Legislature(2003 - 2004)
03/19/2003 09:01 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
March 19, 2003
9:01 AM
TAPES
SFC-03 # 24, Side A
SFC 03 # 24, Side B
SFC 03 # 25, Side A
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Gary Wilken convened the meeting at approximately 9:01 AM.
PRESENT
Senator Lyda Green, Co-Chair
Senator Gary Wilken, Co-Chair
Senator Con Bunde, Vice Chair
Senator Ben Stevens
Also Attending: DOUG WOOLIVER, Administrative Attorney, Alaska
Court System; NICO BUS, Acting Director and Administrative Services
Manager, Division of Support Services, Department of Natural
Resources; KAREN MORGAN, Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Public Safety; JOEL HARD, Colonel,
Director, Division of Fish and Wildlife Protection, Department of
Public Safety;
Attending via Teleconference: From Anchorage: MARK MYERS,
Director, Division of Oil and Gas, Department of Natural Resources;
DICK MYLIUS, Resource Assessment and Development Manager, Division
of Mining, Land and Water, Department of Natural Resources; PETE
PANARESE, Acting Director, Division of Parks and Outdoor
Recreation, Department of Natural Resources; KIM RICE,
Administrative Services, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation,
Department of Natural Resources; RICHARD MCMAHON, Chief, Lands
Records Information, Division of Support Services, Department of
Natural Resources; JEFF JOHNSON, Boating Law Administrator, Office
of Boating Safety, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation,
Department of Natural Resources; From off-net locations: DON
BOWMAN, Major, Administrative Commander, Division of Alaska State
Troopers, Department of Public Safety; GARY POWELL, Director, State
Fire Marshal, Division of Fire Prevention, Department of Public
Safety
SUMMARY INFORMATION
SB 100-APPROP: CAPITAL PROJECTS
The Committee heard overviews of requests of the Alaska Court
System, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of
Public Safety. The bill was held in Committee
SENATE BILL NO. 100
"An Act making capital appropriations and reappropriations;
capitalizing a fund; 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."
Alaska Court System
Co-Chair Wilken noted that during the previous hearing, questions
were raised on court security and he referenced information has
since been provided.
Justice Information and Communication Project
$1,065,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37742
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
Phased Project
Statewide replacement of court system technology and
communications resources.
DOUG WOOLIVER, Administrative Attorney, Alaska Court System,
testified that this request would fund the third phase of an
essentially "on-going expense". He told of funding appropriated the
previous legislative session. He informed that the private sector
operates information technology on a five-year replacement cycle,
and although this is also the goal of the Court, the process is
behind schedule. He stated that much of the equipment has been in
operation "well beyond its expected useful life".
Mr. Wooliver emphasized that part of the requested funding is
necessary for the case management system, which the Court is
"bringing on-line".
Mr. Wooliver furthered that some of the funds are necessary to
replace the Court's telephone system. He stressed the particular
importance of the telephone system to the Court in that many
proceedings rely on telephonic testimony. He spoke to the time and
money saved by conducting hearings telephonically for the Court,
the prosecutor, the public defender, the Department of Public
Safety and citizens. He remarked, "because of the great
geographical distances in our State, telephonic hearings are the
only practical way to conduct a great number of court proceedings."
He pointed out that a modern telephone system facilitates those
proceedings, while an outdated system makes the process more costly
and difficult. He exampled that most courts in the State are unable
to teleconference more than two parties without the employ of a
teleconference operator; an expensive option. He commented on the
legislature's recognition of the necessity to expand its
teleconferencing abilities, and the benefits a similar upgrade
would afford the Court System.
Deferred Maintenance Projects
$1,008,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37745
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
High priority repairs to building components that have not
been sufficiently maintained and whose condition now threatens
longevity of the building.
Mr. Wooliver noted funds for these projects were appropriated the
previous legislative session utilizing an inter-agency transfer
from the Department of Administration. He listed the first priority
as the replacement of the Ketchikan courthouse roof, which is no
longer waterproof and buckets are necessary to catch leaks. He
detailed the subsequent water damage. He furthered that the
requested funds would also be utilized to repair the roofs of the
Dimond Courthouse in Juneau and the courthouses in Fort Yukon and
Tok and the administrative building located in Anchorage. He added
that other deferred maintenance projects in these locations would
also be addressed with the funds.
Rural Court Technology, Phase IV
$420,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37746
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
That Alaska Court System is requesting $420,000 for the fourth
phase of a four-phase, multi-year project to replace courtroom
audio recording and electronic sound systems statewide.
Mr. Wooliver informed that this project is to replace outdated
equipment that is no longer manufactured or serviced. He noted this
request is the third attempt to secure funding for the final phase
of the project. He compared recording costs to that of employing
court reporters, noting that the only disadvantage is the need to
replace equipment every 15 years. He described the new recording
methods using digital recordings on compact discs, which could be
electronically transferred, stored and cataloged.
Statewide Court Building Code and Energy Upgrade
$400,000 general fund
Reference No.: 37747
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
Phased Project
Reconstruction of in-court clerks' workstations for
accommodation of disabled persons and court equipment. Second
year funding addresses [earthquake] bracing for tall shelving.
Mr. Wooliver stated that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requires wheelchair access to jury boxes, witness stands, etc. He
furthered that the funds would also be used to remodel and redesign
courtroom benches located in Fort Yukon, Tok, Valdez, Juneau and
Delta Junction to accommodate updated technology.
Data Systems Security
$200,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37748
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
Phased Project
Technology security improvements to address physical security
for the courts' telecommunication assets, operational security
to protect computer systems and functionality to remotely
manage and tune network resources.
Mr. Wooliver informed that the mainframe of the statewide computer-
based system is located in the Anchorage administrative office and
must be secured. He added that an emergency power supply would also
be installed to prevent disruption statewide in the event of a
power outage in Anchorage. He stated that software and security
upgrades would also be installed in 15 other court locations. He
emphasized the importance of security protection of computers and
data, as more court information is stored electronically.
Replacement Central Services Van
$30,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37761
Category: Law and Justice
Location: Anchorage Areawide
Election District: Anchorage Areawide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
One-time Project
Replacement of van used to support court operations.
Mr. Wooliver read from the Project Description/Justification, which
reads as follows.
The court system is requesting $30,000 to replace its model
year 1990 van, which is used to support the court's
operations. The van is used on a daily basis for local pick up
and deliveries of court equipment and supplies as well as for
periodically transporting equipment and personnel to Palmer,
Homer, Kenai and Seward. As our case management software
project is deployed to more locations, the travel to outlying
areas will increase.
The court's only van is over 12 years old and has begun to
require significant maintenance and repairs. General
maintenance is required for all vehicles, but because of the
van's age, maintenance and repairs are becoming more frequent
and costly. In FY 02, the van was repaired for corrosion
damage and faulty battery charging. The corrosion damage
relates to the disintegration of the body of the vehicle and
the faulty charging speaks to the declination of the
electrical system. The frequency of unexpected repair problems
and physical and electrical issues creates an unsafe
environment for court staff operating the vehicle and may
cause delays in court operations.
Department of Natural Resources
NICO BUS, Acting Director and Administrative Services Manager,
Division of Support Services, Department of Natural Resources,
thanked Committee for funds appropriated the previous session and
indicted the funds are being well applied.
Oil and Gas Seismic, Well, and Lease Data Acquisition
$250,000 general funds
Reference No.: 33977
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
On-going Project
Proper oversight of industry exploration and development (E&D)
activities on state lands requires that the Division maintain
a degree of technical parity with lessees and operators. To
accomplish its mission of responsibly managing and encouraging
development of the State's petroleum resources, the Division
must have funding to acquire, analyze, and preserve oil and
gas E&D data, to maintain the technical and engineering
applications necessary to do so, to acquire the information in
quantity, and to do so in formats compatible with the
Division's analytical applications. This project differs from
previous similar projects in that it now includes reservoir
engineering responsibilities.
Mr. Bus told of the Division of Oil and Gas' use of this data to
determine terms and conditions of leases. He stated that this
information is available for purchase from the federal government.
He furthered that the funds would also be utilized to purchase
equipment to store the acquired data.
Land Use Data Base System Upgrade for Improved Access
$200,000 general funds
Reference No.: 33909
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
Phased - Underway Project
This project updates the central Department of Natural
Resources business system. The present system does not
adequately meet the needs of Department customers or staff.
The functionality is too limited; this results in higher costs
of doing business for the State and the customer. For example,
data entry is slow, reporting is inadequate, and too many
paper forms are involved. The present system does not do
enough to support the Department's basic business processes.
Department of Natural Resources will continue to realign its
essential business processes, as defined by statute and
regulation, with its information system. It will raise the
productivity of Department staff to accomplish higher per unit
volumes of work by simplifying the manner in which information
is entered.
Mr. Bus told of the significant progress to modernize the system
undertaken with the funds appropriated in the current fiscal year.
He stated the public has better access to information and could
submit bids for land purchases and permit applications on-line.
Mr. Bus stated the additional funds would be utilized to provide
electronic permitting, which would assist in the Governor's goal to
streamline processes.
Co-Chair Wilken noted this project has been funded in FY 01 and FY
02 and the project would be completed at the conclusion of FY 05.
Mr. Bus affirmed this is the intent.
Senator Taylor asked if this equipment would be compatible with
other State computer equipment.
Mr. Bus answered it would be compatible and described the
interagency access.
Co-Chair Wilken recognized those Department personnel available via
teleconference to answer questions.
Oil and Gas Leasing and Accounting Systems Integration
$150,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37969
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
Phased - New Project
This CIP [Capital Improvement Project] is requested to meet a
critical need to redesign and expand the exiting Oil and Gas
Royalty Accounting System (OGRA) capabilities. The Division of
Oil and Gas Management and Commercial Analysts have a need to
extract royalty accounting and lease data. The FY 04 capital
project will redesign just the existing Accounting and Lease
Systems to eliminate duplications between the two systems and
to enhance reporting and audit capabilities. A September 2002
completed external review verified the internal assessment by
the Department that the database needs to be redesigned in
order to meet current and expected needs of the State, and to
maximize revenue generation and valuation.
Mr. Bus overviewed this request, which was anticipated to take two
years to complete.
Oil and Gas Reservoir Potential for Gas in the Brooks Range
$50,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37736
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
One-time Project
Managed by the Division of Oil and Gas and accomplished
cooperatively with the Energy Section of the Division of
Geological and Geophysical Surveys and the U.S. Geological
Survey, this project seeks to stimulate private-sector gas
exploration in the Brooks Range foothills. Very few wells have
been drilled in the area and potential conventional natural
gas resources and reservoir producibility are poorly
understood. New data needed to answer these questions include
a detailed subsurface stratigraphic framework and reservoir
quality information, including porosity and permeability
estimates. These data are critical to developing this
potentially huge resource.
Mr. Bus spoke to the significant interest in exploration in this
area. He stated this funding would "support the acquisition and
analysis of the baseline data needed for increased private sector
exploration and development." He clarified the acquisition would
entail collection of rock samplings.
MARK MYERS, Director, Division of Oil and Gas, Department of
Natural Resources, testified via teleconference from Anchorage that
he was available to answer questions.
Navigable Waters Assertions
$188,700 general fund
Reference No.: 37765
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2007
Phased Project
This project would fund the State's assertion of ownership for
navigable waters, including filing applications with the BLM
[federal Bureau of Land Management] for disclaimers of
interest, research to make navigability determinations,
identify navigable waters, and improve state-federal
coordination on making navigability determinations and
decisions. Most significantly, this CIP would fund the State's
efforts to prepare and file applications with the US Bureau of
Land Management for "Recordable Disclaimers of Interests" to
clear State title to certain navigable waters.
Mr. Bus read a portion of the Project Description/Justification as
follows.
In January 2003, the United States Department of Interior
adopted a revised regulation that allows states to file
requests for "Recordable Disclaimers of Interest" to resolve
land title issues with the federal government. This regulation
allows the Federal Government to disclaim ownership of state
owned navigable waters. The state needs to seize this
opportunity to resolve the issue of ownership of navigable
waters. The first application was submitted by the State on
February 14, 2003, for the Black River, a tributary of the
Porcupine River in eastern Alaska. With this funding,
applications could be filed for several hundred additional
rivers within the next year. These would primarily be
applications for rivers that BLM has determined navigable. In
future years, the CIP would fund research that would identify
hundreds of additional streams that are navigable and the
State could file applications for recordable disclaimers.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if this would be the first year of funding
for this project.
Mr. Bus affirmed.
Senator Taylor asked if the funds would be allocated for Department
of Natural Resources personnel or for Department of Law personnel.
Mr. Bus replied that the funding would be utilized for Department
of Natural Resources personnel, including a Natural Resources
Manager, although the Department would coordinate efforts with the
Department of Law and the Department of Fish and Game. He described
the duties of the Department of Natural Resources staff on this
project in completing paperwork and cartography.
DICK MYLIUS, Resource Assessment and Development Manager, Division
of Mining, Land and Water, Department of Natural Resources,
testified via teleconference from Anchorage that the Department of
Law determined that no additional staff would be necessary in that
Department to undertake its portion of this recordable disclaimers
project. He added that before the updated federal regulation, the
only method to establish title was to file actions, which did
require significant assistance from the Department of Law.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if Mr. Mylius would administer this program.
Mr. Mylius affirmed.
Senator Taylor referenced a decision rendered in a "three rivers
case", whether the US Department of Interior is now recognizing the
"State's rightful claims" to navigable waters. He also wanted to
know if this project includes the "subsurface fee" in that
documented federal assurance would be granted acknowledging that
the State owns subsurface lands located under navigable waters,
including waters along the Pacific Coast.
Mr. Mylius replied on behalf of the Department of Natural Resources
in saying, "that's our hope" that the federal BLM would recognize
the State's claim. He relayed that the federal government is now
willing to issue recordable disclaimers on waters it agrees are
navigable, including the Black River, which was involved in the
aforementioned three rivers situation. He qualified the federal
agency must undergo an extensive public notice and public comment
procedure before final decisions could be made. He noted interest
in the matter of conservation organizations that could influence
the agency.
Senator Taylor commented this is a change in federal policy.
Co-Chair Wilken asked why this is a capital budget item rather than
operating.
Mr. Bus replied that this is a new program and because new
positions would be added, it was determined more appropriate in the
capital budget, although he agreed that most of the expenses would
be operational and could be funded through an operations
appropriation.
Improve Forest Productivity in Southern Southeast Alaska
$100,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37739
Category: Development
Location: Prince of Wales Island
Election District: Cordova/Southeast Island
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
One-time Project
To sustain a long-term timber supply to value-added processors
in SE Alaska, we must keep managed stands productive. Forest
lands in SE are the most productive in Alaska, and the State
owns little land in this area. To maximize production from out
limited land base, we must thin young, overstocked stands. We
inherited a backlog of overstocked State land that was cut
over by the USFS. Overstocking slows tree growth, delays re-
harvest, and degrades wildlife habitat. With CIP funding we
will thin these stands to accelerate growth for future
harvest, maintain the rotation age, ensure sustainable harvest
levels, and increase habitat benefits.
Mr. Bus added that private contractors would be employed to
undertake this effort on approximately 240 acres on Prince of Wales
Island. He anticipated a future gain of $1.3 million because the
remaining tress would mature sooner, grow larger and subsequently
provide higher value.
State Park Emergency Repairs
$120,000 general funds
Reference No.: 6843
Category: Health/Human Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
On-going Project
Alaskans comprise 80% of the almost 4 million annual visits to
the Alaska State Park system. Many of the State parks are old
and broken ($42 million in identified deferred maintenance
needs) and present potential health and safety hazards to
visitors. The project will fund emergency repairs to park
units to protect visitor health and safety. Projects will
upgrade or replace the basic facilities at parks including
outhouses, drinking water systems, safe access roads and
trails, safe shelter from harsh weather, and safe camping
sites.
Mr. Bus commented this is a "bare minimum request".
Co-Chair Wilken noted this request is about half the amount of
previous appropriations of the past seven years. He asked if this
reflects that the State is "catching up" with deferred maintenance
projects, or whether fewer funds are being requested.
Mr. Bus agreed the request is for a lesser amount than past years
and acknowledged more projects could be addressed. He informed that
the Department is investigating privitization of some units, and
only "dire needs" would be addressed until the management status of
all parks is determined.
National Historic Preservation Fund Federal Grant Program
$950,000 federal receipts
$50,000 G/F Match
Reference No.: 6865
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
On-going Project
The National Historic Preservation Fund is a federal matching
grant project with a 60% federal and 40% State match. It
provides the State a basic historic preservation program
including planning, survey, inventory, project review, and
public education. The federal/state partnership program
created in the National Historic Preservation Act requires a
State historic preservation program to meet basic levels of
professional staffing and program services. Cooperative
agreements with federal agencies and grants from federal
programs, which do not require match, fund cultural resource
management projects.
Mr. Bus explained this longstanding federal pass-through program
administered by the Department, in which communities and
organizations apply for grants. He described the review board
process of prioritizing and recommending projects. He noted the
communities and organizations must provide matching funds.
Co-Chair Wilken asked why matching general funds are required.
Mr. Bus replied the organizations and communities must provide 40
percent matching funds to receive the grant and the State must
provide up to $50,000 matching funds for administrative and
oversight of the program.
Forestry Federal Funded Grants for Fire and Forest
$2,800,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 37769
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
This project provides receipt authority for federal funding
including that provided to the State through the federal
government's National Fire Plan. Federal funding provides
specific program support including that intended to improve
the ability of the State and local government to educate,
mitigate, prepare for and respond to the threats of wildland
fire. This authority, for primarily US Forest Service funds,
will allow State participation in cooperative forestry
projects in which the State and federal government have mutual
interest to participate. Such projects also include forest
health initiatives, insect and disease studies, internships,
and community and urban forest inventories and planning.
Mr. Bus informed that each year the US Forest Service provides
funds for insect and disease projects, and urban and community
projects. He stated that the majority of funds are allocated for
contractual services and equipment purchases for local governments
and volunteer fire departments.
Senator Taylor requested an explanation of the program.
Mr. Bus told of the "grouping of different federal projects" within
this item, one of which is the insect and disease project. He
stated he would provide further information on this project. He
pointed out that insect and disease damage contributes
significantly to fire hazard.
Senator Taylor asked about efforts undertaken to address insect and
disease damage on State lands.
Mr. Bus clarified this program addresses all land in Alaska, rather
than only State-owned land. He noted the areas most threatened with
insect and diseases are the Kenai Peninsula and the Mat-Su valleys,
in which no State forests are located.
Senator Taylor expounded on the damage caused to forests and
asserted actions in addition to conducting studies are needed, such
as salvage.
Mr. Bus replied the Department offered much of the affected State-
owned forest for timber sales; however, because of the insect and
disease damage, no interest was expressed.
Senator Taylor asked if the Department conduced salvage efforts
itself or contracted to another entity to do so.
Mr. Bus responded that funds would be necessary to undertake these
efforts and that the Department has requested capital
appropriations in the past for this purpose. He stated that some
funds were provided for the current fiscal year and that salvage
efforts were underway in the Kenai Peninsula.
Senator Taylor continued to speak to the reduced value of the
affected timber and increased fire hazard. He preferred the State
"manage that environment" rather than allow a fire to occur.
Mr. Bus commented that some of the funds appropriated to this
program are used to contract with local fire crews to reduce fire
hazards, in such areas as the Anchorage hillside. He stated that it
is difficult to attract bidders due to low commodities on timber.
Co-Chair Wilken referenced the federal match requirement of 50
percent "in-kind general funds". He asked the definition of in kind
general funds and whether they could be utilized for other
purposes.
Mr. Bus explained that some "regularly appropriated program monies"
qualify for this matching requirement and thus additional funds are
not necessary.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if the total amount of this capital request
is $4.2 million.
Mr. Bus clarified some of the projects are "100 percent pass
through" and do not require a 50 percent in kind general fund
match. He indicated he would provide a listing of the specific
projects.
Co-Chair Wilken again asked if the in kind general funds be "spent
on something else."
Mr. Bus replied the in kind general funds are currently allocated
for timber management purposes.
Co-Chair Wilken questioned why the outline of the item does not
indicate the State match requirement.
Mr. Bus shared the observation and stated he would research the
matter.
Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Federal Program
$1,500,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 6855
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
The Legislature enacted the Alaska Surface Coal Mining Control
and Reclamation Act in 1983 (AS 27.21 and 11 AAC 90). One of
the main purposes of the act was to promote the reclamation of
areas mined and left without adequate reclamation before
enactment of the federal Surface Mining Control and
Reclamation Act of 1977, that endangered public health and
safety, that substantially degraded the quality of the
environment and prevented the beneficial use of or caused
damage to land and water resources.
Mr. Bus relayed that the Department has identified 16 coal sites
and 124 non-coal sites as hazardous and that require reclamation,
at a total cost of $36 million. He stated the amount of this
request would be utilized to address those sites of highest
priority and that the program would continue to address the
identified sites as long as funding is appropriated.
National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grants Program
$2,500,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 37962
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
On-going Project
National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grants, from the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (Department of [the] Interior), are
available to the Division of Parks, working in cooperation
with local governments and private non-profit organizations,
to secure protection of valuable wetlands across Alaska.
Mr. Bus noted funding for this program is passed through the
Department as grants for organizations and communities. He
explained this specific request would provide funding to purchase
land located on Afognak Island, near Kodiak.
Senator Taylor recalled the land in question was selected by a
"series of villages" through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement
Act (ANCSA) for commercial and recreational purposes to provide
jobs to residents. He remarked that if this purchase, facilitated
by the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill (EVOS) Trustee Council, transpires,
the land would be removed from "the tax rolls" and would be
eliminated as a resource base to provide jobs. He asked if the land
would be "locked up" as a wilderness area.
Mr. Bus reiterated that the Department would only serve as a "pass-
through" of this funding and that the parties involved would have
to speak to their reasoning. He pointed out that the sellers and
buyers are willing to participate.
Senator Taylor surmised that a significant purchase price would
provide incentive for sellers. He compared the Department's role as
a pass-through entity to those indirectly involved in the Holocaust
of World War II. He charged that the State is responsible for a
policy that is "continuing to erode" private land ownership. He
spoke to the amount of land the EVOS organization has purchased to
date saying he found the practice "offensive".
Co-Chair Green suggested reviewing the benefactors and contributors
to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the organization requesting
the grant to purchase the land on Afognak Island. She predicted
this information would be insightful.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the party that would own the land if this
transaction were approved and the sale proceeded.
Mr. Bus answered that the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the
Kodiak Bear Trust would have ownership.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the amount of acreage and whether this land
could be used for other purposes.
Mr. Bus replied the amount involved in this project is 5,000 acres.
He pointed out some of the land is currently owned by the EVOS
Trustee Counsel and that the funds would be used to purchase the
timber rights on this property.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the consequences if the legislature decided
against authorizing the appropriation.
Mr. Bus answered the organization would not "execute their
transaction".
Senator Bunde asked the balance of the EVOS fund.
Mr. Bus stated he would provide the information.
PETE PANARESE, Acting Director, Division of Parks and Outdoor
Recreation, Department of Natural Resources, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage to clarify the process whereby the
Department would appropriate the federal funds to the Rocky
Mountain Elk Foundation to combine with matching funds to purchase
the land. He corrected that the State would have ownership of the
land, since the Foundation is not "in the land management business"
but rather acquires land for habitat protection purposes.
Co-Chair Wilken asked who owns the remainder of the 5,000 acres not
owned by EVOS.
Mr. Panarese replied he would research the matter.
Co-Chair Green asked whether the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is
affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Institute.
Mr. Panarese was unsure.
Senator Bunde informed that the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is a
"pro elk hunting" organization, similar to the Ducks Unlimited
organization, which promotes habitat and other matters related to
hunting.
Alaska Oil and Gas Exploration, Development and Permitting
Federal DOE Project
$737,700 federal receipts
Reference No.: 37770
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
Phased Project
This is a federal Department of Energy grant project for the
Alaska Oil and Gas Exploration, Development, and Permitting
project. The goal of the program is to increase the production
of domestic oil. The intent of the Alaska project is to
increase development activity from small to moderate sized
firms by providing them with extensive public information on
existing wells via the Internet.
Mr. Bus informed this project was presented to the Legislative
Budget and Audit Committee in October 2002 and received approval to
receive and expend $850,000, of a total $1.5 million grant, at that
time. He stated it is a cooperative project between the Department
of Natural Resources, the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation
Commission, the Department of Fish and Game and the Office of
Coastal Zone Management. He informed that the funds would be
expended to obtain well data to make available on the Internet for
independent developers.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if this is a phased project.
Mr. Bus explained the project began in FY 03 and would likely be
completed in FY 04.
Alaska Boating Safety
$600,000 federal receipts
$120,000 receipt supported services
Reference No.: 32553
Category: Health/Human Services
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
The goal of the Alaska Boating Safety Program is to reduce
preventable boating fatalities and other accidents by
providing programs that promote safety for persons and
property in and connected to the use, operation, and equipment
of boats, and encourage safe and enjoyable non-commercial
boating in Alaska.
Mr. Bus pointed out the receipt-supported services funds are
generated from user fees. He said the project funds boating safety
education programs and the Kids Don't Float program, among others.
SFC 03 # 24, Side B 09:49 AM
Mr. Bus continued speaking to the reduced fatality rates and
boating related accidents realized since the inception of the
program.
Co-Chair Green understood no general funds would be involved in
this request.
Co-Chair Wilken explained the receipt-supported services were
collected by the Division of Motor Vehicles in the form of boat
registration fees.
Mr. Bus furthered that funding for this program has always been
required. Before legislation was adopted to change oversight from
the federal government to the State government, he stated municipal
governments and other organizations provided the matching funds. He
informed that the use of the receipt supported services funds in
this request would allow the program to secure the maximum amount
of federal funds.
Co-Chair Green recalled that when HB 106 was passed in an earlier
legislative session, it was understood that no State funds would be
required.
Co-Chair Wilken remembered the same.
Senator Taylor stated the program was to be self-sufficient.
Senator Bunde commented the State funds are "pass through" funds
generated from boat registration fees.
Mr. Bus affirmed, qualifying that because receipt supported
services funds are included in the general fund, this program would
technically receive State funds.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the missions and measures for this program.
Mr. Bus replied the criteria of the federal grant serves as the
missions and measures. He offered statistics of specific results,
parties who received the grants and success rates.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the consequences of not funding this request.
Mr. Bus explained that if the receipt supported services funds were
not appropriated, the amount of federal funds received would be
reduced unless additional funds could be secured from local
governments and organizations. He anticipated these sources had
been "exhausted" and therefore, the receipt-supported services were
requested. He stated that if receipt and expenditure of the federal
funds were not approved by the legislature, the program would be
eliminated for the fiscal year. He indicated the Department would
request receipt authority for the full amount of federal funds
available with the goal of securing the maximum amount possible of
matching funds from alternate sources.
Co-Chair Wilken announced he would scrutinize this program. He
spoke to his concerns that this program may not be in the best
interest of Alaskans. He commented that it has "bothered" him "that
we spend three-quarters of a million dollars to tell parents to put
life jackets on their kids" and that he must register his kayak.
Senator Taylor asked the percent of matching funds required to
receive the federal funds.
Mr. Bus estimated the requirement to be 50 percent.
Senator Taylor projected $120,000 would be generated from
registration fees.
Mr. Bus explained that the Division of Motor Vehicles collects boat
registration fees, and that most of the funds are used to
administer the program. He stated $120,000 is the difference
between the total amount collected and the amount necessary to
administer the program.
Senator Taylor asked about the matching funds provided by
organizations and municipalities.
Mr. Bus replied that communities in which these programs are
operated contribute to the matching fund requirement.
Senator B. Stevens referenced the average 25 boating accidents per
year and requested statistics of where boating accidents occur and
the number of injuries or deaths per incidence. He commented that
in some areas noncommercial boating activity is transportation not
just recreation and asked for an accounting of accidents related to
the type of activity.
National Recreational Trails Federal Program
$695,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 6854
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
All across Alaska, Alaskans rely on trails for recreations,
subsistence, and travel between communities. These trails need
constant maintenance to ensure they are safe for passage and
to ensure that they remain open and available for use. Funds
are distributed by 80-20 matching grants for recreational
trail and trailhead development and maintenance, and for
education programs relating to trail safety and environmental
protections. Grants are awarded to organizations, businesses,
agencies, and local governments.
Mr. Bus noted this item is also a pass-through for grants awarded
in three categories: motorized, receiving 30 percent of the funds,
non-motorized, receiving 30 percent and 40 percent to a
combination. He stated that a review board considers and
prioritizes the proposals, which are submitted by communities.
Senator Bunde asked the relationship of this request to SB 71 and
whether this program involves funds in addition to those
appropriated as part of the Trails and Recreation Access for Alaska
(TRAAK) program.
Senator B. Stevens replied that the TRAAK program is funded through
the Surface Transportation project, not through the Department of
Natural Resources and therefore he surmised this item is in
addition to the TRAAK program.
KIM RICE, Administrative Manager, Division of Parks and Outdoor
Recreation, Department of Natural Resources, parks testified via
teleconference from Anchorage affirmed this funding would be in
addition to the TRAAK funds appropriated to the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities.
Land and Water Conservation Fund Federal Grants for Local
Governments
$675,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 32552
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2008
On-going Project
More than any other state in the Union, Alaskans recreate
outdoors. Outdoor recreation opportunities are very important
for Alaskans. This provides a wide variety of benefits
including improved physical and mental health, activities for
children to prevent delinquency, leadership and teamwork
development, and economic opportunities for individuals and
local communities. LWCF is a 50/50 matching grant program that
provides funding to state and local governmental entities for
the acquisition and/or development of outdoor recreation areas
and facilities such as soccer fields, campgrounds, tennis
courts, boat launches, hiking trails, picnic areas, and
outdoor hockey rinks.
Mr. Bus noted this program has been in existence for many years. He
described the process in which communities apply for the grants and
supply 50 percent matching funds to construct recreational
facilities. He exampled the Twin Lakes Park in Juneau, as a project
undertaken with these grant funds. He emphasized the grant
recipients are required to maintain the facilities once
constructed.
Senator Bunde commented this funding could also be utilized for
trails.
Mental Health Trust Land Development
$600,000 MHTAAR
Reference No.: 6853
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
Mental Health Bill
The Trust Land Office (TLO) will contract for services to
supplement its core operations. Typically the services are
related to nonrecurring projects such as the administration of
a large timber sale, the evaluation of a particularly complex
transaction, development of an asset management plan for
certain trust lands or resources or significant improvements
to the TLOs information management.
Mr. Bus pointed out this request was submitted at the request of
the Mental Health Trust Authority (MHTA) to fund on-going
operations to generate income from its land holdings.
Co-Chair Wilken asked why this item is not included in the
operating budget.
Mr. Bus responded the funds requested in this item would be
utilized to contract for various long-term services, such as
"timber layout", although he noted funding for staffing is included
in the operating budget.
Senator Taylor opined this is the wrong "funding mechanism" because
these timber sales generate significant revenue over the cost of
the preparation of the sales. He stated that the revenue is
deposited to the general fund and contended the legislature is
required each year to "pull money out of the capital budget" to
provide the Department with the necessary funds to undertake future
timber sales. He suggested that a portion of timber sales receipts
be designated for related expenditures.
Mr. Bus emphasized the funds for this request are entirely Mental
Health Trust Authority Authorized Receipts utilized for timber
sales on lands owned and administered by MHTA. He stressed no
general funds are involved.
AT EASE 10:06 AM / 10:07 AM
Alaska Cadastral Project
$518,700 federal receipts
Reference No.: 37768
Category: Natural Resources
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
Phased Project
The vision is to create an integrated system for sharing land
parcel information between federal, state, local, and native
organizations. The Alaska Cadastral Project will enable anyone
to access current rights, interests and boundary information
involving real property. The project builds partnerships for
the collection, management, standardization, and sharing of
Alaska's land parcel information to improve business processes
and support decision making. The project offers several
strategic areas for improving the services of state and local
government by improving the quality and accessibility of
essential business information related to real property.
Mr. Bus pointed out no matching funds are required for this item.
He informed that the Department presented this project to the
Legislative Budget and Audit Committee in October 2002 and
requested authorization to receive and expend the first installment
of the $600,000 total amount.
Mr. Bus stated that one aspect of this project involves digitizing
paper records of plats.
Co-Chair Green relayed conversations and presentations by the
Mineral and Mining Commission, the University of Alaska and other
parties proposing similar projects. She asked if this item reflects
the same project or whether duplication would occur.
Mr. Bus replied that the Department is the primary "mapper" of
State land, the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) conducts
the primary mapping activities of federal land, municipalities and
Native corporations undertake the efforts on land they own. He
stated this project is intended to combine the information into an
electronic database.
Mr. Bus furthered that the project Co-Chair Green referenced
involves a separate commercial activity.
Co-Chair Green also asked whether this information, once the
project is completed would be available for purchase or at no cost.
Mr. Bus responded that all the information is public information.
RICHARD MCMAHON, Chief, Lands Records Information, Division of
Support Services, Department of Natural Resources, testified via
teleconference from Anchorage to affirm that land records are
public information. He informed that the Division is "actively
participating" with the other projects and assured the efforts are
complementary and any duplication would be eliminated.
Co-Chair Green agreed to the importance of mapping, but stressed
that the State should not fund duplicate efforts and instead the
parties should jointly undertake the project and ensure all needs
are adequately served.
Co-Chair Wilken also recalled a conversation with parties
interested in undertaking a mapping effort.
AT EASE 10:12 AM / 10:12 AM
Mr. McMahon agreed with this "vision" and stressed the Division is
working to ensure the best expenditure of this grant provided by
the US Department of Energy.
Senator Bunde questioned why during the current "era of user fees"
the State would provide this information at no charge.
Mr. Bus responded that much of this information is required for
recording of lands and that the State does assess a fee for such
recordings. He stated that once land is recorded, the information
becomes public. He informed that Governor Murkowski intends to
review the fee structure.
Senator Bunde asked whether the recording fees cover the cost of
gathering and providing the information.
Mr. Bus relayed the goal is that revenue meets expenditures. He
noted that in previous years revenue has far exceeded the costs of
administering the program.
Senator Bunde asked if the Department has therefore generated the
$518,000 necessary to fund this item.
Mr. Bus answered yes and explained the funds would be utilized to
digitize records dating back to the 1800s.
Senator Bunde challenged that the fees collected for the paper
records of the 1800s could not be sufficient to cover the costs of
accessing the data at the present time. He therefore surmised the
State should charge a fee to access those records.
Mr. Bus detailed process of accessing this information, which is
allowed at no charge if the data is only viewed. However, he
remarked that if the information is to be used for commercial
purposes, the Department sells a compact disc containing the
information.
Senator Bunde commented the State is "offering a service for free"
that private enterprise is also attempting to provide.
Co-Chair Wilken expressed that the Department of Natural Resources
budget subcommittee should further research the matter.
Co-Chair Wilken noted the overview of this item does not indicated
a State matching fund requirement.
Mr. McMahon replied that the Department could utilize existing
general funds appropriated for FY 03.
Co-Chair Wilken understood that $130,000 is necessary to receive
the federal funds.
Mr. Bus explained that in-kind expenditures qualify for the State
match requirement.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if the in kind expenditures are monitory or
in the form of labor provided.
Mr. Bus answered that mostly labor is utilized for the in-kind
expenditures.
Co-Chair Wilken again indicated the matter warrants additional
review.
Recorder's Office Film Conversion
$388,000 Receipt Supported Services
Reference No.: 37732
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
One-Time Project
One of the primary statutory functions of the Recorder's/ UCC
component is to provide its customers with easy access to the
permanent public records. This project would support this
statutory function in two ways: (1) it would enable the
component to digitize document images from existing film
records for the past ten years statewide; and (2) it would
enhance the mainframe based indexing system by providing a
direct link to the document images, thereby replacing the
cumbersome and time consuming microfiche process currently
used for customer research and retrieval of these older
records.
Mr. Bus stated that earlier projects have converted records older
than ten years. He told of the many people viewing this information
and the desire for a digital format.
Senator Bunde noted this program is financially self-supporting.
USGS Streamgaging Cooperative Program
$180,000 Statutory Designated Program Receipts (SDPR)
Reference No.: 37762
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
This CIP request authorization to accept funds from the
private sector, local government and other state agencies, and
pass those funds through to the USGS as part of its stream
gaging coop program. Industry, state and local government
often asks, and pays for, the USGS to install and operate a
stream gage. The information is usually necessary for resource
development, hydroelectric projects, or water supply. If they
pay the USGS directly, USGS can't provide matching funds. But
if the funding is passed through a state agency, the funds can
be matched at 100% by the federal government.
Mr. Bus noted that although this item reflects private sector
investments, authority to receive and expend the funds is required.
Recorder's Office Plat Imaging
$100,000 Receipt Supported Services
Reference No.: 37731
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
One-Time Project
A primary statutory function of the Recorder's/UCC component
is to provide its customers with easy access to the permanent
public records, including subdivision plats and surveys.
Through several cooperative ventures, the State Recorder's
Office has obtained images of approximately two-thirds of the
recorded plats and surveys in the state and will be making
them available to the public on line via the component's web
site under a federally funded grant. This CIP project
addresses only the imaging of the remaining one-third of the
historic plats and surveys in the state and the on-line
indexing of those that predate the 1970s.
Mr. Bus stated this item would provide for the conversion of
approximately one-third of the data not funded through the
Cadastral Project.
Municipality and Borough Special Assessments
$50,000 State Land
Reference No.: 31874
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
This project funds special assessments levied by
municipalities and boroughs against the Department of Natural
Resources for improvements that benefit state properties.
Mr. Bus told of the State Land Disposal Income funds utilized for
this project.
Improving Milk Processing Facilities in Milk Shortage States
Federal Program
$5,000,000 federal receipts
Reference No.: 37964
Category: Development
Location: Anchorage Areawide
Election District: Anchorage Areawide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
Phased Project
A proposed "Milk Shortage Program" will assist states that
consume more fluid milk than they produce. USDA will be
authorized to grant funds for modernizing processing
facilities.
Mr. Bus relayed he had met with Co-Chair Green on this matter and
he expressed intent to receive but hold these funds until a
determination was made whether the State would participate in the
program. He indicated the funds could be spent for various
purposes, including construction or renovation of facilities and
upgrading the packaging and delivery of dairy products.
Co-Chair Wilken understood the total cost of the project is $20
million.
Mr. Bus stated the intent is that $5 million would be appropriated
each year for five years, with $20 million "earmarked for Alaska".
He qualified the Department first must specify how the funds would
be expended.
Co-Chair Wilken requested Mr. Bus continue to work with Co-Chair
Green on this project.
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys Federal Grants
Projects
$1,100,400 federal receipts
Reference No.: 38144
Category: Development
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
On-going Project
The Alaska Mineral and Energy Inventory (AMEI) project
compromises a group of mineral and energy inventory data
generation, organization, and public data delivery task that
are directly tied to mineral and energy inventory mandates in
AS 41.08, the Legislatively designated outcome measures for
DGGS. This project provides receipt authority for Federal
funds specifically directed towards making Alaska mineral and
Energy data more widely available and more easily accessible.
Mr. Bus pointed out this item requires no State matching funds. He
overviewed the various projects undertaken with these grant funds.
Co-Chair Wilken noted this program was previously funded through
the operating budget.
Mr. Bus explained that expenditures for these projects are made
over several fiscal years.
North Slope Tundra Travel Model - U.S. Dept. of Energy Grant
$250,000 federal receipt
Reference No.: 38391
Category: Development
Location: North Slope Borough
Election District: Arctic
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
Department of Natural Resources is engaged in a collaborative
research project with the U.S. Department of Energy for the
purpose of research to generate a probability prediction model
based upon the resistance of tundra to disturbance associated
with wintertime cross-country travel. This study is essential
to the long-term goal of increasing the length of the winter
work season for seismic exploration, ice road construction,
and other development and production activities requiring
cross tundra travel while ensuring environmental protection of
the tundra surface.
Mr. Bus overviewed this item.
Mr. Myers furthered the intent is to allow earlier construction of
ice roads and other modes of travel, specifically over the
"exploration season", which must occur "off ice". He stated this
would increase the number of wells that could be drilled. He noted
the length of ice roads increases as activities are conducted
further away from infrastructures.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if this study would occur within the National
Petroleum Reserve-Alaska.
Mr. Myers stated the project would examine better technology to
determine when frost depth and snow protection is sufficient. He
stated other modes of travel would also be investigated. He
remarked the debate has been ongoing regarding the best methods for
both State-owned and NPR-A lands.
Remote Recreational Cabins Survey and Appraisals
$430,000 State Land Disposal Income funds
Reference No.: 38480
[Note: detail project analysis not provided.]
Mr. Bus informed the receipts are generated from "people who are
interested in remote recreational cabin properties." He explained
that to purchase these properties, buyers must obtain appraisals
and surveys, which the Department performs at the expense of the
buyers.
Senator Bunde asked why private surveyors are not contracted by the
buyers to conduct these appraisals and surveys.
Mr. Mylius explained that in previous "stake it yourself" programs
such as this, high failure rates occurred because buyers did not
"follow through on their survey work". He surmised this was due to
the high costs and delays between the date the parcels were staked
and the date the surveys were conducted. He added that the
Department has had difficulties with individual surveyors. As a
result, it was determined to be more economical for the buyers and
more likely the land would be surveyed if the Department collected
the fees and contracted private parties to undertake the surveys
and appraisals.
Senator Bunde asked how the costs were determined in advance of
conducting the surveys and appraisals.
Mr. Mylius responded that surveyors provide estimates and the
difference in the actual cost is added or deducted from the
purchase price of the land.
JEFF JOHNSON, Boating Law Administrator, Office of Boating Safety,
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Department of Natural
Resources, testified via teleconference from Anchorage, to answer
questions if necessary.
Co-Chair Wilken announced the Committee would review this matter at
a later date.
Department of Public Safety
Aircraft and Vessel Repair and Maintenance
$1,227,400 general funds
Reference No.: 6121
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
On-going Project
Department of Public Safety Aircraft and Vessel Repair and
Maintenance. These funds are for the annual repair,
replacement and maintenance requirements of this division's
aircraft and vessel fleet. For example, the funds will be used
to rebuild vessel and aircraft engines and components when
they reach the limits of safe useful life. Large marine diesel
engines require expert vendors to rebuild them. Many other
components of vessels and aircraft must be maintained or
replaced routinely to ensure safe operating conditions.
KAREN MORGAN, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Public Safety, noted the amount requested for FY 04
is less than in previous fiscal years due the proposal to remove
the P/V Woldstad from service along with some aircraft, which would
be sold. She indicated authorization for these sales is included in
the Section 5 of the bill.
JOEL HARD, Colonel, Director, Division of Fish and Wildlife
Protection, Department of Public Safety, pointed out that the
budget has no mechanism to accrue operating funds for future
maintenance needs, as is practice in the private sector. Therefore,
he stated that capital requests must be submitted each year for
this purpose.
Senator Bunde asked if the Department's equipment sustained losses
as a result of the recent windstorm in the Anchorage area.
Col. Hard told of some damage inflicted on two super piper cubs and
wing damage to another aircraft.
Senator Bunde asked if these vehicles would have to be replaced.
Col. Hard answered they would.
Senator B. Stevens asked if request for funds to undertake repairs
to the P/V Stimson is an annual request.
Col. Hard replied it is not. He explained that the larger vessels
are generally taken to a shipyard for major repairs once every two
years. He stated the P/V Stimson was last dry docked in 2001.
SFC 03 # 25, Side A 10:37 AM
Col. Hard continued the Department is evaluating long term deferred
maintenance needs of older vessels.
Senator B. Stevens expressed that the issue of repairing or
removing the P/V Woldstad and the P/V Stimson has been discussed in
the Department of Public Safety budget subcommittee.
Senator B. Stevens asked if dry dock repairs have been alternated
each year between the P/V Woldstad and the P/V Stimson.
Col. Hard affirmed.
Senator B. Stevens requested the repair history of the P/V Woldstad
over the previous eight years.
Col. Hard stated he would provide this information.
Fish and Wildlife Statewide Law Enforcement Equipment
Replacement
$750,000 general funds
Reference No.: 6127
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
On-going Project
Replacement of FWP Statewide Law Enforcement Equipment
required for the day-to-day enforcement activity of this
division. For example, to purchase and replace equipment such
as skiffs, outboard motors, snowmachines, All-Terrain-
Vehicles, and other equipment required in enforcement patrols
and search and rescue operations.
Ms. Morgan explained the amount of this request is higher than of
past fiscal years due to previous deferred maintenance needs that
were unfunded.
Senator Bunde opined that $80,000 is substantial amount for a 22-
foot skiff.
Col. Hard described the specialized foam hull skiffs developed for
Fish and Wildlife Projection purposes. He remarked that the design
the Department pioneered has now become the standard for the
military.
Co-Chair Wilken asked what company builds these boats.
Col. Hard listed Safe Boat, Inc.
Alaska State Troopers Law Enforcement Equipment Replacement
$600,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37774
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2009
On-going Project
The purchase of new and replacement equipment for the use of
State Trooper personnel throughout the state. The Division of
Alaska State Troopers historically has relied upon CIP funding
for these types of replacement items due to a lack of
replacement equipment funding in the AST operating budget.
Ms. Morgan noted this request is included in the governor's
proposed budget on an annual basis.
DON BOWMAN, Major, Administrative Commander, Division of Alaska
State Troopers, Department of Public Safety, testified via
teleconference from an off-net location that this request is to
fund replacement of highly used equipment necessary for day-to-day
operations.
Fairbanks Roof Replacement Project
$1,019,100 general funds
Reference No.: 37778
Category: Public Protection
Location: Fairbanks Areawide
Election District: Fairbanks Areawide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2005
Phased Project
This project requests construction funding for replacement of
the Department of Public Safety HQ building roof in Fairbanks.
Design funding of $43,600 general funds was appropriated in FY
02 and the design study was completed in July, 2002. This roof
replacement project is also identified as the number one
Department of Public Safety priority on the Statewide deferred
maintenance list.
Ms. Morgan pointed out this is the second year this request has
been submitted for funding. She informed that leaks have been
identified and stressed the roof must be replace before damage
occurs to the building structure.
Co-Chair Wilken asked whether this project could be undertaken in
phases over several years. He also suggested the funds could be
appropriated in phases and the project undertaken in a future
fiscal year.
Ms. Morgan explained that once the project is begun, it must be
completed without interruption. She agreed the funds could be
compiled and the project undertaken in the future.
Firefighting Breathing Apparatus Replacement
$225,000 general funds
Reference No.: 37785
Category: Public Protection
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2004
One-time Project
Purchase of ninety (90) self contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) and spare bottles used to conduct basic and advanced
fire training at the three State operated regional training
centers in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Juneau. These new units
are necessary to comply with national equipment standards and
OSHA regulations.
Ms. Morgan informed that the current equipment has been donated by
local fire departments as new gear is purchased. She stated that
the updated models are significantly different from the equipment
utilized in training.
Senator Bunde pointed out the request is to purchase 90 units,
although classes are never that large.
GARY POWELL, Director, State Fire Marshal, Division of Fire
Prevention, Department of Public Safety, testified via
teleconference from an off-net location.
Senator Bunde asked if the units would be available for field use
or reserved only for training exercises.
Mr. Powell replied the units would be dedicated primarily for
training purposes but could be used in the event of emergency in
actual fires. He exampled the Millers Reach Fire in which
additional supplies was needed.
Senator Bunde asked the uses of the training equipment.
Mr. Powell listed fire training in Fairbanks and cruise ship
training in Juneau as uses of the equipment. He informed that
shipping these units causes wear and tear.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if this item is included in the Code Blue
Project.
Mr. Powell answered it is not, explaining the Code Blue Project
pertains to emergency medical equipment, while this request is fire
equipment.
New Ketchikan Public Safety Building - Construction Phase
$2,452,500 general funds
Reference No.: 37780
Category: Public Protection
Location: Ketchikan
Election District: Ketchikan
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2003 - 06/30/2006
Phased Project
Construction funding for new Department of Public Safety
Southeast Detachment headquarters building in Ketchikan.
Ms. Morgan reminded that the Department received a prior
appropriation of $400,000 for design and preconstruction.
Co-Chair Wilken asked if the design is complete.
Ms. Morgan affirmed.
Co-Chair Wilken asked the status of a site location.
Ms. Morgan responded that the City of Saxman has agreed to donate
land to house the facility. She qualified that a change in the city
manager structure had delayed the process, but that discussions had
resumed.
Senator Taylor clarified that the location is not finalized.
Ms. Morgan explained that no agreement has yet been signed with the
City of Saxman. However, she stated that a site has been selected
by the City of Saxman that is appropriate for the Department's
needs.
Senator Taylor asked if the State would own or lease the facility.
Ms. Morgan responded that the matter has not been finalized,
although she anticipated the State would own the facility with a
"nominal" lease fee paid to the City of Saxman.
Senator Taylor opined that significant amounts of State owned land
located south of Ketchikan is available and would be better suited.
Ms. Morgan reminded that the Legislature made the decision that the
facility would be located within the City of Saxman. She agreed
that State land is also available and noted that the initial site
assessment included other locations.
Co-Chair Wilken announced the earlier decision might be reviewed.
Senator Taylor expressed concern that State Troopers would have
difficulty traversing through the crowded downtown Ketchikan area
to reach the airport, ferry terminal and the hospital during
emergencies.
Ms. Morgan replied that response time was one of the issues
considered in the site evaluation. She assured that assured that
Troopers patrol the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and should be
available to respond to emergency calls from various locations.
Maj. Bowman was unable to respond specifically to this concern but
agreed response to the northern areas would take longer if the
facility were located in the City of Saxman, in the southern
portion of the Borough.
Senator Taylor pointed out the majority of the population resides
north of downtown Ketchikan rather than south. He asked if the
Department had conducted a study of the locations of emergency
calls and response times.
Maj. Bowman was unaware of any such study but assured he would
review the matter.
Co-Chair Wilken understood that the actual location has not been
determined, but that legislative intent indicates the facility
would be located in the City of Saxman.
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Gary Wilken adjourned the meeting at 10:55 AM
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