Legislature(2001 - 2002)
03/31/2001 10:00 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 31, 2001
10:00 AM
TAPES
SFC-01 # 59, Side A
SFC 01 # 59, Side B
SFC 01 # 60, Side A
SFC 01 # 60, Side B
SFC 01 # 61, Side A
SFC 01 # 61, Side B
SFC 01 # 62, Side A
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Dave Donley convened the meeting at approximately 10:00
AM.
PRESENT
Senator Dave Donley, Co-Chair
Senator Pete Kelly, Co-Chair
Senator Jerry Ward, Vice Chair
Senator Loren Leman
Senator Lyda Green
Senator Gary Wilken
Senator Alan Austerman
Senator Lyman Hoffman
Senator Donald Olson
Also Attending: Testifiers are listed in the order they testified.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
HB 103-APPROP: OPERATING BUDGET/LOANS/FUNDS
HB 104-APPROP: MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET
The Committee heard public testimony and the bill was held.
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 103(FIN)(brf sup maj fld)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan
program expenses of state government, for certain programs,
and to capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date."
CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 104(FIN)
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and capital
expenses of the state's integrated comprehensive mental health
program; and providing for an effective date."
Co-Chair Donley announced testimony would be limited to three
minutes.
[Note: Teleconference is poor quality, portions are inaudible.]
JOHN HOLST, Superintendent of Schools, Sitka School District
testified via teleconference from Sitka to request the Committee
fully fund the cost of pupil transportation.
Co-Chair Donley interrupted to inform the witness the committee
substitute adopted at the previous hearing fully funds the
governor's request for pupil transportation.
Mr. Holst spoke in favor of funding K-12 education. He noted
increased oil revenues for the state compared to the fixed costs of
school districts.
Co-Chair Donley stated that although the higher price of oil did
assist the FY 01 budget, the Committee was now considering the FY
02 budget and the Department of Revenue predicted a $527 million
deficit for FY 02. This amount, he pointed out is approximately
one-sixth of balance in the Capital Budget Reserve (CBR) fund, and
therefore, the state is financially strong.
THOMAS CONLEY, Sitka School Board, testified via teleconference
from Sitka about his interest in the high school qualifying
examinations. He appreciated the funds appropriated for this
effort. He spoke to the need to reevaluate the school funding
formula, although he noted the matter would require significant
consideration given the amount of money involved. He told of the
budget difficulties in his school district and asserted, "We don't
have any choice in terms of serving the children in Sitka."
MARK GORMAN, Vice-President, Community Health Services, Southeast
Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) testified via
teleconference from Sitka about the "intent to eliminate the BRUs
(Budget Request Unit)". This relates to direct funding for public
regional health care providers. He detailed the various services
his organization offers and the people served. He added he also
supports funding for education.
MOLLIE KABLER, Member, Sitka School Board, and Co-Chair, Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission, testified via teleconference from
Sitka about the efforts of the Board and the School District's
staff to secure the maximum amount of grant funds to compensate for
the reduced amount received through the education foundation
funding formula.
Ms. Kabler then described the efforts to provide as much public
broadcasting services despite declining budgets over the past ten
years. She told of the Satellite Air Connection Project, a joint
venture between public broadcasting and the University of Alaska.
She noted funding for this project has been appropriated by the
House of Representatives but not the Senate. She listed the
services that depend on the satellite project, including Gavel-to-
Gavel coverage, and radio and television service to Rural Alaska.
Senator Ward shared that he learned from the Administration that no
satellite services would be disrupted if the funds were not
appropriated to the project in FY 02. He noted a supplemental
budget request would be submitted the next legislative session when
the actual project cost is determined.
LARRY KING, Changing Tides Counseling Services, testified via
teleconference from Petersburg about the drug and alcohol abuse
outpatient services his organization provides and the high demand
across the state. He asserted the cost of not treating these people
"is immense." As a result, he could not understand the logic of
reducing funding for this program. He opposed the changes to the
BRU method of funding.
KEVIN MURPHY, Deputy Director, Gateway Center for Human Services,
and President, Statewide Substance Abuse Directors Association, and
Licensed Mental Health Councilor, testified via teleconference from
Ketchikan to request the Committee to reconsider budget reductions
to substance abuse treatment services. He referenced other
legislation related to increased law enforcement efforts and noted
substance abuse is a public health issue as well as a public safety
matter. He asserted one infant born with fetal alcohol syndrome
would cost the state over $1 million.
AUDRA THORPE testified via teleconference from Ketchikan that she
is "a concerned citizen with four children here in Ketchikan." She
stressed the need for the substance abuse programs for youth and
told of friends of her children who are need of help for their
medical problem rather then incarceration.
MIKE DUNNING, Educator, University of Alaska-Southeast, Ketchikan
Campus, testified via teleconference from Ketchikan to ask the
Committee to fully fund the University of Alaska budget request. He
applauded President Mark Hamilton's campaign for additional funds.
WOODY WILSON, Superintendent of Schools, Wrangell School District,
testified via teleconference from Wrangell, to request additional
funds for K-12 Education in his district. He compared the
appropriation amount proposed in this budget to higher amounts from
previous years. He spoke of increased mandates and the difficulties
in funding them with existing funds. He recommended reevaluating
the education foundation funding formula. He thanked the Committee
for funding the pupil transportation increment. He also thanked
Senator Green for her efforts on the high school exit examinations.
JIM CULLEY, President, Wrangell Chamber of Commerce, testified via
teleconference from Wrangell, about the Chamber's concerns
regarding the House of Representative's recommendations for funding
reductions to the Alaska Marine Highway System. He stressed the
ferry system is a major form of transportation in his community and
should be funded to the fullest extent possible.
AT EASE 10:30 AM / 10:45 AM
BARBARA DELONG, Sitka School Board, testified via teleconference
from Sitka to thank the Committee for giving priority to education,
particularly pupil transportation. She told of the unexpected loss
of 120 students from the school district and the resulting
reduction in formula funding. She appreciated the efforts of
Senator Wilken to make changes to the education foundation funding
formula.
LAWRENCE BLOOD, Executive Director, Sitka Chamber of Commerce,
testified via teleconference from Sitka to stress the urgency of a
$300,000 allocation for education. He also reiterated the
importance of funding the Alaska Marine Highway System. He noted
the direction given to the Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities to "take measures to reduce operating costs and increase
revenue." In his opinion, reducing operating costs requires a
reduction of services and Sitka could not afford any further
service reductions.
AT EASE until 11:00 AM
Co-Chair Donley announced that due to the number of people waiting
to testify in Fairbanks, testimony would be limited to two minutes.
TED FATHAUER testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to request
full funding of the University of Alaska proposed budget. He told
of his faith in the Board of Regents and University administrators
and the practice of planning a budget based not on the amount "they
think they can get" but rather on the amount "they think Alaska
needs." He pointed out that he and his wife are not employed by the
University, nor are they students, yet they donated $5,000 to the
University.
BARBARA COOK, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Tanana
Valley Campus, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that
full funding of the University is justified and "extremely"
important to Fairbanks and the State of Alaska. She told of her
retraining activities after the company she worked for went out of
business.
NORMITA CRUZEN-HALES, Single Mother, and Student of a course in
Hospitality offered by the University of Alaska, testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks, to gratefully requested funding for
this program that would allow her to obtain employment in the
tourism industry. She emphasized the need for education and
training for people receiving public assistance.
DEE GARRETT, Lifelong Alaskan, testified via teleconference from
Fairbanks that she is also enrolled in the hospitality training
program at the Tanana Valley Campus, which offers a "wide variety
of career opportunities" in the tourism industry. She stated the
students in this program are all working toward the goal to better
their education, find a job they could excel in, to achieve
financial security, and to provide the best services for the
community.
ART BUSWELL testified via teleconference from Fairbanks in support
of fully funding the University's budget. He stated that increased
state funding has "inspired" others to donate to the University,
which has provided scholarships and funds for programs. He told of
a recent hospitalization and the quality of care he received from
staff members who regularly reside out of state.
KEN SEVERIN, Volunteer, Alaska One and KUAC Radio and Television,
testified via teleconference from Fairbanks in support of public
television and the University of Alaska. He spoke to the satellite
program and the necessity of the project due to changes in
technology. He warned of the communications that would be "shut
down" if the project were not funded.
CAROL STABLES testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that the
public must be aware of the dangers of tobacco use. She asserted
that a smoker is "as helpless as an alcoholic or a drug addict" and
needs professional help. She requested funding for such programs.
SOLVEIG PEDERSON, Lifelong Alaskan and three-year student of the
University of Alaska, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks
to thank the Legislature for funding appropriated the University
the previous year. She shared that due to financial constraints,
she was unable to complete her education.
EVEVA BECKER testified via teleconference from Fairbanks about the
use of revenues generated from the tobacco tax. She stated there
are two clinics in Fairbanks that offer smoking cessation programs,
but that funds are needed. She stressed that 400 people in Alaska
would die this year from tobacco-related illnesses.
KATHLEEN BEASINGER, Student, University of Alaska, testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks that she would graduate in May 2001
with an Associate of Arts degree in Applied Business and that she
planned to continue to work toward her Bachelors degree. She said
the quality of education is excellent.
STACEY BANKS, Student Body President, University of Alaska-
Fairbanks testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to thank the
Legislature for the investment it made to the University over the
past few years. He assured that although testimony requesting
University funding may appear negative, it is only because of the
desire to see the full potential of the University realized.
SFC 01 # 59, Side B
Mr. Banks continued the University is a "very wise investment."
THOMAS WALKER, Student, University of Alaska, testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks about the increased support of the
Legislature to the University over the past three years he has been
enrolled. He stated that continued funding is the only way the
University could grow.
LARRY DUFFY, Chair, Faculty Alliance, University of Alaska,
testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that the faculty
supports full funding of the University's budget. He told of
efforts in developing long-term plans for the requested funding to
reduce the "brain drain" of students from Alaska.
HAN GUNDERSON, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks testified
via teleconference from Fairbanks to ask the Committee for the
requested $16.9 million funding increase for the University. He
stated that in the past few years the University has "risen like a
phoenix" and has new pride, hopes and dreams about the future of
Alaska.
JERRY MCBEATH testified via teleconference from Fairbanks about his
extensive involvement in University organizations and efforts to
advance the University [teleconference audio poor quality-
inaudible.] He noted the requested $16.9 funding increase includes
salary increases for University employees.
SHANNON UZZELL, Four-year Graduate, University of Alaska-Fairbanks,
and "productive member of society", testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks to thank the Committee for funding increases
appropriated to the University the previous year and to detail what
those increases purchased. She stated that the university
experience provides a "holistic" education.
KATHY HELFRICK testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that she
has spent the previous eight years in Fairbanks as a private-sector
employer in the hospitality services industry. She told of her
frustrations with the inability to recruit qualified, skilled and
semi-skilled Alaskans to fill jobs. She stated that she chose to
"become part of the solution" by leaving the private sector and
begin teaching others the skills needed for the hospitality
industry at the Tanana Valley Campus.
KATE MCELROY, Supervisor of a children's learning center affiliated
with a Native association [details inaudible], testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks about the long-term treatment
programs offered at the center. She talked about the 27 women on
the center's waiting list and pointed out that most of the patients
who voluntarily enter the treatment program have had their children
removed from their care by the Division of Family and Youth
Services. She stated that providing treatment services for these
mothers allows them to reestablish their families, obtain
employment and avoid incarceration.
SHARON MCLEOD-EVERETT, Lifelong Alaskan, Employee, Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities, testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks about University funding. She appreciated the
increased funding provided the previous year and encouraged
continued funding in the upcoming fiscal year. She stated that
attention is paid toward resource development, but little is paid
toward "human development".
LISA VILLANO testified via teleconference from Fairbanks in support
of funding the requested $16.9 million for the University. She
stated that without the additional funding appropriated the
previous year many new programs would not have been possible.
ANNETTE FREIBURGER, Executive Director, Fairbanks Native
Association, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to request
funding for four treatment centers for drug and alcohol abuse
operated by the Association. She stressed the programs are
"extremely vital to our community" and the surrounding rural areas.
She stated funding has been reduced over the past ten years and
continuation of the programs is difficult.
CHARLIE DEXTER, 27-year resident of Fairbanks and 1977 University
of Alaska-Fairbanks graduate, testified via teleconference from
Fairbanks that his degree is in Travel Industry Management. He
noted this program is no longer available due to funding reductions
in the past. He thanked the Committee for the additional funding
allocated the previous year. He stated he left a successful career
in the aviation industry to become a faculty member in the Applied
Business and Accounting Department at the Tanana Valley Campus. He
said the additional funding allowed the Department to hire an
additional instructor and continued funding would provide more
staff to serve the growing number of students enrolled in the
program.
MARTA MUELLER, Graduate Student, Department of Biology and
Wildlife, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks, "students are not being considered
impressionable because of our valuable brains and the whirlwind of
ideas blowing through campus." She stated that when she graduated
from Palmer High School in 1991, she was impressionable and the US
News and World Report listed the University of Alaska-Fairbanks as
one of the top ten universities in the West. "That made an
impression on me." However, by the time she graduated from the
University of Alaska in 1995, the University "was no where near the
top ten of much of anything." She said is because "flat funding had
taken its toll." She said that increased funding in recent years
has reversed this trend and improved the University.
MICHAEL EVERETT testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to
request the Committee fully fund the Board of Regent's proposed
budget. He gave his history as a construction worker in Fairbanks
until the housing market slowed, when he returned to school. He
said that while he was in school, his family would not have had any
meat to eat except that his wife was able to go moose hunting. He
said the University could provide qualified workers for Alaska
businesses.
LUKE HOPKINS, Past Student and Current Staff Member, University of
Alaska-Fairbanks, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks in
support of fully funding the University's operating budget. He
stated that each day he sees the rewards of the research programs
that resulted from the increased funding from the previous year.
CINDY BACHERT, [affiliation inaudible] testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks to request that 30 percent of the revenues received
from the tobacco settlement be allocated to smoking prevention and
cessation efforts. She told of a program she participates in
[details inaudible.] She added that she is a graduate of the
University of Alaska and is considering returning for a Master's
degree that would allow her to better educate young people about
the dangers of tobacco use.
MARGARET WILSON [affiliation inaudible] testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks regarding mental health and community
health [testimony inaudible].
RUTHAMAE KARR [affiliation inaudible] testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks that her position is partially funded with revenues
from the tobacco settlement. She stated more funds are needed for
tobacco-related issues. She expressed that it is difficult to build
a comprehensive plan on a small budget. She detailed the chemicals
in cigarettes and the difficulty to quit smoking.
ROBERT BIRD [affiliation inaudible] testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks to the need for $8.1 million to operate an effective
anti-smoking campaign. He referenced testimony in favor of funding
the education system but asked what benefit funding education would
have when smokers are dying of cancer and people are mentally ill.
CARL BENSON, Faculty Member, Geological Institute, University of
Alaska-Fairbanks, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to
urge the Committee to fully fund the University of Alaska. He
stressed that he knows first-hand the importance of the Institute
to the University. He said he would submit additional information
to the Committee members.
Co-Chair Donley asked if the witness did instruction, research or
both.
Mr. Benson answered he does both, as do all the faculty members.
Co-Chair Donley disagreed, stating there are over 100 faculty
members that do no instruction.
Mr. Benson countered that although he primarily conducts research,
all faculty members of the Geophysical Institute do some
instruction. He stated that he is retired from active teaching,
although he does work with graduate students. He pointed out his
salary comes from grants.
JOE HARDENBROOK testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that he
was present when President Hamilton addressed the Senate Finance
Committee a few weeks prior and clarified that President Hamilton
stated all faculty who are funded with state funds are involved in
teaching. Mr. Hardenbrook spoke to the "incredible ability" of the
University to secure funding from outside sources.
H.B. TELLING testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to ask the
Committee to support the Board of Regent's funding request. He
stated that when he graduated from high school in 1996, the
University was "a joke" to him. He said buildings were
disintegrating and programs were being reduced constantly, but
financial restraints resulted in his attending the University. He
remarked that with recent funding increases, the conditions have
improved and the University has received significant public
support.
RUTH L'HOMMEDIEU, Chair, State Independent Living Council,
testified via teleconference from Fairbanks about repeated requests
for an increment increase in the independent living budget over the
past several years. She appreciated the $98,000 increase
recommended by the budget subcommittee pointing out it is the first
increase in 16 years.
RON DIXON, Chair, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Tanana Valley
Campus Community Advisory Council, testified via teleconference
from Fairbanks to ask the Committee to consider the University
funding request. He spoke about the responsibility and the
accountability of the University.
JOHN YOUNG testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that he
would have been unable to attend school if not for the funding
appropriated to the University the previous year.
LOIS HILDENBRAND, Volunteer, [affiliation inaudible], testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks about a relay drive she was
organizing. She thanked the Committee for fully funding a tobacco
prevention program. She told of leaving her son with $100 when she
traveled recently and how he spent the money, which was not how she
intended. She asked the Committee to spend the tobacco settlement
funds as they were intended.
DAVID LEONE, Executive Director, Resource Center for Parents and
Children, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks
SFC 01 # 60, Side A
Mr. Leone requested that the designated funds for family
preservation services not be transferred from rural communities
into "the more competitive nature" of urban programs. He asserted
this would cause a hardship on Native communities. He also
requested funds not be reduced for drug and alcohol abuse treatment
services. He noted fetal alcohol syndrome is "totally preventable".
VICTOR JOSEPH testified via teleconference from Fairbanks about how
reductions to the BRUs for public health services would hamper the
ability to deliver services.
JEAN BECKER testified via teleconference from Fairbanks in
opposition to funding reductions to alcohol and drug abuse
treatment programs as well as changing the designated BRU grants
for public health nursing to a competitive process. She told of the
"very strong respect" she has for public health nurses and their
efforts in preventing child abuse and fetal alcohol syndrome. She
requested the Legislature delay making funding changes until
recommendations from a childcare policy review task force are
submitted.
MARY SHIELDS GROWER testified via teleconference from Fairbanks
about her involvement with the University as a student, staff
member and faculty. She said the University has always had a "can
do" attitude, which has become stronger with the funding increases
of recent years.
MIKE DAKU, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Tanana Valley
Campus, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that he is a
participant in the human service technology program. He supported
fully funding the University. He stressed the need for counselors.
PAT RACE, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, testified via
teleconference from Fairbanks in support of the University budget.
He also requested the Committee develop a long-term fiscal plan for
the state.
AARON SURING testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to ask for
support for the University.
JEANETTE GRASTO, Advocate for people with mental illness, National
Alliance for the Mentally Ill, testified via teleconference from
Fairbanks and listed her credentials [details inaudible]. She spoke
of the Mental Health Trust Authority and the need to address mental
illness and substance abuse in rural areas.
KAREN PARR, Presiding Officer, Fairbanks North Star Borough
Assembly and retired teacher testified in Juneau, about her efforts
to try to improve the quality of schools. She gave suggestions on
how to improve schools including increases to the education
foundation funding formula rather then relying heavily on one-time
grants. She asserted the key to improving school quality is
improving teacher quality and that Alaska must be competitive in
attracting the best teachers.
Ms. Parr urged support of the University so that it could provide
"an excellent program of teacher training." She added that good
principals and administrators are also necessary. She added that
preschool education is also very important.
JAKE POOLE, Director, Tanana Valley Campus, University of Alaska-
Fairbanks, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that the
Tanana Valley Campus is a vocational-technical school. He stressed
the Legislature has impacted this campus significantly over the
past year with the appropriation increase. He suggested the return
on this investment is greater then what would have been realized if
the funds were invested in the stock market. He told of the
implementation of a nursing program and a process technology
program.
MICHELLE THOMAS testified via teleconference from Fairbanks that
she fully supports funding the Board of Regent's FY 02 budget
request for the University of Alaska. She emphasized the investment
of the University in the future of the state.
HAJO EICKEN, Associate Professor, Geophysics, University of Alaska-
Fairbanks, testified via teleconference from Fairbanks to request
funding the University.
AT EASE 12:25 PM \ 12:30 PM
ALICE KEYES, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from Mountain Village to say, "the budget is very
hard to accept". She specified there is a need for services for
substance abuse treatment. She spoke to positive changes she has
seen in families. She stated the appropriations made to her region
have "been used very wisely."
JOANNE MARKLEY testified via teleconference from Mountain Village
to share she works with abused children. She said there are few
funds available in the region to treat alcohol and drug abuse.
LUTHER AQUCHUCK, testified via teleconference from Mountain Village
about "E.Q: Emotional Quota" and how it relates to workers in the
mental health care field. He stated that funding for this field is
important.
ELAINE MANNING, State Independent Living Council, testified via
teleconference from Glennallen to request an additional $90,000 in
FY 02 [testimony inaudible].
MAGGIE PAUKAN, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from St. Mary's that she is a recovering alcoholic
and mother of six children. She stated that she knows first-hand
the impact alcoholism has on families.
[Name inaudible], testified via teleconference from St. Mary's that
she works for the school district [remaining testimony inaudible.]
ROSLYN GOODMAN, Retired School Librarian, Alaska Association of
School Librarians, testified via teleconference from Pedro Bay that
a small portion of the requested $16.9 million for the University
of Alaska would be used to fund the Statewide Database Project. She
told of current affairs and resource information made available to
Alaskans over the Internet as a result of previous appropriations.
She stated that President Hamilton has shown that the University
"spends its money wisely" and she encouraged the Committee to fully
fund the request.
KAY DURHAM, Vice President, Railbelt Mental Health, testified via
teleconference from Healy to request the funding method for public
mental health services remain unchanged. She noted her organization
serves five communities as well as many people visiting from the
Lower 48 during the tourist season. She listed the services
provided and asserted that with the current funding levels, "we are
just a hair breath away from meeting some of these services for a
healthy community."
SHERRIE GOLL testified via teleconference from Haines [testimony
inaudible].
ISRAEL NELSON, Executive Director, Four Rivers Counseling Services,
testified via teleconference from McGrath and referenced written
testimony he submitted. He requested no funding reductions to the
alcohol and drug abuse treatment grants. He told of the added
transportation and energy expenses of providing services to ten
villages and the need for continued funding.
SINEON JOHN, Substance Abuse Counselor, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health
Corporation, testified via teleconference from Nooksack Bay
[possibly Toksook Bay]
SFC 01 # 60, Side B
Mr. John continued speaking in support for funding alcohol and drug
abuse treatment services. He spoke to the importance of this
treatment especially as it relates to domestic violence.
AT EASE 1:00 PM / 2:30 PM
Senator Ward, Vice-Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, chaired
the following portion of the meeting. He announced testimony would
be limited to two minutes.
JAMES SEEGER, Student, University of Alaska-Anchorage, Kachemak Bay
Campus, testified via teleconference from Homer, about media
reports stating Alaska is losing its highly skilled workers to the
Lower 48. He stated that failing to fund the University's requested
$16.9 million increase the Legislature is saying it is acceptable
to loose this workforce and also encourages students to leave the
state earlier because, "education is a luxury Alaska can do
without."
MERRITT MITCHELL, Alumni, University of Alaska-Anchorage, and
representing, Kachemak Bay Campus Advisory Council, and President,
University of Alaska-Fairbanks Alumni Association, testified via
teleconference from Homer in support for fully funding the amount
requested for the University.
DAVE JONES, Director of Finance, Kodiak Island Borough School
District, testified via teleconference from Kodiak about the
efforts school districts made to address the high cost of pupil
transportation. He stated these efforts were successful and the
resulting contracts reflect the true market cost of transporting
students in Alaska. He commended the Committee for fully funding
this increment. He cautioned that failing to fully fund this in the
future would result in a budget reduction for the school district
and the students in Kodiak would "bear the burden".
PATRICK HICKEY, Assistant Superintendent for Operations and
Business Management, Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
testified via teleconference from Kenai that the District's budget
in 1995 was over $73 million compared to the same amount in FY 02,
seven years later. He noted the rising cost of fuel and labor and
health care expenditures. He requested the Committee support other
legislation that would increase the education foundation funding
formula. He also asked that the pupil transportation component be
fully funded.
PAULA BLACHUT, 12-year Alaskan resident, testified via
teleconference from Valdez about her concerns over proposed budget
cuts that would affect the Valdez Counseling Center. She stressed
this center is the only facility offering substance abuse treatment
services in the community as well as outlying areas.
JOE MICHAUD, Valdez Regional Correctional Facility, testified via
teleconference from Valdez about the difficulty in operating the
facility given that there has been little funding increase for
several years. He described the services the facility provides to
the region.
PEGGY FLASCHER, Director, Valdez Counseling Center, and 19-year
Alaska resident, testified via teleconference from Valdez on behalf
of the staff of the Valdez Counseling Center to request fully
funding the rural community health centers. She noted the Center
currently does not have funding to offer substance abuse treatment
services for youth and she detailed the need for this service.
GREG DONEWAR, Dillingham Department of Public Safety, testified via
teleconference from Dillingham to request funding for regional
contract jails. He spoke of the services these facilities provide
and their necessity. He referenced a report from the Division of
Legislative Budget and Audit, citing "community jails are over
crowded and under-maintained especially at Kodiak, the North Slope
Borough, Kotzebue and Dillingham. These sites need to be replaced
or expanded."
NELS ANDERSON, JR., Member, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Bristol
Bay Campus Council, testified via teleconference from Dillingham to
request the Committee fully fund a request for $18.4 million for FY
02. He spoke to the recent fishing disasters in the area in
addition to welfare reform, which is placing more demands on the
Bristol Bay Campus to retrain fishers for other jobs.
JOHN FULTON, testified via teleconference from Dillingham about the
importance of the University of Alaska and the Bristol Bay Campus.
He spoke of the economic opportunity the campuses provide to rural
communities.
CHRISTY WILLER TILDEN, Program Director for Alcohol Services,
Bristol Bay Native Health Corporation, testified via teleconference
from Dillingham about the importance of funding the services the
Corporation offers. She suggested that because of funding
reductions, the Legislature does not believe there is an alcohol
problem in the state.
APRIL GHALAMI, Student Representative, University of Alaska-
Fairbanks, Bristol Bay Campus, testified via teleconference from
Dillingham that she is a wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, an
employee, a board member, a council member, a teacher, a counselor,
a mentor and a student at the University of Alaska. She stated that
although it may seem Alaska's greatest resources are oil, timber,
fishing or mining, the state's greatest resource is people.
JILL SIMPSON, Cordova Family Resource Center, testified via
teleconference from Cordova to request funding for public health
services not be reduced. She warned that if funding were cut, the
Center would be unable to continue operations.
MIKE MILLIGAN testified via teleconference from Kodiak to ask the
Legislature to increase fuel taxes. He spoke of opportunities for
the state with the appointment of US Representative Don Young as
Chair of the House Transportation Committee. He commented about the
high price of gasoline in Alaska, stating it should be lower, given
that it originates in the state. He did not want the Permanent Fund
Dividend payments reduced and preferred a flat "small" income tax.
FRED NISHIMURA, Business Manager, Aleknagik Natives, Ltd.,
testified via teleconference from Dillingham on behalf of the Board
of Directors and the shareholders, in support of the Governor's
request for funding an additional Park Service Ranger and aircraft
support for a state park in the region. He spoke of increased
hunting and fishing activities in the park
CHRISTINA SASALY testified via teleconference from Dillingham
testified against proposed budget cuts to drug and alcohol
treatment services in Rural Alaska. She emphasized the importance
of these services to the health of rural communities. She testified
in favor of funding for the University, stressing the educational
opportunities offered at the Bristol Bay Campus are critical to the
economic future of Dillingham.
AT EASE
DIANE MCBRIDE, Program Director, KBBI Public Radio, testified via
teleconference from Homer that this radio station has consolidated
with the public radio station in Kenai to operate more efficiently
and cost-effectively. She stated this was to allow the stations to
maintain the same level of service to the listening audience. She
told of the ability for local residents to communicate with members
of the Legislature over the telephone rather then traveling to the
Legislative Information Office during forums. She requested funding
for the University of Alaska is not reduced.
CINDY QUIJADA, President, Student Association, University of
Alaska-Anchorage, Kachemak Bay Campus, testified via teleconference
from Homer in support of full funding for the University. She
shared that the University has changed her life and has allowed her
to become a productive member of the community.
AT EASE 3:30 PM / 4:00 PM
[Note: Recording equipment remained in operation during the break.
No portion of the meeting is omitted.]
SFC 01 # 61, Side A
JOHN DICKENS, Emergency Medical Services Instructor, Yukon-
Kuskokwim Health Corporation, and Volunteer Firefighter and
Emergency Medical Technician, City of Bethel Fire Department,
[additional credentials inaudible] testified via teleconference
from Bethel to ask the Committee to reconsider reductions to the
BRU grants for public health care providers. He warned that making
such budget reductions would "literally be measured in large
amounts of blood and tears."
Co-Chair Donley pointed out that BRU is a "generic term" that does
not refer to any one grant. He asked what program the witness was
referring to in his testimony.
Mr. Dickens replied, "emergency medical services program," which he
said is only funded at 75 percent.
Co-Chair Donley asked the name of the recipient of this grant.
Mr. Dickens answered the grantee is the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health
Corporation.
Co-Chair Donley stated that this grant was not eliminated but
instead combined with other public health providers into one BRU
that would be competitive. He asked why the witness thought his
organization would not win this grant given his testimony on the
importance of the funds.
Mr. Dickens responded that the needs are great everywhere in Alaska
and that "we're gonna lose either way."
Co-Chair Donley and Mr. Dickens continued to debate the issue.
CAROLINE RENNER, Director, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, and
Chair, Alaska Tobacco Control Alliance, and the Statewide Coalition
of Public Health Advocates, testified via teleconference from
Bethel referencing tobacco usage data she provided to the
Committee. She informed that she would be visiting the Capitol
Building and planned to meet with the members.
MARY ANARUTH, Administration Coordinate, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health
Corporation, testified via teleconference from Bethel against the
proposal to combine the public health services grants into one
competitive grant process.
SANDRA MIRONOV, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from Bethel about possible funding reductions to the
public health care providers. She gave a history of the Health
Corporation and the services it provides. She stated the
competitive grant process would place rural communities at a
disadvantage. She spoke of the valuable time that would have to be
spent on grant writing activities.
ALEX MORTENSON testified via teleconference from Bethel on behalf
of the University of Alaska FY 02 operating budget. She told of
biology courses she took and the benefits of long-distance
education technology.
STEVEN [last name inaudible and not provided], testified via
teleconference from Bethel about the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health
Corporation and the Alaska Psychiatric Institute [testimony
inaudible.]
GERENE SUMPTER, Life-long Bethel resident, 30-year University of
Alaska-Fairbanks, Kuskokwim Campus employee, and part-time student,
testified via teleconference from Bethel to ask that the Committee
support President Hamilton's request for University funding. She
thanked the Committee for supporting the University the previous
year. She stated the local campus is "producing local homegrown
teachers" and graduates of programs such as rural development who
work to bring sustainable development to communities.
CARRIE ENOCH testified via teleconference from Bethel regarding the
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation [testimony inaudible].
PAULA ALBERT, Alaskan Native, testified via teleconference from
Bethel that tobacco settlement funds should be spent on tobacco-
related programs.
JACK CROW, Village Operations Administrator, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health
Corporation, testified via teleconference from Bethel about the
community health aid programs and emergency medical services
offered by the Corporation.
DANA LEE HULL, Director, Community Health and Wellness, Yukon-
Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via teleconference from
Bethel to ask the Committee to reconsider changing the grants to a
competitive process. She spoke about the importance of prevention
and the high death rates of Alaska Natives and other children
living in rural environments.
SANDRA KLEVER, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from Bethel that over the past 20 years, the
Corporation has "carefully nurtured the growth of village-based
counselors." She stated there are now 30 counselors who serve the
54 villages in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. She detailed the services
these counselors provide and the impacts of budget reductions.
VICKIE GREEN, Emergency Medical Services Department, Yukon-
Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via teleconference from
Bethel about the services the Department provides to Bethel and
outlying villages. She spoke about training activities.
BALASSA LARSON, Supervisor, Health Aide Program, Yukon-Kuskokwim
Health Corporation, testified via teleconference from Bethel that
this program provides primary health care and that she supervises
health care for six villages. She warned of the difficulties she
would have in conducting her duties if funding were reduced.
CAROL ODINZOFF, Registered Nurse, Director, Health Aide Program,
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, and Chair, Community Health
Aide Directors Statewide Organization, testified via teleconference
from Bethel and reiterated the services the Health Aide Program
provides. She spoke of the two positions that would be eliminated
if funding were reduced. She stated the program is currently 25
percent under funded.
CURT MADISON, Director, Emergency Medical Services Training
Program, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from Bethel that the limited funds that are
available should be leveraged to achieve the maximum benefit. He
stated that the Corporation cooperates with providers in Norton
Sound and other areas, but does not compete with them as the
proposed grant process would require.
CHRIS BRAGG, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, testified via
teleconference from Bethel about the consequences of not funding
alcohol and drug abuse treatment services. She stated that the
grants should not be awarded on a competitive basis for rural
communities.
AT EASE
SFC 01 # 61, Side B
Ms. Bragg continued.
ISHMAEL ANDREW, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Kuskokwim
Campus testified via teleconference from Bethel that the University
has enabled him to continue his education so that he could someday
return to his village as a teacher.
JANET BAVILLA, Student, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Kuskokwim
Campus, testified via teleconference from Bethel in support of
funding for the University. She talked about the benefits of
attending a rural school.
ROSE MARIA ASHEPAK testified via teleconference from Bethel that
she is a consumer of Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation mental
health care services.
RAY [last name inaudible] testified via teleconference from
Glennallen to request funding be withheld from the Division of
Forestry. He stated the community operates a "hot shot" service and
the state program competes with their efforts.
MIKE BRICKER, recovering alcoholic and addict, testified via
teleconference from Bethel, as a past consumer of mental health
care services in the Lower 48. Currently, he informed, he is
involved with behavioral sciences. He contradicted other testimony
and requested funding reductions for the treatment services. He
asserted that reduced alcohol consumption would result in
significant savings to all programs. He stated that Alaska Natives
would not suffer from budget reductions. He said he read this
testimony "tongue in cheek."
HARRY NICKOLI testified via teleconference from Bethel that the
Bethel Crisis Respite Center and the Bethel Mental Health Care
Center saved his life. He told of his depression and alcohol abuse,
which he stated he is improving. He said that his self-esteem has
improved since receiving dental care.
WALTER [Last name inaudible], Marine Advisory Agent, School of
Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska-Fairbanks,
Kuskokwim Campus testified via teleconference from Bethel that the
University provides economic benefits to the state. He requested
full funding for the University.
Senator Ward noted Senator Elton was in attendance.
MAX FELIX, Director, National Council on Alcoholism, testified in
Juneau about the non-profit agency with 250 chapters nationwide. He
requested funding for substance abuse treatment services,
especially prevention programs. He stated previous high spending on
prevention and treatment during the 1980s has "paid off." However,
he noted that "we're losing the battle" due to reduced funding in
recent years.
TOM BOUTIN, 28-year Juneau resident, testified in Juneau to point
out that the state would be in "bad shape" if fiscal restraint had
not been exercised over the past several years.
BILL LEGERE, KTOO Public Broadcasting, testified in Juneau that he
appreciated the Committee's funding of public broadcasting stations
grants. He spoke to the increased cost of the upcoming satellite
transfer and the funds allocated for FY 02 would only provide half
the amount necessary to operate the new system. He listed emergency
transmitting and Gavel-to-Gavel among the broadcasting services
utilizing the satellite system.
Co-Chair Donley noted the proposed budget included program receipt
authority sufficient to cover the satellite expenses.
JOAN CAHILL, 20-year Juneau resident, testified in Juneau to the
proposed $1.2 million allocation of a total $25 million tobacco
settlement funds to tobacco-related programs. She stated that the
Center for Disease Control has suggested that the $8.1 million is
the minimum amount necessary to be effective for smoking cessation
and prevention in Alaska. She asserted, "There is something immoral
going on here," that the tobacco companies are "laughing at our
expense all the way to the bank," and "we are pawns of the tobacco
company".
ALICE RARIG, Juneau Area State Parks Advisory Board, testified in
Juneau in support of fully funding the requested increment for the
Division of Parks. She said this funding would enable employment of
summer staff for maintenance efforts. She told of the condition of
many parks due to inadequate funding in recent years.
JIM DOUGLAS, Extension Agent, 4-H Southeast Alaska, Extension
Agent, 4-H Kodiak, Extension Agent, Home Gardening and Community
Resource Development for the area from Angoon to Cordova, and State
4-H Program Leader on the Administrative Team, Cooperative
Extension Service, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, testified in
Juneau to request fully funding the University of Alaska budget. He
stated that the expansion of his duties occurred over the past
three years with the "gutting" of the University budget. He noted
that with the loss of senior staff, the Cooperative Extension
Service lost over 150 years of knowledge.
IRIS CORTES, Staff and Student, University of Alaska-Southeast,
testified in Juneau that one reason she moved to Juneau was because
of the presence of a small university. She supported full funding
for the University of Alaska.
TIA ANDERSON, Student Body President, University of Alaska-
Southeast, testified in Juneau to ask those members of the public
present at the meeting how are in support of funding for the
University to stand. She remarked that the University of Alaska is,
"a child of the state." She stated that with the position of Career
Counselor vacant, she has been unable to receive assistance with
finding employment within the state after she graduates.
Co-Chair Donley noted the Department of Labor and Workforce
Development operates an employment service, which could assist the
witness in her job-seeking efforts.
MCKENZIE MATAYA, Student, University of Alaska-Southeast, testified
in Juneau that full funding of the University would be beneficial
to the school and the economy of Juneau. She stated that she came
to the University from out of state and would love to stay in
Alaska after graduating.
MARK GRAVES, Student, University of Alaska, and life-long Alaskan,
testified in Juneau that he has an interest in the state's economy.
He urged full support of the University of Alaska budget increase,
which would benefit the entire state. "I'm asking you to invest now
for a better tomorrow."
JOE HOLSTEIN, Student and Employee, University of Alaska-Southeast
testified in Juneau that he fully supports the University's
programs.
BRAD DUNCAN, Student and Employee, University of Alaska-Southeast
testified in Juneau about his involvement in the University's IT
Knowledge Worker Program, which was funded by the Legislature. He
noted that when he enrolled in this program, he had to sign a
contract promising to stay in Alaska for two years after graduating
and obtain employment in the information technology field. He
stated that with additional funds, more programs like this could be
implemented.
PAM WATTS, Executive Director, Advisory Board on Alcoholism and
Drug Abuse, testified in Juneau to request funding of the Division
of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. She reiterated testimony received
throughout the day regarding the consequences budget reductions to
alcohol and drug abuse treatment services would cause.
SHANNON KEMPTON, Student, University of Alaska, testified in Juneau
that the University is important to her and that funding the
University is "an investment in our future."
STACEY AUGHE, Student, University of Alaska, testified in Juneau
that she supports fully funding the University.
MATTHEW WOOD, Student, University of Alaska-Southeast, testified in
Juneau that he is originally from Oregon. He stated he came to
Alaska because the University of Alaska offers small classrooms and
an intensive accounting program. He cautioned that without the
requested funding, the library project could not be completed. He
spoke of attending classrooms in temporary buildings.
RYAN [OR BRIAN] GREEN, Full-Time Honor Student, University of
Alaska-Southeast testified in Juneau that funding increases
appropriated the previous year were used to recruit out of state
students. He said he is one of those as he originates from Utah and
that he chose the University of Alaska over Brigham Young
University primarily because of class size.
PHIL LINDEKEY [Last name not provided], Student and Employee,
University of Alaska-Southeast testified in Juneau about his
studies in the technology field. He said there are many "awesome"
programs planned but not yet implemented due to lack of funding. He
asked the Committee to fully fund the University of Alaska request.
TYLER BISHOP testified in Juneau that he came to the state two
years ago on a scholarship from the University of Alaska
Foundation. He asserted the Committee should fully fund the
University, as it is the "economic engine behind Alaska." He said
that by funding the University, the Legislature is funding health
care, industry and technology.
KATHRYN CURRIT, Sophomore, University of Alaska-Southeast testified
in Juneau that she "really really really" believes in the $16.9
million budget increase for the University. She stated the
increased funding would help the University better its programs.
She noted a Mental Health Counselor is needed.
KATHLEEN MOORE testified in Juneau that she was a University of
Alaska-Southeast student the previous semester and would be again
in the next semester. She stated she is in fully support of funding
for the University.
SFC 01 # 62, Side A
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Dave Donley adjourned the meeting.
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