a fiscal
year.
Mr. Bush stated that the Department would supply any information
the Legislature does not currently have.
Senator Green voiced that this request "basically" authorizes the
Department to dispense mini-grant funding, as they deem
appropriate.
Co-Chair Kelly clarified that is correct, with the exception of
Denali Commission projects over which the Department has no
control.
Senator Hoffman voiced his concern that the Denali Commission
appears to be "providing a function that the State probably should
be providing" in rural Alaska such as building health care
facilities. He stated that the State is receiving "benefits" from
federal and Denali Commission projects in rural Alaska without
having to finance it, and he feels that the State has been, in
effect, ignoring the needs of Alaska Natives. He stated that one of
the primary reasons for the establishment of the Denali Commission
was that there were "a lot of unmet needs" in rural Alaska.
Senator Hoffman commented that the State has historically
recognized the benefits it receives from federal and Denali
Commission projects by supporting those projects with a "high"
matching fund percentage. He referenced a Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) project, listed on page eight of the
backup material, which received a 25 percent State match, and he
ascertained that the ten percent match required by the Denali
Commission is the "best buy." He stated that a State match is a
federal requirement for receiving federal funds.
Senator Hoffman questioned whether the general funds specified in
this request are "truly a match and will it jeopardize the agencies
that receive these funds from the Denali Commission."
TOM LAWSON, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Community and Economic Development responded that the
Department could not affirm that withholding matching funds would
place a project in jeopardy; however, he affirmed that the federal
government does expect, although "it is not absolutely mandated,"
matching funds from the State. He opined that, "it comes down to a
case-by-case basis of what the grant is for and what the grant
program is." He stated that the Legislature has asked the federal
government to establish a "clear stated mandate" regarding whether
a State match is "absolutely required." He stated he did not know
the outcome of that request.
Co-Chair Kelly interjected that "the answer was no."
Mr. Lawson acknowledged Co-Chair Kelly's comment; however,
expressed that there are a multitude of federal programs that
benefit the State, most of which have matching grant requirements.
He voiced that it is "possibly to probably the case" that some
programs might be placed in jeopardy if a State match did not
materialize.
Co-Chair Kelly clarified that his comments were directed toward the
authorization of State matching grant funds for Denali Commission
projects over which the Legislature has no control, rather than
federal matching grant programs that the Legislature has the right
to accept or reject.
Co-Chair Kelly stressed that he does not support the Legislature
developing the habit of "using Denali Commission funds to supplant
State general fund dollars."
Senator Hoffman acknowledged Co-Chair Kelly's remarks that Denali
Commission funds should not be used to supplant State general fund
dollars, but reiterated that the Denali Commission is picking up
expenses for projects in rural Alaska that the State should be
addressing such as health care facilities and energy needs. He
contended that the State should participate in supporting projects
that address concerns of rural Alaskans by providing the required
ten percent matching grant funding.
Senator Leman voiced appreciation for Senator Hoffman's comments,
but countered that the State has increased its investment in rural
Alaska by supporting such projects as the village safe water
program, and by more than doubling its investments into communities
by leveraging federal funds. He acknowledged that the area has
numerous needs and noted that the establishment of the Denali
Commission assists in addressing those needs. He echoed Co-Chair
Kelly's comments and opined that if "we as a State are going to
invest and match" Denali Commission projects, then the State needs
to have some participation in the process.
Co-Chair Kelly remarked that Senator Hoffman is not denying that
the State has been investing in health and energy needs in rural
Alaska, but rather that the Denali Commission is providing funding
for projects that Senator Hoffman believes the State should have
been undertaking.
Senator Hoffman asserted that if the Legislature does not support
some of the "categories" of projects that the Denali Commission
identifies, then matching funds for those projects could be denied;
however, if the Legislature agrees that a project falls into an
area that needs to be addressed, then the Legislature should
support it.
Community Block Grants
$9,000,000 Fed Rcpts
Reference No.: 33488
Project Type: Health and Safety
Category: Housing/Social Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
The Block Grant Programs receive federal funding from several
sources in order to provide grants to local governments and
services to low income people which will improve their quality
of life and remove obstacles to self-sufficiency.
On-going project
Mr. Bush explained that these federally funded community services
block grants provide funding for such things as food and nutrition
programs, operating and emergency funds for homeless shelters, and
education opportunities.
Language Section: National Petroleum Reserve Alaska Impact
Program
$1,680,000 Fed Rcpts
Reference No.: 35360
Project Type: Construction
Category: Development
Location: Barrow
Election District: Northwest Alaska
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Language: The amount received by the National Petroleum
Reserve - Alaska special revenue fund (AS 37.05.530) under 42
U.S.C. 6508 during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002,
estimated to be $1,728,015 is appropriated from federal
receipts to the Department of Community and Economic
Development for capital projects grants under the National
Petroleum Reserve - Alaska impact program.
Mr. Bush informed the Committee that the federal government
established the National Petroleum Reserve- Alaska (NPR-A) special
revenue fund to assist in alleviating impacts from oil and gas
exploration and development. He specified that in this process, the
Department receives grant applications each fall, then reviews and
submits a list of projects to the Legislature via the Senate
Finance Committee.
Mr. Bush noted that the list is included in the backup material.
Senator Wilken asked Co-Chair Donley the amount of the Power Cost
Equalization (PCE) Program funding shortfall that is expected in
FY02.
Co-Chair Donley responded that the PCE shortfall is expected to be
approximately $8.1 million with $7 million of that amount resulting
from a downturn in PCE endowment fund earnings.
Senator Wilken reminded the Committee that during discussions about
the establishment of the PCE program, it was understood that these
NPR-A funds would be available to support the PCE program. He urged
the Committee to consider using these funds to support the PCE
program.
Senator Hoffman disclosed that US Senator Ted Stevens said "it was
never the intent of Congress" that the NPR-A funds be utilized to
support the PCE program. He shared that Senator Stevens supported
expending these funds to assist in alleviating exploration and
development impacts on communities.
Senator Wilken asked if Senator Hoffman "would reconcile his
predecessor's (Senator Al Adams) agreement with Senator Stevens'
statement" as they are contrary to each other.
Co-Chair Donley concurred that the Committee made decisions
concerning the PCE program based on comments presented by then-
Senator Al Adams the representative from State District T.
Senator Hoffman, noting that he was not a member of the Senate
Finance Committee at that time, commented that he would confer with
former Committee member Senator Al Adams to clarify the context of
the discussions.
Senator Leman reiterated that during discussions about changing the
PCE program, Senator Adams, a Finance Committee member at the time,
had specified that the NRP-A impact funds would be available to
support the PCE program. Senator Leman stressed that this assurance
was a crucial and important element of determinations regarding the
direction of the PCE program.
Co-Chair Donley informed the Committee that during those
discussions, Senator Adam's comments that the NPR-A community
impact funds would be available to assist the PCE program, had
persuaded Committee members to halt consideration of amendments
that Co-Chair Donley had proposed to reduce the cost of the PCE
program. He continued that, "there was a clear statement from the
Co-Chair of the Finance Committee at that time, that without those
funds, there was no deal, there was no agreement on any specific
level of funding for any future years, and that in fact, there is
no commitment at all for this thing out there because that deal
never happened."
Co-Chair Donley stated that the Committee might need to revisit the
amendments that were not considered "based on the representation
that this money would be forthcoming."
Senator Hoffman voiced the need to revisit the intent of that
discussion for he recalled that the NPR-A funds might be available
to fund the PCE program that "following year" if the region's
communities supported it. He stated a question remains regarding
whether those funds were intended to be an "on-going revenue
source" for the program.
Co-Chair Kelly interjected that NPR-A funding of the program never
occurred that following year.
Senator Hoffman stated that part of Senator Adams' commitment was
to talk with area communities to secure support for using NPR-A
community assistance funding to support the PCE program.
Co-Chair Donley responded that, "even if that is the case, the
failure to obtain those funds negates the rest of the agreement at
that time, as there was a clear deferral of amendments, which
should have been necessary to make it a self-sustaining fund with
the endowment. At the time, without the NPR-A money, there was no
way this was ever going to work."
Co-Chair Donley continued that the cost of the program should be
reduced to fit within the earnings of the endowment fund. He
reminded the Committee that the endowment fund had no earnings this
fiscal year, and that $7 million must be withdrawn from the
endowment's principle to cover expenses. He stated that "the
program needs to be re-analyzed, revisited," and reformed to live
within the endowment parameters.
Co-Chair Kelly surmised that the Committee ultimately must abide by
directives that are written in law regarding the PCE program.
Senator Olson commented that, "it is a credit to this Committee"
that numerous communities have benefited from the PCE program. He
stated his research supports the discussion that the NPR-A funding
was to have been a one-time funding scenario.
Mr. Bush informed the Committee that the year in question was FY00,
and that a total of $42 million was appropriated to the NPR-A
account. He stated that of that amount, $28 million was
appropriated to assist communities; $9.1 million was deposited into
the PCE fund; and as directed in State statute, 25 percent of the
unexpended monies were deposited into the permanent fund principal
and .5 percent was deposited into the Public School Trust fund.
Language Section: Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund
$2,150,000 Fed Rcpts
Reference No.: 34846
Project Type: Health and Safety
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2001 - 06/30/2004
Appropriation of the state's additional rebate share of the
Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund to the Alaska Energy
Authority for use for the remediation of above-ground storage
tanks. Senate floor amendment #2.
On-going project
BOB POE, Executive Director, Alaska Industrial Development & Export
Authority and Alaska Energy Authority, stated this request would
appropriate federal funds to remediate aboveground storage tanks.
He noted the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) would work closely with
Department of Environmental Conservation on this project.
Senator Leman suggested that the term "rural" be deleted in the
backup information on page 15, line 3, for while many of the bulk
fuel tanks needing remediation are located in rural areas, federal
law does not require that the funds be allocated strictly to rural
areas.
Bulk Fuel Systems Upgrades
$1,600,000
$800,000 AIDEA Div
$800,000 Oil/Haz Fd
Reference No.: 32584
Project Type: Health and Safety
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This appropriation is requested for expected Federal funds and
state match for construction of new consolidated bulk fuel
tank systems in rural Alaska.
On-going project
Mr. Poe stated this request involves the power needs of rural
Alaska, specifically for providing bulk fuel tank upgrades. He
addressed Committee concerns about funding match requirements,
noting that the funding for this project is a response to a general
request from the Denali Commission to not eliminate funding for
projects that the Department has historically funded. He stated
this request would allow the Department to maintain a consistent
program to address bulk fuel remediation.
Mr. Poe noted that the amount of funding available from the Oil and
Hazardous Material Response Fund has decreased.
Co-Chair Donley asked the cause for that decrease.
Mr. Poe responded there has been a downturn in oil "flow" that has
reduced the money deposited into the fund. He reminded the
Committee that a five-cent per barrel tax is levied on oil
production, of which three cents is designated to fund the creation
of a $50 million Response Fund and two cents is designated to
develop an on-going spill program.
Co-Chair Donley clarified that the two-cent program is the funding
mechanism in this request. He asked the Department whether a change
in State statute would be required to increase the amount of money
contributed into the Oil and Hazardous Material Response Fund.
Mr. Poe responded that it is specified in State statute.
Co-Chair Donley asked if the reduction in the amount of available
Oil and Hazardous Material Response funds has resulted in an
increase in the level of general funds requested in other budget
requests.
Mr. Poe noted that during original negotiations about this tax, oil
companies were concerned that the $50 million response fund had not
been sufficiently funded, and this concern presented a challenge to
the five-cent a barrel tax. He stated that this concern was
addressed by dividing the five-cent tax; whereby, three cents was
designated to building and maintaining the $50 million response
fund pool to address oil spills and two cents was designated for
the Department of Environmental Conservation spill and response
program and other programs.
Senator Leman clarified that the provisions of the five-cent tax
specify that two cents is designated for the $50 million fund and
three cents is designated for on-going projects.
Rural Power Systems Upgrades
$500,000 general funds match
Reference No.: 32588
Project Type: Construction
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This appropriation is requested for expected federal funds and
state match for capital improvements and new electric power
systems in rural Alaska. Where required, lack of state
matching funds will prevent the federal contribution.
On-going project
Mr. Poe pointed out that the Denali Commission has not requested
the establishment of additional matching grants, but rather has
requested that state funding for on-going programs not be reduced.
He informed the Committee that these projects would result in "a
real reduction in the cost of power" by upgrading to more efficient
equipment that would increase the number of kilowatts hours per
gallon of fuel. He noted that all the projects include heat
recovery systems that provide additional benefits such as
preventing water in the systems from freezing.
Senator Ward, referring to page 20 of the backup material, noted
that community support is one of the components of a project.
Mr. Poe replied that is correct, and this support could be in the
form of contributed land, equipment, or money.
Senator Ward asked what is the average level of community support.
Mr. Poe responded that there is no average as community support
varies from project to project.
Language Section: Electrical Emergencies
$350,000 Rural Elec
Reference No.: 32590
Project Type: Health and Safety
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This appropriation is requested to provide funds for the
Electrical Emergencies Program, which provides technical
support when an electric utility has lost the ability to
generate or transmit power to its customers and the condition
is a treat to life, health, and property in the rural
community.
On-going project
Mr. Poe informed the Committee that the Rural Electric Revolving
Loan Fund is supported by loan payments generated from eleven
established loans. He explained this funding would allow the
Department to assist a rural community in re-establishing power
when a power outage threatens life, health and safety. He stressed
that as a community's dependence on its infrastructure increases,
the community's ability to supply uninterrupted power is "very
critical" as loss of power, especially in the winter time, would
adversely affect such utilities as community water systems.
Senator Green asked if the State should produce a report that
includes federal funds and revolving funds that "augments,
supplements, and improves power" provided to areas of Alaska that
are also supported by the State PCE program. She stated that
compiling this information would be helpful in determining the role
of the PCE program.
Mr. Poe responded that information included in an annual PCE
statistic report, as well as the continuing development of a rural
power energy plan, would assist in providing pertinent information.
Senator Hoffman remarked that "the Power Cost Equalization program
is sort of a misnomer" for while it does reduce the cost of power
in rural Alaska; it is not lowered to a level of seven or ten cents
per kilowatt-hour.
Co-Chair Donley agreed, "It is a misnomer because it subsidizes
some people's rates below what other people pay." He explained that
some communities that do not qualify for the PCE program pay more
per kilowatt hour than the amount that eligible communities "get
subsidized down below."
SFC 02 # 20, Side A 10:43 AM
Diesel Efficiency and Alternate Energy Program
$500,000 general funds match
Reference No.: 32591
Project Type: Construction
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This appropriation is requested for expected federal funds and
state match for alternative energy projects (Fuel Efficiency
Improvements, Conservation, Wind, Biomass).
On-going project
Mr. Poe stated this general fund request would provide a funding
match for federal funds that would support the development of power
cost reduction programs. He stated that these projects include such
things as a combined fish oil and diesel fuel plant in Unalaska
where a combination of 50 percent diesel oil and 50 percent Pollock
fish oil is being tested. He stated this fuel would cost 72 cents
per gallon, whereas currently, fuel in Dutch Harbor is $1.20 per
gallon of diesel. He expressed that this study involves a substance
that is environmentally friendly, is plentiful, "but is not a
highly sought after commodity." He noted that funding also supports
studies on such alternate energy ideas as wind energy in Kotzebue.
Co-Chair Kelly asked whether Pollock oil is preferred over other
fish oils.
Mr. Poe responded that Pollock oil is being used because it is
abundant; however any fish oil would suffice. He stated that test
results indicate that engines start easily when fish oil is used
and that the fish oil burns clean.
Senator Leman recommended that this information be supplied to the
Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI).
Federal Energy Projects
$30,000,000 Fed Rcpts
Reference No.: 36338
Project Type: Construction
Category: Health/Safety
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
AEA expects to receive approximately $30 million in federal
financial assistance awards from the Denali Commission in FY
2003. The Denali Commission awards cover several AEA programs
including bulk fuel upgrades, rural power system upgrades and
alternative energy projects; therefore, AEA requests receipt
authority that is not specific to a particular program.
On-going project
Mr. Poe stated that this request would allow the Department to
receive Denali Commission funds as well as federal funds that could
be used to retrofit facilities including the Healy Coal Plant. He
stated that funds would be received on a project-by-project basis
in a multiple-year program.
Mr. Poe informed the Committee that to qualify for these grants,
applicants are required to submit a business plan which would
include a repair and replacement fund for long-term maintenance as
well as being required to focus on cost containment by the use of
more standardization and other measures to reduce the cost per
kilowatt-hour or cost per gallon. He noted that sustainability of a
project is a required goal.
Senator Olson asked why some components of projects appear to be
implemented out of sequence.
Mr. Poe responded that if a component of a multi-phase project were
failing, that component would be addressed first, regardless of
whether it was scheduled for repair or replacement early in the
project. . He noted that, in addition to the danger of a component
failing, some elements such as the foundation of a powerhouse must
be constructed during the winter months. He stated that most
projects are two-year projects.
Arctic Winter Games Team Alaska
$75,000 general funds
Reference No.: 6782
Project Type: Planning
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
This grant will provide, in part, for the expenses of Team
Alaska to participate in the 2004 Arctic Winter Games, and the
international dues payment.
On-going project
Mr. Bush stated this request to fund dues and such things as travel
expenses for athletes to attend the 2004 Arctic Winter Games
Delta Junction Missile Defense Test Bed Impact Mitigation
$10,000,000 Fed Rcpts
Reference No.: 35687
Project Type: Transitional
Category: Development
Location: Delta Junction
Election District: Delta, Prince William Sound
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2002 - 06/30/2004
Fort Greely has been selected as the national site for the
Missile Defense Test Bed Project. As a result of the five-year
base close/reuse process, the Delta Junction community is
unable to provide the necessary services for the anticipated
impacts from the construction of the Missile Test Bed project.
This federal grant will provide funding for necessary public
facilities such as a new area-wide landfill; firehall and
other public safety construction, social service programs and
local government staffing, not only available for the
community, but Fort Greely as well. Grant match from the state
is currently not anticipated.
One-time project
Mr. Bush noted that this request consists entirely of federal funds
that would be used to fund necessary public facilities including a
new landfill and fire hall. He expressed that there is currently an
inadequate level of infrastructure available in these communities.
Co-Chair Kelly ordered the bill to be HELD in Committee.
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Pete Kelly adjourned the meeting at 10:55 AM
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