Legislature(2013 - 2014)SENATE FINANCE 532
04/05/2014 12:00 PM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB119 | |
| Public Testimony: Fairbanks, Mat-su | |
| Public Testimony: Anchorage | |
| Public Testimony: Glennallen, Seward, Homer | |
| Public Testimony: Juneau | |
| Public Testimony: Statewide Teleconference Offnet Sites | |
| Public Testimony: Skagway | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 119 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
SENATE BILL NO. 119
"An Act making appropriations, including capital
appropriations and other appropriations; making
appropriations to capitalize funds."
12:08:31 PM
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: FAIRBANKS, MAT-SU
12:09:31 PM
GLENN JUDAY, PROFESSOR, SCHOOL OF NATURAL RESOURCES,
UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), testified in support of the $700,000 to
complete the Boil Alaska Learning, Adaptation, and
Production (BAKLAP) project. He was the director of the
program, and he explained that BAKLAP was launched in the
2012 capital budget to the Department of Revenue (DOR),
through a reimbursable services agreement. The program was
intended to carry out sustained yield force management and
do innovative work in education through hands-on learning.
He remarked that there were new wood-energy facilities
under construction, with the support of the renewable
energy loan program. He stressed that there was a new
demand for enforced production in Alaska. There was a
building that formerly housed 14 federal forestry
scientists and 10 research professionals, but those
positions had been eliminated. He pointed out that the
School of Natural Resources had been reduced from 9
professors to 4 professors.
12:11:53 PM
PETE LEWIS, SUPERINTENDENT, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH
SCHOOL DISTRICT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified
in support of funding for phase 4 of the Barnette Magnet
School project, and the completion of the BAKLAP project.
He explained that phase 4 was part of an $11.2 million
project that would replace a 50-year-old building. He
stated that phase 4 would deal with severe seismic and
structural deficiencies in the school. He announced that
the funds could come from the capital budget or through
funding of the Department of Education and Early
Development (DEED) recommendations. He stressed the
importance of completion of the project. The project began
in 2006, and would provide a solid structure in a safe
learning environment for 50 years. He also echoed Mr.
Juday's comments regarding the importance of funding the
BAKLAP project.
12:14:06 PM
JAN DAWE, RESEARCH ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, SCHOOL OF NATURAL
RESOURCES, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), 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.
12:16:51 PM
PAUL GILL, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the
engineering buildings at the University of Alaska Anchorage
(UAA) and the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF). He
stated that he was a graduate student in the Electrical
Engineering Program at UAF. His research interest was power
for the remote villages in Alaska. There was currently a
shortage of power engineers, because the workforce was
aging. Some of the lab equipment in the current UAF
building dated back 1903, but technology was continually
evolving, which required new lab equipment. He expressed
gratitude for the actual lab equipment at UAF, rather than
relying entirely on computer simulations. The number of
buildings must increase, to fit the new lab equipment.
12:18:09 PM
MICHELLE SIMON, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding
for the new engineering buildings at UAA and UAF. She
stated that she was currently studying for her Masters in
Electrical Engineering. She stressed that there were too
many engineering students, but not enough room for them to
learn.
12:18:47 PM
BRYAN CLEMENZ, CHAIR, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND MINING ADVISORY AND DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in
support of funding for the completion of the engineering
buildings at UAA and UAF. Economic diversity was an
important component in Alaska, and he felt that the
students who graduate from engineering programs in Alaska
would remain in Alaska after graduation. He felt that the
engineering students came from prominent families, so they
would be innovative in diversifying Alaska. He felt that
there was space in the market to hire and employ engineers,
because there were many companies in the industry that were
hiring engineers from outside of Alaska. He stressed that
there were not enough educational facilities for the number
of engineers.
12:21:11 PM
KAREN JENSEN, PRESIDENT, ALASKA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of
funding for the public library construction grants. She
announced that the libraries that had received the grants
were very appreciative, and would not have been able to
complete their projects without those grants. She remarked
that the communities were able to provide quality service.
She stated that the libraries that were applying for the
grants had carefully planned for the expansions; garnered
local support and matching funds; and were ready to proceed
with the construction projects. The applications were
reviewed and ranked by the Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development (DCCED) and were
carefully vetted within the library community. She also
spoke in support of funding the Statewide Library and
Archives Museum (SLAM).
12:23:22 PM
ROGER BURGGRAF, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference)
testified in support of funding for the new engineering
buildings at UAA and UAF. He also spoke in support of the
new power plant at UAF. He stated that he had a close
relationship with UAA since 1959. He remarked that he had
seen many changes over the years, and was privileged to
work with the UAA students. He felt that the UAA graduates
had a positive impact on Alaska and the nation. He remarked
that ConocoPhilips had recently presented a need for
another forty years of engineers from UA to work on the
North Slope, therefore justifying the investment in the new
engineering buildings.
12:25:35 PM
TABER REHBAUM, CEO, BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF ALASKA,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding
the Big Brothers Big Sisters request for the Mentoring for
Educational Success Initiative. She understood that the
state had limited resources, so the completion of projects
was a priority. She hoped that the committee would consider
the program as one that must be seen through completion.
She stressed that the program was a powerful partnership
between Big Brother Big Sisters, and five school districts
across the state to target children who were at the highest
academic risk. She remarked that the project was
successful, but the request would expand the initiative to
collect data to make the project sustainable.
12:26:56 PM
ALAN HOZA, SELF, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified
in support of funding for the Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Math (STEM) program request number 62349.
He stated that the STEM programs helped to encourage young
people to strive for success in all endeavors. The STEM
program directed students to become high contributors in
society. He noted that the First Robotics Program within
the STEM program had a positive impact on the participants.
His son was a senior in mechanical engineering due his
involvement with the First Robotics Program. He knew of a
dozen other young men and women from Fairbanks who were
currently studying engineering after participating in the
First Robotics Program. He felt that the STEM programs were
strategic in their focus toward skills such as critical
thinking, communication, positive community interaction,
team work, and problem solving. He remarked that the
validity of the STEM programs were confirmed by the
corporate sponsorship, which proved the programs provided
the needs of employers.
12:29:39 PM
DAVE PELUNIS-MESSIER, WORLD ENERGY COORDINATOR, TANANA
CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in
support of funding for Village Energy Efficiency Program
(VEEP), which was administered by the Alaska Energy
Authority (AEA). He explained that VEEP was previously
funded through the Alternative Energy and Energy Efficiency
line item in the capital budget. In FY 13, VEEP received
$4.8 million; in FY 14 it received $2 million; and in FY 15
it was not included in the governor's budget. The VEEP
program funded energy efficiency projects in Alaskan
communities with populations of 8,000 or less. The average
state contribution per community was $100,000 to $200,000,
but the long-term benefits were far greater for the
community and the state. Between 2010 and 2012, eight
interior communities in his region received $324,000 worth
of funding to implement efficiency measures. The AEA
reports on those eight projects showed a ten-year savings
was over $1.8 million.
12:31:42 PM
STAN LEAPHART, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CITIZENS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON FEDERAL AREAS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in favor of funding for the Citizen Advisory
Committee on Federal Areas. He stated that the commission
had recently embarked on a federal over reach summit in
Anchorage. He announced that the Alaska congressional
delegation and governor participated in the federal over
reach summit in Anchorage. He stated that the commission
developed a series of recommendations that were included in
the annual report that was submitted to the governor, which
was the first step in the federal over reach effort. In
order to implement those recommendations, the work must
continue.
12:33:42 PM
BRENDA STANFILL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERIOR ALASKA CENTER
FOR NON-VIOLENT LIVING, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference),
testified in support of funding for domestic violence and
sexual assault safe shelters. She specifically spoke to the
$2 million from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to
assist domestic violence victims on where they can access
quickly through the voucher program. She also spoke to the
$1 million for the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to
repair and maintain domestic violence shelters. She stated
that her agency locally provided emergency shelters and
independent housing options for victims of domestic
violence. Her agency also had two permanent supportive
housing complexes and transition housing. She stressed that
the ability to house these people was crucial to the
survival of the victims and their families. She stated that
the operating support was provided through DPS, but it was
often only enough to operate, and not enough to adequately
maintain the buildings that were required in order to
provide services. She stated that the Rasmussen Foundation
had offered to match the $1 million in the current budget,
and she pointed out that the Rasmussen Foundation would
match for another $1 million. She pointed out that she had
heard horrible stories from other shelter and agency
directors from across the state, like mold, failing heating
systems, sewer problems, and large enough floor holes that
a person could fall through them.
12:37:00 PM
PEGGY BURNS, SALCHA FAIR ASSOCIATION, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for a ball
field and playground at the Salcha Fair which the City and
Borough of Fairbanks had maintained for nearly 33 years.
She remarked that the borough had to make some budget cuts,
so the borough stopped maintaining the fairgrounds. She
remarked that the grass on the fairgrounds was too thick
for a lawn mower. She felt that the fairgrounds maintenance
was important for the community.
Co-Chair Meyer noted that Representative Isaacson was
present in the meeting.
12:38:34 PM
LUKE HOPKINS, MAYOR, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH,
FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of various
economic development projects. He specifically spoke to
$11.2 million for phase 4 for the Barnett 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.
12:41:18 PM
CHUCK KAUCIC, DISTRICT MANAGER, WASILLA SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT, MAT-SU (via teleconference), spoke
in support of the all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and off-road
vehicle (ORV) Stream Crossing Project. That project's
purpose was to assess, record, and rank salmon stream ATV
crossing in the watersheds. He stated that the
characteristics would evolve from physical, natural
resources, and user characteristics. He felt that
prioritizing 300 projects was vital to obtaining
construction grants. He stated that there were various
agencies that were involved in the project. He also urged
support for the Alaska Association for Conservation
District (AACD) funding. The AACD's mission was to support
and operate the 12 consummation districts across Alaska. He
stated that AACD was involved with many different agencies.
He urged support of the $3 billion cash infusion to the
Public Employees Retirement System.
12:44:10 PM
KJ MARTIN-ALBRIGHT, DIRECTOR, WASILLA LIBRARY, WASILLA (via
teleconference), testified in support $12.2 million for
matching construction funds for public library building
projects for Wasilla, Coffman Cove, Nome, and Swan Bay.
Since 2012, the legislative leadership approved over $52
million in 50 percent matching construction funds for 14
public library projects across the state. She remarked that
none of those projects returned to the legislature to ask
for additional funding, and nine were completed. She
announced that Wasilla had worked on a new library for
almost 20 years. The library building project had
participated in the Foracre Predevelopment Program which
showed a documented need, and examined opportunities for
collaboration.
12:45:53 PM
DOUG GRIFFIN, CITY MANAGER, CITY OF PALMER (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for
various projects. He specifically voiced support for the
capital projects that were submitted by the City of Palmer.
He urged funding for the Veterans Pioneer Home, the Palmer
Correctional Center, and the Palmer Courthouse. He
encouraged funding for the Glenn Highway, the rail
extension to Point Mackenzie, and the Knik Arm and Trust
Authority (KABATA). He urged support of funding for roads
and sidewalk improvements in Palmer.
12:48:29 PM
ROGER PURCELL, HOUSTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, HOUSTON (via
teleconference), testified in support of fully funding the
rail extension from Houston to Port Mackenzie. He felt that
the rail extension would have a positive economic impact on
the entire state. He urged support of $75,000 to get the
salmon back to the rivers in the Mat-Su. He stated that the
funds would finish moisture incubation on the Little
Susitna River. The first year would bring 500,000 Coho
salmon into the river, and try for King salmon the
following year. He urged support of funding requests that
were submitted by the City of Houston. He remarked that
there roads that needed to be replaced and bus routes that
required upgrades. He felt that Houston had been
historically neglected in the capital budget, but he felt
that the requests were very small for the amount of people
that use the bus routes. He also encouraged full funding
for KABATA. He urged funding for the Senior Center in
Talkeetna building. He felt that the project would not
require additional funding from the state. He also urged
funding for the Valley Performing Arts Theatre.
12:51:36 PM
ELIZABETH RIPLEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MAT-SU HEALTH
FOUNDATION, WASILLA (via teleconference), testified in
support of four projects: 1) $250,000 for the pre-
development program; 2) $500,000 for a Recover Alaska
project to pilot a one-stop shop to access substance abuse
services; 3) $4 million for the Early Learning Projects;
and 4) $8.2 million for the Wasilla Public Library. She
remarked that the library and early learning projects were
administered by the Foracre Group, and ensured that capital
projects were well-planned, right-sized, and sustainable.
She announced that the Mat-Su Health Foundation had
invested over $500,000 in the Early Learning Project. If
the $4 million was not available, she encouraged a $1
million appropriation for FY 15 to enable site prepping and
utility completion.
12:53:25 PM
MOLLY WOOD, BOARD MEMBER, CHASE COMMUNITY COUNCIL, MAT-SU
(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.
12:55:09 PM
BETH FREAD, SELF, MAT-SU (via teleconference) testified in
support of funding for KABATA and the rail extension to
Port Mackenzie. She also voiced support of $3 billion for
PERS. She expressed concern regarding the airports in the
Mat-Su Borough. She felt that the airports had been
ignored, and defunded. She stressed that the deferred
maintenance was costly and dangerous. She urged the
scheduling of maintenance for the Mat-Su airports.
12:56:49 PM
SAM BRICE, PRESIDENT, BRICE INC., FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), spoke in support of additional funding for
the Emmonak Port Project. He stated that his company worked
on many road projects in Emmonak and was well aware of the
acute need for the port improvement project. The project
was shovel-ready with design and permitting work completed.
He noted that Emmonak was one of the largest communities on
the Lower Yukon River and served as a hub for marine and
aviation transport.
12:58:41 PM
BARBARA JOHNSON, MAYOR'S OFFICE, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), testified on behalf the Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development's funding
increment for economic development of $400 thousand. She
discussed projects benefitting the Fairbanks North Star
Borough. She mentioned the statewide business strategy for
unmanned aircraft systems initiated by the Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development.
1:00:42 PM
LARRY DEVILBISS, MAT-SU BOROUGH MAYOR, PALMER (via
teleconference), testified in support of transportation
items including the rail extension to Port Mackenzie and
the KNIK Arm Bridge crossing. He pointed out road bonds
passed last fall conditioned on the 50 percent state match.
He added support for a road request for $6 million and the
completion of the road extension to Palmer.
1:02:07 PM
GALE VICK, BOARD MEMBER, KING CRAB PROJECT, FAIRBANKS (via
teleconference), testified in support of funding for the
king crab project to continue research on red and blue king
crab for the purposes of developing healthy crab stock for
establishment of dietary and habitat needs. She recalled a
time of importance for the king crab industry in the state
that crashed with stocks in the 1980s. She mentioned the
Alaska King Crab Research Rehabilitation and Biology
(AKCRRAB) program, which she served as a member of.
1:04:16 PM
JOE GRIFFITH, MATANUSKA ELECTRIC, PALMER (via
teleconference), testified in favor of an Alaska Railbelt
Cooperative Transmission and Energy Company's (ARCTEC)
request of $37.5 million for the Battle Creek Diversion. He
noted that ARCTEC's accomplishments including reliability
standards and open access. He spoke in favor of continuing
the Battle Creek Diversion, which required an infusion of
state funds. He advocated for transmission system repairs.
He noted that the projects would provide economic
development and were shovel-ready.
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: ANCHORAGE
1:06:15 PM
JEWEL JONES, ANCHORAGE COMMUNITY LAND TRUST, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in favor of a request from the
Anchorage Community Land Trust. She discussed the
challenges faced by the community of Mountain View. She
requested the additional grant to continue efforts with the
removal of a blighted property and redevelopment and
reinvestment in the community.
1:08:11 PM
LANCE WILBER, MUNICIPALITY OF ANCHORAGE, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), spoke in favor of a matching program
championed by the Alaska Mobility Coalition benefiting
Anchorage and other rural communities. He stated that the
funds would be used to match those obtained from the
federal program. The funds had been used to purchase busses
and upgrade technology. He also spoke in support of funding
for the Midtown transit center. He stated that Anchorage
transit hub was located in downtown, but increasing
development included a plan to relocate the hub.
1:09:59 PM
LOIS EPSTEIN, CIVIL ENGINEER, THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), discussed a report about
studies that were currently incomplete including the study
of the costs associated with SB 138. She stated that Alaska
spent millions of dollars on roads, bridges and energy
development studies without the financial resources to
complete the projects. She noted that her submitted report
detailed that state debt service would quadruple if all
three megaprojects were pursued. She urged the legislature
not to fund the proposed Ambler Road at $8.5 million, the
proposed Knik Arm Bridge at $55 million and the proposed
Juneau Access Road at $35 million.
1:14:10 PM
SUZI PEARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ABUSED WOMEN'S AID IN
CRISIS, 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.
1:17:49 PM
REBECCA PIERSCH, ABUSED WOMEN'S AID IN CRISIS, ANCHORAGE
(via teleconference), testified in favor of the proposed
funding of $2 million for the Anchorage women's aid center
that operated over-capacity. She stated that the shelter
was the only emergency facility offering specialized
services for domestic violence victims and their families.
She noted that women were often asked to sleep three to a
bed with their children to accommodate the constant demand
for safety of incoming families.
1:20:32 PM
STEVE SUMIDA, TANADGUSIX CORPORATION (TDX), ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in support of a $10 million
renovation request for the Loussac Public Library. He spoke
on behalf of the Tanadgusix Corporation and Loussac Public
Library support to rural villages. He stated that the
community of St. Paul was a beneficiary of the support. He
mentioned bins provided for parents of young children
allowing them to read to their children in many different
formats. He mentioned the critical service of library
start-up books.
1:22:41 PM
CHERYL LOVEGREEN, ANCHORAGE PUBLIC LIBRARY, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding for a new
Anchorage Public Library entrance. She stated that the new
entrance would address the immediate building safety,
energy efficiency and accessibility issues. The project
would transform the building by extending it. She mentioned
confusion with the bond and its inclusion of other
projects. She stated that the library had community
support.
1:24:10 PM
MAINON SCHWARTZ, ANCHORAGE PUBLIC LIBRARY, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding request of
$10 million for a new entrance to the Loussac Public
Library. She reflected on the use of the building and
resources by members of the community. She noted that 72
thousand residents participated in programs at the library
representing a double-digit increase from 2012.
1:26:11 PM
SHELLY MORGAN, SUSITNA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding requests for
furniture and fixture replacement at her son's elementary
school. She stated that tables in her son's classroom were
rickety and broken furniture would present an avoidably
dangerous situation. She mentioned the need for adequate
storage for personal materials and belongings.
1:28:55 PM
JACOB, OLSEN, SUSITNA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference) advocated for the Susitna Elementary School
and the replacement of storage and furniture needs for the
school. He noted that the replacement of the furniture and
storage areas would help to prepare students for their
future. He added support for funding for the Science
Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program.
1:32:00 PM
KIM BAUTISTA, PRINCIPAL, SUSITNA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL,
ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in favor of
funding to replace antiquated furniture and fixtures in the
school. She appreciated the support and visits from Vice-
Chair Fairclough. She advocated for additional training for
teachers in the STEM program.
1:33:29 PM
PETE STOKES, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference) testified as the chair of the University of
Alaska Fairbanks College of Engineering and Mines Advisory
and Development Council. He requested the funding required
to complete construction of the engineering buildings at
both UAA and UAF campuses. Total funding required was $79
million.
1:36:09 PM
GLORIA MANNI, SELF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference)
testified in favor of funding for the Anchorage Public
Library. She added support for funding for the ice arena in
Anchorage.
1:38:02 PM
BRIAN SAYLOR, ANCHORAGE LUNG ASSOCIATION, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference) testified as a member of the Alaska Asthma
Association. He advocated for the continuation of the
asthma control program for one additional year. The federal
funds were cut and the state funding was stretched over a
two-year period. The baseline plan would reduce Medicaid
costs in Alaska.
1:40:44 PM
TRINA LANDLORD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA NATIVE ARTS
FOUNDATION, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in
favor of moving non-profit grants from the operating to the
capital budget. The change would allow non-profits to
reposition their role in economic development by assisting
Alaska native artists in many sectors, including education,
tourism, economic development and rural Alaska
sustainability.
1:42:07 PM
DON ROGERS, PARTNERS RE-ENTRY CENTER, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), discussed the re-entry center and the goal
of reducing both recidivism and the budget for the
Department of Corrections. He hoped to save the department
$3 million, with the experimental re-entry project. He
believed that several years would provide a successful test
period. He requested the reappropriation of $600 thousand.
1:43:34 PM
CATHLEEN MCLAUGHLIN, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, PARTNERS 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.
1:45:12 PM
ANNA BREUNINGER, FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference) testified for the requested $10 million in
funding for the Loussac Public Library.
1:47:28 PM
JANICE JONES, PARTNERS RE-ENTRY CENTER, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), discussed the benefits of the re-entry
program. She endorsed the $600 thousand state contribution.
1:48:34 PM
CATHY GLEASON, TURNAGAIN COMMUNITY COUNCIL, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), testified in favor of roads and drainage
projects existing in the CAPSIS request for the Turnagain
community. She noted that Turnagain Blvd was cursed with
drainage issues that required attention.
1:51:42 PM
MIKE ABBOTT, ANCHORAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT, ANCHORAGE (via
teleconference), thanked the committee for many years of
generous support for Anchorage School District capital
projects. He spoke in favor of a consolidated grant between
the municipality and the Anchorage School District for $12
million for the Yosemite Road improvements and drainage
reconstruction.
1:53:34 PM
MARTIN LANG, ANCHORAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT, PRINCIPLE, EAGLE
RIVER (via teleconference), testified in favor of funding
for the Anchorage Yosemite Drive drainage and road
reconstruction project. He stated that the project affected
his school directly. The design work for the project was
funded and in process and the capital grant money would
allow construction to move forward. The completion of the
project would provide a roadway more appropriate to the
volume of vehicle and pedestrian traffic experienced on
Yosemite Drive each day.
1:55:48 PM
BRENDA BOGOWITH, SELF, EAGLE RIVER (via teleconference)
testified in favor of $200 thousand in funding for
technology enhancements to improve outreach education and
preventative efforts statewide.
1:58:26 PM
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: GLENNALLEN, SEWARD, HOMER
1:58:55 PM
RON LONG, SELF, CITY OF SEWARD (via teleconference)
testified in favor of funding for the Seward Marine
Industrial Breakwater project. He noted that the city had
achieved permitting and design with the money provided in
the past. He mentioned cost-cutting measures employed by
the city leading to a decreased request of $5.9 million to
move the regional and statewide project forward.
2:00:24 PM
DIANE CONVERSE, PRATT MUSEUM, HOMER (via teleconference),
testified in favor of the funding for the Pratt Museum. The
museum held historic works of art that required better
storage and improved access. The new building would add
classroom space, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
accessibility and energy efficiency. Design was complete
and ready for the next step.
2:01:47 PM
RYJIL CHRISTIANSEN, PRATT MUSEUM, HOMER (via
teleconference), testified in support of a new building for
the Pratt Museum, which was in desperate need of
replacement. She stated that state funding would ensure
additional matching money from multiple sources.
2:02:52 PM
TERRY THOMPSON, SOUTH PENINSULA HAVEN HOUSE, HOMER (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding for $1
million toward the facility needs for shelters statewide.
He explained that Haven House empowered people impacted by
domestic violence and sexual assault. The Rasmuson
Foundation pledged to match state dollars up to $2 million.
He requested an additional $1 million in capital funding to
allow the advantage of the foundation's pledge.
2:04:49 PM
PHILIP ALDERFER, PRATT MUSEUM, HOMER (via teleconference),
testified in favor of funding for the Pratt Museum. He
stated the museum facility had reached the end of its
useful life. He pointed out that state funding would
release additional foundation funding from other donors to
help move the project forward.
2:06:43 PM
HAL SHEPHERD, CENTER OF WATER ADVOCACY, HOMER (via
teleconference), testified in opposition to funding for
Susitna Dam Hydropower project. He opposed funding for the
Road to Ambler, which would cut through a pristine
watershed. He pointed out that much funding had been spent
on roads in the Arctic that had not yet been built.
2:09:05 PM
^ PUBLIC TESTIMONY: JUNEAU
2:09:37 PM
JOMO STEWART, FAIRBANKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
(FEDC), discussed investments made in the capital budget
process. He endorsed the UAF combined heat and power plant
along with funding for completion of the engineering
buildings on Anchorage and Fairbanks campuses.
2:12:03 PM
HEATHER MCCARTY, CENTRAL BERING SEA FISHERMAN'S
ASSOCIATION, JUNEAU, testified in favor of the $500
thousand funding request for the Alutiiq Pride shellfish
hatchery in Seward. She stated that she served as co-chair
of the steering committee of AKCRRAB and the fisheries
analyst for the city and borough of Kodiak.
2:14:34 PM
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: STATEWIDE TELECONFERENCE OFFNET SITES
2:14:59 PM
PATRICIA PHILLIPS, MAYOR OF PELICAN, PELICAN (via
teleconference), requested funding for two projects
requested by the city of Pelican. The first project
required $300 thousand for the city's ice machine upgrades
and the second request of $300 thousand to renovate the
Pelican Health Clinic.
2:16:33 PM
DR. ALEX HILLS, CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY, PALMER (via
teleconference), testified in favor of funding for UAA and
UAF. He spoke in favor of funding for the completion of the
engineering buildings in Anchorage and Fairbanks. He stated
that other states placed a high value on engineering
education as a key to economic development.
2:18:05 PM
JEFF STEPHAN, UNITED FISHERMEN'S MARKETING ASSOCIATION,
KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in favor of the $500
thousand request for the Chugiak Regional Resource
Commission. The purpose of the grant was to continue with
the red and blue king crab enhancement. The king crab
levels were at low levels and showed very little evidence
of recovery.
2:20:48 PM
KAREN PETERSEN, FRIENDS OF THORNE BAY LIBRARY, THORNE BAY
(via teleconference), testified in favor of funding for
public library projects. She stated support for the $12.2
million request in the capital budget for construction
funds for public library projects in the communities of
Wasilla, Coffman Cove, Nome and Thorne Bay.
2:23:10 PM
KATYA KIRSCH, SELF, HAINES (via teleconference) testified
in support of funding for education libraries and road
maintenance. She advocated against spending for the Juneau
Access Road project. She believed that the road would be
unsafe with greater than 35 avalanche zones.
2:24:59 PM
NORMAN ECK, NW ARCTIC BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT, KOTZEBUE
(via teleconference), testified in favor of a Northwest
magnet school in Kotzebue that would serve students in
grades 11-14. The request was for an additional $8 million
to complete the construction of the residential dormitory.
The request would allow for completion of the project.
2:27:33 PM
BECKY LONG, SELF, BALD MOUNTAIN (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.
2:28:55 PM
DAVE HERBERT, SUPERINTENDENT, ST. MARY'S SCHOOL, ST. MARY'S
(via teleconference), requested funding for the Department
of Education and Early Development's number one
construction project. He discussed the grant application
process fulfilled by his district allowing St. Mary's the
number one ranked project for new school construction.
2:31:59 PM
CRAIG COTTREL, CITY ADMINISTRATOR, HOONAH (via
teleconference), testified in support of the completion of
projects in Hoonah including a water line project and an
[indecipherable] park project in phase three.
2:33:40 PM
WILL 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.
2:34:39 PM
DOUG SMITH, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference) testified
in opposition to the Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project.
He believed that the project was mismanaged and the river
supported thousands of jobs. He stated that 80 percent of
Alaska's energy use was for heating. He advocated for
saving the proposed funding for another purpose.
2:35:32 PM
CONRAD DOUGLAS, AMBLER, CITY OF AMBLER (via
teleconference), testified in support of $1 million funding
for the water main in Ambler. The water main in Ambler was
eroded and exposed requiring repairs. If the water main
washed out, the community would suffer without water. The
project would protect the water main that would certainly
be destroyed by the river in the next few years.
2:37:40 PM
PEG FOSTER, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference) testified
in opposition to funding the Susitna-Watana hydroelectric
project.
2:38:12 PM
BRIAN OKONEK, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to the Susitna-Watana hydroelectric
project. He quoted an international study representing a
sample of 245 dams worldwide. He stated that 2 out of every
10 large dams cost double the estimated cost, while 1 out
of every 10 cost triple the estimated cost.
2:40:35 PM
ROBERT GERLACK, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to funding for the Susitna-Watana
hydroelectric project. He expressed support for an instate
gasline.
2:41:11 PM
SHERYL SALASKY, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to funding for the proposed
Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project. She encouraged
spending on future energy sources.
2:42:57 PM
JOHN STRASENBURGH, SELF, TALKEETNA (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to the funding for the proposed
Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project. He pointed out the
lack of reasonable and reliable cost estimates.
2:44:35 PM
DAN BLAIR, MAYOR, WHITTIER (via teleconference), testified
in favor of two projects for Whittier including $2 million
for the Shotgun Cove Road project and a $2 million match
for the Whittier Harbor matching grant program. The city
was committed to the community's responsible growth. He
stated that Whittier was the primary gateway to Prince
William Sound and accommodated approximately 200 thousand
visitors each summer.
2:46:51 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.
2:48:03 PM
MELIS CODDY, TALKEENTNA COMMUNITY COUNCIL, TALKEETNA (via
teleconference), testified in opposition to funding for the
Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project. She believed that the
proposed $5 billion was a poor investment in Alaska's
energy future. She pointed out that the final cost could
include an additional several billion dollars.
2:48:54 PM
KEN RAY, SELF, WASILLA (via teleconference) testified about
transportation issues in the valley. He suggested
parameters of performance on funding allocated for the
Wasilla bypass. He opined that state projects sometimes
languished. He suggested that the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities mismanaged projects
and property assets might be used in a land bank to help
seed the transportation fund.
2:51:39 PM
^PUBLIC TESTIMONY: SKAGWAY
2:51:58 PM
JAN WRENTMORE, SKAGWAY MARINE ACCESS, 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.
2:54:08 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.
2:56:15 PM
ELIZABETH LAVOIE, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference)
testified against the Juneau Access Road. She mentioned
many reasons for her opposition including safety,
maintenance, and the benefit of a select few in light of
great community opposition.
2:57:01 PM
KEN RUSSO, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified in
opposition to the $35 million request for the Juneau Access
Road. He stressed that the project did not meet the public
needs or make environmental or economic sense. He mentioned
other state projects in need of funding.
2:58:25 PM
DEBORAH POTTER, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding
of $35 million.
2:59:26 PM
TAMAR HARRISON, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding
of $35 million.
2:59:43 PM
SAM PALMERSON, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified
in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding of $35
million.
3:00:07 PM
JAMES NOLAN, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference) testified
in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding of $35
million.
3:01:52 PM
JENNIFER THUSS SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference),
testified in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding
of $35 million.
3:02:30 PM
DR. BRUCE WEBER, SELF, SKAGWAY (via teleconference)
testified in opposition to the Juneau Access Road funding
of $35 million. He wished for more information about
potential maintenance and construction costs.
Co-Chair Meyer appreciated the committee members and
testifiers alike.
3:04:44 PM
Co-Chair Meyer stated that the comments would be compiled
into a CS ready by Monday morning or afternoon.
3:05:45 PM