Legislature(1995 - 1996)
03/25/1995 09:05 AM House FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE BILL NO. 100
"An Act making appropriations for the operating and
loan program expenses of state government and to
capitalize funds; making appropriations under art. IX,
sec. 17(c), Constitution of the State of Alaska, from
the constitutional budget reserve fund; and providing
for an effective date."
JOANN MCDOWELL, PRESIDENT, PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND COMMUNITY
COLLEGE testified via the teleconference network from
Valdez. She spoke in support of funding for the Prince
William Sound Community College (PWSCC). She noted that
PWSCC has become the most cost effective unit in the
University of Alaska system. She pointed out that PWSCC has
gone from one of the highest cost per FTE institutions in
the state of Alaska to the lowest, due to cost cutting
reductions in staff and increases in enrollment. She
questioned why funding was deleted for the College.
BOB BENDA, PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND COMMUNITY COLLEGE testified
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via the teleconference network from Valdez. He spoke in
support of funding for the Prince William Sound Community
College.
JOHN HARRIS, MAYOR, CITY OF VALDEZ testified via the
teleconference network. He spoke against reductions to the
Prince William Sound Community College. He suggested that
the proposed reductions will result in the closure of the
college.
DOUGLAS KEIL, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in favor of funding for the Challenge
Alaska Program.
MICHAEL BROGAN, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He testified in favor of funding for the Challenge
Alaska Program. He suggested that savings could be realized
through restructure of state retirement benefits.
STEPHEN CONN, ALASKA PUBLIC INTEREST GROUP, ANCHORAGE
testified via the teleconference network. He spoke in
opposition to reductions made in the Civil Division,
Department of Law.
GEORGE HANSON, ANCHORAGE SYMPHONY testified via the
teleconference network from Anchorage. He spoke in
opposition to reductions in the Alaska State Council on the
Arts' budget. He noted that the proposed reduction is 83
percent of the Council's budget. He emphasized that the
Anchorage Symphony generates approximately $12 dollars for
every $1 dollar received in state funds.
DAISY STEVENS, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified
via the teleconference network. She expressed concern in
the proposed reductions to the Village Public Safety
Officers Program. She emphasized that the majority of
communities served by the Program are off the road system
and far away from the headquarters of the Alaska State
Troopers.
SENATOR GEORGIANA LINCOLN testified via the teleconference
network from Fairbanks. She expressed concern that rural
programs are being disproportionately affected. She
maintained that the proposed budget eliminates the
possibility for employment in rural and bush Alaska. She
asserted that rural residents will be driven further into
welfare status by proposed reductions. She noted the
proposed closure of the Mt. Edgecumbe School and rural
parks. She observed that the Child Protection Office of
Public Advocacy is being reduced. She stressed that the
reduction will eliminate funding for 300 high risk families.
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CHARLES PARKER, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS
testified via the teleconference network. He observed that
the funding level for the Alaska Rural Development Assistant
Grant Program (ARDOR) has been reduced by $500.0 thousand
dollars. He maintained that the ARDORs are an integral
factor in strengthening rural economies. He also spoke
against collection of airport tie down and departure fees by
the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. He
suggested that services to rural villages will have to be
reduced.
REVA SHIRCEL, DIRECTOR, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, TANANA CHIEFS
CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed concern with the proposed reduction
to the Close-Up Program in the Department of Education's
budget. She maintained that current funding levels for
grades K - 12 do not provide opportunities for children.
She also expressed concern with the intent to close the Mt.
Edgecumbe Boarding School. She spoke in support of
increased school funding.
WARD SERRILL, KETCHIKAN testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget. He noted that the
investment made to the Council is multiplied into the
economy. He observed that state funding is used to capture
federal matching money and private donations.
KAREN PETERSEN, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She observed that
Alaska's public broadcasting stations tie the state
together. She maintained that Alaska's public broadcasting
system is unique. She noted that call-in programs allow
citizens to participate in their government.
BOBETT BUSH, ANIAK testified via the teleconference network.
He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska Public
Broadcasting Commission. He asserted that reductions would
result in a shutdown of Bethel's radio and television
stations. He pointed out that these stations provide
important health and safety information to local residents.
He added that university courses are also provided by the
stations. He emphasized that residents pay for the
transmitter in Aniak.
CHRIS RICHARD, KENICOTT testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
ALICE JOHNSTONE, SITKA testified via the teleconference
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network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She maintained that
public radio provides essential information and services to
Sitka and the surrounding areas. She observed that no
commercial stations reach the fishing fleet in the waters
near Sitka. She emphasized that staff has been reduced due
to previous cuts. She pointed out that listener
participation and financial donations to KCAW in Sitka is
among the highest in the nation.
DORIK MECHAU, SITKA testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission. He also spoke in opposition
to reductions in the Alaska State Council on the Arts'
budget and to the budget of the Department of Fish and Game.
CHARLES COLE, FORMER ATTORNEY GENERAL, JUNEAU testified in
support of increased funding levels for the Civil Division
in the Department of Law. He asserted that the depth of
reduction are too great. He maintained that regulation
review will be delayed. He observed that the Civil Division
of the Department of Law brings in state revenue. He
expressed concern with proposed reductions to programs
within the Human Services Section, Department of Law. He
noted the importance of these programs to children in need
of care and juveniles.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-63, Side 1)
AMY SKILBRED, JUNEAU spoke against proposed reductions to
the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She stressed
that public broadcasting provides news and information. She
also testified in support of funding for the Habitat
Division in the Department of Fish and Game. She emphasized
the need to protect the state's resources.
Ms. Skilbred also expressed concern with the level of
funding for the Office of Public Advocacy (OPA) and the
Public Defenders Agency (PDA). She stressed that OPA and
PDA provide services for those that cannot afford legal
representation. She observed that without legal
representation for defendants cases cannot come to trial.
DAVID AUDET, JUNEAU spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. He maintained that
Alaska's news programs sends Alaska's messages to the
nation.
NANCY DECHERNEY, JUNEAU JAZZ AND CLASSICS AND JUNEAU
SYMPHONY, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. She emphasized
that funding for the Council is multiplied in the community
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by art organizations. She stressed that art funding
provides jobs and increases tourism. She asserted that art
helps at risk children in the schools.
DONNA TOLLMAN, GLENNALLEN testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed concern in the proposed reductions
to the ARDOR Program. She also spoke in opposition to cuts
to state parks, welfare and job training programs.
AL BEASLEY, NOME ARTS COUNCIL, NOME testified via the
teleconference network. He spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
He pointed out that the Council received a 21 percent
reduction in FY 95 while the overall budget was reduced by
4.5 percent. He observed that the Nome Arts Council is not
eligible to receive funding directly from the National
Endowment of the Arts. He maintained that small communities
and arts education in the schools will be hurt by the
reduction.
ROSE ATUK-FOSDICK, NOME testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She also expressed
concern with proposed reductions to RATNet.
BRANT MOODY, POLICE CHIEF, DILLINGHAM testified via the
teleconference network. He urged full funding of the
Contract Jail Programs, Department of Corrections.
GINGER BAIM, DILLINGHAM testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed concern in the proposed reductions
to programs in the Department of Public Safety. She
observed that real savings are not achieved if federal
funding is lost.
WILL PETERSON, HOMER testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission. He also expressed concern
with funding levels for education.
CAL SCHMIDT, HOMER testified via the teleconference network.
He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska Public
Broadcasting Commission.
MICHAEL WHITE, HOMER testified via the teleconference
network. He suggested that legislators' salaries be
reduced. He spoke in favor of funding for education.
MIKE GRENIER, HOMER testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission. He noted the that the
Petersburg radio station provides important weather
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information to fishers in surrounding waters.
EARL MICELSON, AMERICAN LEGION, KODIAK testified via the
teleconference network. He testified in support of funding
for the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
BARRY GOLD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KODIAK COUNCIL ON
ALCOHOLISM, KODIAK testified via the teleconference network.
He expressed concern with proposed reductions to alcohol and
drug abuse programs. He noted that funding for alcohol
abuse programs has been steadily reduced since 1986. He
emphasized that the Alaskan problem with substance abuse has
risen.
GINNY SHANK, VICE PRESIDENT, KODIAK ARTS COUNCIL BOARD OF
DIRECTORS, KODIAK testified via the teleconference network.
She spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska State
Council on the Arts' budget. She emphasized that the
Council's budget is reduced below the level necessary to
capture federal funds.
SUSAN KEMP, CHAIR, ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT COMMITTEE, DELTA
JUNCTION testified via the teleconference network. She
expressed concern that rural programs will be hardest hit by
proposed reductions. She observed that the effect of
reductions in state programs will be compounded in Delta
Junction by the loss of Fort Greely. She also expressed
concern in the proposed reductions to the Division of
Tourism, Highway Marketing Program.
JACKIE LIZARDI, DELTA/GREEDY EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT GROUP
ASSOCIATION, DELTA JUNCTION testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in support of full funding for
education. She asserted that our children are our future.
MARK FELLMAN, DELTA JUNCTION testified via the
teleconference network. He expressed concern with proposed
reductions to welfare programs. He expressed support for
economic diversification and development grants.
MARILYN GEORGE, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the Department of Corrections. She spoke in support of
funding for the Senior Nutrition Program and senior housing.
NANCY HARRIS, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in support of full funding for
education. She noted that the instructional unit has only
been increased once, by $1.0 thousand dollars, in the past
seven years.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-63, Side 2)
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PENNY RIPPLE, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
SHARON TRISH, BETHEL testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She expressed
concern that rural areas will receive the greatest impact
from proposed reductions. She spoke in support of the Head
Start Program.
MARGARET COOKE, BETHEL testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. She noted the
impact that arts and culture have on children.
JAMES ELSON, KENAI testified via the teleconference network.
He spoke in support of increased funding for ARDORs. He
noted that $225.0 thousand dollars are being transferred
from the ARDOR Program to the Alaska Tourism Marketing
Council and the Northern Forum.
JOHN DAHLGREN, KENAI testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed funding levels
for education. He stressed that increased education funding
is necessary to encourage new growth.
BILL PARKER, KENAI testified via the teleconference network.
He expressed concern in the proposed reductions to public
safety programs. He noted that reductions are being made to
the Department of Corrections and the Department of Public
Safety. He suggested that legislators' per diem
compensation is too high.
JACK HETHERTON, VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, KENAI testified
via the teleconference network. He spoke in support of
programs for veterans.
FERN NEIMERYER, MAYOR, CITY OF WRANGELL testified via the
teleconference network. She spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
She emphasized that public broadcasting is the "life line"
of rural communities.
ZO HERRIGES-SHERMAN, WRANGELL testified via the
teleconference network. She spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
STEPHEN HELGESON, WRANGELL testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission. He emphasized that the
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Wrangell public station is the only source of daily news and
weather for local residents. He maintained that the affect
of reductions will be devastating.
GORDON CASTANCA, ANGOON testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of full funding for education.
ANN ARCHIE, THORNE BAY testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She noted that the
public radio stations allow citizens to participate in
Governor call-in programs.
JIMMY ERICK, VENETIE testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
LYNN JENSEN, GUSTAVUS testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She suggested that
public television and RATNet be combined. She stressed that
Alaskan news programing connects the state.
KIM SWIFT, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference network.
He spoke in support of reductions proposed by the Committee.
ELNOR BAXTER, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of funding for senior service
and assisted living programs.
LUCY HOPE, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference network.
She noted that she was speaking on behalf of eleven other
persons at the Legislative Information Office. She
requested that the Committee provide adequate education
funding. She stressed the need to increase education
funding to keep up with inflation.
BILL MUNROE, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of additional funding for
education. He maintained that funding levels which do not
compensate for inflation will be disastrous to children.
SUZY ERLICH, KOTZEBUE testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She noted that the
Kotzebue public radio station serves villages that have no
commercial stations. She stressed that important life and
safety information is broadcasted on KOTZ radio. She also
spoke in support of funding for RATNet.
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LINDA JOULE, KOTZEBUE testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in support of funding for ARDORs. She
emphasized that ARDORs support grass roots programs designed
to generate economic plans that have been developed by
communities.
REGGIE JOULE, KOTZEBUE testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the Kotzebue Technical Center. He stressed the importance
of vocational training for rural areas. He also spoke in
support of funding for postsecondary education.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-64, Side 1)
SUSAN BURKE, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed concern that seven optional medicaid
services are not proposed for funding.
BARBARA WHITEHURST, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE
testified via the teleconference network. She spoke in
opposition to reductions in the Alaska State Council on the
Arts' budget. She emphasized the impact of arts programs on
children with disabilities.
PETER LIPSON, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget.
MARK WHITEHURST, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of Challenge Alaska. He
suggested that reductions need to be made slowly to allow
groups to wean themselves from state funding.
BOB CHRISTAL, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed support for full funding of
education. He maintained that the state has a
constitutional responsibility to fund education.
GARY MOORE, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified
via the teleconference network. He expressed concern with
proposed reductions to programs that impact rural Alaska.
He stressed that he supports reductions, but asked that the
urban/rural balance be maintained.
EILEEN NEWMAN, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified
via the teleconference network. She spoke in support of
funding for RATNet.
LAUREL MCLAUGHLIN, FAIRBANKS testified via the
teleconference network. She spoke in opposition to
reductions in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
She also spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
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Public Broadcasting Commission.
TED FATHAUER, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget. He also spoke against
proposed reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting
Commission. He stated that he would support the
reinstitution of an income tax.
HANNA WOLF, JUNEAU provided members with written comments in
support of public broadcasting (copy on file).
TIM WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA STATE COUNCIL ON THE
ARTS, ANCHORAGE spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. He observed that
the arts bring people together as a state. He noted that
the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA) is the single
largest arts donor in Alaska. He stressed that 70 percent
of NEA funding for Alaska comes through the Alaska State
Council on the Arts. He maintained that federal NEA funding
will be lost if the proposed reduction remains. He
emphasized that Congress is moving the decision process from
the federal level to the state level. He asserted that
Alaska could receive more federal funding under a
reorganization of the NEA.
ANNIE STOKES, MEMBER, ALASKA STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS,
JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska State
Council on the Arts' budget. She observed that every dollar
spent by the Council generates $8 to $9 dollars. She noted
that the Council's budget has funded projects by 11,000
artists. She emphasized that 31,500 students have benefited
from art programs in schools. She suggested that the
Council's budget be reduced to $675.0 thousand dollars in
order to capture federal funds.
BRENT DILLINGHAM, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions
in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. He
stressed that a 83 percent reduction will be a heavy blow to
the arts community. He emphasized that art helps us to
maintain a sense of history.
LARRY KING, CORDOVA testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
alcoholic treatment programs.
PATTY GILBER, PRINCE WILLIAMS SOUND COMMUNITY COLLEGE,
CORDOVA testified via the teleconference network. She spoke
in support of funding for community colleges. She stressed
that the Prince William Sound Community College has
increased its efficiency. She noted the support given the
College by the cities of Valdez and Cordova.
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SCOTT JANKE, CITY MANAGER, CORDOVA testified via the
teleconference network. He expressed concern in the
proposed reductions to the Prince William Sound Community
College, drug and alcohol abuse programs, ARDORS and
Contract Jails Program.
GINGER AHMAOGAK, BARROW testified via the teleconference
network. She testified in support of funding for alcohol
and drug abuse programs.
BOB JOHNSON, KODIAK testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget. He emphasized that a 83
percent reduction will not allow the Council to capture
federal matching funds.
RITA STEVENS, KODIAK ARTS COUNCIL, KODIAK testified via the
teleconference network. She spoke in opposition to
reductions in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
BARBARA BIGELOW, KETCHIKAN testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She also spoke in
opposition to reductions in the Alaska State Council on the
Arts' budget and the University of Alaska.
ANTHONY ROWAN, KETCHIKAN testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
MARIA DUDZAK, KETCHIKAN testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. He compared
reductions for art funding to cutting an artery without a
hospital in sight.
BRIAN JOHNSON, VALDEZ testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of funding for community
colleges.
DOUG ROETMAN, VALDEZ testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of funding for ARDORs.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-64, Side 2)
SHANA SIMMONS, VALDEZ testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She stressed that
the Valdez public radio station is the only broadcast
station for a third of their listeners. She emphasized that
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the broadcast area of KCHU is the size of the state of Ohio.
KRIS NORRIS, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the Habitat Division of the Department of Fish and Game. He
noted that the Department's general fund budget has been
reduced by 23 percent in the past four years.
SUSAN ERICKSON, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
CHRIS WEISS, PETERSBURG testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
CARL BERGER, BETHEL testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the ARDOR program. He also spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
KEN EGGLESTON, BETHEL testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in support of funding for the Civil Air
Patrol.
AMANDA CONARD, BETHEL testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She asserted that
the Bethel public radio station, KYUK will be off the air
July 1, if the depth of reductions are maintained.
JOHN STRALEY, SITKA testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget.
BOB CHEVALIER, SITKA testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke in opposition to reductions to the Mt.
Edgecumbe Boarding School. He also spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. He
indicated that he would be willing to pay an income tax.
VINCENT O'CONNOR, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the Department of Corrections. He spoke in support of day
reporting centers and community work service.
ROBERT HANSON, MAT-SU testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against reductions in public assistance.
HENRY COLE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERIOR ARDOR, FAIRBANKS
testified via the teleconference network. He spoke in
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support of the ARDOR Program. He emphasized that the $225.0
thousand dollar cut represents a 25 percent reduction to the
program. He noted that local groups raise $5.0 million
dollars to fund regional ARDORs.
DON SHIRCEL, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified
via the teleconference network. He expressed concern with
proposed reductions to AFDC, Day Care Assistance and the Mt.
Edgecumbe Boarding School. He spoke in support of education
funding.
SARAH KUENCLI, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS testified
via the teleconference network. She spoke in opposition to
reductions in any programs that affect children.
BILLIE SUNDGREN, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS
testified via the teleconference network. She expressed
support for fully funding medicaid optional services.
JEAN FLANAGAN-CARLO, FAIRBANKS testified via the
teleconference network. She spoke in opposition to
reductions in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
LEONARD KAMERLING, FAIRBANKS testified via the
teleconference network. He spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
NEVILLE JACOBS, FAIRBANKS testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
CAROL MEARES, FAIRBANKS testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska
State Council on the Arts' budget. She asserted that art
activities help to maintain a healthy community. She spoke
in support of funding for education. She suggested that new
income sources should be considered.
BETSY TURNER-BOGREN, FAIRBANKS COUNCIL PARENT TEACHER
ASSOCIATION (PTA), FAIRBANKS testified via the
teleconference network. She noted that adequate and
equitable funding for education is the Alaska State PTA's
legislative priority. She stressed that education funding
has been eroded through inflation. She stated that
education and social services should be held as a state
priority.
MARY LOU CANNEY, FAIRBANKS testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in support of the Head Start Program.
RACHAEL ADAMS, KBBI, HOMER testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
15
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
STEVE MCCASLAND, KBBI, HOMER testified via the
teleconference network. He spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
ANGELA RAMIREZ, HOMER testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in job
training programs. She expressed concern with reductions to
the justice system. She also spoke against proposed
reductions to the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission and
in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
ROBERT ANDERSON, KODIAK testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
JIM BLACKBURN, KODIAK testified via the teleconference
network.
He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska Public
Broadcasting Commission.
BRAD STEVENS, KODIAK testified via the teleconference
network. He spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
(Tape Change, HFC 95-65, Side 1)
GEORGENE SINK, KODIAK testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
JAMES MYKLAND, CORDOVA testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed concern with proposed reductions to
the Department of Fish and Game.
HEATHER MCCARTHY, CORDOVA testified via the teleconference
network. She expressed support for ARDORs, Prince William
Sound Community College, alcohol and substance abuse
programs, and the Department of Fish and Game. She
maintained that fisheries are an important part of Alaska's
economy.
PATTI HIGGINS, ANCHORAGE SCHOOL BOARD, ANCHORAGE testified
via the teleconference network. She stated that no further
cuts should be made to education programs or public safety.
She observed that Anchorage expects 400 new students in FY
96. She stressed that state, federal and municipal
reductions will result in a $10 million dollar reduction to
the Anchorage School District in one year.
MARY STADUM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SOUTHWEST ALASKA MUNICIPAL
16
CONFERENCE, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the ARDOR
Program. She stressed that the ARDOR Program has made a
significant contribution to economic development in Alaska.
She also spoke against proposed reductions to the Alaska
Public Broadcasting Commission.
ROD MCCOY, NEA-ALASKA, ANCHORAGE testified via the
teleconference network. He expressed support for Governor
Knowles' education budget. He emphasized the need to reduce
class size.
CAROL BRYNER, ALASKA DANCE THEATER, ANCHORAGE testified via
the teleconference network. She spoke in opposition to
reductions in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
COLLETTE OWENS, CLITHEROE, ANCHORAGE testified via the
teleconference network. She expressed concern with proposed
reductions to alcohol and drug abuse programs.
JOE TOLOTTA, CLITHEROE, ANCHORAGE testified via the
teleconference network. He expressed support for prisoner
rehabilitation and drug and alcohol abuse programs.
RICK GILMORE, PRESIDENT, BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU, ANCHORAGE
testified via the teleconference network. He spoke in
support of the Fair Businesses Practice Section, Department
of Law. He pointed out that nationwide consumer fraud is a
$100 to $150 billion dollar industry.
CHARLES MCKEE, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He expressed his objection to the amount of
testimony given in regards to reductions to the Public
Broadcasting Commission.
JACKIE FLUMS, ALASKA NURSING ASSOCIATION spoke against
reductions to medicaid. She noted that the state receives a
50 percent federal match for medicaid payments.
WARREN COLLIER, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He testified in support of funding for the
Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
TONY RAUH, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. He testified in support of funding for programs
that support persons with disabilities.
JOCELYN YOUNG, ANCHORAGE testified via the teleconference
network. She spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
ED GILLEY, SUPERINTENDENT, ADIAK REGION SCHOOL DISTRICT
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spoke in support of full funding for education. He noted
that schools in Adiak have been closed. He stressed that
every reduction to the instructional unit will result in
less teachers in the classroom. He stressed the need for a
long range education plan.
JOE HOBERT, JUNEAU spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. He stated that any
cuts to public broadcasting will be detrimental. He
stressed that public broadcasting sets a standard of
excellence for the rest of the industry. He emphasized that
Alaska has an insufficient economic base in the private
sector to support modern, up to date commercial news and
public affairs broadcasts. He maintained that, in Alaska,
only government has the resources to provide the common
carrier utility by which news and public information flows.
He noted that video compression could be added to the
existing RATNet system at a cost of $3 million dollars.
Video compression would increase RATNet's on air channel
capacity by a factor of 8. He suggested that RATNet could
be converted to AlaskaNet, a utility to accommodate all
broadcasts.
RICH KRONBERG, JUNEAU spoke in support of full funding for
education. He maintained that the quality of education
should not be dependent on the quantity or the price of oil
that flows through the pipeline.
JOHN CYR, TEACHER, WASILLA HIGH SCHOOL expressed support for
full funding of education. He noted that the text books that
his students use were printed 18 years ago. He emphasized
that he does not have enough books to go around. His
students also share desks. He has over 160 students on his
class rolls. If everyone shows up for his first hour class
then one student must sit on the floor. He noted that the
quality of education has been reduced. He maintained that
the reductions in education funding will exacerbate growing
class size and the lack of materials.
ROB PFISTEROR, PRESIDENT, ANCHORAGE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION,
JUNEAU spoke against cuts in education. He observed that
education funding which does not provide for increased
enrollment will result in major cuts to schools throughout
the state, force school districts to lay off employees,
increase class size, cut needed materials and reduce
instructional support. He noted that Anchorage has 130
fewer teaching positions to teach more students than the
previous year. He stressed that another 167 individuals
have received lay off slips for the coming year. He
observed that the state of Alaska is the fiftieth state in
taxation. He asserted that the state is facing a priority
crisis not an economic crisis.
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ERIC KUEFFNER, PRESIDENT, JUNEAU ARTS AND HUMANITIES
COUNCIL, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. He emphasized
that every dollars spent on the Alaska State Council on the
Arts is multiplied by $9 dollars.
CHAD DENTON, STUDENT, JUNEAU DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL, JUNEAU
spoke in opposition to reductions in the Alaska State
Council on the Arts' budget.
MARGAUX DEROUX, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in
the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
RICHARD KERR, TEACHER, JUNEAU spoke in support of full
funding for education. He stated that he is currently
teaching ten classes daily in addition to maintaining other
school responsibilities. He asked how he can continue to
improve the level of services that he already provides.
PATRICK HENRY, JUNEAU spoke in support of the Close-Up
Program.
He noted that school districts pay for half of the Program.
He emphasized the importance of the Program. He stressed
that 35 school districts participated in the Program in the
past year.
ROBERT SEWELL, JUNEAU spoke against reductions in education,
child care, and DFYS. He emphasized the need to focus on
prevention.
SHAWNNA YOUNGBLOT, STUDENT, JUNEAU spoke in support of the
Close-Up Program.
SCOTT FISCUS, JUNEAU expressed support for funding of the
Close-Up Program.
CLAUDIA DOUGLAS, PRESIDENT, NEA-ALASKA, JUNEAU expressed
concern with proposed reductions to K - 12 funding, the Mt.
Edgecumbe Boarding School, the Close-up Program, the
Kotzebue Technical Center and the Alaska State Council on
the Arts. She emphasized that the state of Alaska has a
constitutional responsibility to fund education.
DEBORAH GARRISH, JUNEAU spoke in support of full funding for
education. She stressed that classrooms are overcrowded.
She asserted that the quality of education has been reduced.
She also expressed concern with reductions to child abuse
programs. She spoke against proposed reductions to the
Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission. She suggested that
school and income taxes be reinstated.
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KEN WALDMAN, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget.
LIZ JOHNSON, JUNEAU requested that careful consideration be
given to cuts to education. She asked that long term
impacts be considered. She noted that classes are large and
course offerings are fewer at the Juneau/Douglas High
School.
LIZ SAYA, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. She maintained
that arts are a critical indicator of the health of the
state. She spoke in support of new revenue sources.
JAMES FISHER, JUNEAU asserted that the Legislature needs to
provide responsibility for education and health and safety
programs. He suggested that state income and alcohol and
tobacco taxes be reinstated. He noted the need for a steady
source of maintenance funds for the state's transportation
system.
KATE YOUNG, JUNEAU spoke in support of full funding for
education. She asserted that the operating budget can not
be balanced at the expense of our children.
ALEX WORTHEIMER, PRESIDENT, AUKE BAY PTA, JUNEAU urged full
funding of education. He stressed that education funding
has eroded due to inflation. He also spoke in opposition to
reductions to the Division of Habitat in the Department of
Fish and Game.
BARBARA WILMAT, JUNEAU spoke against proposed reductions to
the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.
RON DUNLAP, PRESIDENT, TROUT UNLIMITED, JUNEAU spoke against
the 30 percent reduction to the Division of Habitat,
Department of Fish and Game.
LILA AYERS, TEACHER, MAT-SU spoke in support of full funding
for education.
SYBIL DAVIS, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions in the
Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. She stressed that
arts provide a safety net for children.
PAM NEAL, PRESIDENT, ALASKA STATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE urged
a five percent annual reduction of state spending, until a
sustainable level is reached. She commended the Committee's
effort at bring state spending into balance.
CHARLES ROHBRACHER, JUNEAU spoke in opposition to reductions
in the Alaska State Council on the Arts' budget. He
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maintained that art and language are mankind's most
distinctive and characteristic behavior as human beings. He
noted the impact that the reduction to the Alaska State
Council on the Arts will have on the next generation of
Alaskan artists.
DARLENE THORTON, PRESIDENT, HARBORVIEW PTA, JUNEAU spoke in
support of full funding for education.
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