Legislature(2015 - 2016)SENATE FINANCE 532
03/09/2016 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB139 || SB140 | |
| Public Testimony: Anchorage | |
| Public Testimony: Glennallen, Seward, Homer | |
| Public Testimony: Fairbanks, Mat-su | |
| Public Testimony: Kenai, Kodiak, Dillingham | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 139 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 140 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
SENATE BILL NO. 139
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government and for
certain programs, capitalizing funds, making
reappropriations, making supplemental appropriations,
and 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."
SENATE BILL NO. 140
"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."
9:06:16 AM
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: ANCHORAGE
9:06:56 AM
MICHAEL CHAMBERS, UNITED FOR LIBERTY, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in support of the recommendation
from United for Liberty. He stated that the recommendation
was a $4.5 billion budget. He announced that the plan had
$1.5 billion recommended cuts to the budget. He shared that
the state had spent $73 million on the aerospace industry,
and $3.5 million of those funding went to 28 personnel. He
asserted that the Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities (DOT/PF) was managing the police and fire at the
airports. He felt that the assignment should move to
Department of Public Safety (DPS). He felt that the Alaska
Marine Highway System cost as much as the entire DOT/PF
throughout the entire state. He remarked that the Medicaid
program had 400 unresolved systemic errors, which was one
reason why it was uncertified.
9:10:08 AM
DEBI BALDWIN, SELF, JUNEAU, testified in support of early
childhood education. She felt that investing in education
at a young age, would reduce the financial outlay the state
may incur by later remedial education, social services,
adverse health outcomes, and social justice costs. She
specifically spoke in support of Parents as Teachers, Pre-K
programs, and Best Beginnings.
9:11:34 AM
DEBORAH HOLLAND, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
expressed that there were not enough cuts to the budget.
She asserted that the Senate was attempting undo some cuts,
because $288 million were found.
Co-Chair Kelly clarified that the House had made that
realization, not the Senate.
Ms. Holland stressed that the money was for the people of
Alaska, so it did not matter whether the changes were made
in the House or Senate. She felt that the money should be
put into the corpus of the Permanent Fund. She felt that
the money should be saved, because there were not enough
cuts already in the budget.
9:12:32 AM
ARIANNA FILIPPENKO, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE
(UAA), ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support
of funding for the University. She shared that she was
raised in a low income household, but was able to access
advanced placement courses through the University at a
young age. She remarked that she had participated in
various programs that enhanced her confidence and ability
to intellectually communicate.
Co-Chair Kelly handed the gavel to Co-Chair MacKinnon.
9:14:46 AM
TERESA HOLT, LONG TIME CARE OMBUDSMAN, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), urged support of funding for senior
services. She shared that the number of seniors would
quadruple in the near future. She specifically testified in
support of the senior grants program. She stressed that the
cost of the loss of funding could be greater than the cost
provided to keep people in their homes to avoid long-term
care. She stressed that the grants provided meals,
caregivers, and adult day services. She also spoke in
support of funding the adult dental care program.
Co-Chair MacKinnon handed the gavel to Co-Chair Kelly.
9:17:33 AM
PANU LUCIER, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of early childhood education. She
stressed that early learning programs directly enhanced the
achievement of students in kindergarten. She stressed that
there was increased pressure in public schools. She
remarked that currently 7,000 students a year would repeat
a grade. She stressed that early learning investment would
decrease the growing prison and criminal incarceration
costs. She stressed that the funding for early learning
provided leverage for federal match funds.
9:20:40 AM
BECCA BERNARD, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of a plan similar to the governor's
budget proposal. She testified in support of using
Permanent Fund earnings, and creating moderate taxes to
cover the cost of services. She felt that drastic cuts
would cause a significant negative impact to Alaska's
economy. She also spoke in support of the scheduled $50
increase to the base student allocation. She spoke in
support of early childhood education programs. She felt
that without the education investment, the state would
suffer and the population would decrease. She stressed that
Alaska currently had the lowest tax burden of any state.
She felt that a fair tax would allow for a higher quality
of life in the state.
9:23:21 AM
DONNA GALBREATH, MEDICAL DIRECTOR, SOUTH CENTRAL FOUNDATION
(SCF), ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in support of
behavioral health treatment and recovery grants. She
advocated for investment in behavioral services with no
reductions. She also spoke in support of continuing the
adult Medicaid dental program. She stressed that SCF was an
Alaska-Native owned nonprofit health care organization that
served 65,000 Alaska Native and American Indian people
living Anchorage, Mat-Su, and 60 rural villages. She
explained that SCF provided comprehensive health services
to Alaska Native people, including primary care, behavioral
health, and dental. She stated that SCF believed that whole
person wellness to overall health. The adult Medicaid
dental program provided limited dental care for low income
seniors and people with disabilities.
9:25:54 AM
ANGELO ROMANO, THREAD, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of early childhood education and care.
He also testified in favor of restoring funds for the
Parents as Teachers program. He also spoke in support of
reinstating funds for Best Beginnings.
9:27:03 AM
KRISTEN RAMSTAD, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for Head Start. She felt
that the program provided leverage for comprehensive early
childhood education, especially in rural Alaska. She
specifically testified in favor of restoring funds for the
Parents as Teachers program. She also spoke in support of
reinstating funds for Best Beginnings. She stressed that
children were the state's greatest resource.
9:28:28 AM
JOHN JACKSON, KNBA PUBLIC RADIO, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), urged the committee to restore funding for
public broadcasting. He understood the difficult financial
choices faced by the legislature. He remarked that the
local public radio station in Anchorage provide emergency
alerts, and was key to the safety and welfare of Alaska's
largest city. He asserted that the loss of state funding
would make it difficult to achieve the federal matching
dollars. He remarked that the native broadcasting would be
eliminated due to the loss of funds, which would make it
more difficult for the Alaska native population to connect
with the rest of the state. He stressed that the public
radio allowed for native history education.
9:31:09 AM
ANDY HOLLEMAN, PRESIDENT, ANCHORAGE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding
for education. He stressed that the children of Alaska were
more at risk than any other state. He felt that funding for
K-12 education would enhance the safety of young children.
He felt that there should be less regulation and less
oversight of education.
9:32:16 AM
DAVE HANSEN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), shared
that three oil rigs were going to be shut down, and the
result would have a significant negative affect on the
state's economy. He remarked that the state was facing a
crisis, and encouraged the committee to make smart
decisions. He also felt that there should be new types of
revenue sources. He remarked that many of the proposed cuts
were to small programs. He urged the committee to
reevaluate the oil and gas tax credit program. He shared
that the Anchorage newspaper was involved in the same $300
million shifting that was taking place in the House. He
hoped that the situation would be clarified.
Co-Chair MacKinnon asserted that the information in the
newspaper was probably misinformation. She shared that the
Senate was working on its own budget proposal separate from
the senate.
9:35:53 AM
DENISE KNAPP, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), urged
support of funding for senior services. She specifically
spoke in support of the personal care assistance program.
She stated that the proposed cut would affect nearly 450
seniors. She spoke against the cuts to senior benefits,
such as meals and transportation. She also spoke in support
of the Adult Medicaid Dental program. She also spoke in
support of capping the Permanent Fund Dividend. She urged
support of a state income tax and a state sales tax.
Co-Chair Kelly handed the gavel to Co-Chair MacKinnon.
9:38:25 AM
DOUGLAS FINNEY, DIRECTOR, EASTERN ALEUTIAN TRIBES,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the
community health aide training and supervision grant. He
understood that there was a budget shortfall, but urged the
committee to see the worth of the community health aide
program within the tribal health system.
Co-Chair MacKinnon handed the gavel to Co-Chair Kelly.
9:41:25 AM
STACEY LUCASON, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for the University. She
felt that the state must stop its dependence on the oil
companies. She encouraged the committee to enhance an
economy that was not dependent on oil revenue. She wanted
to stay in Alaska and have a family in Alaska. She felt
that the University provided skills to be a productive
member of the community.
9:43:42 AM
DREW HANSEN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in
support of Parents as Teachers. He also voiced support of
funding for the Rural Alaska Community Action Program
(Rural CAP). He spoke in support of other early childhood
education programs. He felt that investing in early
childhood allowed children the opportunity to be prepared
for kindergarten. He stressed that the first five years of
a child's life was extremely critical. He shared that
positive parenting model programs enhanced the development
of children by 35 percent. He asserted that the investing
in early childhood programs leveraged federal and other
funds. He felt that investing in children was investing in
Alaska's future.
9:45:58 AM
MIKE BRONSON, VOLUNTEER, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE
ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE (NAACP), ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding K-12
education. He also asserted that there was a pervasive
reading and math problem in the state. He remarked that the
students in Alaska did not get the support or
acknowledgment of the issue in the legislature. He echoed
the comments regarding Best Beginnings, Parents as
Teachers, and early childhood programs.
9:48:16 AM
MARIA VICTORIA CORTINA, THREAD, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), spoke in support of early childhood care
and education programs. She shared that a child's brain
grew the fastest during the early years. She felt that
improved school performance would occur through continued
investment in Parents as Teachers, Best Beginnings, and
other early childhood programs.
9:49:24 AM
SUSAN PARKES, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke
in support of the public integrity unit in the Department
of Labor and Workforce Development (DOL). She felt that
public safety and criminal prosecution were necessary to
government. She explained that white collar crimes may
increase, and not be prosecuted as a result of the cut.
9:52:31 AM
DEENA MITCHELL, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of the creation of a sensible and
balanced budget. She testified in support of using
Permanent Fund earnings. She also urged the committee to
utilize a state income tax. She also spoke in support of
funding early childhood education and K-12 education.
9:54:18 AM
CINDY KNALL, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for the University. She
shared that her husband had observed many layoffs within
the University. She stressed that a well-funded university
was necessary for students seeking professional and career
training, to be a part of the solution to the state's
economic crisis.
9:56:20 AM
JESSICA CLER, ALASKA PUBLIC AFFAIRS MANAGER, PLANNED
PARENTHOOD, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in
support of funding for public health nursing. She stressed
that public health nurses often provided the only access to
basic health care services such as vaccinations, family
planning, and prenatal care. She remarked that the public
health services provided life changing services to people
in need. She testified against the language related to
"medically necessary abortions." She felt that the language
either violated the law and/or compromised the work of the
Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
9:58:44 AM
LAURA BONNER, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke
in support of funding early childhood education and K-12
education. She also testified in support of funding the
Alaska Marine Highway. She also testified in support of
funding for the University. She felt that there should be a
5 percent increase to the royalty tax. She also urged the
committee to utilize a state income tax. She also testified
in support of using Permanent Fund earnings. She also spoke
in support of capping the Permanent Fund Dividend. She felt
that the constitutional budget reserve (CBR) should be used
only for emergencies. She felt that the oil and gas tax
credit program should be eliminated.
10:01:28 AM
STEPHANIE BERGLUND, CEO, THREAD, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in support of early childhood
education and care. She felt that resources must be
restored to the minimum of the governor's proposed budget.
She spoke in support of reinstating funds for Best
Beginnings. She also testified in favor of restoring funds
for the Parents as Teachers program. She spoke in support
of full funding for Pre-K programs. She stressed that Pre-K
promoted the success of families and children. She felt
that the Parents as Teachers enhanced parent knowledge and
promoted safe and healthy relationships between parents and
children.
10:03:58 AM
LAYTON LOCKETT, CITY MANAGER, CITY OF ADAK, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for
revenue sharing. He stressed that the revenue sharing was
considered payment in lieu of essential services provided
by local communities on behalf of the state. He explained
that Adak used the revenue sharing primarily to fund
personnel and offset the cost of funding the school and
clinic services.
10:06:02 AM
DIRK SHUMAKER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KIDS CORPS INC.,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in favor of
restoring funds for the Parents as Teachers program. He
also spoke in support of reinstating funds for Best
Beginnings. He also spoke in support of full funding for
Pre-K programs. He remarked that children in public Pre-K
programs showed significant educational advancements. He
remarked that the programs reduced child abuse and neglect.
He shared that the Imagination Library engaged families in
reading. He stressed that the investment reduced the need
for intervention in K-12 schools.
10:08:16 AM
JEFFREY BROWN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
encouraged an examination of how the spent money moved
through state. He spoke in support of funding for Alaskans.
He hoped that there would be a consideration about funding
for the weakest members of society and education. He spoke
specifically about the mega project financing. He stressed
that the money for mega projects was spent outside of the
state. He hoped that politics would not "cloud" the
thinking in drafting the budget.
10:10:23 AM
DAVID BOYLE, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), felt
that the special interest groups should be ignored, and
there should be a focus on the Alaska who did not have any
representation. He spoke in support of the United for
Liberty budget. He spoke against funding for school
districts, and spoke in support of funding directly to
schools. He asserted that Pre-K education did not have
positive funds. He remarked that children who were not
enrolled in Pre-K programs had a more positive outcome than
the alternative.
10:14:08 AM
ROBIN SMITH, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), shared
that she had a small business that served the oil industry,
and her company was already facing a negative impact. She
urged the committee to utilize a state income tax. She
spoke in support of cancelling the mega projects. She spoke
in support of a tax on fishing and alcohol. He stressed
that job loss was economic loss. She also spoke in support
of capping the Permanent Fund Dividend. She stressed that
deeper cuts in the budget would result in job loss. She
also testified in support of funding for the University.
She also spoke in support of full funding for Pre-K
programs. She specifically testified in favor of restoring
funds for the Parents as Teachers program.
10:16:47 AM
JOE HACKENMUELLER, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
felt that there must be additional revenue streams. He
spoke in support of fully funding education programs. He
testified in support of funding for the University. He also
spoke in support of full funding for Pre-K programs. He
shared that the impact of losing a single job would have a
greater impact than the introduction of a sales or income
tax. He spoke in support of capping the Permanent Fund
Dividend. He also urged the committee to utilize a state
income tax. He felt that there should a reconsideration of
the $500 million in oil and gas tax credits. He urged
support of the governor's proposed budget and revenue
streams.
Co-Chair Kelly handed the gavel to Co-Chair MacKinnon.
10:19:17 AM
HOPE FINKELSTEIN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
spoke in support of behavioral health programs. She felt
that there was a tie between economic depression and
personal depression. She shared that Alaska had one of the
highest rates of suicide in the world. She stressed that
suicide was the ultimate form of depression. She encouraged
the use of reserve accounts and also testified in support
of using Permanent Fund earnings. She also urged the
committee to utilize a state income tax. She wanted to
ensure that there was a safety net for all of Alaskans.
10:22:01 AM
TOM LAKOSH, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), requested
equitable revenue generation. He urged the committee to
restore funding for public broadcasting. He spoke in
support of behavioral health programs. He also urged
support of funding for senior services. He also spoke in
support of funding for education programs. He spoke in
support of corporate income tax, personal income tax,
seasonal sales tax, and fossil fuels tax. He shared that
there would be a portion of the burden taken away from the
residents of the state, and rather put some of the burden
on visitors. He felt that the expenditures for
beneficiaries were directed at an Alaska tax ID holder, and
spent through a debit card. He felt that the money could be
recouped after it was effectively used in the economy. He
shared that there had always been a desire in the state to
diversify the state's economy. He spoke against a cap on
the Permanent Fund Dividend.
Co-Chair MacKinnon welcomed students from Floyd Dryden
Middle School.
10:26:48 AM
BOBBY WELLS, SELF, NOORVIK (via teleconference), shared
that the City of Noorvik was struggling to develop its own
budget. He testified in support of funding for revenue
sharing. He felt that the cut to revenue sharing would
affect the police department in Noorvik. He shared that the
cut would limit Noorvik's ability to reach out to its
people and provide safe water to the residents. He stressed
that many rural communities depended on the revenue sharing
fund. He also spoke in support of keeping the Public
Employees' Retirement System (PERS) contribution at 23
percent.
10:30:02 AM
ROBERTA MURPHY, CITY ADMINISTRATOR, NOORVIK (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for
revenue sharing. She stressed that the revenue sharing was
more than half of Noorvik's operating budget. She shared
that Noorvik faced a high cost of living. He announced that
Noorvik lived off of sales tax and revenue sharing. She
hoped that the city would develop other sources of revenue.
She stressed that the Noorvik Police Department had also
faced significant personnel cuts.
10:32:42 AM
RECESSED
1:02:39 PM
RECONVENED
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: GLENNALLEN, SEWARD, HOMER
MARK KANSTEINER, SELF, SEWARD (via teleconference),
supported initiation of an income tax, increased oil
industry taxes, and using part of the permanent fund
earnings. He also supported capping the permanent fund
dividend and careful responsible budget cuts. He asked the
committee to do the right thing. He thought legislators
should accomplish the task of producing a fiscal plan
without going in to special session. He referred to the 107
municipalities and 9 boroughs in the state in which to levy
a sales tax. He relayed that his community had a 7 percent
sales tax, and thought a state sales tax would unfairly
impact the poor of the state. He thought an income tax
would be fairer and would tax those that work but do not
reside in the state. He supported increased taxation of oil
companies and reduced tax credits. He listed individuals
who had supported the same ideas including Governor Walker,
Charles Wolforth, Gunnar Knapp, Joe Beadle, and Dermot
Cole.
1:06:07 PM
Vice-Chair Micciche asked for Mr. Kansteiner's thoughts on
the budget bill before the committee.
1:06:28 PM
ROSIE SUTPHIN, SELF, SEWARD (via teleconference), testified
in opposition to cuts to senior services. She shared that
she was 80 years old, a resident of Moose Pass, and a
recipient of taxi vouchers. She detailed ways in which she
utilized the support service for her personal needs. She
discussed previous cuts to senior services. She discussed
her personal experience with aging and utilizing senior
services such as transportation vouchers.
1:08:46 PM
JACQUELENE MACE, INDEPENDENT LIVING CENTER, SEWARD (via
teleconference), urged the committee to support funding for
senior services. She asked the committee to imagine
scenarios in which they had no transportation or resources.
She discussed the Independent Living Center in Seward that
provided taxi vouchers. She mentioned the TRAILS program
(total recreation and independent living skills), and
thought it was very important to the quality of life of
many individuals experiencing disabilities.
1:11:12 PM
RICK OATMAN, KENNY LAKE SCHOOL, COPPER SCHOOL DISTRICT,
KENNY LAKE (via teleconference), testified in support of
funding for K-12 education. He thanked the committee for
their hard work. He encouraged the committee to pass a
sustainable financial plan for the state so schools could
continue to prepare students for the future. He thanked the
committee for early funding the Base Student Allocation
(BSA), including the $50 increase proposed by the governor.
He supposed broadband assistance grants. He thought that
deep cuts to the Department of Education and Early
Development (DEED) or to the BSA would hurt the economy and
make it difficult to provide engaging classroom instruction
for students.
1:12:54 PM
Co-Chair Kelly handed the gavel to Co-Chair MacKinnon.
MARK SOMERVILLE, COPPER RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT, BOARD OF
EDUCATION, KENNY LAKE (via teleconference), testified in
support of K-12 education. He thanked the committee for
their prior support of education; specifically fully
funding the BSA, including the $50 increase proposed in the
governor's budget. He spoke in favor of full funding for
broadband in schools, which rural schools depended upon. He
thought that deep cuts to the Department of Education and
Early Development (DEED) or to the BSA would hurt the
economy and make it difficult to provide engaging classroom
instruction for students. He emphasized that the Copper
River School District was on the road system and not within
a borough or established city, and was totally dependent
upon state support. He encouraged the committee to make the
necessary decisions for a sustainable fiscal plan.
1:14:48 PM
DETRICIA HAHN, SELF, ANCHOR POINT (via teleconference),
urged the committee to restore funding for public
broadcasting. She lived on the remote west side of Cook
Inlet, and did not have access to cell phones or internet.
She thought that there were many other areas in the state
that experienced the same limited access to communications.
She was dependent upon public radio, including receiving
personal messages read across the radio called via the
"bushlines" service [messages to a specific individual
within the broadcast area]. She discussed the dissemination
of emergency information for tsunami warnings, earthquakes,
and volcanic eruptions. She thought the public radio
station was a source of unbiased news programs. She
discussed radio programs she enjoyed.
1:16:38 PM
BRYAN ZAK, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in
opposition to budget cuts that affected local jobs. He
discussed the vibrant economy of Homer and discussed the
low price of oil. He did not think making cuts was the way
to solve the current budget issues. He discussed PERS and
TRS, and thought that if the state did not fund the systems
it would result in payments being made at the local level.
He mentioned budget ideas by Senator Lesil McGuire,
Governor Walker, and Senator Anna MacKinnon. He thought a
viable budget solution would be a combined approach to
include a school tax, and would include more than just
cuts.
1:18:56 PM
DONNA ADERHOLT, COUNCIL MEMBER, CITY OF HOMER (via
teleconference), She shared that Homer City Council had
passed a resolution urging the legislature to take
immediate and decisive action during the 2016 legislative
session to enact a complete package of initiatives to
provide for a balanced, sustainable, and predictable state
budget for the foreseeable future. She asked the committee
to recognize that the decisions they were making would have
financial implications for municipalities. She expressed
that communities such as Homer relied on stability and
sustainability from the state to make decisions on budgets
and revenue sources. She discussed the municipal PERS
contribution rate, and thought that the municipal rate
should remain at 22 percent. She understood that PERS was a
burden for the state, and noted that it was currently 5.5
percent of Homer's annual budget. She thought that an
increase in the city's PERS contribution rate could result
in critical losses in city services. She thanked the
committee for its work on the operating budget. She
appreciated the committee's focus and dedication.
1:21:17 PM
JILL BURNHAM, KENAI PENINSULA COLLEGE, HOMER (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for the
University. She shared her personal story of recently
relocating to the Kenai area and her attendance at Kenai
Peninsula College (KPC). She discussed her extensive
background in education, and was laudatory about the
education and student services at KPC. She wanted her
children to have the opportunity to attend KPC, and did not
want to have to relocate in order to obtain residency for
in-state tuition. She shared that she had worked in
education in the city of Los Angeles and described the
state of education deplorable.
1:23:46 PM
CATRIONA REYNOLDS, COUNCIL MEMBER, CITY OF HOMER (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding community
jails. She recounted that the City of Homer had experienced
a 45 percent cut to the community jails program the
previous year, which had resulted in the layoff of 4
employees. She thought community jails were an important
partnership where the state and local law enforcement could
share the responsibility of housing prisoners. She
testified in support of funding for revenue sharing. She
emphasized that small communities such as Homer needed a
stable revenue sharing amount to create its own budget.
1:24:46 PM
MERCEDES HARNESS, COORDINATOR, FRIENDS OF THE HOMER
LIBRARY, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in favor of
restoring funds for the Parents as Teachers program and the
Imagination Library. She spoke in support of full funding
for Pre-K programs. She relayed her personal experience
with early childhood programs, and discussed the
relationship between reading and child school readiness.
She discussed the importance of agency collaboration in
small communities to maximize resources. She thought early
childhood education led to better outcomes in life, and
saved the state money in the long run. She testified in
favor of the Online with Libraries program, and discussed
federal matching funds. She discussed the 43 small rural
libraries that would be unable to afford broadband internet
access without OWL funding. She supported funding for state
libraries.
1:27:09 PM
RICHARD HARNESS, SELF, TUTKA BAY (via teleconference),
urged the committee to restore funding for public
broadcasting. He lived in a rural area in Kachemak Bay and
relied heavily on public radio for getting information on
local weather, marine weather, natural disasters and other
important events. He was concerned about cutting funding
that would result in lost federal matching funds. He
described public radio services and information as
invaluable.
1:29:12 PM
KEN LANDFIELD, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified
in support of restored funding for public broadcasting. He
thought it was important to find new revenue sources for
the state, and was in favor of reinstating an income tax
and reinstating a school tax. He thought there were cuts to
be made, and suggested revisiting the oil tax credits. He
recounted that public broadcasting had been subject to cuts
for many years. He discussed efficiencies that had been
implemented by his local radio stations. He suggested that
it was a fallacy to say that radio could be replaced by
cell phones and the internet. He thanked the committee for
its time and efforts.
1:31:40 PM
MIKE MCCARTHY, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), recounted
his extensive experience in criminal justice, and
congratulated the legislature on the passage of SB 23. He
asked the committee to stay focused on the budget crisis
facing the state. He commented on the legislators work
efforts. He thought that there were some bills that were a
waste of legislative time. He spoke in opposition to SB 89
and SB 199. He addressed SB 174, and did not support
firearms or knives in a university classroom setting. He
commented on a Medicaid expansion lawsuit.
1:34:03 PM
DAVID ANDERSON, SELF, ANCHOR POINT (via teleconference),
urged the committee to restore funding for public
broadcasting, higher education, and children's services. He
had not heard discussion about generating new revenue, and
supported a state income tax. He discussed non-resident
workers. He supported capping the permanent fund dividend,
and reinstating a school tax. He asked the committee not to
ignore the topic of revenue generation.
1:35:35 PM
HELYN SCHOEPKE, CITY CLERK, KACHEMAK (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for revenue sharing. She
relayed that the City of Kachemak realized the state was in
a difficult financial position. She continued that the city
had not applied for a capital project request in the
current year due to the budget issues facing the state. She
outlined that Kachemak relied on revenue sharing to provide
basic services such as road maintenance.
1:36:26 PM
JILL LUSH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SPROUT FAMILY SERVICES,
HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in support of reinstating
funds for Best Beginnings and Parents as Teachers. She
explained that Sprout Family Services was a non-profit
focused on promoting the healthy development of children
and families that had 16 staff and served over 400
children. She quoted Nelson Mandela, and suggested that
investing in children was a moral issue. She referenced
research that showed support of early learning led to
significant social return. She discussed funds leveraged by
monies received from Best Beginnings.
1:38:08 PM
LISA ASSELIN, HOMER EARLY CHILDHOOD COALITION, HOMER (via
teleconference), spoke in support of reinstating funds for
Best Beginnings and the Parents as Teachers program. She
discussed the Imagination Library program, and discussed
the benefits of early literacy. She thought it was
important to retain programs like Best Beginnings and
Parents as Teachers during stressful financial times.
1:39:30 PM
WILLARD DUNHAM, SELF, SEWARD (via teleconference),
supported an income tax and other additional revenue
sources. He suggested that state programs that brought
federal matching funds would be the last programs the
legislature should cut. He supported an alcohol tax and a
highway tax. He referenced a recent report from the
Department of Labor and Workforce Development that showed
420,000 people employed in the state as of 2014, almost a
quarter of which were non-residents. He was not in favor of
a sales tax.
1:42:17 PM
MARTIN MOORE, CITY MANAGER, CITY OF EMMONAK (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for
revenue sharing. He noted that Emmonak was a member of an
unorganized borough, and had very limited local revenue
income. He stated that proposed cuts to municipal revenue
sharing would create a perpetual financial hardship on the
unorganized village municipality.
1:44:28 PM
ERNESTINE ANDREWS, CITY COUNCIL MEMBER, CITY OF EMMONAK
(via teleconference), testified in support of funding for
revenue sharing. She shared that the city council was the
heart of the community. She stated that the community was
growing and they city had to keep up with increased demand
with minimal funding. The proposed cuts to revenue sharing
would affect how the city took care of the community.
1:45:46 PM
KAREN SHEMET, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), spoke in
support of full funding for Pre-K programs. She thought the
state had major problems that could be addressed through
early childhood education. She referred to research thought
that Pre-K education provided a return on investment and
benefitted society as a whole. She thought the state needed
to pay more attention to its vulnerable population of young
children. She had personal experience with early childhood
programs, and discussed the benefits enjoyed by her family.
1:47:03 PM
ANDY HAAS, FRIENDS OF THE HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY, HOMER (via
teleconference), urged the committee to fund meth and
heroine abuse education. He shared that he was a criminal
defense lawyer, and discussed the economic cost of heroin
and meth addiction. He recounted (anecdotally) that 75
percent of the criminal cases in his area were related to
meth and heroine. He discussed a recent report by the
Department of Corrections that discussed the economic cost
of drug use and addiction. He thought education in schools
and libraries was the only way to mitigate the growing
problems with addiction in the area. He urged the committee
to continue financing drug abuse and addiction education.
1:49:19 PM
NICOLE AREVALO, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), urged the
committee to restore funding for public broadcasting. She
stated that many people in rural Alaska relied on public
radio, and it reached areas where other means of
communication could not. She thought public radio was
crafted with care and attention to the specific needs of
the communities that the stations served. She thought
public radio was a very small portion of the state budget,
and emphasized the many functions of public radio,
including emergency information. She discussed the possible
loss of matching funds. She discussed radio stations
operating on strict budgets with declining revenues. She
urged the committee to fund public broadcasting. hy76
1:51:41 PM
JENNIFER JOHNSTON, ALASKA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE, ANCHORAGE,
testified in support of funding for revenue sharing. She
shared that she was on the Anchorage Assembly for 9 years,
where she represented South Anchorage. She thought she had
gained perspective on the relationship between the state
and municipalities, and recalled when revenue sharing was
reinstituted. She discussed the unfunded liability of the
pension funds, and the municipalities 22 percent
responsibility for the cost. She understood that there was
an interest in a change in statute to raise the amount by 1
percent or 2 percent. She had spent a great deal of time
in Juneau in 2014 encouraging the legislature to pay down
the unfunded liability, and was happy there was a decision
to do so. She referred to the extension of the term of
unfunded liability by 9 years, which she thought equated to
$2.5 billion in additional liability for the rest of the
employers; equaling $250 million for the City of Anchorage.
She stated that if the 22 percent municipality share was
raised, the City of Anchorage would incur an additional
cost of $3 million. She discussed additional liability that
the city would be responsible, and was concerned that it
would have a direct impact on the municipalities bonding.
She emphasized that there would be a major effect on the
finances of the city, and thought it would definitely
impact its AAA credit rating.
1:55:20 PM
SHAUN STRELY, PRINCIPAL, GLENALLEN SCHOOL, GLENALLEN (via
teleconference), testified in support of K-12 education. He
thanked the committee for the opportunity to testify, and
thanked the members for their hard work. He urged the
committee to formulate a sustainable fiscal plan. He urged
the committee to fully fund the Base Student Allocation
(BSA), including the proposed $50 increase. He supported
restoring funds for school broadband assistance. He thought
deep cuts to DEED or the BSA would hurt the economy and
make it more difficult to provide engaging classroom
instruction for students, particularly in rural areas.
1:57:21 PM
RECESSED
3:00:46 PM
RECONVENED
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: FAIRBANKS, MAT-SU
3:01:01 PM
DOUG TOELLE, ACCESS ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
urged support of funding for community-based grants and
senior community grants. He spoke in opposition to the $9
million reduction for personal care assistance programs
(PCA Services). PCA Services helped Alaskans in danger of
institutionalization to remain in their homes and
community. He spoke of the programs being over-regulated.
He asked committee members to support funding for personal
care assistance for vulnerable Alaskan's. He thanked the
committee for its time.
3:03:55 PM
DOUG BRINKERHOFF, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of prioritizing the University of
Alaska's research. He relayed his personal experience as a
UAF student. He spoke of the quality of the Fairbanks
research program which attracted him to Alaska. He relayed
that UAF was at the forefront of important research. He
felted that a person had to spend money in order to make
money. He encouraged legislators to help to maintain a
strong research program at the university and potentially
yield short term economic benefits. He thanked the
committee.
3:06:12 PM
JENNA ZECHMANN, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke
in support of the research department at UAF. She was a
geophysics student with a focus on the study of glaciers.
She chose to attend UAF because of its world renowned
research department. She wanted to extend her studies to
obtain a PhD. She spoke to the fact that research money got
multiplied because students taught classes, mentored
undergraduates, and wrote grant proposals that pulled
federal money into Alaska. Many students ended up staying
in the local economy. She expressed her desire to stay in
Alaska as well. In closing, she thanked the committee.
3:07:59 PM
MATTHEW GOOD, RALPH PERDUE TREATMENT CENTER, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in favor of supporting institutions
such as the one he was participating in. He provided his
personal perspective on the effectiveness of the program in
his life. He hoped that the committee would consider
maintaining funding for crucial services for the treatment
of drug and alcohol abuse. The cuts would have an effect on
both clients and employees within the state. He stressed
that the Ralph Perdue Treatment Center was a life-saving
organization. He appreciated the committee's time.
3:09:19 PM
KARL KASSEL, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), appreciated the magnitude of the fiscal
problem. He mentioned understanding the need for a three-
pronged approach to resolving the issue including cuts,
using PF earnings, and generating new revenues. He
cautioned against shifting state costs to municipalities.
He was concerned about people within the borough being
burdened with additional taxes. He believed people were
already being taxed at a responsible level. He urged the
committee to avoid defunding revenue sharing and the
library system's broadband support. He thanked the members.
3:11:33 PM
KAREN GABORICK, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT (via teleconference), thanked the committee for
not changing the base student allocation requesting that it
remain steady. She reported some of the cost reducing
measures that the district had taken. She was also working
with other school districts. She expressed concern with
some of the cuts to Department of Education and Early
Development, as certain support mechanisms could be
affected. She thanked the committee.
3:13:29 PM
JEFF BENOWITZ, UAF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
explained that he was a researcher at UAF. He relayed a
story about a field research project where he made a wrong
call leaving his assistant in the field alone. In hind-
sight he felt he made a wrong call because of a black bear
encounter. He asked the committee to do the right thing by
funding the UAF budget at the levels proposed by the
governor Otherwise student opportunities would suffer. He
thanks legislators for serving.
3:15:03 PM
CHERYL KEEPERS, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
wanted to avoid going back to the economy of the 80's. She
thought the raining day fund should be used and for
Alaska's citizens to pay their own way through revenues
such as a personal income tax as well as an increase in
revenues from other taxation source. She expressed her
concerned about education at all levels. She believed
education was key to a vibrant economy in Alaska. She was
also concerned with Department of Health and Social
Services and the folks who might need some help. She
thanked the committee for its consideration.
3:16:13 PM
DAVID PRUHS, CITY OF FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), supported a $30 million appropriation for
a pilot program through the Department of Health and Social
Services to develop additional substance use disorder
services for FY 16 through FY 19. By expanding the
substance use disorder services the state had the
opportunity to decrease costs resulting from untreated
alcohol and drug dependency. Success would be measured by
reduced utilization of emergency departments, public safety
resources, correctional facilities and lower incidents of
child maltreatment. The City of Fairbanks was exploring
doing work with Tanana Chief's Conference, Fairbanks Native
Association, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, and the Alaska
Mental Health Trust Authority in constructing and operating
an alcohol sleep-off center in Fairbanks. The funding would
be a tool box source. He thanked the committee.
3:17:56 PM
Rebecca Good, Women and Children Center for Inner Healing,
Fairbanks{relayed her experience living in Alaska for about
15 years. She spoke about her personal experience with drug
addiction. She was eventually arrested and incarcerated due
to her drug use. Her criminal activity brought her to
treatment. She expressed her gratitude for access to a
treatment center. She asked that the committee reconsider
the proposed cuts to recovery treatment centers. She
mentioned the proliferation of heroin and other drugs
available on the street. She thanked committee members for
their time.
RICHANA MAHLE, WOMEN AND CHILDREN CENTER FOR INNER HEALING,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in favor of substance
abuse prevention programs. She told of her own success with
the treatment program. She mentioned a list of resources
that had been available to her. She was grateful for access
to the program. She mentioned that Alaska had a serious
problem with addiction leading to more crime and disruption
in communities. She suggested that cutting the behavioral
health budget could have a downward spiraling effect
leading to increasing the cost of welfare. She thanked the
committee for the opportunity to testify.
3:22:02 PM
LOUIS MARTIN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN CENTER FOR INNER HEALING,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in favor of substance
abuse prevention programs. She relayed her personal
experience with alcohol abuse and how she had been able to
overcome many of the barriers of addiction because of
access to treatment. She had been out of jail for over a
year, at present, and had her children in back in her life.
She asked the committee to reconsider the budget cuts for
mental health. She thanked the committee.
3:24:30 PM
JESSICA HEDGE, WOMEN AND CHILDREN CENTER FOR INNER HEALING
(via teleconference), spoke in favor of substance abuse
prevention programs. She conveyed that she was a counselor
at Women and Children Center and saw the benefits of the
funding in her work every day. She elaborate that the funds
provided significant help to others. She relayed some of
the positive outcomes she has witnessed in her work and the
importance of continued funding. She opined that by
contributing to behavioral health programs the state would
spend less money on the placement of children into foster
care, police intervention, and long-term interaction with
the legal system. She urged members to reconsider funding
for substance abuse prevention programs.
3:26:43 PM
AMEE MCHATTEN, FAIRBANKS NATIVE ASSOCIATION, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in support of behavioral health
programs. She relayed her personal interaction with drug
addiction. She had lost her children but reported success
in recovery with the help of treatment programs. She asked
the committee to make it possible for someone else to beat
the odds and to keep the resources available. She thanked
the committee.
3:28:43 PM
JEFFERY ROTHMAN, SELF, UAF (via teleconference), spoke in
favor of supporting the UAF research center. He relayed
that the state spent about $20 million per year on
providing research seed money which resulted in $118
million of grant money to the state, which was roughly
comparable to the economic impact of the F16 squadron at
Eielson Air Force Base, a 500 percent return on the state's
money. The original $20 million in seed money was essential
because it was illegal for researcher to use federal grant
money to apply for new grants. Without seed money the $118
million in grant dollars. There were 49 other states happy
to take the grant monies. He furthered that $40 million of
the $118 million directly supported students and
infrastructure at the university. Items such as
electricity, heating, and building maintenance were paid
for with grant funding. The state would have to pick up the
slack if the $118 million went away. He suggested that
there would be very little or no net savings. He asked for
the restoration of $20 million in research seed monies that
allowed the university to bring in grant funding. He
appreciated the opportunity to testify.
3:31:05 PM
KYLE DILLIPLAINE, UAF (via teleconference), spoke in favor
of supporting UAF's research program. He was a Master's
candidate pursuing his graduate degree in Marine Biology.
He was representing the Institute of Marine Science. Alaska
provided a very unique place to study climate change and
other anthropogenic impacts. He had done field work in
Barrow, collected samples in Norway, and had been on two
oceanographic cruises in the arctic with UA researchers.
His amount of field experience was uncommon for a
researcher in Marine Biology. The opportunities for
students were abundant in Alaska, making the UA system
attractive and valuable. He relayed information about his
own research project. He believed that by cutting
university funding as severely as was being proposed would
hurt Alaska's future.
MIKE MUSICK, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in
favor of supporting public education, the university,
public health, and public welfare all of which were
constitutional mandates under Article 7. He believed that
public education represented Alaska's future. He opined
that the university was a huge economic engine especially
having a world class research institute on campus. Public
health was a constitutional mandate. It was clear in
previous testimony that the budget affected people
personally. He pointed out that Article 8, Section 2
suggested that the stat should manage lands, water, and
resources for the maximum benefit of its people. He did not
believe the state was receiving the proper monies from the
resources being extracted. He asked committee members to
reconsider cutting only what was necessary. The state
needed a balanced account of proper taxation and level
reductions keeping Alaska's future in mind. He thanked the
committee.
3:35:11 PM
JOHN BURNS, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in
favor of the Department of Law's proposed Public Integrity
Unit. He indicated he was a former attorney general. He
explained the purpose of a public integrity unit was to
enhance the public's trust in government by investigating
and eliminating corruption, fraud, criminal activity, and
waste. The department's request was $318 thousand. He
understood that any amount of money was a significant
request in the current budgetary climate. However, he urged
the committee to evaluate the cost benefit analysis. In his
capacity as attorney general the cost benefit outweighed
the cost associated with investigating worker's
compensation fraud. The proposed integrity unit would be
focused on three primary areas including white collar
crime, officer involved shootings, and misconduct in
correctional facilities. In terms of white collar crimes,
procurement fraud would become heated in the current fiscal
climate. The state would want to ensure that the business
climate lived up to the utmost integrity. He urged the
committee to provide the funding and assured members that a
savings to the state would be attained through prosecution.
3:37:29 PM
JEANETTE GRASTO, NAMI, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of services for disabled seniors. She
thanked the committee for maintaining the governor's
recommended funding for behavioral health grants. Without
access to community care people would have to go to the
emergency room, the mental health unit, or possibly jail
costing the state more money. She supported both an income
tax and using the PFD. She thanked the committee for the
opportunity to speak before the committee.
3:39:43 PM
JOMO STEWART, FAIRBANKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
(FEDC), FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified that the
FEDC board passed a resolution in the prior year in support
of a balanced approach to addressing the state's fiscal
challenge. He relayed the importance of crafting a budget
carefully. A more affordable and sustainable state
government was critical to Alaska's future fiscal health.
He added that reductions in the cost and scope of
government was necessary. Providing sufficient revenues was
also in the public's interest. The board supported
increased user fees and the implementation of some type of
broad-based statewide taxation and the possible use of PF
earnings should be fully considered during the current
session. He also spoke in support of the university system.
He recalled a couple of presentations he had attended in
the prior two weeks that spoke about the university as a
diversification engine that should be supported. He thanked
the committee for the opportunity to testify.
3:42:14 PM
ROBIN MINARD, MAT-SU HEALTH FOUNDATION, WASILLA (via
teleconference), thanked the members for adopting the
governor's proposed budget behavioral health treatment
grants. A community health needs assessment was conducted
in 2013 which pointed to the top 5 health issues which were
related to behavioral health. Medicaid expansion would help
increase access to behavioral health services. Current
laws, however, did not permit all providers to bill
Medicaid. Until rectified additional cuts to behavioral
health grants would only reinforce the current system that
drove people to seek care in the emergency room rather than
lower cost settings. She reported wanting additional
funding for early intervention. She also urged support of
funding for senior services and spoke about the importance
of serving the senior community. She thanked the committee
for the opportunity to testify.
3:44:20 PM
Samantha Russell, Hope Community Resources,
Palmer{testified in favor of programs serving the disabled.
She discussed many of the benefits of centers for
Independent Living. She relayed that the disability grant
programs provided opportunities for people to participate
in several activities. She asked members to keep the
benefits she mentioned in mind when considering the budget.
She thanked the committee.
3:46:35 PM
LESLIE DAVIS, HOPE COMMUNITY RESOURCES, WASILLA (via
teleconference), testified in support of services for the
disabled. She provided some examples of the types of
services provided by community based centers. She thanked
the committee.
3:48:29 PM
AT EASE
3:49:22 PM
RECONVENED
Senator Bishop handed the gavel to Vice-Chair Micciche
4:48:06 PM
PAM GOODE, SELF, RURAL DELTANA (via teleconference), felt
that the budget was funding programs that people could do
themselves. She stressed that the budget was aimed at old
provisions. She felt that the committee should protect the
liberty and freedom of the people of the state. She envied
the committee's role in their decision making capacity. She
felt that budget should be between $4.3 billion and $4.5
billion.
4:51:20 PM
BILL LAMBERT, SELF, NORTH POLE (via teleconference), felt
that the budget should not be based on a $50 barrel of oil.
He felt that the economists should not have recommended the
price level. He felt that there should be a priority system
in the budget based on critical, moderate, and excess
categories. He felt that the legislature should make their
own determinations, rather than depend on economists'
predictions.
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: KENAI, KODIAK, DILLINGHAM
4:53:36 PM
TIM SANDS, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), urged the
committee to restore funding for public broadcasting. He
stated that he had donated $1200 for Dillingham's public
radio. He also urged the committee to utilize a state
income tax.
4:54:31 PM
KAY ANDREWS, CHAIRPERSON, SOUTH WEST REGION SCHOOL
DISTRICT, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), testified in
support of education funding. She stressed that the rural
area school districts were still attempting to fill the
budget gaps. She remarked that her district would still
face a nearly $500,000 deficit with the increase in the
Base Student Allocation. She stressed that her district had
a limited vocational and technical education program. She
stressed that there was still an attempt to access Pre-K
programs in her school district. She felt that there should
be a focus on equality for all children.
4:56:40 PM
DAVID PIAZZA, SUPERINTENDENT, SOUTH WEST REGION SCHOOL
DISTRICT, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke in support
of education funding. He specifically spoke in support of
the scheduled $50 increase to the base student allocation.
He hoped that the allocation would remain steady over the
following few years. He also spoke in favor of full funding
for broadband in schools. He remarked that the teachers had
greatly benefited from the statewide mentoring program. He
felt that the cuts to the program would increase the burden
on local school districts.
4:58:28 PM
JON CORBETT, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), shared
that he had submitted written testimony (copy on file). He
felt that adjusting revenues would only increase the
unsustainable budgets that had been approved over the
years.
4:59:46 PM
BLINN DULL, MANAGER, COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES, BRISTOL BAY
AREA HEALTH CORP., DILLINGHAM (via teleconference),
testified in opposition to the 10 percent decrease to the
community health aide program. He stressed that health
aides provided critical health care and services. He
remarked that the health aides enhanced optimum health
care. He stressed that the aides served both native and
nonnative people. He stated that community health aide
program was a much needed service.
5:02:42 PM
JAKE JACOBSEN, SELF, KODIAK (via teleconference), made some
comments on other legislation and revenue.
Vice-Chair Micciche wondered if Mr. Jacobsen and any
opinions on SB 139 or SB 140. Mr. Jacobsen replied in the
affirmative. He urged the committee to utilize a state
income tax. He stressed reduced funding, and felt that
there should be "common sense solutions."
5:05:35 PM
KATHERINE HOLLIS-BUCHANAN, SELF, KODIAK (via
teleconference), urged the committee to restore funding for
public broadcasting. She shared that her community had a
wildfire, and the radio had provided essential emergency
information to the community. She stressed the importance
of public radio.
5:06:57 PM
SONIA CLARY, HOPE COMMUNITY RESOURCES, KODIAK (via
teleconference), opposed cuts to the Community
Developmental Disabilities grant fund. She shared that HOPE
Community Resources utilized the grants to serve needy
individuals. She thanked the committee for their time and
effort.
5:09:01 PM
NICK SZABO, SELF, KODIAK (via teleconference), supported a
budget similar to the governor's proposal. He understood
that the cuts would not close the deficit gap. He urged the
committee to utilize a state income tax. He also testified
in support of using Permanent Fund earnings to supplement
the budget. He did not feel that the Permanent Fund
Dividend was not an entitlement. He stressed that the
dividend payments should not be guaranteed in perpetuity.
5:11:02 PM
DEBBIE CARY, SELF, NINILCHIK (via teleconference), urged
the committee to fund education at the highest level. She
spoke in support of the scheduled $50 increase to the base
student allocation. She stressed that education was the
baseline of the future. She remarked that the technological
advances in the century would not have been possible
without education. She stressed that quality education
resulted in students' ability to have critical thinking
response tactics. She had seen many students that had
graduated from Ninilchik School, and felt proud of their
successes.
5:13:29 PM
MICHELLE HARTLINE, SELF, NIKISKI (via teleconference),
echoed the remarks of Ms. Goode. She stressed that every
penny should be cut to the "bare bones." She remarked that
she was the recipient of Alaska funding through the
activities that she was involved. She encouraged the
committee to cut all the money that she received. She felt
that there was wasteful spending. She expressed thanks to
Vice-Chair Micciche's service.
5:15:01 PM
TONY GORMAN, GENERAL MANAGER, KDLL, KENAI (via
teleconference), urged the committee to restore funding for
public broadcasting. He felt that the local news content
was the most important component to public radio. He shared
that he had reduced his staff by two reporters, and felt
that the lack of reporting had a negative impact on the
possibility to carry out certain duties. He stressed that
the loss of state funding would eliminate the possibility
to receive funds from the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting.
5:17:06 PM
GEORGE PIERCE, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), urged
support of funding for senior services. He spoke in support
of changing the oil and gas tax structures. He felt that
there should be new taxes for the mining industry. He spoke
against funding the Anchorage LIO. He felt that the money
from the city and borough should pay for welfare services.
He spoke against funding for nonprofits. He spoke against
the use of the Permanent Fund.
5:19:40 PM
CORRIE DAVIS, HOPE COMMUNITY RESOURCES, KODIAK (via
teleconference), spoke in support of services for the
developmental disabled people. She stressed that the money
provided recreation and after school programs, and without
the funding the people would have nowhere to go.
5:20:56 PM
BERNIE GRAHAM, HOPE COMMUNITY RESOURCES, KODIAK (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for Hope
Community Resources base grants. She shared that she had
participated in the programs at Hope Community Resources,
and hoped that the center would continue to receive
funding.
5:21:50 PM
BRETT MAYHEW, HOPE COMMUNITY RESOURCES, KODIAK (via
teleconference), spoke in support of Hope Community
Resources base grants. He also spoke against cuts to other
welfare programs.
5:23:01 PM
CAROLYN SMITH, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for revenue sharing. She
stressed that, without revenue sharing, Dillingham would
face a significant shortfall. She remarked that Dillingham
needed to repair its ambulance and fire truck, which was a
significant cost to the community. She stressed that
revenue sharing ensured that communities across the state
could continue to provide essential services.
5:25:10 PM
SEAN DUSEK, SUPERINTENDENT, KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT, KENAI PENINSULA (via teleconference), spoke in
support of the scheduled $50 increase to the base student
allocation. He shared that his district had already made
significant cuts to its budget. He opposed the proposed
cuts to DEED. He also spoke in support of full funding for
Pre-K programs. He expressed concern about the loss of
positions for instructional support within the districts.
5:27:52 PM
CHRISTINE HUTCHISON, SELF, KENAI PENINSULA (via
teleconference), felt that the University should be
completely online, because the University of Phoenix seemed
to function efficiently. She urged support of further cuts
in many areas. She remarked that she would like to
personally experience the cuts to the budget. She stressed
that she took personal responsibilities for issues. She
added that the state should take over the Beaver Creek
Road.
5:30:08 PM
FRED STURMAN, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), spoke
against stoplights in his community. He also testified
against utilized the Permanent Fund; a gas tax; a sales
tax; a tobacco tax; and all other taxes. He spoke against
government employee raises. He expressed disappointment
that the budget had not cut 30 percent.
5:32:21 PM
CARROLL KNUTSON, SELF, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), spoke
in support of behavioral health programs. She also spoke in
support of early childhood education. She stressed that
early learning was very important for children. She
remarked that Alaska was much different than in was 50
years prior. She also spoke against the privatization of
the Pioneer Home.
5:34:18 PM
LAURENE MADSEN, SELF, KODIAK (via teleconference), urged
the committee to restore funding for public broadcasting,
and spoke in favor of full funding for broadband in
schools. She also spoke in support of education funding.
She urged support of Online with Libraries. She felt that
loss of the programs would cause the libraries to lose e-
rate funds. She stressed that small communities did not
have convenient access to the internet. She urged the
committee to utilize a state income tax. She spoke in
support of a tax on tourism. She also testified in support
of using Permanent Fund earnings.
Co-Chair MacKinnon clarified that there was still a head
tax on the cruise ships, but it was no longer $50. Ms.
Madsen shared that her mother's friends would still go on a
cruise with a $50 head tax.
5:37:51 PM
CARLA KIMMEL, CHILDREN'S PROGRAM COORDINATOR, HOPE
COMMUNITY RESOURCES, KODIAK (via teleconference), spoke in
support of funding for the Hope Community Resources base
grant. She stressed that the disabled individuals needed a
place to socialize and feel a part of the community. She
stressed that, without the money, the center would be in
dire straits.
5:39:28 PM
ELENOR RAMOS, SELF, KODIAK (via teleconference), spoke in
support of the Online with Libraries. She shared that the
library was often the only place that provided internet
services. She stressed that the library had classes and
readers theatre. She remarked that the library was able to
provide education on the internet to many older citizens.
5:41:25 PM
RACHEL BOBBITT, BRISTOL BAY AREA HEALTH CORPORATION,
DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), spoke in support of
behavioral health programs. She stressed that the Bristol
Bay Area Health Corporation was the only substance abuse
treatment facility in the area. She stressed that there was
an epidemic throughout the state, so it seemed inopportune
to cut services that help people get off of drugs. She
stressed that the funding also provided funding for
programs for severely emotionally abused youth. She felt
that it was important to address any mental health issues
at a young age.
5:43:26 PM
RICK KOCH, CITY MANAGER, CITY OF KENAI, KENAI (via
teleconference), recalled a conversation about modifying
the PERS contribution rate for communities, and he felt
that the status quo should be maintained for the
municipality contribution to $3 million PERS pay down. He
also testified in support of funding for revenue sharing.
He thanked the committee for their time and effort.
Vice-Chair Micciche wondered if Mr. Koch meant to say $3
billion, rather than $3 million. Mr. Koch replied in the
affirmative.
5:46:04 PM
MARY TOUTONGHI, SELF, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), spoke
against a state income tax. She also spoke against the use
of Permanent Fund earnings. She felt that the state budget
had been mismanaged. She spoke against the oil tax credits.
She remarked that elderly people were not given access to
many essential services. She also testified against funding
for the Anchorage LIO.
5:48:19 PM
ARNOLD OSKOLKOFF, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), spoke
against the funding for the AKLNG project. He also spoke
against the Anchorage LIO. He also spoke against the oil
and gas tax credits.
5:49:37 PM
JACK ROBERTS, VICE PRESIDENT, STUDENT UNION, KENAI RIVER
CAMPUS (KPC), KENAI (via teleconference), testified in
support of funding for the University. He remarked that he
had submitted videos outlining the importance of many
programs at KPC. He stressed that KPC was a leader in the
anthropology lab research. He stressed that there were
great strides in science that impacted the world. He also
urged support of fully funding education.
5:51:28 PM
CHERYL TUTTLE, KPC, KENAI (via teleconference), testified
in support of funding for the University. She also
testified in support of funding education programs. She
felt that people would leave the state without proper
education. She remarked there was heartbreak for many
students whose school programs had been eliminated.
5:53:15 PM
DAVE BRIGHTON, PRESIDENT, KENAI PENINSULA EDUCATION
ASSOCIATION, KENAI (via teleconference), spoke in support
of fully funding education. He encouraged the committee to
maintain the governor's proposed funding. He spoke in
support of the scheduled $50 increase to the base student
allocation. He stressed that without the increase, his
son's school would lose its French teacher. He also urged
the committee to restore funding for public broadcasting.
He remarked that the state funding provided leverage for
the federal matching grant. He also urged the committee to
utilize a state income tax. He also testified in support of
using Permanent Fund earnings. He felt that the fund was
created to fund government and provide for the future. He
also spoke in support of capping the Permanent Fund
Dividend. He stressed that he would not vote for anyone
that did not "do the right thing."
5:56:02 PM
MARION NELSON, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), urged the
committee to restore funding for public broadcasting. She
also spoke in support of funding for Hope Community
Services base grants. She also urged support of fully
funding education. She stressed that public radio was a
great opportunity for continued education.
5:57:34 PM
BILL LARNED, BOARD MEMBER, KDLL, KENAI (via
teleconference), urged the committee to restore funding for
public broadcasting. He stressed that the public
broadcasting services were tied together with entertainment
and information services. He stressed that there were
generous members and underwriters. He remarked that there
was work to encourage donor support that would result in
increases to the radio budget. He remarked that the federal
fund match can only be met with the state financial
support.
5:59:51 PM
JOHN MOLINA, DIRECTOR OF HEALTH SYSTEMS, DENAINA WELLNESS
CENTER, KENAI (via teleconference), urged support of $30
million for substance abuse treatment. He stressed that
substance abuse was rampant in the community. He remarked
that the investment in prevention and treatment would keep
people sober in perpetuity.
Vice-Chair Micciche stated that the current bill reduced
the substance abuse program by $3 million.
6:02:37 PM
LADAWN DRUCE, EDUCATOR, KENAI PENINSULA (via
teleconference), echoed Ms. Nelson's remarks. She urged the
committee to restore funding for public broadcasting. She
also spoke in support of full funding for Pre-K programs.
She spoke in support of fully funding K-12 programs. She
also testified in support of funding for the University.
She also spoke in support of the Online with Libraries. She
testified in support of using Permanent Fund earnings. She
also urged the committee to utilize a state income tax.
6:04:26 PM
AMY SEITZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA FARM BUREAU, KENAI
PENINSULA (via teleconference), spoke in support of the
funding to allow time to privatize Mt. McKinley Meat. She
also spoke in support of funding for the potato program,
and other funding for the plant material center. She
stressed that the agriculture industry had many
opportunities for growth and greater contributor to
Alaska's economy.
6:06:11 PM
BROTHER TOM PATMOR, SELF, CLAM GULCH (via teleconference),
spoke in support of selling some real estate in order to
fund the budget. He remarked that the Permanent Fund should
sell real estate, and then loan the money to the state to
pay for the budget.
6:08:34 PM
JESSE BJORKMAN, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), testified
in support of fully funding education. He stressed that the
cuts to education resulted in less teachers for children.
He remarked that shop, welding, art, music were essential
in getting children excited about school. He testified in
support of using Permanent Fund earnings. He felt that
turning the Permanent Fund as an endowment would allow for
funding of essential services to the state.
Vice-Chair Micciche CLOSED public testimony.
Senator Bishop thanked all the testifiers for taking the
time to express their concerns and support in guiding
Alaska. He also thanked the committee members.
SB 139 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further
consideration.
SB 140 was HEARD and HELD in committee for further
consideration.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 139 Public Testimony Letters Packet 1.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Letters Packet 2.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Letters Packet 4.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Packet 3.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Packet 5.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Letters Packet 6.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |
| SB 139 Public Testimony Packet 7.pdf |
SFIN 3/9/2016 9:00:00 AM |
SB 139 |