Legislature(2013 - 2014)HOUSE FINANCE 519
04/14/2014 05:30 PM House FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB119 | |
| Public Testimony | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| + | SB 119 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
CS FOR SENATE BILL NO. 119(FIN) am
"An Act making and amending appropriations, including
capital appropriations, supplemental appropriations,
reappropriations, and other appropriations; making
appropriations to capitalize funds; and providing for
an effective date."
5:36:32 PM
Vice-Chair Neuman stated that testimony from the Denali
Deaf Community Center would be heard initially due to the
testifiers' early flight plans out of Juneau.
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY
5:36:53 PM
ANTHONY DEMARE, DENALI DEAF COMMUNITY CENTER, ANCHORAGE,
informed the committee that he worked with deaf children at
the Alaska State School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing. He
shared a story about the loss of his hearing as a young
boy. He stated that his parents enrolled him in a school
for the deaf, where he learned American Sign Language,
which allowed him to communicate and succeed. He pointed
out that 20 thousand deaf and hard-of-hearing Alaskans
required services. He explained that the Denali Deaf
Community Center hoped to provide services including
interpreter referral, employment, independent living skills
and social services for deaf people in one central
location. The centralized location would allow for cost
savings.
5:40:04 PM
MORGAN EVANS, DENALI DEAF COMMUNITY CENTER, ANCHORAGE,
discussed the necessity of the Denali Deaf Community
Center. He believed that the center was full of possibility
in its ability to help deaf people overcome communication
barriers. He explained that he could speak with his voice,
but some people had difficulty understanding him so he
preferred to use American Sign Language to communicate. He
believed that the center would enable support for other
hard-of-hearing Alaskans requiring help. He appreciated the
committee members' time and support.
Vice-Chair Neuman asked about a location for the deaf
center and the amount of funding requested.
Ms. Evans replied that a location had been secured on Fifth
Avenue in Anchorage. The center needed $700,000 for the
facility. The entity was hoping to receive an additional $1
million for building renovations. The entity had plans in
place. She discussed other funds from the Alaska Foundation
and potentially from the Rasmuson Foundation. The entity
planned to meet with the Municipality of Anchorage to
discuss other fund options as well.
TRACY PIFER, DENALI DEAF CENTER, ANCHORAGE, replied that a
location and price had been determined. The location had
been secured on Fifth Avenue in Anchorage Alaska. She
stated that the center required $700 thousand for the
facility and an additional $1 million for renovations. The
renovation plans were in place, but the next step was
securing the building.
5:43:45 PM
PAM MUELLER-GUY, DENALI DEAF COMMUNITY CENTER, JUNEAU (via
teleconference), testified in favor of the Denali Deaf
Community Center. She stated that 30 babies were born deaf
in the state every year. The parents of these children
required additional information about available resources.
She stated that people can fly into Juneau, which made the
process difficult. She mentioned early screening for
infants and all of the tools that would be available in one
centralized location. She wished that deaf people had a
place to go to access the necessary services.
5:47:33 PM
Ms. Pifer introduced herself again as the interpreter for
the testifiers. She stated her experience working with deaf
and hard-of-hearing Alaskans. She stated that the building
was in its third phase with the legislature having funded
phases one and two. She stated that the building was
secured with a lease-to-own agreement and once the building
was purchased, social enterprise businesses would occupy
the space. She described the center's many uses. The
project was only $1 million short of its goal. She stressed
that the completion of the goal would complete any requests
to the legislature for future funding, as the enterprise
businesses would cover the ongoing costs. She spoke about
the needs of the parents of deaf children. She worked at
the Alaska State School for the Hard of Hearing. She
pointed out that deaf and hard-of-hearing people had huge
gaps in their knowledge without the ability to overhear
certain facts.
5:51:10 PM
JOE DINNOCENZO, KODIAK SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION, KODIAK
(via teleconference), spoke about two CAPSIS requests, one
to fund the Alaska Association of Conservation Districts
for $1.2 million, which provided administration and payroll
for the Kodiak Soil and Water Conservation. He mentioned
another request of $213 thousand for the replacement of
culverts that were blocking salmon moving upstream. He
noted that the upgrade would allow for a more reliable
transportation system and promote Kodiak's salmon
resources.
5:53:57 PM
Vice-Chair Neuman noted that testimony sign-up would be
open until 8.
5:54:43 PM
NICK SZABO, TREASURER, ALASKA SEARCH AND RESCUE, KODIAK
(via teleconference), stated that the Alaska Search and
Rescue Association (ASARA) was a non-profit affiliation of
48 volunteer organizations statewide. He pointed out that
the volunteers answered calls for help that commonly
interrupted day jobs and family life. He expressed
gratitude for the training funds received five years prior.
None of the organizations had paid employees; every dollar
was spent on training, equipment and supplies. He discussed
the need to train new people and provide advanced training
for those already in the program. He worked under the
supervision of the Alaska State Troopers. He stated that
the request would be greater without volunteers.
5:57:21 PM
AMY RUSSEL-JAMGOCHIN, KAWERAK INC., NOME (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding the Alaska
Native Cultural Center in a capital request for $1.9
million. The request was initially for library matching
funds. She spoke about the importance of the center to the
community. She stated that the recession hit the community
hard, and the funding for the building allowed the
community to achieve partnership and collaboration that
added to the viability of Nome. She stated that the timing
was out of the city's control. She saw much funding
allocated to other items, while the cultural center
provided an important solution. She spoke about honoring
Richard Foster.
6:01:30 PM
Co-Chair Austerman stated that he and Co-Chair Stoltze had
duties that required his intermittent absence during the
hearing.
6:01:56 PM
CLAY KOPLIN, CEO, CORDOVA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, CORDOVA
(via teleconference), testified in support of $6.5 million
for the Cordova Center, which was reduced to $1 million in
the CS. He stated that the center was part of a chain of
economic investments in Prince William Sound beginning with
the Whittier Tunnel. The Cordova Center was vetted by the
community for 20 years and met a variety of needs including
arts and convention space, emergency response and disaster
preparation. He stated that the building would replace
several old buildings. The Cordova Center was near
completion. He spoke about the need for larger space for
community gatherings.
6:04:32 PM
BRET BRADFORD, MEMBER, CORDOVA CITY COUNCIL, CORDOVA (via
teleconference), requested reinstatement of $6.5 million in
matching funds to complete the Cordova Center. He spoke
about the many community benefits the center would provide
including a new City Hall, library and museum facilities.
The center would fulfill the need for economic diversity
and create economic stimulus, which would affect the entire
community.
6:06:24 PM
JENNIFER GIBBINS, PRESIDENT, CORDOVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE,
CORDOVA (via teleconference), requested the reinstatement
of $6.5 million in matching funds to complete the Cordova
Center. She stated that the small businesses would continue
to succeed and fishermen would continue to fish in the
area. The chamber of commerce deemed the center an
important asset.
6:07:38 PM
HEIDI CHAY, DISTRICT MANAGER, KENAI SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT, KENAI (via teleconference),
testified in favor of the $1.2 million request for the soil
and water conservation district. She noted that the
districts were locally-governed and state-authorized
entities with responsibilities delegated by the Department
of Natural Resources under Alaska statute. She described
the district's responsibilities for conserving soil and
clean water. She mentioned the preservation of soil and
plants in the elementary schools in the Kenai Peninsula.
She stated that the organization was an essential part of
agricultural progress in the state.
6:10:36 PM
KEN RAY, SELF, WASILLA (via teleconference) testified in
support of the Wasilla bypass. He stated that the bypass
would serve the entire valley with safety needs. The item
would provide early acquisitions with right of way. He
opined that the bypass would be a wise use of state funds.
He advocated for moving the project along.
6:12:22 PM
DICK ZOBEL, WASILLA SOIL WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT,
WASILLA (via teleconference), testified in support of
funding for soil and water conservation. He found achieving
funding a struggle despite multiple requests to the
Department of Natural Resources. He stated that he worked
as a farmer and was a long-time member of the Wasilla Soil
and Water Conservation District. The conservation district
work in Wasilla was accomplished with volunteer efforts
with minimal funding through various grants. Basic funding
would allow the payment of administrative costs. He stated
that the organization's volunteers provided ample support.
He requested reinstatement of the $1.2 million request.
6:15:49 PM
JEFF CLARK, ALASKA TRAUMA CARE FUND, BETHEL (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding for the
Alaska Trauma Care Fund. He stated that maintaining the
level 4 trauma certification was one use of the funding.
Another use was in training the nurses and providers and
upkeep of equipment. He noted that he trained nurses in
trauma nurse core curriculum to provide an advanced level
of care for trauma patients. He mentioned that 10 trauma
nurses were trained in the last week to aid those visiting
the emergency room. Equipment was also purchased with the
funding. The funding helped to purchase equipment that
helped save lives in remote locations. He spoke about blood
warmers and ultrasound devices that were purchased with the
funding.
6:19:30 PM
EDWARD ALEXANDER, SECOND CHIEF FORT YUKON, FORT YUKON (via
teleconference), testified in favor of a funding request
for $100 thousand, which would allow the leverage of $287
thousand in additional funding from the Environmental
Protection Agency. He anticipated the creation of 3-6 jobs
in the community resulting from the presence of the
greenhouse. He stated that lease agreements were completed
for the project, which was 80 percent complete.
6:21:32 PM
PJ SIMON, ALLAKAKET TRIBE, ALLAKAKET (via teleconference),
testified in support of a $500 thousand request for the new
Allakaket medical clinic. He stated that the center would
replace a dilapidated building. The funding would leverage
funding from the Rasmuson Foundation and another
[undecipherable] foundation's funding. He stated that the
modern clinic would aid in decline of influenza and would
include running water and sewer. The clinic would bolster
the health and welfare of all Allakaket residents. He
mentioned that there were 300 tribal members in the
Allakaket tribe.
6:23:39 PM
LISA CHARLES, NEWTOK TRADITIONAL COUNCIL, NEWTOK (via
teleconference), testified in support of the critical needs
for her community. The three sections of needs included
relocation for $2.8 million, public facilities for $945
thousand and public safety for $125 thousand.
6:24:57 PM
CLAY WALKER, DENALI BOROUGH MAYOR, HEALY (via
teleconference), testified in support of emergency medical
service funding for his borough that hosted 400 thousand
visitors annually. The volunteer fire department regularly
transported patients in their ambulance over 220 miles to
Fairbanks. The borough requested funding for a new
ambulance, which was widely supported as the borough's
number one priority totaling $118 thousand. He mentioned a
second request for $170 thousand for an energy efficiency
project that would pay for itself in less than two years.
The project would plumb the cold boiler heat from Tri-
Valley School to the elementary wing heated by fuel oil. An
energy audit estimated annual savings of approximately $90
thousand resulting from the project. He added that the
Denali Borough was absent from the capital budget, so he
urged the committee to consider the lasting benefits of the
requests.
6:27:13 PM
JEFF SMEENK, SELF, PALMER (via teleconference) testified in
support of the $1.2 million request for the statewide soil
and water conservation program. He shared the use of the
$60 thousand allocated to Palmer, for programs totaling
$300 thousand. He noted that he worked with invasive weeds
that threatened salmon habitats in 2013 along with working
with the Department of Environmental Conservation to reduce
the hydrocarbons in the water resulting from recreational
boating. He spoke about 2014 and his work with the United
States Department of Agriculture to decrease soil loss from
wind erosion.
6:29:23 PM
BERNICE JOHN, NEWTOK TRADITIONAL COUNCIL, NEWTOK (via
teleconference), testified in favor of requests for public
safety needs $125 thousand and $945 thousand, and
relocation items $2.8 million. All needs were critical for
the community. She stated that a new water source was
needed for the next 2-5 years.
6:30:46 PM
REX WRIGLEY, SELF, DELTA JUNCTION (via teleconference),
spoke in favor of funding for the 12 soil and water
conservation districts of $1.2 million. He noted that the
district provided support for Alaskan agriculture including
nutrient and pest recommendations for farmers. Additional
responsibilities included the control of noxious weeds in
Alaska and compilation of agricultural research and
addressing erosion and flooding concerns. The district
provided the state the opportunity to grow its own food.
6:32:38 PM
KEN MARSH, UPPER SUSITNA SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION,
TRAPPER CREEK (via teleconference), spoke in favor of the
$1.2 million request for Alaskan soil and water
conservation districts. He thanked the committee for the
prior two years' support. He noted that the funding would
allow each of the 12 districts to continue aiding the
conservation needs of the state. He stated that the
district saved time and money by providing efficient and
vital work. He provided an example of an effort working
with teenagers clearing streams and trails.
6:35:24 PM
TODD PETTIT, PALMER SOIL WATER CONSERVATION, PALMER (via
teleconference), spoke in favor of $1.2 million in funding
for the 12 state soil and water conservation districts.. He
stated that the funding would be distributed throughout the
state. The grassroots community funded all districts to
prevent soil erosion and improve water quality. He spoke
about issues with funding regarding weed overgrowth.
6:40:02 PM
ROBIN WARD, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference) testified
in favor of restoration of non-profit funding for the
Alaska craftsman home program and the cold climate housing
research center. She wished to utilize best practices and
appropriate technology for the unique climate in Alaska.
She stated that research, reports and information were
provided by the center. The Alaska craftsman home program
allowed for distribution of the center's information. The
distribution relied on the two entities that were not
included in this year's capital budget. She requested an
additional $750 thousand for the cold climate research
center and $250 thousand for the Alaska craftsman home
program.
6:42:44 PM
CYNTHIA FRANKLIN, ANCHORAGE MUNICIPAL PROSECUTOR, ANCHORAGE
(via teleconference), supported funding for the Alaska
Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Intervention project
for $850 thousand. She spoke about the project,
headquartered in Anchorage and utilizing the Anchorage
police department, serving victims statewide. The goal of
the project was increasing victim's safety and offender
accountability. She stated that she had excellent data
supporting the goal accomplishment. The program relocated
victims. The project had statewide impact and was shown to
be effective.
6:44:54 PM
JAMES TRUMP, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference) testified
in opposition to the $32.7 million in funding for the
Susitna Dam project.
6:45:31 PM
CARRIE LONGORIA, ANCHORAGE MUNICIPAL HEALTH AND HUMAN
SERVICES DEPARTMENT, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in favor of $850 thousand in funding for the
Alaska Domestic Violence And Sexual Assault Intervention
program funding. She noted that the statewide program
served over 7,100 victims from 38 communities. She stated
that the program's federal funding had been cut. She
mentioned the partnership for victim's support and
relocation for utilities, food, clothing, etc. She stated
that the funding would provide much needed services for
victims in Alaska.
6:47:22 PM
CAT BULLINGTON, SELF, WASILLA (via teleconference), spoke
in favor of $1.2 million in funding for the 12 state soil
and water conservation districts. She spoke in support of
the work to dispense funds and carry out projects. She
spoke about the payroll and delivery of conservation
education. She stated that financial support was provided
for the 12 state districts with one full-time and one part-
time employee. She explained that Alaska was unique and
brought knowledge to the stewards of the planet and
guardians of natural resources.
6:49:42 PM
PEGGY MCLAUGHLIN, PORT DIRECTOR, CITY OF UNALASKA (via
teleconference), testified in support of two separate
requests. The city requested the purchase of a fourth
engine for the powerhouse. The city purchased a new
generator for the community. The request of $4.5 million
would allow for installation of the engine to meet the
growing demand of the city. The second request for the
Unalaska Marine Center position 3 and 4 replacement. The
city requested $27 million of a $40 million project to
upgrade the Unalaska Marine Center. She mentioned the
future for offshore drilling utilizing the center as a
staging area.
6:51:54 PM
JEFF WELTZIN, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, TANANA, requested
funding for 10 capital improvement projects. He explained
his practice of leveraging federal and foundation dollars.
He noted that eight clinics had been built throughout the
interior by leveraging $2.6 million in state funding with
$15 million of federal and foundation funding. He added
that of six multipurpose community centers were also
constructed throughout Interior Alaska. He listed the 10
requested projects that also leveraged federal and
foundation dollars.
Representative Munoz requested a copy of Mr. Weltzin's
letter.
6:54:59 PM
JACK HEBERT, PRESIDENT, CEO, COLD CLIMATE HOUSING RESEARCH
CENTER, testified about his statewide organization founded
by the Alaska State Homebuilding Association 14 years ago.
He stated that the center affected lives throughout the
state. State funding was important and he mentioned his
CAPSIS request number, 62130. He mentioned some members of
the center's Board of Directors. He mentioned an energy-
efficient building built at the University of Alaska. He
explained that the center leased land from the university
as a private corporation.
6:57:32 PM
JAMES MARCUS, DISTRICT MANAGER, SOUTHEAST SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION COUNCIL, spoke in favor of $1.2 million in
funding for the 12 state soil and water conservation
districts. He pointed out that the districts were
classified as public-private partnerships under the purview
of the Department of Natural Resources. He mentioned the
district's goals including seafood processing and storage.
Three goals of the council included regional food security,
shellfish farming and invasive species management. He
mentioned the goal of eradicating noxious plants in rural
communities throughout Alaska.
7:01:26 PM
JAMES SULLIVAN, SOUTHEAST ALASKA CONSERVATION COUNCIL,
JUNEAU, testified against the $35 million funding for the
Juneau Access Road. He felt that the road would be among
one of the most dangerous in the country. He pointed out
that the environmental impact statement (EIS) was not
scheduled for release until June. He felt that the
legislature should wait until the project was presented as
a final product, before designating funds for the road. He
stressed that the road was designed to end at an unmanned
ferry terminal, and restated the danger regarding that
issue.
Representative Thompson asked for a copy of Mr. Sullivan's
statement. Mr. Sullivan agreed to provide that information.
7:05:16 PM
LORRAINE KING, ELECTED OFFICIAL, EKWOK VILLAGE COUNCIL,
EKWOK (via teleconference), testified in support of the
$204,000 for the Ekwok Landfill Access Road. She remarked
that over ten years of planning occurred in order to
formulate the proposal. She stated that the 115 foot bridge
would cross Clutha Creek, and was critical to access the
landfill site. She remarked that the proposal was for $2.68
million, and was separated into several components for
material, freight, and installation. She stated that the
existing landfill was scheduled to close, because it did
not meet federal requirements and was too close to housing.
The existing landfill was over capacity, suffered from
windblown litter, and open burning. The dumpsite did not
have an Alaskan Department of Environmental Conservation
(DEC) Class III permit, and was an existing hazard to the
community. The site was included in the high-threat site on
the Indian Health Service Report to Congress on Tribal Open
Dump Sanitation Deficiency List. She felt that Ekwok had a
good plan to manage solid waste to protect the natural
environment and human health.
7:09:18 PM
RONALD K. INOUYE, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference)
testified in support of funding for SLAM, and other library
upgrade projects. He stated that the walls for the SLAM
building were fabricated in Fairbanks, and then installed
into the museum in Juneau. He stated that the fabrication
of the walls established a new industry in Fairbanks, which
employed about 30 people. He encouraged the committee to
fully-fund the completion of the new SLAM building.
7:10:39 PM
RONDA SCHLUMBOHM, BOREAL ALASKA - LEARNING, ADAPTATION,
PRODUCTION (BAKLAP), FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of $700,000 for BAKLAP's One Tree
program. She taught a 2-3 class just south of Fairbanks, in
the heart of the Boreal Forest. She stated that the area
was a beautiful place to teach and raise children. The
community was 50 miles from Fairbanks, so the students were
not given the same opportunities as those living in
Fairbanks. She stated that field trips to Fairbanks
required hours of travel, which left for limited time for
educational opportunities. She announced that scientists
visited her classroom once a week, which was possible
through BAKLAP, which changed the dynamic of the science
program in her school. She stated that Zack Myers, one of
the visiting scientists, spent an hour a week in her
classroom, teaching the children about birch trees.
7:13:53 PM
LOU BROWN, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), urged the
elimination of funding for the Road to Ambler. She felt
that the $8.5 million designated for the project could be
used for other worthy projects. She testified in support of
reinstating $2 million for the Woodstove Change-out Program
for the Fairbanks North Star Borough, in order to improve
the borough's air quality. The poor air quality in
Fairbanks has negatively impacted the health of children
and adults. She noted that there was a large amount of
funds in the capital budget designated for the replacement
of the heat and power facility at the University of
Fairbanks (UAF). She felt that the power plant was
necessary, but felt that a new facility should be built to
convert from a coal burning facility to a natural gas
burning facility. She felt that there should be a focus
away from burning coal, in order to continue to improve the
air quality in Fairbanks.
7:15:31 PM
CHRISTINA-ALEX LIAKOS, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference)
testified against funding for the new coal power plants and
coal mining. She shared that she had developed asthma in
Fairbanks, and her doctor stated that it was common for
people to develop asthma in Fairbanks, because of the poor
air quality. She moved away from Fairbanks, and her asthma
improved. She felt that the legislature should focus on
alternatives and solutions to the air quality problem. She
testified in support of reinstating the $2 million for the
Fairbanks Woodstove Exchange Program. She spoke against the
proposed heat and power plant at UAF, and felt that
students' tuition should not increase to fund a project
that proposed a great health risk. She felt that the
funding could be used for health and education projects.
7:17:40 PM
KAITLIN VADLA, SELF, KENAI (via teleconference), testified
against the Susitna Dam and the Ambler Road, and felt that
the money could be used for items with a greater purpose.
She also spoke against the $245 million for the new coal
power plant at UAF. She felt that it would provide a poor
return on investment, especially for a university that had
a cutting edge international arctic research center and
cold climate housing research center. She felt that the
university would be investing in eighteenth century fuel
sources. She felt that the money should be used to retrofit
the old plant, and invest the $100 million on energy
efficiency improvements to the buildings on campus.
7:18:53 PM
ZACH MEYERS, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference) testified
in support of $700,000 for BAKLAP funding. He announced
that BAKLAP was granted funding in 2011, and he was a
participant in the program since its inception. He was a
construction designer, and he was assigned to work with
teachers throughout the district to develop projects and
lessons that were engaging to both mind and body. He stated
that BAKLAP had worked with over twelve schools and 800
students throughout the district. He announced that many
students approached him to thank him for the work of
BAKLAP. He felt that the work was innovative, exciting, and
memorable.
7:21:28 PM
ANDREW ALLABY, BAKLAP, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
spoke in support of funding for BAKLAP. He understood that
the budget climate was challenging, but felt that the
program should be funded until its completion. He stressed
that wood biomass energy was increasingly vital to Alaskan
communities and economies, and Alaskans needed a
sustainable foundation to raise the next generation's
biomass fuel. He quoted the Alaska Constitution, and shared
that there was a mandate for the management of the natural
resources for sustained yield. He felt that BAKLAP had a
demonstrated capacity to bring young Alaskans, state
agencies, and the University of Alaska (UA) together to
ensure that the state met the responsibility outlined in
the constitution. He stated that he was a current UAF
student, studying forestry, so he understood the growing
importance of Alaska's forest resource.
7:23:15 PM
BIRCH PAVELSKY, VOLUNTEER, BAKLAP ONE TREE, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference) testified in support of funding for BAKLAP.
He stated that he volunteered to help middle schools
understand birch logs through crafting knitting needles,
with the intent to understand tree structure. He felt that
the analytical thinking required for the project was a
metaphor that could be applied to science, engineering,
career choice, and elsewhere. He stressed that BAKLAP
encouraged that kind of analytical thinking.
7:24:28 PM
JIM SACKETT, CEO, TOGHOTTHELE CORPORATION, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in support of funding the bridge
over the Nenana River. He explained that the bridge was
currently under construction, and would connect the road to
the Parks Highway. The project was partially funded with
$6.5 million through a voter approved bond, and it was
estimated that there was an additional $1.5 million to
complete the bridge to provide access to the Nenana gas
basin. He remarked that the bridge would access UAF land,
Mental Health Trust land, Department of Natural Resources
(DNR) land, and Tanana Valley State Forest land.
7:25:49 PM
GLENN JUDAY, DIRECTOR, BAKLAP, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for
BAKLAP. He stated that the program was developed to meet
the demand for wood biomass energy research. He remarked
that BAKLAP provided education through hands-on experience,
and assists the state forest to meet the demand for wood
biomass energy. He announced that BAKLAP was launched
through a recent appropriation, and explained that the
project was on-time and on-budget. The program had already
produced some important new discoveries, including the
first systematic assessment of forest regrowth on state
harvest units in the Alaska Boreal Forest. He stated that
the current funding request would support the completion of
the analysis and publication of the results of the first
finding. He announced that BAKLAP had uncovered important
information regarding forest insects on growth, and the
funding would initiate development of predictive tools for
future forest yields. He stated that BAKLAP had identified
which state forest management practices were producing
acceptable tree-growth, and the requested funding would
compare costs and identify which state forest practices
produce an acceptable return on investment. He shared that
BAKLAP was a partnership with DNR, UA, and the Fairbanks
North Star Borough School District.
7:29:07 PM
LAUREN LYNCH, GRADUATE STUDENT, UAF, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in support of funding for BAKLAP.
She stated that BAKLAP provided an opportunity for her to
work with people of all different ages, and share some of
her education. She stated that she had worked and learned
from incredible teachers through the program. She observed
that many elementary, middle, and high school students had
benefitted from the BAKLAP program. She remarked that
students had used many of their skills in other aspects of
their lives, and shared some personal stories.
7:31:51 PM
JOHN RINGSTAD, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in
support of funding for the completion of the Barnette
Magnet School renovation.
7:32:36 PM
LUKE HOPKINS, MAYOR, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH (via
teleconference), spoke in support of various economic
development projects. He specifically spoke to $11.2
million for phase 4 for the Barnette Magnet School. He
encouraged support for the $2 million for air quality
mitigation. He urged support for the UAF power plant
replacement funding. He also testified in support of
funding the UAF engineering building completion. He stated
that 40 percent of the economy in Fairbanks was based on
the military, and he encouraged as much as $250,000 to
match the local contribution to military stabilization. He
urged support of funding for BAKLAP, and educational
opportunities through the STEM program. He urged the
addition of $400,000 for DCCED for economic development. He
encouraged support of funding the statewide library
construction grants.
7:36:17 PM
MERRILL SANFORD, MAYOR, CITY AND BOROUGH OF JUNEAU,
testified in support of the Juneau water project funding.
He also spoke in support of SLAM funding. He also urged
support of funding for the Juneau Access Project. He felt
that speaking against the road would result in a poor
economic decision. He stressed that roads were an economic
driver for the state, just like the Trans-Alaska Pipeline
System (TAPS).
7:38:30 PM
DAVID SELUNIS-MESSIR, RURAL ENERGY COORDINATOR, TANANA
CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of the Fort Yukon Passive Solar
Greenhouse. He stated that the project was the first of its
kind north of the Arctic Circle, and would allow the
community to heat a greenhouse for local food production
for six months of the year with the use of an innovative
passive solar heating system. The system used no oil or
wood, but just the sun's rays, insulation, and thermal
storage. He stated that the project had leveraged over
$300,000 worth of EPA and Department of Energy funding, was
over 80 percent complete, and was slotted to complete the
upcoming summer with the proposed funding. The local school
district already had plans to purchase produce from private
growers in Fort Yukon to serve in school lunches in 2015,
and the Elders and Nutrition Program was planning to
purchase fresh produce for elder community members across
the Yukon Flats.
7:40:24 PM
SARAH OBED, DOYON LIMITED, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of the $100,000 for the Fort Yukon
Greenhouse, and $1.5 million for the City of Nenana bridge
across the Nenana River. She remarked that the bridge would
access UAF land, Mental Health Trust land, Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) land, and Tanana Valley State
Forest land.
7:41:21 PM
MIKE MUSICK, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), thanked
the committee for including funding for a new power plant
at UAF, but felt that it was a "black hole" for funding
other worthy projects. He stressed that there were air
quality issues in Fairbanks caused by wood burning. He
encouraged the committee to reinstate funds to deal with
the air quality issue. He remarked that he was at UAF
before the current power plant was installed, and shared
that the power plant was a technological leap from
extremely dirty coal power to cleaner coal power. He
remarked that there were even better technologies to allow
for burning of the most ecologically friendly fuel source.
He also urged support of funding for the Barnette Magnet
School renovation.
7:44:09 PM
TAMMI GANGULI, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke
in support of funding phase 4 of the Barnette Magnet School
renovation. She shared that she and other community members
had submitted written testimony. She felt that the project
was important for enhancing children's health and safety.
She felt that funding the last phase of the renovation
would save money for Fairbanks and the state. She remarked
that there were efficiencies in the project that would also
save the state money.
Representative Wilson announced that she had read the
submitted letters.
7:45:11 PM
LAURA COMER, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference) testified
in support of funding to support clean air in Fairbanks.
She announced that, according to the American Lung
Association, Fairbanks was the ninth most polluted city for
short-term particle pollution; and was tied fourteenth for
the most year-round pollution. She stressed that funding
for air quality mitigation programs, such as the Wood Stove
Replacement Program, helped to curb energy costs, reduced
fuel cost for owners, and improved the air quality for
residents. She expressed concern over the removal of
funding for the replacement program, while adding money for
a new coal power plant at UAF. She remarked that coal power
and old wood stoves were linked to asthma attacks, lung
damage, increased risk of respiratory infection, and
premature death. She urged the legislature to fully return
$2 million for the Fairbanks North Star Woodstove Exchange
program.
7:47:01 PM
DIANE HUTCHISON, FINANCE CHAIR, ASSEMBLY, FAIRBANKS NORTH
STAR BOROUGH ASSEMBLY, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
appreciated the inclusion of a new heat and power plant at
UAF, but emphasized that it should be a statewide project.
She remarked that UA helped everyone in the state, not just
Fairbanks. She urged the legislature to fully return $2
million for the Fairbanks North Star Woodstove Exchange
program.
7:48:57 PM
PATRICE LEE, CITIZENS FOR CLEAN AIR, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), urged the reinstatement of funding for the
Woodstove Change Out program. She testified against funding
for the new coal-powered plant at UAF. She expressed
concern over the removal of funding for the replacement
program, while adding money for a new coal power plant at
UAF. She remarked that coal power and old wood stoves were
linked to asthma attacks, lung damage, increased risk of
respiratory infection, and premature death. She urged the
legislature to fully return $2 million for the Fairbanks
North Star Woodstove Exchange program.
7:51:26 PM
DON GRAY, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference) testified in
support of funding the UAF power plant. He stressed that
the project was essential. He announced that the focus on
power should be on more cost effective strategies with
research and design vetted solutions as they are
discovered. He felt that attempting current ineffective
energy solutions would be costly to the state. He felt that
a coal power plant, which was as clean as science could
produce, at an affordable price should be the current
solution. He remarked that there would continue to be
discoveries of practical ways to obtain energy sources like
wind, tidal, earth-heat differential produced power, and
solar at affordable prices.
7:55:54 PM
JOHN EBERHART, MAYOR, CITY OF FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in support of $250,000 for community
service patrol. He explained that there was recent funding
of an extra $75,000 from the City of Fairbanks to expand
the service to 18 hours a day, 7 days a week. He stressed
that it was a public safety issue for the city. He also
spoke in support of funding for a replacement of an
ambulance. The 2003 ambulance needed replacement, along
with two chest compression systems, and three cardiac
monitors. Through mutual aid and automatic aid agreements,
the replacement would affect the entire Fairbanks area. He
announced that the current ambulance was over ten years
old, and had over 66,000 miles.
7:57:30 PM
ADAM KRYNICKI, EMPLOYEE, OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
AND COMMERCIALIZATION, UAF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for high tech development
in the state. He announced that, through the Alaska
Technology Transfer Partnership, there was an increase in
invention disclosures at UAF. He announced that UAF had the
amount of invention and activity that was suited for a $100
million a year research university. He remarked that the
reason for the success was UAF's ability to engage its
capacity for collaboration, small business innovation
research agreements, and were licensing more technology
than it ever had. He announced that, prior to 2011, UAF
only licensed one technology. Currently, UAF licensed 37
technologies. Of those 37, ten went to Alaskan businesses
with four start-up businesses.
7:59:47 PM
JUNE THOMASSON, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference)
testified in support of reinstatement of the $2 million for
the Wood Stove change out program. She felt that Fairbanks
was losing valuable residents because of the poor air
quality in Fairbanks. She stated that she was a physician's
assistant, and had patients who were unable to exercise
because of air quality. She also spoke against funding for
the road to Ambler, because she felt the residents did not
support the road to Ambler. She also spoke in support of
the proposed power plant at UAF, and encouraged the
inclusion of funding the power plant's capability to use
natural gas.
8:01:07 PM
RON YARNELL, OWNER, ALL ABOUT ADVENTURE, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference) testified against the funding for the
Ambler Road. He felt that the money could be used for more
worthy projects in Fairbanks such as the Fairbanks Clean
Air Initiative or the UAF engineering building. He felt
that the proposed road, a many other roads, were often not
locally supported and only benefitted a limited number of
companies and corporations at the expense of Alaskans. He
stated that Nova Copper was a subsidiary of Nova Gold, and
the companies supporting the Ambler Road, had a terrible
track record of failed mines throughout the state.
8:02:28 PM
DAVID VENENBURG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION
OF FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), echoed the
remarks of Mayor Eberhart. He restated that effectiveness
of the community service patrol (CSP) in Fairbanks. He
stated that the funding for the patrol was the top
legislative priority for the City of Fairbanks. The CSP had
taken approximately 1300 publicly inebriated individuals
into protective custody to obtain medical care. He remarked
that public drunkenness in Fairbanks was non-criminal, so
therefore the CSP allowed for police and fire patrol to
monitor criminal activity.
8:04:27 PM
ROBERT SILVERTSEN, MEMBER, CITY COUNCIL, KETCHIKAN (via
teleconference), spoke in support of funding for the Swan
Lake Reservoir Expansion Project. The Swan Lake Project
recently underwent a vigorous public vetting process, when
was selected by Ketchikan and was considered the top
community priority. The City of Ketchikan also passed a
separate formal resolution strongly supporting the
development of the project. He stated that the hydro-power
enhancement project was critical infrastructure that was
vital to the city, economic growth, and prosperity. The
City of Ketchikan currently supplemented hydro-power
production with diesel generation, in order to meet its
annual energy requirements. The cost of diesel generation
was approximately 24 cents per kilowatt hour, but the Swan
Lake project would directly address that cost burden by
alleviating Ketchikan's diesel dependency with providing
important rate stability.
8:06:47 PM
DAN BOCKHORST, MANAGER, KETCHIKAN GATEWAY BOROUGH (via
teleconference), testified in support of $12.3 million for
the Swan Lake Reservoir Expansion Project and related that
it was the Ketchikan Borough's number 1 priority. He stated
that the project was essential to the continuing recovery
of Ketchikan's economy, which had taken a huge blow from
the loss of timber related jobs in the 1990s. He discussed
the lingering impacts of the closure of the Ketchikan pulp
mill and pointed out that the current school enrollment in
Ketchikan was 25 percent below the peak of when the borough
suffered the loss of the mill. He stated that it was
important to Ketchikan that it helped support its own
projects and observed that the Ketchikan Gateway Borough
and the City of Ketchikan had levied and collected more
than $35 million on local taxes annually; additionally they
had incurred more than $190 million in debt. He offered
that Ketchikan residents were willing to make significant
investments in public facilities for schools, hospitals,
utilities, airports, fire stations, libraries, harbors,
recreation facilities, and hydroelectric facilities. He
pointed out that SEAPA had also incurred significant debt
for its public facilities and urged the addition of funding
for the project.
8:09:24 PM
TREY ACTESON, CEO, SOUTHEAST ALASKA POWER AGENCY (SEAPA),
KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), spoke in support of the
funding request for $12.3 million for the Swan Lake
Reservoir Expansion Project. He stated that the existing
reservoir had volatile inflows and that it had spilled
water almost every year since its construction in the early
80s; additionally, spill water over the dam was energy that
was lost forever. He stated that raising the dam would
allow SEAPA to capture the clean renewable energy and use
it to displace expensive diesel generation. He observed
that one of the key findings in the Southeast Integrated
Resource Plan was the lack of energy storage and noted that
the Swan Lake project would address that need by providing
an additional 25 percent in active storage to the
reservoir; the storage increase would be achieved by
raising the crest of the dam by 6 feet. He reported that
the project would effectively raise the overall reservoir
height by 15 feet and that it was an easy choice for his
region because the power house, transmission lines, and
other expensive infrastructure were already in place.
8:12:25 PM
BILL LEIGHTY, BUSINESS OWNER, JUNEAU, spoke against funding
for the Juneau Access Project, and he felt that the money
could be used for projects with greater cost benefit
ratios. He stated that he had been a resident of Juneau for
40 years, and there were three prevailing issues that
Juneau had faced in that time: 1) capital move anxiety; 2)
the myth that a road would make Juneau more anchored; and
3) the distraction that the lack of road caused lack of
economic investment. He felt that the road would enhance
capital move anxiety, because of accessibility.
8:16:46 PM
JAN DAWE, BAKLAP, JUNEAU, testified in support of the
BAKLAP program funding. She echoed the comments of Mr.
Juday and Mr. Lewis. She stated that there were six people
in the Fairbanks Legislative Information Office (LIO) who
were in support of the program. Those individuals would not
be testifying in the current meeting, but they had
submitted letters of support (copies on file). She remarked
that the educational component of BAKLAP was called "K-20",
because the power of the university was used to work with
K-12 schools. She stated that over the last 18 months,
BAKLAP had worked with over 30 teachers in 12 Fairbanks
North Star schools, and over 850 students. During the
summer, BAKLAP offered K-12 teachers continuing education
courses. She stated that the BAKLAP methodology included
integrated curriculum, which included science, technology,
engineering, and math (STEM) and art instruction. She
stressed that the arts provided a gateway to integrated
curriculum.
8:20:49 PM
NANCY SEAMOUNT, TEACHER, JUNEAU, testified in support of
$225,000 for the Community in Schools (CIS) program. She
stated that she had two other people with her who also
would be testifying on the same topic. She announced that
the staff of Juneau Douglas High School overwhelmingly
supported the program. She remarked that the CIS site
coordinator used his flexibility to intervene in school
failure. She stated that the coordinator tracked down the
failing students, and pushed those students to pass their
classes resulting in on-time graduation. She announced that
there was data outlining success rates, but remarked that
there was not time to share that data. She stated that CIS
was the largest and most effective community-based drop-out
prevention program in the country, and used an evidence-
based model. She shared that 99 percent of CIS targeted
students stayed in school.
8:22:55 PM
DOUG BLANC, SITE COORDINATOR, CIS, JUNEAU DOUGLAS HIGH
SCHOOL, JUNEAU testified in support of funding for CIS. He
stated that CIS was important to Juneau schools and Juneau
students. The program had a successful partnership with the
Juneau School District for five years. He stated that CIS
was a drop-out prevention program that operated on a
national model. When the program was fully staffed at each
Juneau high school, each school experienced at least a 10
percent increase in their graduation rate. The CIS staff
had worked in local high schools and middle schools, and
provided academic and non-academic services to hundreds of
students. The CIS program worked with partner organizations
to provide students to tutoring, mentoring, credit
recovery, mental health services, after school programs,
and in-school programs.
8:24:18 PM
BEN CORNELL, SELF, JUNEAU, spoke in support of $220,000 for
CIS. He stated that the funding would help alleviate the
stress of dealing with high school drop-outs in the
judicial system. He remarked that he and his daughter had
observed the individuals in downtown Juneau, who clearly
had a drug problem. He remarked that many young people were
living homeless in downtown Juneau, and felt that a high
school diploma or attention while they were attending
school may have helped these people to stay away from that
lifestyle.
8:26:47 PM
RICHARD DAWENHAUWER, MEMBER, PARISH COUNCIL, ST. NICHOLAS
RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH, JUNEAU, urged the reinstatement of
funding for preservation work for St. Nicholas Russian
Orthodox Church. He stated that the funding had been
removed in the Senate Finance Committee. He understood the
current financial situation in the state, and hoped that
the state would consider adding the project to the budget.
He felt that the funding would demonstrate state support
for preservation of an important historic site in Juneau.
He felt that even a small amount of legislative support
would help the parish raise additional matching funds. He
announced that he had some additional background
information on the project.
8:28:15 PM
SALLY WILSON, SELF, JUNEAU, testified in opposition to the
Juneau Access Project. She felt that the road out of Juneau
would not enhance Juneau's economic climate, and would not
increase the population or visitors to Juneau. She felt
that the consideration of the geological and physical risks
should preclude any consideration of the project. She felt
that the cost benefit ratio was outrageous. She felt that
the funding could be used for more worthy and beneficial
projects to the state.
8:30:27 PM
DEE POND, ALASKA ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICTS, BIG
LAKE (via teleconference), testified in support of the
addition of the Alaska Association of Conservation
Districts' request of $1.2 million into the budget. She
stated that the money would be distributed among the twelve
state soil and water districts across the state. She
announced that some of the districts would cease to
function without the funding. The districts provide work on
stream-bank restoration, wildlife habitat, salmon habitat,
culvert replacement, trails, control of invasive plants,
forest regeneration, and provided technical assistance to
land users in both rural and urban environments.
8:32:56 PM
MELISSA COADY, MEMBER, TALKEETNA COMMUNITY COUNCIL,
TALKEETNA (via teleconference), testified in opposition to
the Susitna Watana Dam. She felt that $5 billion was a poor
investment in Alaska's energy future, and felt that items
that were not included in the Alaska Energy Authority's
request could increase the cost of the dam by several
billion dollars.
8:33:41 PM
JASON MAYRAND, MAYOR, CITY OF NENANA (via teleconference),
He explained that the bridge was currently under
construction, and would connect the road to the Parks
Highway. The project was partially funded with $6.5 million
through a voter approved bond, and it was estimated that
there was an additional $1.5 million to complete the bridge
to provide access to the Nenana gas basin. He remarked that
the bridge would access UAF land, Mental Health Trust land,
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land, and Tanana
Valley State Forest land.
8:35:33 PM
LYNN BATEMAN, DIRECTOR, COFFMAN COVE COMMUNITY LIBRARY,
COFFMAN COVE (via teleconference), testified in support of
funding for the library construction project request. She
stated that the Coffman Cove Community Library was listed
number two on the request list along with Wasilla, Nome,
and Thorn Bay. The total request was $12.7 million, and
each of the communities requesting library funding had
their matching funds in order. All of the libraries had
worked with the Foraker Group, and were shovel-ready. The
Coffman Cove Community Library plan added the library to
the existing post office and existing clinic, which would
utilize the heat pump well source system that already
existed.
8:37:44 PM
CAROLYN BATEMAN, SELF, COFFMAN COVE (via teleconference),
echoed the comments of Ms. Lynn Bateman. She announced that
Coffman Cove's timber industry was lost in 2002, so her
community depended greatly on state and federal funds. She
testified in support of funding for the library
construction project request. She stated that the Coffman
Cove Community Library was listed number two on the request
list along with Wasilla, Nome, and Thorn Bay. The total
request was $12.7 million, and each of the communities
requesting library funding had their matching funds in
order. All of the libraries had worked with the Foraker
Group, and were shovel-ready.
8:39:19 PM
HOWARD MERMELSTEIN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TETLIN VILLAGE
COUNCIL, TETLIN (via teleconference), testified in support
of the Tetlin Road Project. He stated that the project was
in its final phase, and improvements would be made to the
road that improves drainage, and increase safety and
health. The improvements would greatly benefit the
community and travelers. The Tetlin Road serves residents
and is an economic driver as it provided a direct link for
the village's economic development through the mineral
industry. The road was the only access for the community to
receive basic services like mail, health care, and
education.
8:42:46 PM
MOLLY WOOD, MEMBER, CHASE COMMUNITY COUNCIL, CHASE (via
teleconference), spoke against all funding for the Susitna
Dam. She announced that the entire community of Chase was
opposed to the dam. She felt that the project did not
address Alaska's most urgent needs, and put local economies
and salmon fisheries at risk. She urged the use of funds
for other projects that would better meet the energy needs
of Alaska like the Natural Gas Pipeline; funding for the
return of a salmon fishery to the Susitna and upper Cook
Inlet; and energy efficiency projects including those in
rural villages.
8:44:26 PM
EARNEST ARNOLD, SELF, TANACROSS (via teleconference), urged
support of the $400,000 for the new multi-purpose facility
that would provide space for a health clinic and community
center. He stated that the funds would be used to leverage
funds for a matching grant from the Rasmussen Foundation.
8:46:04 PM
RYAN STENCEL, ANCHORAGE SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION
DISTRICT, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in
support of funding of the Sand Lake Elodea project and
continuing services of the Anchorage Soil and Water
Conservation District. The district would not be able to
address the elodea and vegetation overgrowth in Sand Lake
without the requested funding. She stated that the project
already cost the district significant funds to barely deal
with the issue, which inhibited the district's ability to
provided services.
8:47:46 PM
RHONDA PITKA, FIRST CHIEF, BEAVER VILLAGE COUNCIL, BEAVER
(via teleconference), testified in support of funding for
the renovations of the first HUD home. She stressed that
there was a desperate need for housing in Beaver. She
stated that the last HUD home was built in 2008 by the
Interior Regional Housing Authority. The requested funds
would provide enough money to build three houses in Beaver.
She remarked that the Beaver School had low enrollment, so
Beaver was making efforts to attract families to the
village. The current state of Beaver's housing made it
difficult for families to decide to move back to the
village. She announced that the request was listed as the
number one priority for the community of Beaver.
8:49:23 PM
RUTH WOOD, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference) testified
against the Susitna Dam. She stated that the project would
cost more than $5 billion, and would not supply affordable
electricity. She felt that there were other more important
projects that could be funded with the designated money.
She felt that the money that was used to fund projects that
did not seem to make sense was irresponsible.
8:50:53 PM
KELLY SWIHART, CHIEF, POLICE DEPARTMENT, PETERSBURG (via
teleconference), spoke in support of funding for the
renovation of Petersburg's municipal building. He spoke to
the deficiencies of the current municipal building as an
adequate police and jail facility. He reported that the
existing building was constructed in 1958 and had
originally housed the public works maintenance garage; it
had later been renovated into a police station, but the
process had not been completed adequately. He reported that
during the renovation, the foundation had not been properly
tied in to the existing structure and that a second story
was added to the poorly conceived foundation; as a result,
the foundation was sinking in the middle from the weight of
the second floor. He stated that the current jail
facilities did not have adequate visiting room and required
inmates to be moved out of secure areas for showering,
visiting, and to receive medical and other treatment; the
lack of security routinely put the public and employees in
less than safe conditions. He discussed structural problems
with the current municipal building and noted that when
inmates showered, backed up water from the drain ran down
the hallway towards the front door; as a result, employees
and visitors had to walk past the contaminated water that
was traversing a sloped floor to access other parts of the
building.
8:52:47 PM
STEPHAN GIESBRECHT, PETERSBURG BOROUGH, PETERSBURG (via
teleconference), testified in support of $9.7 million,
needed to complete the Police Department Building. The
facility was dated and unsafe. The state jail facility was
supported by the Alaska State Troopers. He noted the need
for additional funding to complete the project.
8:54:29 PM
JANET KUSSART, SELF, JUNEAU, testified in favor of the
Alaska Marine Highway System. spoke in opposition to the
Juneau Access Project. She moved to Juneau with the
understanding that there was no road connecting Juneau the
national highway system. She felt that the ferry system was
service to the public as Southeast Alaska's only "highway."
She felt that the ferry was the safest way to travel,
because there were many avalanche shoots along the proposed
road. She remarked that the road would be built to serve
Kensington Mine, which was a private entity, and took issue
with using public funds to serve a business. She urged the
committee to be used for current road repairs, complete
SLAM, be put toward education, and maintain the current
ferry system. She felt that the road was too dangerous, and
was 90 miles of road to nowhere.
8:56:50 PM
ROB JORDAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA CRAFTSMAN HOME
PROGRAM, JUNEAU, requested $1 million for a hands-on energy
efficiency training project through the Alaska Craftsman
Home Program. He stated that the organization partnered
with representatives from building industry, mortgage
lenders, and housing authorities to provide more than 4000
hours of training per year in 30 communities to helping to
increase energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. The
training provided a value added benefit to programs like
the Home Energy Rebate Program and the Weatherization
Programs. He stressed that energy efficiency was very cost
effective and was a worthy investment for reducing energy
demand and waste.
9:00:11 PM
SHAWN EISELE, SELF, JUNEAU (via teleconference) testified
against the Juneau Access Project. He felt that Juneau was
already accessible. He remarked that the road literally
went nowhere, and disagreed with Mayor Sanford's comments.
He felt that Berners Bay was the epitome of local, wild
recreations areas. He stated that the forests in the area
were the most wild and productive forests in the City and
Borough of Juneau, and were test forests for the United
States Forest Service to monitor what truly wild areas were
like. He felt that the road would destroy the recreation in
that area.
9:02:25 PM
AXEL BURGHEIM, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke
in against funding the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric
Project. He relayed that the coalition was not against
hydro power and was aware of its benefits to the state. He
opined that the scale of the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric
Project was not acceptable and that hydroelectric
facilities were not recognized as renewable at the size of
the Susitna-Watana project. The coalition believed that the
Susitna dam would not solve Alaska's energy problems and
that the state could better spend its money elsewhere. He
stated that the dam would be built in the location where he
harvested his caribou and moose. He pointed out that he
fished the river year round and set-netted at its mouth in
the summers; he thought that it seemed crazy to spend
billions to kill fish when you were spending millions to
try and save them. He concluded that he and his family
relied on the Susitna River for their way of life and that
it was a healthy river that was abundant with Chinook,
Sockeye, and Coho salmon.
9:06:09 PM
SUZI PEARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ABUSED WOMEN'S AID IN
CRISIS (AWAIC), ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), addressed
the $2 million request sponsored by Senator McGuire to
expand the existing facility to meet demands. She explained
that the shelter provided victims of domestic violence with
support since 1977. The agency occupied the same building
for approximately 35 years. She stated that the emergency
shelter was the only one of its kind in a community of 290
thousand people. She stated that the 52 bed shelter
operated at or over-capacity 50 percent of the time last
year. She stated that services were limited due to lack of
space to accommodate additional staff. She mentioned a
separate request by the governor that was specific to
repair and renovation.
9:08:37 PM
VIRGINIA MCCASLIN, PROGRAMS MANAGER, DISABILITY ABUSE
RESPONSE TEAM, AWAIC, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke
in support of an additional $1 million to expand AWAIC. She
announced that working in domestic violence prevention was
very difficult. She shared that she had recently observed a
situation regarding an abused woman who was unable to find
a safe shelter, because of lack of space at AWAIC.
9:10:45 PM
ANNA BRENNINGER, MEMBER, FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY, ANCHORAGE
(via teleconference) testified for the requested $10
million in funding for the Loussac Public Library. She
stated that the Friends of the Library donated
approximately $90,000 per year to put books on the shelves
of the library and sponsor critical library projects like
the Summer Reading Program and the Innovation Laboratory.
She stated that the Anchorage Library Foundation raised
capital money for large projects.
9:13:14 PM
CATHLEEN MCLAUGHLIN, DIRECTOR, PARTNERS FOR PROGRESS RE-
ENTRY CENTER, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference) testified
about the re-entry program. She stated that the center
served 580 individuals leaving incarceration in the seven
months since opening. The center enabled one to two hires
each day leading to collaborations with landlords that were
willing to rent to and employ participants. She stated that
community-based re-entry programs were effective in other
states and Alaska's experiment was successful. She noted
that most prisoners were released in Anchorage so the
program served people statewide.
9:14:51 PM
REGINA MANTEUFEL, CREATOR, BACK TO WORK NETWORK, ANCHORAGE
(via teleconference), spoke in support of the $5 million
for Partners for Progress. She announced that she had
worked with poor people and addicts become productive
members of society.
Vice-Chair Neuman handed the gavel to Co-Chair Austerman.
9:19:45 PM
KYLEE SINGH, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference) testified
against funding for the proposed Susitna Dam. She stated
that the project would cost more than $5 billion, and would
not supply affordable electricity. She felt that there were
other more important projects that could be funded with the
designated money. She felt that the money that was used to
fund projects that did not seem to make sense was
irresponsible.
9:20:45 PM
JIM KACSH, MAYOR, CITY OF CORDOVA, spoke in support of $6.5
million in funding for the Cordova Center. He discussed the
slow recovery of Cordova after the Exxon Valdez oil spill
and pointed out that the loss of herring and crab fisheries
in the area had left families and businesses struggling in
the winter months. She stated that the Cordova Center was
at the core of an economic development plan to include to
winter tourism, conventions, and meetings to Cordova's
economy. He stated that the Cordova Center could bring over
$500,000 in new money every winter to Cordova. He stated
that the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council had
committed $8.3 million to the project and that Cordova was
asking $6.5 million in matching funds. He concluded that
the project would help keep Cordova's residents employed
and businesses open during the long winter months.
9:22:17 PM
ALBERT JUDSON, SELF, JUNEAU, testified against the Juneau
Access Project. He referred to a prepared testimony (copy
on file). He felt that the people of all three communities
had expressed great opposition to the project, and felt
that they had been purposefully excluded from meetings. He
felt that the money should be used to only improve the
ferry system. He felt that the committee did not understand
the environmental impacts of the project.
9:25:38 PM
MARTHA MOORE, VOLUNTEER BOARD MEMBER, ALASKA BRAIN INJURY
NETWORK (ABIN), JUNEAU, testified in support of funding for
ABIN. She stated that ABIN was a small non-profit
organization dedicated to helping brain injured Alaskans
find treatment and services that would improve their lives
and help them return to productivity. She stated that ABIN
was the only organizations of its kind in the state. She
explained that ABIN had helped hundreds of brain injury
survivors. Alaska had one of the highest rates of brain
injuries in the country, and as awareness increases, more
people are screening and identified as having a brain
injury.
9:27:28 PM
PAUL FUHS, SELF, FAIRVIEW, testified in support of
requested $5 million for a three year program for
controlling the chronic inebriates in Anchorage. He
remarked that many of the chronic inebriates began drinking
in the morning, by the afternoon they were vomiting
anywhere they could find, exposing themselves, passing out,
and continuing with the same behavior the next day. He
stated that the Fairview Business Association hired some of
the best social service providers in Anchorage, who agreed
to divert people from prison. He stated that there was
current development of a case-managed coordinated system to
enhance accountability. He stressed that the alcohol tax
should be used to fund substance abuse treatment.
9:31:27 PM
CAROLYN SAYRE, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to Susitna-Watana hydroelectric
project funding. She stated that $30.9 million was
previously allocated for the necessary work. The licensing
study efforts were on hold due to inability to fulfill the
study schedule.
9:32:50 PM
MELISSA MARTIN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke
in support of funding the East High School Track and Field
Stadium. She stated that the current stadium was in great
disrepair. The outdoor field was used by all types of
community groups for various types of activities. She felt
that the spectator stands were in major disrepair, and in
worse shape than most of the local middle schools. She
stated that the property had potential for great revenue.
9:34:45 PM
WILLI PRITTIE, SELF, SUNSHINE (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to funding for the Susitna-Watana
hydroelectric project. He strongly supported investment in
future technologies as opposed to past problems. He wished
to avoid mistakes seen in the Lower 48 related to dam
projects.
9:36:32 PM
LEONARD MENKA, SELF, COPPER RIVER (via teleconference),
discussed historical experience in Alaska related to TAPS,
but lost connection.
9:38:31 PM
JAN WRENTMORE, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified
against funding the Juneau Access Road. She believed that
the state spending was premature without good data
regarding final costs. She mentioned the increased fiscal
note from $260 million to $507 million. She understood that
$180 million had been appropriated to the project. She
expressed confusion about the additional $35 million in
proposed funding. She added that the Juneau Access Road
project was not construction ready.
9:40:20 PM
SHELBY SURDICK, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference), spoke
against the Juneau Access Project. She understood that
there were many financial and transportation issues that
the residents of Skagway are faced with, but did not
approve of the project. She stated that she was a fourth
generation Skagwegian, and understood first-hand the
transportation issues that Skagway faced. She did not think
that the proposed road would solve any transportation
issues.
9:41:53 PM
RACHEL FORD, TAIYA INLET WATERSHED COUNCIL, SKAGWAY (via
teleconference), spoke against the Juneau Access Project.
She felt that the proposal was dangerous and inefficient.
She encouraged the committee to reallocate the $35 million
to less destructive projects. She felt that the ferry/road
concept for travel along the Lynn Canal would be hardly
useable due to avalanches and would scar the currently
undeveloped landscape. She wanted the funds to be used to
improve the ferry system.
9:42:33 PM
DUSTIN CRANEY, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference), spoke
against the Juneau Access Project. He felt that the money
could be used for more important projects that were shovel-
ready. He stressed that the project did not have local
support, because Juneau voted "no" on the project, and
Haines and Skagway strongly opposed the project. He
remarked that the Army Corps of Engineers, DOT, and the EPA
did not agree on the best route for the road. He also
pointed out that the EIS was not complete and there was no
consensus on the cost of the project.
9:43:43 PM
C.E. FURBISH, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference), spoke
against the Juneau Access Project. She felt that the money
should be used for other worthy, uncontroversial, and
community-supported projects. She remarked that the Army
Corps of Engineers, DOT, and the EPA did not agree on the
best route for the road. She also pointed out that the EIS
was not complete and there was no consensus on the cost of
the project.
9:45:28 PM
DEB POTTER, BUSINESS OWNER, SKAGWAY (via teleconference)
testified against funding the Juneau Access Project. She
felt that the project was controversial and a poor use of
money. She encouraged the committee to reallocate the $35
million to less destructive projects. She felt that the
ferry/road concept for travel along the Lynn Canal would be
hardly useable due to avalanches and would scar the
currently undeveloped landscape. She wanted the funds to be
used to improve the ferry system. She also felt that the
money could be used for education.
9:47:11 PM
JEN THUSS, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified
against funding the Juneau Access Road. She believed that
the state spending was premature without good data
regarding final costs. She mentioned the increased fiscal
note from $260 million to $507 million. She understood that
$180 million had been appropriated to the project. She
expressed confusion about the additional $35 million in
proposed funding. She added that the Juneau Access Road
project was not construction ready.
9:48:13 PM
CORY THOLE, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified in
opposition to the $35 million contribution to the Juneau
Access Road. He stated that the cost of the road including
maintenance was excessive. He stated that if the road was
extended, the community would be responsible for the cost
of the emergency response in the event of landslide or
avalanche. He suggested contributing the proposed funding
to education. He urged the committee to disregard the
comments of Mayor Sanford regarding comparing the proposed
road to TAPS.
9:50:45 PM
ISRAEL MAHAY, MAHAY'S RIVER BOAT SERVICE, TALKEETNA (via
teleconference), spoke in against funding the Susitna-
Watana Hydroelectric Project. He relayed that the coalition
was not against hydro power and was aware of its benefits
to the state. He opined that the scale of the Susitna-
Watana Hydroelectric Project was not acceptable and that
hydroelectric facilities were not recognized as renewable
at the size of the Susitna-Watana project. The coalition
believed that the Susitna dam would not solve Alaska's
energy problems and that the state could better spend its
money elsewhere. He stated that the dam would be built in
the location where he harvested his caribou and moose. He
pointed out that he fished the river year round and set-
netted at its mouth in the summers; he thought that it
seemed crazy to spend billions to kill fish when you were
spending millions to try and save them. He concluded that
he and his family relied on the Susitna River for their way
of life and that it was a healthy river that was abundant
with Chinook, Sockeye, and Coho salmon.
9:51:55 PM
ELLEN WOLF, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference), urged the
committee to avoid allocation of funds for the proposed
Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project. She stated that over
6000 Alaskans opposed the dam and provided concerns and
frustrations regarding the projects that were left
unfunded.
9:53:02 PM
JEFF TROTTER, HEAD FOOTBALL COACH, EAST HIGH SCHOOL,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), urged the inclusion of
funding for the East High School field project. He stated
that the current stadium was in great disrepair. The
outdoor field was used by all types of community groups for
various types of activities. He felt that the spectator
stands were in major disrepair, and in worse shape than
most of the local middle schools. He stated that the
property had potential for great revenue.
9:55:24 PM
Mr. Menka added to his previous testimony. He stated that
he had a degree in History, and remarked that there were
many projects that were worthy of state funding.
9:57:37 PM
MARY RASMUSSEN, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference)
testified for the requested $10 million in funding for the
Loussac Public Library. She stated that the Friends of the
Library donated approximately $90,000 per year to put books
on the shelves of the library and sponsor critical library
projects like the Summer Reading Program and the Innovation
Laboratory. She stated that the Anchorage Library
Foundation raised capital money for large projects.
9:59:18 PM
Co-Chair Stoltze queried the status of the bond election.
Ms. Rasmussen replied that the bond vote lost by 14 votes.
9:59:40 PM
KATHERINE ERICKSON, SELF, WASILLA (via teleconference)
testified against the Susitna Dam. She stated that the
project would cost more than $5 billion, and would not
supply affordable electricity. She felt that there were
other more important projects that could be funded with the
designated money. She felt that the money that was used to
fund projects that did not seem to make sense was
irresponsible.
10:00:38 PM
RICH KOCH, CITY MANAGER, KENAI (via teleconference), urged
inclusion of $2.1 million for the construction of an access
road to the south shore of the mouth of the Kenai River,
that would provide access to over 10,000 personal use
fishery participants each year. He stated that the project
was submitted late, so it was not considered by the Senate
Finance Committee.
10:03:37 PM
DEBORAH MOLE, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference)
testified for the requested $10 million in funding for the
Loussac Public Library. She stated that the Friends of the
Library donated approximately $90,000 per year to put books
on the shelves of the library and sponsor critical library
projects like the Summer Reading Program and the Innovation
Laboratory. She stated that the Anchorage Library
Foundation raised capital money for large projects.
10:06:13 PM
KERRY MACLANE, CHAIRMAN, SOUTHEAST SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT, SITKA (via teleconference), urged
the inclusion of $1.2 million for the Statewide Soil and
Water Conservation Program, specifically the Alaska
Association of Conservation Districts (AACD). He stated
that the funds would be used for twelve districts. The AACD
handled payroll and served as a fiscal agent to provide
funding for additional grants. He stated that there were
several partnerships, and there would be a mariculture
training workshop in Kake in the upcoming spring. The
workshop would feature experienced oyster farmers and
scientists who would provide scientific business and
marketing classes.
10:09:03 PM
DAN FAUSKE, BOARD MEMBER, BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COLD CLIMATE
HOUSING RESEARCH CENTER, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for the Cold Climate
Housing Research Center. He stated that the organization
had made immense contributions to develop energy research.
He remarked that one of the biggest impediments for home
ownership in rural Alaska was the cost of energy. He
stressed that the center provided an industry to Alaska.
10:11:19 PM
TARA BICKNELL, SOBOLOFF-MCRAE VETERANS VILLAGE AND WELLNESS
CENTER, HAINES (via teleconference), testified in support
of $500,000 for the Soboloff-McRae Veterans Village and
Wellness Center. She explained that the funding would be
used to build over 10,000 square feet for Alaska veterans
and over 10,000 square feet of service space for the health
care groups that serve the region. She announced that the
funding would almost complete the project. The project
would help to close the housing gap for veterans across the
state. It would also improve health care and create jobs
for the region.
Co-Chair Austerman CLOSED public testimony.
CSSB 119(FIN) was HEARD and HELD in committee for further
consideration.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 119 HFIN Public Testimony PKT #1.pdf |
HFIN 4/14/2014 5:30:00 PM |
SB 119 |