Legislature(2011 - 2012)SENATE FINANCE 532
03/16/2011 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB46 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 46 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
March 16, 2011
9:09 a.m.
9:09:46 AM
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Stedman called the Senate Finance Committee
meeting to order at 9:09 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Lyman Hoffman, Co-Chair
Senator Bert Stedman, Co-Chair
Senator Lesil McGuire, Vice-Chair
Senator Johnny Ellis
Senator Dennis Egan
Senator Donny Olson
Senator Joe Thomas
MEMBERS ABSENT
None
ALSO PRESENT
Jo Ellen Hanrahan, Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development; Alison Elgee, Assistant Commissioner, Finance
and Management Services, Department of Health and Social
Services; Jennifer Klein, Facilities Section Chief, Finance
and Management Services, Department of Health and Social
Services; Joseph A. Masters, Commissioner, Department of
Public Safety; Dan Spencer, Director, Division of
Administrative Services, Department of Public Safety;
PRESENT VIA TELECONFERENCE
NONE
SUMMARY
SB 46 BUDGET: CAPITAL
SENATE BILL NO. 46
"An Act making and amending appropriations, including
capital appropriations and other appropriations;
making appropriations to capitalize funds; and
providing for an effective date."
9:11:45 AM
JO ELLEN HANRAHAN, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT, introduced herself.
Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development
RN 45409
Tourism Economic Impact Study
$100,000
Ms. Hanrahan stated that the project would document the
value of the visitor industry to the state. It would use
the data from the Alaska Visitor's Statistics Program to
translate visitor volume and spending into jobs, payroll,
with indirect and direct impacts to the state.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that RN 51550 would be skipped.
RN 38946
Community Block Grants
$6.5 million Fed Rcpts
$71,000 G/F Match
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the program was an annual
request that would provide grants to communities and non-
profits that provide services or benefit low- to moderate-
income individuals. She stressed that the request included
the community services block grant (CDBG), which were
grants that go through the federally designated Community
Action Agency. The CDBGs had a two percent state match.
RN 38943
Community Development and Assistance
$380,000 Fed Rcpts
$220,000 G/F Match
$4,140,200 CIP Rcpts
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the request included multiple
federally funded programs to enable commerce to provide
development opportunities and assistance to communities and
non-profit organizations. Included in the request were the
Alaska Floodplain and Erosion Management Program; the
Coastal Zone Management Program; the Cooperating Technical
Partners Program; the Alaska Sustainable Salmon Fund
Program; the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants; and the
Coastal Impact Assistance Program.
9:16:22 AM
Co-Chair Stedman remarked that the legislature had
separated the appropriation into different allocations, and
wondered if that was effective. Ms. Hanrahan replied that
the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic
Development (DCCED) preferred only one appropriation,
because there were federal programs that come in throughout
the year. Having only one appropriation allowed DCCED to
accept the federal money. She pointed out that an
appropriation with several different allocations allowed
for the acceptance of federal funds.
Co-Chair Stedman surmised that the separating of
allocations was effective. Mr. Hanrahan affirmed.
Senator Egan wondered why the Alaska Seafood Marketing
Institute (ASMI) was not managing the Alaska Sustainable
Salmon Fund Program. Ms. Hanrahan replied that the funds
would go directly to the Department of Fish and Game from
the federal government, and the grants that DCCED received
would go to help communities to deal with some arising fish
issues. The money was not used to market salmon.
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered what the problems were with the
Coastal Impact Assistance Program (CIAP). He explained that
he had received complaints of extended delays on some
communities receiving grants. Ms. Hanrahan assumed that Ms.
Houston was referring to the Coastal Zone Management
program, and Ms. Houston affirmed. Ms. Hanrahan explained
that there were communication problems with the departments
about how to effectively deliver the money to the
communities.
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered if there was a jurisdiction
issue. Ms. Hanrahan replied that there were some issues
that the departments were attempting to resolve.
Co-Chair Hoffman declared that the communities were poorly
affected, and felt the state mishandled the situation. He
stressed that there were extensive delays in the contract,
and the administration of the program. He felt that the
Department of Natural Resources had imposed certain
restrictions on the communities. He wondered if those
issues were resolved. Ms. Hanahan believed the issues were
resolved.
Co-Chair Hoffman requested information regarding those
issues. Ms. Hanrahan agreed to provide that information.
Senator Olson noticed that the Alaska Sustainable Salmon
Fund was over $1 million, and wondered what portion was
going to be used for relief for fishing disaster in the
Yukon. Ms. Hanrahan agreed to provide that information.
RN 49915
Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership - State
Matching Support
$400,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the program would provide
technical, business, and economic training and assistance
to Alaska's small manufacturers. She stated that it was a
grant to the Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership
(AMEP). The grant was leveraged by federal money in the
same amount that the state provided, as well as leveraged
by in kind contributions from the individual manufacturers.
She explained that the program focused on core programs
that would enhance small and mid-size manufacturers in
Alaska including: elimination of waste in production
cycles, increased efficiency, business development and
marketing assistance, and increased labor efficiency.
9:22:43 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered if the item was requested by the
administration or the legislature in 2010. Ms. Hanrahan
replied that the governor did not request money.
RN 48906
Newtok Traditional Council-Newtok Evacuation Shelter
and Access Road.
$2,500,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the funding would allow the
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT/PF)
to continue working with the Newtok Traditional Council and
the Pentagon's Innovative Readiness Training program to
develop the Mertarvik relocation site. The program
contributed to the department's mission of promoting a
healthy economy and strong communities by providing
economic growth in the communities it serves. The funding
would contribute to the design and environmental
permitting, and purchase of the road and building
materials.
RN 45813
Marine Exchange of Alaska - Alaska vessel Tracking
System Upgrades and Expansion
$600,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the funding would assist in the
operating, maintaining, upgrading, and expanding the vessel
tracking system provided by the Marine Exchange of Alaska.
She explained that the Marine Exchange was used by the
Coast Guard and State, and increased the safety and
efficiency with maritime operations.
Co-Chair Stedman requested further information about what
the intent of the $600,000. Ms. Hanrahan replied that there
was a plan to upgrade the vessel tracking system, which
would increase the sites through the Arctic region.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that there had been multi-year
appropriations, and requested more detailed information
regarding the specific use of the $600,000.
Senator McGuire added that she attended a presentation in
Anchorage about the vessel tracking system, and felt
confident that the funds would be utilized well. Co-Chair
Stedman reiterated that he wanted information about how the
funds would be spent. Ms. Hanrahan explained that there was
a plan to increase the number of vessel tracking sites into
the Arctic and other remote regions.
RN 49171
Covenant House Alaska - Facility Construction
$3,100,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the request would continue
funding for rebuilding and relocation of the Covenant
House/Crisis Center for homeless and at-risk youth. The
program would contribute to the department's mission of
promoting a healthy economy and strong communities by
providing economic growth in the communities it serves. She
explained that there were some gaps in the program's
funding, and this request would help to fill some of the
gaps. She stressed that approximately 60 percent of the
kids coming into the facility are from foster care, and the
center experienced a 58 percent increase in average daily
census over three years. She explained that the funding
would help to complete the building project.
9:27:24 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman queried the impact of 49171 on the
operating budget. Ms. Hanrahan agreed to provide that
information.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that request was for a grant to a
named recipient, which he considered abnormal, so he
wondered why the administration would make this request.
Ms. Hanrahan replied that it was not unusual for the
governor to request grants to named recipients.
Co-Chair Stedman requested a history of the past few years'
capital budgets, and some analytical data.
Senator McGuire stated that the Covenant House was run by
the Catholic Church. She stated that the Covenant House was
requesting funds for the structure. She stated that the
organization was run by volunteers.
Co-Chair Stedman agreed, and felt the state had supported
the organization in the past. He stressed that there was an
appropriation of $7 million, and stated that there was a
question of the impact of the funds. Ms. Hanrahan stated
that the entity was part of a larger company, which had
contributed over $21 million to care for Alaska children.
Co-Chair Stedman stressed that the quality of the request
was not the concern. He reiterated that there was no lack
of support for the program. He was concerned about where
the request was coming from.
RN 50456
Cook Inlet Tribal Council-Completion of the Dena'ina
House Demonstration Education Project
$3,000,000
Ms. Hanrahan stated that the project was designed to
address student homelessness and residential transiency.
She stated that it was a long-term residential facility to
address major barriers against student success. She
explained that there was a high level of homelessness and
transiency, which were major contributors to absenteeism
and poor school performance. She stated that the request
was a cost effective strategy to provide stable homes for
Native students age 14 to 18, which were homeless,
transient, and had a high risk of education failure. She
stressed that the goal was to provide education and
counseling that would strengthen self-esteem; and to
develop values of responsibility and hard work.
Co-Chair Hoffman queried the impact of project number 50456
on the state's operating budget. Ms. Hanrahan agreed to
provide that information.
RN 38713
Arctic Power-ANWR Program
$160,000
9:32:25 AM
RN 51263
Skagway City Dock Improvements
$3,018,200 CPV Tax
$6,981,800 AHCC Rcpts
Ms. Hanrahan stated that the request would fund
improvements to the Skagway City Dock to accommodate both
the tourism and mining industries. She explained that there
had been recent mining activity in large Canadian mines, so
there were increased ore shipments through the Skagway port
facilities.
Co-chair Hoffman pointed out that an item had been skipped.
RN 42004
Arctic Winter Games Team Alaska-Host Society
$500,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the request was for the Arctic
Winter Games Host Society start up and preparation for the
2014 games. She stated that the program contributed to the
department's mission of promoting a healthy economy and
strong communities by providing economic growth in the
communities it served.
Co-Chair Stedman felt the non-profit requests seemed
unusual. He remarked that the administration does not
normally make those types of requests. Ms. Hanrahan replied
that she had seen similar requests in years past.
Co-Chair Stedman remarked that some had not, and he
requested more information about non-profit budget
requests. Ms. Hanrahan agreed to provide that information.
RN 41959
Arctic Winter Games Team Alaska-State Participation
Grant
$315,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the request would help fund the
2012 Arctic Winter Games. She stated that the private
sector would provide sponsorships to help defray the costs.
She furthered that the participants would also do some
fundraising to help provide the cost. She stressed that the
state funding would supplement the corporate sponsorships,
fundraising, and in-kind donations.
She repeated the Skagway City Dock project, and added that
the improvements to the dock would help provide jobs and
economic growth. She explained that there was support for
the project from Skagway and the Yukon.
9:36:23 AM
RN 41956
Municipality of Anchorage-Port of Anchorage Expansion
$20,000,000
Ms. Hanrahan stated that the project was on-going. She
explained that the Port of Anchorage served 80 percent of
the population of Alaska, as an entry point for 90 percent
of the consumer goods and petroleum projects. She explained
that the funding would continue the next phase of the Port
of Anchorage project.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the next phase was for
expansion or rebuilding the construction problems. Ms.
Hanrahan agreed to provide the information.
Co-Chair Stedman assumed that the request was for the
rebuilding. He felt that there probably would not be
requests for new construction. Ms. Hanrahan replied that
the request was for completion of the wet and dry barge
berth facilities; including surface improvements for barge
operations and rail extension to the north extension and
barge birth.
Co-Chair Stedman requested Ms. Hanrahan review the
intentions of the Anchorage Port request. Ms. Hanrahan
agreed to follow up on that request.
9:38:12 AM
RN 46242
Matanuska-Susitna Borough-Port MacKenzie Rail
Extension
$20,000,000
Ms. Hanrahan explained that the project was for continued
development and construction of the Matanuska-Susitna
Borough Port MacKenzie Rail Extension Project. The Rail
Extension would promote the diversification of Alaska's
economy. The project was expected to gain up to 3,500 jobs.
Co-Chair Stedman encouraged Department of Commerce,
Community, and Economic Development to review the projects,
and determine the value of the project. He wondered what
the administration's policy stance was regarding the
project.
RN 50409
Life Alaska Donor Services, Inc-Donor Program
$35,000
Co-Chair Stedman noted that the bill language was included
in the request.
9:43:14 AM
RN 51873
Alaska Energy Authority Emerging Energy Technology
$3,141,600
Senator Olson referred to the tourism impact study, and
wondered why the study was needed if there was already a
report out. Ms. Hanrahan replied that the funding would be
for the next step, and the request would be updating the
economic impact on an annual basis.
9:45:04 AM
AT EASE
9:46:30 AM
RECONVENED
Department of Health and Social Services
ALISON ELGEE, ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER, FINANCE AND
MANAGEMENT SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL
SERVICES, and JENNIFER KLEIN, FACILITIES SECTION CHIEF,
FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND
SOCIAL SERVICES, introduced themselves.
RN 41501
Medicaid Management Information System Completion
$2,280,420 Fed Rcpts
$1,003,380 G/F Match
Ms. Elgee stated that the request would fund the completion
of the department's Medicaid Management Information System.
She stated that the project was delayed, but she
anticipated the project going live in April 2012. She
stated that there was a six month operation phase until the
federal government could certify the project.
RN 41336
McLaughlin Youth Center Safety and Security Phase 1
Completion
$4,275,000
Ms. Klein stated that the project would address the medical
suite space calculation error; the extension of the
duration of the project; and the asbestos abatement.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered what contractor style was
implemented in the procurement. Ms. Klein replied that
there were two proposal requests.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the system was set up to avoid
pit falls. Ms. Klein replied that they did not expect the
three issues.
Co-Chair Stedman queried the impact of possibly not funding
the project. Ms. Klein replied that current contractor
would demobilize; they would need to put the project out
for bid; the cost would be higher; and there would not be
progress until phase one was complete.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the request would complete
each phase. Ms. Klein responded that the funding would only
complete phase one.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered why the request did not indicate
further phases. Ms. Klein agreed to provide that
information.
Co-Chair Hoffman looked at the documentation, and wondered
the impact of the state's operating budget. Ms. Klein
replied that because the design was complete, there would
be no design development. She stated that the facility was
currently running, so the costs were already implemented.
Co-chair Hoffman requested documentation of the project's
operating budget impact. Ms. Klein agreed to provide that
information.
9:51:25 AM
Senator Egan surmised that the request added 20 percent to
the existing project. Ms. Klein replied that there was a
need for a 20,000 square feet medical suite.
Senator Egan noted that the request was much higher than
the original request. Ms. Klein stated that there was a
miscommunication that occurred between the preliminary
designer and the cost estimator in the Division of Juvenile
Justice staff and preliminary designer. She furthered that
the abatement happened during construction, and asbestos
was discovered in the soil.
Senator Egan wondered if the same issue of abatement had
occurred in the Johnson Youth Center. Ms. Klein replied
that she was personally overseeing the Johnson Youth Center
project, and assured the committee that she would do what
she could to avoid similar problems.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered when the asbestos was discovered.
Ms. Klein stated that the asbestos was discovered soon
after the construction started, but agreed to provide more
detailed information.
Co-chair Stedman wondered if the asbestos had already been
removed. Ms. Klein affirmed.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the request was backfill. Ms.
Klein replied that the request was to cover the expenses.
Co-Chair Stedman surmised that if the request was not
approved, then the project would remain incomplete. Ms.
Klein affirmed.
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered why the asbestos abatement
request was not in the supplemental budget. Ms. Elgee
replied that when she examined the needs for the project,
the cash flow was such that there was not urgency for
increased authorization until after July 1 2011. She agreed
that it was supplemental to the existing operation.
Co-Chair Hoffman stated that it was probably more
appropriate to request the funding for asbestos abatement
in the supplemental, instead of using construction dollars
that were identified for a specific purpose.
9:56:24 AM
RN 46895
Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home Storage
$885,000
Ms. Klein explained that the project would fund the
construction of a storage unit adjacent to the Alaska
Veterans and Pioneers Home. The storage unit would provide
heated and unheated storage space. Resident rooms and off-
site units were used for storage, which resulted in
additional operating cost and loss of revenue.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered why the appropriation was not
addressed earlier. Ms. Klein replied that there was a
request in 2008, and storage was built in Fairbanks. The
appropriation was for a smaller amount than requested, so
it was determined that only one unit could be built.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered why they were not in the 2009 or
2010 budget cycle. Ms. Klein replied that the division did
not send the request for those years, but believed that
there was a request for 2011.
RN 46918
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
Compliance
$1,000,000
Ms. Elgee explained that there were requirements that were
driven by the federal government to protect private health
information. She stressed that the computers storing that
information needed to be properly protected, with fire
walls that could not be penetrated. In addition to the
security, auditing and logging procedures were required to
accurately track the access to the private databases. She
furthered that the request included personnel training. She
stressed that there had been an increased level of scrutiny
from the federal government to begin to implement the
program.
Co-Chair Hoffman wondered if the additional position was
included in the FY 12 operating budget. Ms. Elgee replied
that she did not know if the need would be ongoing.
10:01:09 AM
Senator Egan wondered how the money was spent if there were
recurring problems. Ms. Elgee replied that Health
Information Privacy Act (HIPA) compliance was not a risk
management effort to assure that information was properly
protected. She stated that HIPA rules were continually
modified, and pointed out that the recent regulation
revisions that placed more requirements and expectations on
the states. She furthered that there would be continual
HIPA compliance to maintain federal assurance.
Senator Egan surmised that the request would be ongoing.
Ms. Elgee replied that the HIPA effort will never cease,
but the request in the capital budget was for initial
equipment, training, and contracting efforts to begin to
maintain the privacy environment.
Senator Egan stated that it seemed a constant request. Ms.
Elgee stated that the amount of federal funds that could be
earned through HIPA compliance was grossly overestimated in
prior years.
RN 50917
Senior and Disability Services System Upgrade
$1,350,000 Fed Rcpts
$1,350,000 G/F Match
Ms. Elgee stated that the Division of Senior and Disability
Services (DSDS) case management system was designed and
built in house over the last five years. Some of the
technology used was obsolete and difficult to maintain. She
explained that continual development to support changing
business and regulatory needs compounded the issue. The
system was originally proposed as the means to consolidate
the DSDS program waivers into a single database.
RN 46944
MH Behavioral Health Data Sharing Partnership
$245,000
Ms. Elgee explained that the request would fund software
upgrades and enhancements to existing programs that would
allow for shared use among internal and external agencies.
The Division of Behavioral Health, working with the
Department of Corrections and the Court System, would be
able to capture data across various settings and identify
need, rate of referral and access to the treatment system,
and measure outcomes of services to people who
traditionally end up in the legal system. The request would
optimize mental health services to Alaskans.
10:06:32 AM
RN 42837
Emergency Medical Services Ambulances and Equipment
Statewide-Match for Code Blue Project
$425,000
Ms. Klein explained that funds were needed to continue the
work of the Code Blue Steering committee. This committee
was formed to identify and purchase critical Emergency
Medical Services (EMS) equipment and ambulances for EMS
agencies around the state, particularly in rural locations.
RN 50758
Juvenile Offender Management Information System
Testing Automation
$25,000
Ms. Elgee explained that the Division of Public Assistance
was requesting an automatic call distribution system to
provide the capability to efficiently route telephone
traffic between offices within a region and even between
regional offices.
RN 50870
Equipment of Electronic Benefit Transfer Connectivity
To Alaska's Back-Up Data Center for Vulnerable
Alaskans
$50,000
Ms. Elgee stated that the request would fund equipment for
the Electronic Benefit Transfer system at the state's
disaster back-up center.
RN 33670
MH Deferred Maintenance and Accessibility Improvements
$500,000
Co-Chair Stedman stressed that there should be a dollar
amount mention with each item.
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for funds needed to
keep program facilities operational and accessible.
RN 33671
MH Home Modification and Upgrades to Retain Housing
$750,000 GF/MH
$300,000 MHTAAR
Ms. Klein stated that the request would provide housing
modifications to persons with special needs, allowing them
to remain in their homes and reduce the potential cost of
providing supported housing or a move to more institutional
housing.
10:11:31 AM
RN 37934
Pioneer Homes Deferred Maintenance, Renovation,
Repair, and Equipment
$4,000,000
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for deferred
maintenance projects for Pioneer Homes statewide; including
immediate and critical renewal, repair, replacement, and
equipment. She stated that the request had numerous
allocations, but were not listed by priority.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the data shown for the Pioneer
Home would exceed $4 million. Ms. Klein replied that it
exceeded $4 million.
Co-Chair Stedman requested the list of priorities. Ms.
Klein agreed to provide that information.
RN 45521
Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home
$1,282,766
Ms. Klein explained that the request for the Alaska
Veterans and Pioneers Home deferred maintenance.
RN 45517
Anchorage Pioneer Home
$879,640
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Anchorage
Pioneer Home deferred maintenance.
RN 45519
Juneau Pioneer Home
$803,844
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the Juneau
Pioneer Home deferred maintenance.
RN 45520
Ketchikan Pioneer Home
$1,033,750
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Ketchikan
Pioneer Home deferred maintenance.
RN 31862
Non-Pioneer Home Deferred Maintenance, Renovation
Repair, and Equipment
$86,339 Fed Rcpts
$386,542 G/F Match
$2,613,458 Gen Fund
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for deferred
maintenance and renovation projects for facilities
maintained by the Department of Health and Social Services.
The facilities included health centers, youth facilities
and behavioral health facilities statewide with a combided
replacement value of $343 million. Funds would be used ofr
immediate and critical renewal, repair, replacement and
equipment needs in state-owned facilities and selected
leased facilities. The request did not include the deferred
maintenance needs for the Pioneer Homes.
RN 51436
Alaska Psychiatric Institute
$423,015
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the Alaska
Psychiatric Institute deferred maintenance.
RN 51499
Anchorage Public Health Laboratory
$119,848
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Anchorage
Public Health Laboratory deferred maintenance.
RN 45500
Bethel Youth Facility
$104,202
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the Bethel
Youth Facility deferred maintenance.
RN 45507
Johnson Youth Center
$115,780
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Johnson Youth
Center deferred maintenance.
RN 45502
Dillingham Health Center
$1,486 Fed Rcpts
$6,782 Gen Fund
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Dillingham
Health Center deferred maintenance.
RN 45508
Juneau Public Health Center
$10,420 Fed Rcpts
$47,470 G/F Match
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the Juneau
Public Health Center deferred maintenance.
RN 51514
Ketchikan Public Health Center
$53,591 Ged Rcpts
$244,132 G/F Match
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Ketchikan
Public Health deferred maintenance.
RN 45511
Ketchikan Regional Youth Facility
$780,898
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the Ketchikan
Youth Facility deferred maintenance.
RN 45512
Mat-Su Youth Facility
$24,810
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Mat-Su Youth
facility deferred maintenance.
RN 45513
McLaughlin Youth Center
$1,038,023
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for the McLaughlin
Youth Center deferred maintenance.
RN 45522
Sitka Public Health Center
$20,840 Ged Rcpts
$94,940 G/F Match
Ms. Klein stated that the request was for the Sitka Public
Health Center deferred maintenance.
RN 45543
Statewide Deferred Maintenance, Renovation, Repair,
and Equipment
$100
Ms. Klein explained that the request was for miscellaneous
deferred maintenance required by the state.
RN 47611
HIPAA Updated Electronic Transaction Standards
$3,600,000 Fed Rcpts
$400,000 G/F Match
$100,000 Gen Fund
Ms. Elgee explained that this request was for required
modifications to the existing electronic transaction system
to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (HIPAA). She stated that the state must
be compliant with federal mandates for secure electronic
medical transactions by January 2012 to avoid federal
penalties.
RN 51853
Electronic Health Record Incentive Payments
$36,518,800
Ms. Elgee stated that the project would allow for incentive
payments to health providers to encourage transition to an
electronic health record environment. She stated that grant
payments were available at the federal level.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered why it the request would go down
by half in two years. Ms. Elgee replied that request was
for what the department had deemed realistic.
Senator Egan wondered if the current electronic databases
would interface with new technology. Ms. Elgee stated that
the technology would interface with each other.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about senior care facilities and the
facility built in Bethel. He commented that providing
services costs nearly $6.5 million. He viewed these as
dollars saved to the federal budget. The last array of need
anticipated could save that state on an annual basis. He
mentioned an investment of $48 million, but the savings of
the construction would save the state $15 million. He felt
the population of seniors was long ignored. He wondered why
this was not a priority. Ms. Elgee responded that the
projected savings has not materialized. She spoke to cost
avoidance as the tribal members will be served at 100
percent reimbursement.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about the substantial funding of the
budget. He spoke to the anticipation of the savings leading
to ignorance of the populations. Ms. Elgee expressed
concern about addressing the health care needs of all of
Alaska's population.
Co-Chair Hoffman pointed out that the amount of request is
reflected in the capital budget request.
10:23:59 AM
Department of Public Safety
JOSEPH A. MASTERS, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC
SAFETY, commented on prior year requests. He noted that
requests regarding the facilities and vessels are
necessary.
RN 37774
Alaska State Trooper Law Enforcement Equipment
Replacement
$500,000
DAN SPENCER, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, explained that the request was
for funding to purchase new and replace law enforcement
equipment for use by the Alaska State Troopers.
RN 45300
Alaska Wildlife Trooper Law Enforcement Equipment
Replacement
$500,000
Mr. Spencer stated that the funding would purchase new and
replace law enforcement equipment for use by the Alaska
Wildlife Troopers.
RN 6121
Aircraft and Vessel Repair and Maintenance
$850,000
Mr. Spencer stated that this was an annual request for
repair and maintenance for the Department of Public Safety
(DPS) aircraft and vessels.
10:28:30 AM
Co-Chair Stedman wondered why there was not a smoother
transition of funding in future requests. Mr. Spencer
replied that the anticipation was for higher numbers, but
sometimes the requests could be smaller. He stated that
some boats were very old, so there was an anticipation of
possible replacement.
Senator Olson queried the accident history. Mr. Masters
agreed to provide that information.
Senator McGuire pointed out that there were some vessels
for sale for very low rates. Mr. Masters replied that there
are issues of sustainability, so purchasing used vessels
presented maintenance issues.
RN 45336
Alaska State Troopers Records Management System
$775,000
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was for for additional
configuration and migration of the new records management
system for the Alaska State Troopers.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the request would include the
patrol cars. Mr. Masters replied that the request would
include patrol cars.
10:32:11 AM
RN 45401
Data Exchange with MAJIC Agencies Phase 2
$800,000
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was for an ongoing
project to facilitate information sharing and reduce the
amount of paper currently sent between Alaska criminal
justice agencies.
RN 51707
Village Public Safety Officer (VPSO) Equipment
Replacement
$337,500
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was for VPSO equipment
replacement.
RN 51706
Anchorage Aircraft Hangar Improvements
$1,000,000
Mr. Spencer explained that the request was for the
maintenance of the Anchorage Aircraft Hangar.
Senator Olson wondered if the paving was the responsibility
of the Airport Authority. Mr. Spencer replied that it was a
lease holder improvement.
Senator McGuire wondered the location of the Hangar. Mr.
Masters replied that it was on Lakehood.
RN 39941
Phase 3-Mobile Solutions, Online Fire and Life Safety
Plan Review System
$165,500
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was to provide funding
to add a mobile inspection module to the on-line Fire and
Life Safety Plan Review and Inspection Data System.
Mr. Masters added that the program would allow the
examiners to do outside inspections, and to pull plans that
are in the system.
10:37:34 AM
RN 35825
Marine Fisheries Patrol Improvements
$2,000,000 Fed Rcpts
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was recurring, and
would help the department achieve its mission to ensure
public safety and enforce fish and wildlife laws and
protect wildlife resources.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that there was some undercover
issues with some lodges, and wondered if there were some
fiscal constraints to continue that effort. Mr. Masters
replied that the existing level of enforcement would
continue.
RN 41788
Statewide Facilities Maintenance, Repairs, and
Improvements
$1,350,000
Mr. Spencer stated that the funding was for maintenance
projects for DPS occupied state-owned buildings.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the maintenance listed beyond
what was mentioned. Mr. Spencer replied that the DPS
considered the list high priority.
RN 51801
Fairbanks: Post Facility Interior and Exterior Repair
and Renovation
$39,600
Mr. Spencer stated that the request was for needed repairs
and renovations to the Fairbanks Post including cable
relocation; sidewalk and parking lot repair and
resurfacing; evidence lot fence repair and expansion; and
garage door weatherization and repair.
10:40:40 AM
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if 51801 was the final request
and if it was just allocations. Mr. Spencer affirmed.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that he had seen some concern in
the media regarding the covering of the troopers, and
wondered if there were issues that the department felt they
need to address. Mr. Masters stated that there was already
an investigation with existing funds and resources.
Co-Chair Hoffman pointed out the expansion of the VPSO, and
wondered how the space needs were met in those communities.
Mr. Masters stated that the initial equipment needs were
handled in the operating budget, and replacement equipment
would be a future issue. He explained that DPS was
addressing infrastructure needs and support capabilities
for the communities.
Co-Chair Hoffman requested an exploration of the additional
troopers, and wondered if there were specific capital
requests for individual communities.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if there were shortfalls in
dealing with cold cases. Mr. Masters stated that there had
been no need-requests for additional funding.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if there was enforcement dealing
with small boat fisheries and high gas prices. Mr. Spencer
replied that if gas prices continued to climb, there would
be an adjustment in the requests.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that there was a concern in high
fuel costs, and wanted adequate enforcement of the
fisheries. Mr. Spencer replied that the governor and
administration were cooperative in ensuring enforcement
capability.
10:46:53 AM
Senator McGuire wondered if the trooper salaries had
matched the municipal salaries. Mr. Masters replied that
there was a survey conducted, and stated that the results
were adequate in deeming the salaries competitive.
Senator McGuire wondered what incentives were being given
pilot licenses. Mr. Masters replied that the biggest
incentive was the coverage of training costs.
Senator McGuire queried domestic violence intervention and
training. Mr. Masters replied that the academy had improved
its training at the basic level; in-service training was
being explored; domestic violence response program training
was available in conjunction with the University of Alaska
Anchorage; and there was an increase increment request for
$50,000 to increase training related to sexual assault and
child forensic interview techniques.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered what the revenue impact of the
Alaska State Troopers television show. Mr. Masters
responded that there was no revenue generated from the
television show.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered if the television show enhanced
recruitment. Mr. Masters replied that there had been an
increase in the number of applications, but most were out
of state. He stressed that DPS had not seen an increase in
qualified applicants.
ADJOURNMENT
10:51:49 AM
The meeting was adjourned at 10:51 AM.
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