Legislature(2005 - 2006)SENATE FINANCE 532
05/03/2005 09:00 AM FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB46 | |
| HB187 | |
| SB102 | |
| SB22 | |
| SB192 | |
| HB178 | |
| SB125 | |
| SB46 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| + | HB 187 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 46 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 102 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SB 192 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | SB 22 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | SB 78 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | SB 125 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| = | HB 178 | ||
SENATE BILL NO. 46
"An Act making capital appropriations and appropriations to
capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date."
This bill had previously been heard in the Senate Finance
Committee.
9:16:44 AM
Co-Chair Green noted that a revised work draft, Version 24-GS1074\Y
was before the Committee for consideration. Version "Y" contains a
few changes as a result of the Committee discussion on the previous
work draft, Version 24-GS1074\G. Ms. Blaisdell, Co-Chair Green's
capital budget aide, would explain the changes to the Committee.
Amendments to Version "Y" would be addressed when the Committee
reconvened at approximately 4:00 P.M. this afternoon. To that
point, she asked that Committee Members provide amendments by 3:00
P.M.
GINGER BLAISDELL, Staff to Senator Green, verified that the Version
"Y" work draft had been distributed.
Co-Chair Wilken moved to adopt committee substitute Version "Y" as
the working document.
Co-Chair Green objected for explanation.
Ms. Blaisdell explained the changes contained in Version "Y". Pages
one through 74 include the individual agency requests for projects
that would be typically included in a Capital Budget. Governor
Frank Murkowski originally submitted the majority of those
requests. She pointed out that a large component of the bill is
dedicated to named recipients grants and grants to communities. The
majority of those are requests of Legislators. Some of those
requests might be separately included under specific Departments
such as the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.
Ms. Blaisdell characterized pages 75 through 90 as being "the
contingent section" of the bill that would finance SB 155 education
projects. That section would be unfunded were SB 155 adopted;
however, were SB 155 to fail, its education projects would be
funded from the general fund.
Ms. Blaisdell stated that approximately $60,000,000 of Amerada Hess
interest earnings would be appropriated to the projects identified
in Sec. 6 on page 91. There is also an additional section
pertaining to the Capital Income Account. However, she noted that
that Account must be established prior to enacting the language
included in Sec. 6.
Co-Chair Green noted that the Capital Income Account, which is
addressed in SB 187, would be heard during today's Committee
meeting.
Ms. Blaisdell continued that Sec. 7 on page 91 would provide the
authorization for Legislative Budget & Audit and other general
provisions that are typically included in Capital Appropriation
Budgets.
9:20:21 AM
Ms. Blaisdell stated that language in Sec. 13 pages 93 through 106
would address the supplemental appropriations that were originally
presented in SB 97.
9:20:54 AM
Ms. Blaisdell identified that language in Sec. 13 differs from that
of the previous version of the bill. Sections 13(f) and 13(g) on
page 93 would provide two appropriations to the Division of
Retirement and Benefits, Department of Administration, for work
relating to SB 141.
9:21:27 AM
Ms. Blaisdell informed the Committee that due to a drafting error,
a correction must be made in Sec. 20, page 96, lines 17 and 18. The
language reading "the sum of $34,563,300 is appropriated from the
general fund to the Alaska Debt Retirement Fund" should be deleted
from the bill.
Ms. Blaisdell noted that language referring to the Alaska Gas
Pipeline appropriations is located on page 21 of the bill. That
language would mirror the language contained in the previous work
draft.
Ms. Blaisdell noted that language in Sec. 35, subsection (d), page
106, lines 12 through 14, pertaining to the Expenditures by the
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development for the
ratification of the Qualified Trade Association contract, differs
from the language in the previous work draft.
Ms. Blaisdell stated that Sec. 36, pages 106 through 119, would
begin the reappropriation language in the bill. Any appropriations
that might be lapsing would be addressed in this section.
9:23:35 AM
Ms. Blaisdell noted that Sec. 52 pages 119 through 122, beginning
with the Department of Administration, would also address
reappropriations. This language is identical to the language that
was forwarded in SB 97, the supplemental bill.
Ms. Blaisdell continued that Sections 60 and 61, page 122, would
pertain to the provisions of the Capital Income Fund. A number of
calls and emails were received "regarding the necessity of having"
these sections in the bill. Were the Capital Income Fund bill
adopted, this provision must be included, as absent it, existing
language would mandate that the funds go to Permanent Fund rather
than the Capital Income Account.
9:24:51 AM
Co-Chair Green understood therefore that this language would be
"null and void" were SB 187 to fail.
Ms. Blaisdell concurred. This concluded the explanation of the
committee substitute.
Senator Hoffman asked for assistance in locating the agency
requests for $825,000 for the Bethel Courthouse; the $233,900
Department of Health and Social Services request for the security
system for the Bethel Youth Facility; the one million dollar
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development request
for the Bethel Learning Center; and the one million dollar federal
receipt request for the Department of Natural Resources coastal
wetlands grant. He asked whether these or any other agency requests
might have been excluded in this version of the bill.
9:26:53 AM
Ms. Blaisdell responded that the Governor had originally proposed
the use of Amerada Hess bonds as the funding mechanism for the
Bethel Courthouse project. Due to the fact that the Legislature has
not passed a bond bill, efforts were made to identify other fund
sources to support as many of the Amerada Hess funded projects as
possible. No funds to support the Bethel Courthouse project were
identified. She stated that further review of the funding relating
to the Department of Health and Social Services request for
enhanced security for the Bethel Youth facility would be required.
Senator Hoffman pointed out that the security needs of the Bethel
Youth Facility were identified by the Department of Health and
Social Services as being its number one priority.
9:27:38 AM
Ms. Blaisdell stated that further review of that funding request
would be undertaken.
Ms. Blaisdell communicated that no funds were identified to replace
the Amerada Hess funding to support the Bethel Learning Center.
Senator Hoffman clarified that the original funding for the Bethel
Learning Center was general funds
Ms. Blaisdell responded therefore, that the decision was made to
not fund that facility. Choices had to be made in light of limited
general funds.
9:27:58 AM
Senator Hoffman asked regarding the decision to exclude the one
million dollars federal receipts request for the Department of
Natural Resources coastal wetlands grant.
Ms. Blaisdell responded that, while no State general funds would be
required, three similar federally funded projects were removed from
the capital budget. The decision to remove those projects was a
policy call, as further understanding pertaining to the use of the
land and the impact that accepting those federal funds might incur
on the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and its management of
that land would be desired.
Senator Hoffman requested that, at some future point in time, the
Department of Natural Resources could testify in regards to that
concern. He ascertained that absent this endeavor, more problems
could occur in these areas; specifically in regards to land that is
held privately. Acquiring land, with the assistance of these
federal grants, could assist in averting problems being experienced
with privately held lands, for example, with the Chignik Dip Net
Fishery.
9:30:07 AM
Co-Chair Green asked Senator Hoffman whether he was a member of the
Committee's Natural Resources subcommittee.
Senator Hoffman replied in the negative.
9:30:19 AM
Co-Chair Green recalled that that subcommittee had raised questions
regarding "the line of command" and other procedures associated
with this funding. Further information would be sought.
Senator Hoffman noted that, based upon the forthcoming information,
an associated amendment might be developed. He requested that the
Department of Natural Resources be present to respond to questions
in this regard.
Co-Chair Green reminded the Committee that amendments would be
considered during the afternoon hearing on this bill.
9:31:22 AM
Ms. Blaisdell requested that amendments be submitted in written
form rather than through telephonic or email communication.
Co-Chair Green asked Ms. Blaisdell whether the written amendments
should be provided prior to the 4:00 PM hearing.
Ms. Blaisdell responded that that would be welcome, time
permitting.
Senator Hoffman remarked that he was targeting noon as his
amendment submittal deadline.
[NOTE: the Version "Y" committee substitute was formally adopted
after the following At Ease.]
Co-Chair Green ordered the bill HELD in Committee.
AT EASE 9:32:40 AM / 9:36:06 AM
SENATE BILL NO. 46
"An Act making capital appropriations and appropriations to
capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date."
The bill was again before the Committee.
Co-Chair Green removed her objection to adopting the committee
substitute.
There being no further objection, Committee Substitute Version "Y"
was adopted as the working document.
The bill was HELD in Committee.
[NOTE: Additional action on this bill was conducted later in the
meeting. See Time Stamp 5:00:22 PM.]
9:36:22 AM
SENATE BILL NO. 46
"An Act making capital appropriations and appropriations to
capitalize funds; and providing for an effective date."
The bill was heard earlier in the meeting and was held to allow
Committee members to prepare amendments to the Version "Y"
committee substitute.
Amendment #1: This amendment inserts a new Alaska Native Heritage
Center component to the Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316)
Budget Request Unit (BRU) of the Department of Commerce, Community
and Economic Development on page 3, lines 30 and 31. This amendment
also appropriates $500,000 general funds to the component.
Senator Dyson moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Senator Dyson expounded on the Alaska Native Heritage Center and
its displays depicting "all the major cultural aboriginal groups in
Alaska." The Center is utilized for education purposes of the
history and heritage of Alaska's first people. This funding would
be utilized to upgrade existing exhibits and construct new exhibits
to display artifacts currently held in storage. He understood this
funding had been included in the Governor's FY 06 capital budget
request.
Co-Chair Green maintained her objection.
5:02:13 PM
Senator Olson furthered that the Center has received funding from
private sources and that the funding requested in this amendment is
necessary to complete the project.
Co-Chair Wilken commented that the Center is a benefit. However
when initially funded, the intent was expressed that the facility
would be self-supporting.
A roll call was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Senator Hoffman, Senator Dyson, Senator Hoffman
OPPOSED: Co-Chair Green Co-Chair Wilken, Senator Stedman
ABSENT: Senator Bunde
The motion FAILED (3-3-1)
The amendment FAILED to be adopted.
Amendment #2: This amendment inserts a new Local Boundary
Commission, Chugiak Eagle River Detachment Study (HD [house
district] 17-18) component to the Grants to Named Recipients (AS
37.05.316) BRU of the Department of Commerce, Community and
Economic Development on page 3, lines 30 and 31. This amendment
also appropriates $50,000 general funds to the component.
Senator Dyson moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Senator Dyson explained that the community of Eagle River wished to
organize but need a study conducted to determine whether it would
be economically viable. An analysis was conducted the previous year
but the funding was insufficient to provide a complete assessment.
5:05:21 PM
Co-Chair Green asked the legislators requesting this.
Senator Dyson listed himself, Representative Bill Stoltze, Senator
Con Bunde and Representative Mike Hawker.
Co-Chair Green asked the amount of funding remaining from the
earlier effort.
Senator Dyson answered $25,000.
Co-Chair Green commented against the additional allocation.
A roll call was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Senator Dyson, Senator Hoffman, and Senator Olson
OPPOSED: Senator Stedman, Co-Chair Wilken, and Co-Chair Green
ABSENT: Senator Bunde
The motion FAILED (3-3-1)
The amendment FAILED to be adopted.
5:06:54 PM
Amendment #3: This amendment inserts a new Arctic Winter Games Team
Alaska component to the Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316)
BRU of the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 3, lines 30 and 31. This amendment also
appropriates $250,000 general funds to the component.
Senator Olson moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Senator Olson described the international competition comprised of
contestants from urban and rural communities.
AT EASE: 5:07:56 PM / 5:08:35 PM
Co-Chair Green noted the two groups seeking funding for the Games.
She asked whether this amendment would provide funding for
preparations to hold the event in Kenai or for expenses associated
with the team representing the State.
Senator Olson answered that this money would support the Alaska
team itself.
Co-Chair Green commented that a request for this purpose had not
been submitted earlier.
Co-Chair Wilken agreed that no representative of the Games had
approached the legislature prior to this. He would not support the
amendment, as more effort should have been made.
A roll call was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Senator Hoffman, Senator Olson, and Senator Dyson
OPPOSED: Co-Chair Wilken, Senator Stedman, and Co-Chair Green
ABSENT: Senator Bunde
The motion FAILED (3-3-1)
The amendment FAILED to be adopted.
Amendment 4A: This amendment inserts a new African American
Historical Society Juneteenth Celebration component to the Grants
to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316) BRU of the Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development on page 3, lines 30
and 31. This amendment also appropriates $30,000 general funds to
the component. Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
This would help fund the capital costs for the celebration of
Juneteenth. The grant would provide funding for the tents,
shelters, display units, exhibits, equipment and supplies
necessary to continue their educational objectives during this
public outreach celebration.
This amendment also reduces the appropriation to the Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development, Grants to
Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU, Muldoon Road, Tudor Road Sound
Barrier Fence (HD 17-32) component on page 24, lines 3 - 6 from
$600,000 general funds to $590,200 general funds. Accompanying
explanatory language reads as follows.
This project will construct a sound barrier fence between a
major arterial street and local neighborhoods. (Project design
has been funded and construction could occur in 2005.)
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Senator Hoffman explained that the African American Historical
Society hosts the Juneteenth Celebration on the third Saturday in
June to commemorate the abolition of slavery in the United States.
This event has been celebrated in Anchorage for 30 years.
5:12:20 PM
Senator Hoffman continued that the Society exists to promote and
preserve the historical recognition and culture of the African
Americans living in Alaska.
Co-Chair Green maintained her objection.
A roll call was taken on the motion.
IN FAVOR: Senator Hoffman and Senator Olson
OPPOSED: Senator Stedman, Senator Dyson, Co-Chair Wilken, and Co-
Chair Green.
ABSENT: Senator Bunde
The motion FAILED (2-4-1)
The amendment FAILED to be adopted.
5:14:24 PM
Amendment 4B: This amendment inserts a new Russian Jack Elementary
School Computer & Library Book Purchase component to the Grants to
Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316) BRU of the Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development on page 3, lines 30 and 31. This
amendment also appropriates $20,000 general funds to the component.
Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
This funding would be used to purchase Apple eMacs to replace
older machines, which cannot run today's powerful educational
software. This would also be utilized for the purchase of more
books and materials to upgrade their library collection.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption and overviewed the explanation
statement.
There being no objection, the amendment was ADOPTED.
AT EASE: 5:14:48 PM / 5:15:07 PM
5:15:43 PM
Amendment #5: This amendment increases the general fund allocation
to the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development,
Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316) BRU, Alaska Siberia
Research Center, Inc. - Alaska Siberia WWII Memorial Park
Construction (HD 7-11) component on page 4, lines 8 - 11 from
$40,000 to $65,000. Accompanying explanatory language reads as
follows.
In the 5/2/05 work draft Version "F" there was $65,000
appropriated to the project which funds the Lend Lease
Memorial Park project.
In the 5/3/05 work draft Version "Y" this funding was reduced
to $40,000 due to a technical drafting error by the
legislative finance division. This amendment simply corrects
this drafting omission.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected for an explanation.
Co-Chair Wilken explained the drafting error this amendment would
correct.
Without further objection, the amendment was ADOPTED.
5:17:01 PM
Amendment #6: This amendment increases the general fund allocation
to the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development,
Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316) BRU, Mary Magdalene Home
Alaska, Inc. - Transitional Housing Program Facilities (HD 17-32)
on page 6 lines 30 - 33 from $250,000 to $263,500.
Senator Dyson moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected for an explanation.
Senator Dyson reminded that when the decision was made to not fund
a separate project, $13,000 remained unallocated. This amendment
would appropriate that amount to the Mary Magdalene Home project.
Co-Chair Green asked if this addition would bring the total funding
to the "discretionary amount" requested.
Senator Dyson replied that it would not, as the $250,000 proposed
appropriation is $50,000 less than requested.
There being no further objection, the amendment was ADOPTED.
5:18:21 PM
Amendment #7: This amendment increases the general fund allocation
to the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development,
Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316) BRU, Midnight Sun
Council, Boy Scouts of America - Boy Scout Food Service component
on page 7 lines 3 - 6 from $40,000 to $60,000. Accompanying
explanatory language reads as follows.
In the 5/2/05 work draft Version "F" there was $80,000
appropriated to the project.
In the 5/3/05 work draft Version "Y" this funding was reduced
to $40,000 due to a technical drafting error by the
legislative finance division. This amendment simply corrects
this drafting omission.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption and outlined the explanatory
statement.
The amendment was ADOPTED without objection.
5:18:57 PM
Amendment #8: This amendment inserts a new Municipality of
Anchorage - Anchorage School District/Eagle River High School
Traffic Control & Turn Lanes (Veterans Memorial Highway) (HD 16-
18,32) component to the Grants to Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU
of the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
on page 8, lines 11 and 12. This amendment also appropriates
$950,000 general funds to the component.
Senator Dyson moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Senator Dyson informed that the allocation for this project should
be to the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities rather
than the Municipality of Anchorage. This project would be necessary
once the high school is constructed, as the current road system
would be "very dangerous".
Co-Chair Green asked the location of the proposed project.
Senator Dyson described the location of the school located in the
election district represented by Senator Bunde.
Co-Chair Green asked if this project could be included in another
project planned for the Veterans' Memorial Highway.
Senator Dyson replied it could not, as the other project is located
north of this location.
5:21:45 PM
Co-Chair Green asked the reason this funding request had not been
submitted earlier.
Senator Dyson attributed the delay to the number of other
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities project funding
requests.
Co-Chair Green removed her objection to the adoption of the
amendment with the understanding that the exact location of the
proposed project is specified in the legislation.
Co-Chair Green offered a friendly amendment to the amendment to
appropriate the funding to the Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities and make necessary conforming changes.
There being no objection from the sponsor, the amendment was
AMENDED.
Without further objection Amendment #8, as amended, was ADOPTED.
AT EASE 5:23:55 PM / 5:24:33 PM
Amendment #9: This amendment inserts a new Bristol Bay Borough
Community Matching Project component to the Grants to
Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU of the Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development on page 8, lines 11 and 12. This
amendment also appropriates $150,000 general funds to the
component.
This amendment also increases the general fund appropriation to the
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, Grants
to Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU, City of Unalaska - Boat
Harbor (HD 37) component on page 13 lines 3 and 4 from $2 million
to $4 million.
This amendment also adds a new Togiak/Twin Hills Bridge Feasibility
Study component to the Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities and appropriates $150,000 general funds to the
component.
This amendment also increases the allocation to the Cold Bay Access
Improvements (HD 37) component of the Surface Transportation
Improvements BRU, Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities, on page 58, lines 30 and 31 from $2 million to $2.5
million.
This amendment also increases the general fund allocation to the
Department of Education and Early Development, School Construction
Grant Fund (AS 14.11.005) BRU, Dillingham Middle/High School
construction and renovation - Dillingham City Schools (HD 38)
component on page 83 lines 14 - 17 from $7 million to $9.5 million.
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green then offered a friendly amendment to the amendment
to change "Bristol Bay Borough Community Matching Project"
component to read "Bristol Bay Borough Community Mapping Project."
This amendment to the amendment also deletes additional $500,000
general fund allocation to the Cold Bay Access Improvements
component.
This amendment to the amendment also adds a new Aleutians East
Borough - Cold Bay Airport Terminal component to the Grants to
Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU, Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development and appropriates $500,000
general funds to the component.
AT EASE 5:25:29 PM / 5:26:20 PM
Co-Chair Green continued to outline the friendly amendment to the
amendment.
Without objection the amendment was AMENDED.
Senator Stedman objected to the amended amendment for further
information on the City of Unalaska - Boat Harbor component.
Co-Chair Green informed that upon review, this amount was included
in an earlier committee substitute.
Co-Chair Wilken asked whether the project expansion of the Little
South America Boat Harbor.
Senator Hoffman understood it was.
Co-Chair Green noted the Members have discussed this project
previously.
There being no objection, Amendment #9 as amended was ADOPTED.
5:28:10 PM
Amendment #10: This amendment adds a LKSD - The Peoples Learning
Center component to the Department of Commerce, Community and
Economic Development [BRU not specified] and appropriates $100,000
general funds to the component. Accompanying explanatory language
reads, "Restores the Governor's original capital budget request."
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption.
Senator Hoffman reminded the Committee of the residential technical
education facility located in Bethel. The amount of secured funds
for this project total $15 million. Approximately $4 million
additional funding is needed, although funding sources of most of
the amount have been identified. This project is a collaboration of
the City of Bethel, the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, the
Association of Village Council Presidents, the Chalista
Corporation, the Alaska National Guard, the Lower Kuskokwim School
District, the University of Alaska Kuskokwim Campus, the Regional
Housing Authority, and the Coastal Village Regional Fund.
5:29:45 PM
Co-Chair Green informed the Committee that this item was included
in the Governor's proposed budget.
There was no objection and Amendment #10 was ADOPTED.
5:30:19 PM
Amendment #11: This amendment deletes the City of Hope - Community
Safety and Development (HD 17-32) component of the Grants to
Municipalities (AS 37.05.315) BRU, Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development and $25,000 general fund
appropriation on page 10, lines 18 - 20.
This amendment also inserts a new Hope, Inc. - Community Safety and
Development (HD 17-32) component to the Grants to Named Recipients
(AS 37.05.316) BRU in the Department of Commerce, Community and
Economic Development and appropriates $25,000 general funds to the
component.
Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
The original request was made to "Hope, Inc.". During
drafting, the name was changed to "City of Hope" and moved to
"Grants to Municipalities. After discussion with the grants
administrator at the Division of Community Advocacy, the
original name "Hope, Inc.) was determined to be the correct
one.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green overviews the explanatory statement.
The amendment was ADOPTED without objection.
5:31:01 PM
Amendment #12: This amendment changes the title of the City of
Homer - Homer Public Library Materials component of the Grants to
Municipalities BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 10, lines 13 - 15 to "City of Homer - Public
Library Construction". The $100,000 general fund appropriation does
not change.
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption and explained the language
correction.
There being no objection, Amendment #12 was ADOPTED.
AT EASE 5:31:41 PM / 5:31:41 PM
Amendment #13: This amendment deletes the Denali Borough - Anderson
School/Septic Leach Field Replacement (HD 7-11) component and the
Denali Borough - Cantwell School/Sprinkler System Fire Upgrade and
New Well (HD 7-11) component of the Grants to Municipalities BRU,
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development on page
10, lines 17 - 23.
This amendment also increases the general fund appropriation to the
Alaska Siberia Research Center, Inc. - Alaska Siberia WWII Memorial
Park Construction (HD 7-11) component of the Grants to Named
Recipients BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 4, lines 8 - 11 from $40,000 to $105,200.
This amendment also increases the general fund appropriation to the
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center - Construction
component of the Grants to Named Recipients BRU, Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development on page 7, lines 11 -
13 from $200,000 to $300,000.
This amendment also inserts a new Ester - Volunteer Fire Department
component to the Grants to Named Recipients BRU, Department of
Commerce, Community and Economic Development and appropriates
$125,000 general funds to the component.
Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
Partial funding for the Anderson School/Septic Leach Field
Replacement and the Cantwell School/Sprinkler System Fire
Upgrade and New Well projects totals $260,200 are deleted in
this amendment.
Full funding for these two projects are contained on page 77,
lines 24 - 31 of the work draft.
This amendment reallocates the $260,200 to the following three
projects:
Alaska Siberia Research Center $ 35,200
Morris Thompson Cultural Center 100,000
Ester Volunteer Fire Department 125,000
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Co-Chair Wilken overviewed the amendment, which he sponsored on
behalf of Senator Ralph Seekins. This amendment would have a net
zero impact.
AT EASE 5:32:34 PM / 5:32:57 PM
The amendment was ADOPTED without objection.
5:33:21 PM
Amendment #14: This amendment changes the title of the Kenai
Peninsula Borough - Mobile Hydration Unit (HD 33-35), Grants to
Municipalities BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 14, lines 28 - 30 to read "Kenai Peninsula
Borough/Bear Creek Fire Service Area - Mobil Hydration Unit (HD 33-
35)". The $71,500 general fund appropriation remains unchanged.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption on behalf of Senator Gary
Stevens.
There was no objection and Amendment #14 was ADOPTED.
5:33:36 PM
Amendment #15: This amendment deletes the Kenai Peninsula Borough -
Refurbish Kachemak Fire Truck (HD 33-35) component of the Grants to
Municipalities BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development and $100,000 general fund appropriation on page 15,
lines 9 - 11.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption of the amendment on behalf of
Senator G. Stevens.
The amendment was ADOPTED without objection.
5:34:02 PM
Amendment #16: This amendment changes the title of the Kenai
Peninsula Borough - Road Access to Utilities to Senior Housing Site
(HD 33-35) component of the Grants to Municipalities BRU,
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development on page
15, lines 12 - 16 to read "Kenai Peninsula Borough/Cooper Landing
Senior Citizens Corp., Inc. - Road Access to Utilities to Senior
Housing Site (HD 33-35)". The $71,000 general fund appropriation
remains unchanged.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Without objection the amendment was ADOPTED.
5:34:17 PM
Amendment #17: This amendment changes the title of the Kenai
Peninsula Borough - Water Tender (HD 33-35), Grants to
Municipalities BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 15, lines 19 and 20 to read "Kenai Peninsula
Borough/Kachemak Emergency Service Area - Water Tender (HD 33-35)".
The $75,000 general fund appropriation remains unchanged.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
There being no objective Amendment #17 was ADOPTED.
5:34:29 PM
Amendment #18: This amendment changes the title of the Municipality
of Anchorage - Anchorage School District/Gladys Elementary Supplies
(HD 17-32) component of the Grants to Municipalities BRU,
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development on page
18, lines 19-22 to read …"Gladys Wood Elementary Supplies". The
$10,000 general fund appropriation remains unchanged.
This amendment also changes the Municipality of Anchorage - Kincaid
Park Summer and Winter Recreational Improvements, Fields, Paving
and Equipment (HD 17-32) component of the Grants to Municipalities
BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development on
page 23, lines 18 - 23 to be a new component titled Kincaid Park
Project Group - Kincaid Park Summer and Winter Recreational
Improvements, Fields, Paving and Equipment (HD 17-32). The $480,000
general fund appropriation remains allocated to the project.
This amendment also changes the Municipality of Anchorage - South
Anchorage Sports Complex Ball Fields (HD 17-32) component of the
Grants to Municipalities BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and
Economic Development on page 24, lines 19 - 22 to be a new
component titled American Legion Baseball Association - South
Anchorage Sports Complex Ball Fields (HD 17-32). The $450,000
general fund appropriation remains allocated to the project.
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption and explained the technical
corrections.
There being no objection Amendment #18 was ADOPTED.
5:35:12 PM
Amendment #19: This amendment inserts a new bill section to read as
follows.
Sec. XX. DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME. The sum of $50,000 is
appropriated from the general fund to the Department of Fish
and Game, Boars of Fisheries and Game, for Board of Game
activities related to review of Tier II subsistence proposals
for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected for an explanation.
Co-Chair Wilken read the language of the amendment and informed
that Board of Game member, Ron Summerville, brought this request to
his attention.
Senator Dyson objected for further discussion. Committee Members
were told that appropriations in this budget would be limited to
construction projects and that funding for studies would not be
considered. While he considered this proposed study to be valid and
appropriate, he asked the criterion in determining which studies
would receive funding.
Senator Hoffman requested an explanation of what the proposed
review is expected to accomplish.
5:36:47 PM
MATT ROBUS, Director, Division of Wildlife Conservation, Department
of Fish and Game, testified this item is actually a FY 05
supplemental budget request. The Board of Game, with assistance
from the Department, is developing a system to improve the Tier II
permit process for subsistence hunting. The Board determined that a
series of public hearings held in various areas of the State should
be held to inform people of the proposed changes and to receive
input before final action is taken at the March 2006 Board of Game
Meeting. This amendment would fund the expenses of holding these
hearings.
Senator Stedman asked if this item should be included as a capital
project.
5:38:27 PM
GINGER BLASDELL, Staff to Co-Chair Green, testified that the
amendment would be included in the portion of this legislation that
provides FY 06 supplemental appropriations. Similar amendment would
be offered.
Co-Chair Green stated the method of including supplemental capital
appropriations in the following fiscal year capital budget is a
historical practice.
5:39:27 PM
Senator Hoffman asked whether the hearings could be completed by
June 30, 2005, the end of the fiscal year.
5:39:37 PM
Mr. Robus informed that the hearings had already been held and the
expenses incurred. Final action was not taken at the March Board
Meeting, as all considerations were not resolved. An additional
Board of Game meeting is scheduled for June 2005 to continue the
process.
Co-Chair Green noted that this funding request would have been
submitted as a FY 05 operating budget supplemental item if the need
had been identified earlier.
Senator Olson asked if hearings would be held at locations within
the election district he represents.
Mr. Robus replied that the proposed changes would be specific to
the moose and caribou subsistence hunts in the Nelchina Basin of
Southcentral Alaska. Therefore, the hearings have been primarily
held in that region. Most of the State-issued subsistence hunting
permits are granted for these hunts and the majority of
controversies are centered in this area. If successful, the new
system could serve as a pilot project for Tier II hunting in other
areas.
Senator Stedman objected to the adoption of this amendment.
Senator Olson asked if additional travel would be planned for the
following year.
Mr. Robus was unsure. The intent is that regulations would be
adopted at the June meeting.
Senator Stedman removed his objection.
Senator Dyson removed his objection.
Without further objection, Amendment #19 was ADOPTED.
5:42:15 PM
Amendment #20: This amendment inserts a new National Coastal
Wetland Conservation Grant - Snyder Parcel component to the
Department of Fish and Game on page 35 and appropriates $310,000
Other Funds to the component. Accompanying explanatory language
reads as follows.
The Snyder parcel is 135 acres of undeveloped wetland habitat
on the Gustavus forelands. The parcel is used by waterfowl and
shorebirds and provides important habitat for sandhill cranes.
It adjoins the Dude Creek Critical Habitat Area (CHA),
designated for the protection of sandhill crane habitat, and
is of interest to the Department of Fish and Game as a
potential addition to the CHA. Funding for the acquisition
will come from a third National Coastal Wetland grant, and
private donations. Title to the property will ultimately rest
with the state. The federal grant will have a $104,000 match
(25%) provided by The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
Acquisition of this parcel is the third and final phase of the
most biologically sensitive and least developable lands in
Gustavus; it will purchase approximately 135 acres. This is a
private parcel; the owner, John Snyder, contacted TNC with an
offer to sell. The lands will be managed to complement
adjacent habitats including the Dude Creek CHA. A further
management objective is to allow continues public use of the
lands for hunting, fishing, and recreation to the extent those
uses are consistent with the goal of protecting wetlands and
wildlife habitat.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption. He outlined the explanatory
statement, pointing out that general funds would not be used.
There being no objection Amendment #20 was ADOPTED.
5:43:23 PM
Amendment #21: This amendment adds a new Bethel Youth Facility
Security Improvements component to the Department of Health and
Social Services on page 26 and appropriates $233,900 general funds
to the component.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption of Amendment #21 and explained
the need for these improvements.
Co-Chair Green remarked that the proposed security improvements are
a worthy project.
There being no objection Amendment #21 was ADOPTED.
5:44:20 PM
Amendment #22: This amendment increases the allocation to the
Bethel Readiness Center New Construction - Phase 2 (HD 38) to the
Department of Military and Veterans Affairs on page 38 and
appropriates $8,062,500 federal funds and $2.5 million general
funds to the component. Accompanying explanatory language reads as
follows.
The Governor had funded the $2.5 million match with ASLC
[Alaska Student Loan Corporation] funds that were denied in
this version of the capital budget. $1 million in other funds
were kept but is not enough to match the $8,062,500 federal
funds. This amendment adds the additional $1 million the
Governor requested.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption and stressed that the Bethel
Readiness Center is a very important project to the region.
Co-Chair Green clarified that $8 million in federal funds would be
received for this project.
The amendment was ADOPTED without objection.
5:45:31 PM
Amendment #23: This amendment adds a new Forest Legacy Federal
Grant Program component to the Department of Natural Resources and
appropriates $630,000 federal funds. Accompanying explanatory
language reads as follows.
These federal receipts have been approved under the Forest
Legacy Federal Grant Program for a conservation easement for
Aleknagik Natives Limited for over 20,000 acres of their land
within Wood-Tikchik State Park, which includes both banks of
the Agulowak River, a major salmon spawning area, and
approximately 32 miles of shoreline along Lakes Aleknagik and
Nerka. The Native allotments are in prime locations in the
southern half of the park. Wood-Tikchik State Park is near the
town of Dillingham in Southwest Alaska.
The Governor's original budget request included $2,930,963 for
three projects, which was not included in the work draft CS
(FIN) for SB 46. The federal government has just completed
their review of the project request and has approved $630,000
in funding to begin phase one for one of the projects, with
the initial phase to begin in FY 06, resulting in this amended
request. The other projects were not approved in this budget
year.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption and overviewed the explanatory
statement.
There being no objection Amendment #23 was ADOPTED
5:46:33 PM
AMENDMENT #24: This amendment adds a new Coastal Wetlands Grant -
Nushagak Bay Watershed, phase 2 component to the Department of
Natural Resources and appropriates $1 million federal receipts to
the component.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption and noted this item was included
in the Governor's FY 06 budget request.
There being no objection Amendment #24 was ADOPTED.
5:47:16 PM
Amendment #25: This amendment adds a new Petersburg North Harbor
Deferred Maintenance and Transfer (HD 5) component to the
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, with intent
language, and appropriates $2.5 million general funds to the
component. The intent language reads as follows.
It is the intent of the Legislature that the City of
Petersburg enters into an agreement with the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities to accept full
responsibility for ownership and maintenance of the North
Harbor at the time of transfer.
Senator Stedman moved for adoption, noting this item relates to the
process of transferring ownership of boat harbors from the State to
local municipalities. Funding for this transfer had been included
in the Governor's proposed FY 06 budget utilizing a different fund
source.
AT EASE 5:48:20 PM / 5:49:08 PM
Co-Chair Green remarked that the intent language is clear in
stipulating that the City of Petersburg would assume ownership and
responsibility for maintenance and repairs.
There being no objection Amendment #25 was ADOPTED.
5:49:34 PM
Amendment #26: This amendment corrects the House District
designation of the Craig Roads component in the Congressional
Earmarks BRU, Department of Transportation and Public Facilities on
page 65, line 19 to reflect the project's location in House
District 5. The $1 million allocation remains unchanged.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green explained the technical change.
There being no objection Amendment #26 was ADOPTED.
5:50:00 PM
Amendment #27: This amendment inserts a new Bethel Courthouse
Improvements component to the Alaska Court System and appropriates
$825,000 general funds to the component. Accompanying explanatory
language reads as follows.
This capital request is one piece of two-part fix for the
Bethel court facility. The second piece is a $92,000 operating
budget increment to cover increased costs associated with
additional space. This has been funded in both the Senate and
House operating budgets.
The court system currently rents 10,000 s.f. from the City of
Bethel. The operating component will provide increased rent
for an additional 2,600 s.f. to be constructed by the City.
This capital component will allow the court system to make
tenant improvements to the existing space.
Bethel is a high-volume superior court location. Even though
the population of the area is less than 20% of the population
of Fairbanks, it had about 80% as many felony cases. Even
though it is much smaller than either Palmer or Kenai, last
year it had almost as many civil jury trials as Palmer and
Kenai put together.
This court has two superior court judges and two magistrates,
and a judge from Fairbanks is frequently there to help with
the caseload. In addition, the House and Senate operating
budgets have approved an upgrade of one magistrate position to
a district judgeship. However, the Bethel Courthouse currently
has only one superior courtroom, one district courtroom (with
room for only a six member jury), and a small hearing room.
Moreover, the remainder of the space is inadequate. Changes
proposed include adding two superior courtrooms, expanding and
soundproofing the cramped jury deliberation room, fixing a
number of security issues (for example, in-custody felony
defendants must currently be transported through public
areas), creating magistrate and law clerk offices, and
expanding the clerk's office.
The FY 06 request is for bid document preparation, project
management and construction.
Senator Hoffman moved for adoption and overviewed the explanatory
statement.
Co-Chair Green shared that she has received several telephone calls
regarding this project.
There being no objection Amendment #27 was ADOPTED.
5:50:55 PM
Amendment #28: This amendment reduces the general fund
appropriation to the Kenai Peninsula College Student Housing (HD
33-35) component of the University of Alaska on page 89, lines 4
and 5 from $7.5 million to $6 million.
This amendment also reduces the general fund appropriation to the
Kodiak College Vocational Technology Addition Phase I - Kodiak
Island Borough (HD 36) of the University of Alaska, on page 89,
lines 6 - 9 from $10 million to $8.5 million.
This amendment also inserts a new Kachemak Bay Campus Addition
component to the University of Alaska and appropriates $3 million.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green explained the amendment noting it would have a net
zero fiscal impact to the FY 06 budget.
Senator Stedman clarified the affected campuses of the Kenai
Peninsula College, the Kodiak College, and Kachemak Bay.
There being no objection Amendment #28 was ADOPTED.
5:51:52 PM
Amendment #29: This amendment deletes the Fairbanks Area,
University Avenue/Geist Road/Johansen intersection project and the
$3.5 million Alaska capital income fund appropriation to the
project from Section 6. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC
FACILITIES., on page 91, lines 7 and 8.
This amendment also inserts a new Fairbanks, Wilbur Street
Extension project in to Section 6 and appropriates $1.1 million to
the project.
This amendment also inserts a new Fairbanks, 2nd Avenue, Moore
Street Realignment and New Airport Way Intersection project in to
Section 6 and appropriates $2,550,000 to the project.
Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
These two projects are on the FMATS [Fairbanks Metropolitan
Area Transportation Study] priority list and will work
together with the currently funded upgrade of 2nd Avenue and
Wilbur Street to fund all planned access/egress projects
related to the Carlson Center/Growden Park/Fish Hatchery
complex area.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption.
Co-Chair Green objected.
Co-Chair Wilken detailed the road changes and improvements
proposed.
AT EASE 5:52:35 PM / 5:53:08 PM
Co-Chair Wilken offered a motion to amend the amendment to
appropriate $1 million to the Wilbur Street Extension project and
$2.5 million to the 2nd Avenue project.
Without objection Amendment #29 was AMENDED and ADOPTED.
5:53:43 PM
Amendment #30: This amendment deletes the language of Section 10.
NATIONAL PETROLEUM RESERVE - ALASKA IMPACT GRANT PROGRAM; INTENT.
(b), on page 92, lines 16 - 20 and inserts new language to read as
follows.
(b) The sum of $24,706,539, received by the National
Petroleum Reserve - Alaska special revenue fund (AS 37.05.530)
under 42 U.S.C. 6508 by August 31, 2005, is appropriated to
the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
from capital project grants under the National Petroleum
Reserve - Alaska impact grant program to the following
municipalities for the purposes stated in the amounts set out:
MUNICIPALITY PROJECT AMOUNT
(1) North Slope Borough Social and cultural $275,880
study - phase 2
(2) North Slope Borough Wainwright youth 229,500
program
(3) Nuiqsut Local government 468,000
operations/cultural
coordinator
(4) North Slope Borough Wainwright softball 35,000
field
(5) Barrow City impound and 174,389
disposal site project
(6) North Slope Borough Atqasuk energy 100,042
assessment
(7) North Slope Borough Wainwright local 311,500
government operations
(8) Barrow City Hall building 69,413
addition feasibility
study
(9) Nuiqsut Youth center operations 150,000
and maintenance
(10) Atqasuk Atqasuk local 336,468
government operations
(11) Barrow Roller rink renovation 63,556
feasibility study
(12) North Slope Borough Utility master plan/ 106,221
emergency plan
(13) North Slope Borough Misdemeanor probation 346,071
officer
(14) North Slope Borough Fire equipment and 250,000
training
(15) Barrow Barrow local 1,385,843
government operations
(16) Nuiqsut Design/install 200,000
retractable boat ramp
(17) North Slope Borough Continuing studies to 2,461,368
investigate
wildlife/subsistence
(18) North Slope Borough Oil spill response team 737,867
(19) North Slope Borough Police officers for 1,486,689
NPR-A villages
(20) North Slope Borough Health, survival, and 654,426
sustainability of key
subsistence resources
(21) North Slope Borough Workforce development 3,729,451
program
(22) North Slope Borough Mayor's job program 2,527,961
(23) North Slope Borough Police importation 1,101,512
combat program
(24) North Slope Borough North Slope science 425,578
initiative
(25) North Slope Borough Village capacity 968,182
building
(26) North Slope Borough NPR-A technical 1,468,508
review team
(27) North Slope Borough Allied health 3,400,000
training center
(28) North Slope Borough Wainwright city office 38,114
renovation
(29) Atqasuk Youth center addition 680,000
to community center
(30) North Slope Borough Wainwright lagoon 525,000
boat launch
(c) If the amount available for appropriation from the
National Petroleum Reserve - Alaska special reserve fund (AS
37.05.530) under (b) of this section is less than $24,706,539,
then each of the appropriations made by (b)(1) - (30) of this
section is reduced in proportion to the amount of the
shortfall.
This amendment also stipulates a lapse date of June 30, 2006 for
the appropriations made in Section 10(b)(1)-(13); a lapse date of
June 30, 2007 for the appropriations made in subsections (14)-(16);
a lapse date of June 30, 2008 for the appropriations made in
subsections (17)-(26); and a lapse date of June 30, 2009 for the
appropriation made in subsection (27). The appropriations made in
subsections (28)-(30) lapse under AS 37.25.020.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption and outlined the projects
intended to receive federal National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-
A) grant funds. The listing of projects would prioritize the
projects.
Senator Olson clarified that the lapse date for most of the
appropriations is the end of FY 06.
Co-Chair Wilken replied that the standard five-year lapse date
would apply to most of the capital projects. Appropriations made
for most of the operating expenses would lapse at the conclusion of
the fiscal year. Other items have specified lapse dates.
Senator Olson questioned whether adequate time would be allowed for
implementation.
5:57:40 PM
Co-Chair Wilken noted that the appropriations would not expire for
14 months.
Senator Olson surmised the lapse date of June 30, 2006 would be too
early to expend funds for capital projects.
5:58:11 PM
Co-Chair Wilken explained that the designated monies should be
expended in the fiscal year. Monies that would be carried forward
would automatically do so until the specified lapse date. This
would provide oversight for projects that currently have none. If
at the conclusion of FY 06, the lapse date were insufficient, the
affected community would be required to explain the situation and
request an extension.
5:59:39 PM
Senator Dyson appreciated Co-Chair Wilken's attempt. He asked the
percentage of the total appropriation allocated for operating
expenses.
Co-Chair Wilken answered that 42 percent of the funding is
designated to capital projects and 58 percent for operating
expenditures.
Co-Chair Wilken then pointed out that of the $24 million total NPR-
A grant, $22 million would be appropriated to the North Slope
Borough. He also noted the 21 percent administrative charge.
Co-Chair Green understood the provisions of this amendment are
intended to provide a review of the NPR-A grant program.
Co-Chair Wilken affirmed. Appropriations made in this manner would
allow for oversight of the expenditures. The intent is that the
grant funds are expended on those communities impacted by oil
development.
Senator Stedman asked if the inclusion of funds intended for
operating expenses are included in this capital budget due to
delays.
Co-Chair Wilken concurred. Previous appropriation of NPR-A grant
funds has been included as a single line item with no specification
of actual projects and programs. The language proposed in the
amendment allocates the funding for the four communities impacted
by activities in the NPR-A. Subsection (a) of Section 10 provides
intent language that future NPR-A impact mitigation program grants
be designated for this purpose.
6:03:20 PM
Without objection Amendment #30 was ADOPTED.
6:04:00 PM
Amendment #31: This amendment changes the name of the City of
Wasilla sewer plant expansion project in subsection (e) of Section
43. HOUSE DISTRICTS 13-16., on page 113, line 6 to "septage
facility".
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption and explained the technical
change.
There being no objection, Amendment #31 was ADOPTED.
6:04:23 PM
Amendment #32: This amendment deletes subsections (b) and (d) of
Section 53. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT., on page 120, lines 1 - 4 and 9 - 12. The language of
the two subsections is identical and reads as follows.
The sum of $900,000 is appropriated from the general fund to
the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
for payment as a grant under AS 37.05.316 to the Alaska
Housing Finance Corporation for construction of the cold
climate housing research center.
This amendment also inserts a new Cold Climate Housing Research
Center - Cold Climate Building & Infrastructure Research & Test
Facility component to the Grants to Named Recipients (AS 37.05.316)
BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, on
page 3 and appropriates $900,000 general funds to the component.
Accompanying explanatory language reads as follows.
In the 5/3/05 work draft version "Y" there were duplicate
requests (sections (b) and (d)) of $900,000 for the
construction of the Cold Climate Research Center.
This amendment deletes one of the $900,000 appropriations and
moves the funding to the Grants to Named Recipients (AS
37.05.316) portion of the work draft that begins on page
three.
This is consistent with previous appropriations made to the
project.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption and explained the changes.
There being no objection, Amendment #32 was ADOPTED.
6:05:11 PM
Amendment #33: this amendment inserts a new Sport Fish Hatcheries
component to the Department of Fish and Game on page 35 line 11 and
appropriates $62,140,000 to the component. Accompanying explanatory
language reads as follows.
The state Department of Revenue would issue revenue bonds with
a gross amount of $69,000,000 but the actual construction
costs of the statewide hatcheries would be $62,140,000. The
gross bond amount would have adjustments made for underwriter
spread, true interest costs, debt service reserve fund and
earnings.
The $62.14 million in hatchery bond funds would be spent as
follows:
Interior Alaska - Fish presently stocked in interior Alaska
are produced in Anchorage and transported via the road system.
Currently, about 20% of the fish produced in the existing
hatchery program go to Fairbanks and the surrounding areas.
The imminent loss of heat at the existing Anchorage area
hatcheries will drastically affect the interior-stocking
program. Without warm water (which doubles the growth rate of
fish), the hatcheries will not be able to produce fish in the
sizes currently stocked in interior waters. A recent study has
indicated that building a new hatchery in Fairbanks is the
best way to remediate the problem. The proposed hatchery will
at least double the existing fish production goals for this
area, meeting projected demand over the next 25 years. It is
estimated that the hatchery will cost $25 million, 15 million
of which will be funded under the CIP. The balance of the
monies will come from federal funds already secured or
anticipated.
Southcentral Alaska - The imminent loss of heat at the
existing Anchorage area hatcheries will drastically affect the
southcentral Alaska stocking program. Loss of heat at the
existing hatcheries will not only decrease the number of fish
planted throughout southcentral Alaska, but will decrease the
number of sites that will be stocked. A recent study has
indicated that building a new hatchery in Anchorage is the
best way to remediate the problem. We propose to address this
issue by constructing a new hatchery facility at the site of
the existing Fort Richardson hatchery in Anchorage. Hatchery
operations at the existing Elmendorf Hatchery in Anchorage
will be shut down. The new hatchery facility will increase
production by 50%, sufficient to meet projected demand over
the next 25 years. We anticipate this hatchery will cost just
over $45 million, the cost of which will be entirely covered
under the proposed bond.
Southeast Alaska - The Division of Sport Fish does not operate
any hatchery facilities in southeast Alaska, but supports
targeted private sector hatchery operations through
cooperative agreements aimed at increasing sport fishing
opportunities. Bond funds totaling $2.14 million will fund the
following projects: $1.5 million to the City of Skagway to
build a hatchery which they would operate; $0.5 million for
deferred maintenance for the Crystal Lake Hatchery near
Petersburg; and $140,000 for one time capital improvements by
the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association
(NSRAA) for Haines king salmon release.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption and objected to the motion to
allow the Department of Fish and Game to explain the amendment.
6:05:42 PM
KELLY KEPLER, Director, Division of Sport Fish, Department of Fish
and Game, explained this amendment would authorize the issuance of
bonds to support construction of hatchery facilities.
Senator Hoffman asked the affect were the amendment not adopted.
Mr. Kepler replied that the monies would not be expended.
There being no objection, Amendment #33 was ADOPTED.
6:07:10 PM
Amendment #34: This amendment changes the YMCA of Fairbanks - Van
(HD 7-11) component of the Grants to Named Recipients (AS
37.05.316) BRU, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic
Development on page 8, lines 9 and 10 to read "ASYMCA of Fairbanks
- Van purchase and operation (HD 7-11)". The $50,000 general fund
appropriation remains unchanged.
Co-Chair Wilken moved for adoption and explained that this
amendment proposes a technical change to reflect program as the
armed services YMCA.
There being no objection, Amendment #34 was ADOPTED.
6:07:49 PM
Amendment #35: This amendment inserts a new subsection into Section
52. DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION., on page 119, following line 26
to read as follows.
(c) The sum of $4,350,000 is appropriated from the
general fund to the Department of Administration,
commissioner's office, for distribution to state agencies to
offset the increased chargeback rates for statewide services
as identified in the statewide federal cost allocation plan.
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption.
Ms. Blaisdell explained this appropriation, plus the appropriation
proposed in Amendment #36, would provide funding to offset some of
the expenses incurred through delivery of centralized services to
other State agencies that would otherwise be reimbursed by those
agencies.
Co-Chair Green remarked that inadequate funding has been allocated
for these reimbursements. This amendment would allow departments to
continue to receive centralized administrative services.
There being no objection, Amendment #35 was ADOPTED.
AT EASE 6:10:44 PM / 6:16:27 PM
Co-Chair Green reiterated the intent of Amendment #35 in
appropriating funding to all agencies for reimbursement of the cost
of centralized services.
Ms. Blaisdell stated that normally general funds would be
appropriated directly to the agencies, and the agencies would
reimburse the Department of Administration for the costs of the
centralized services. Conversely, this amendment would allow the
Department of Administration to provide the general funds to each
agency based on a cost-allocation plan. A similar provision was
adopted several years prior. She would verify the legality of this
action.
Co-Chair Green noted that this amendment is generally not allowed,
although an exception would be made in this instance.
6:17:43 PM
Amendment #36: This amendment inserts two new subsections into
Section 20. FUND TRANSFERS., on page 96, following line 18 to read
as follows.
(d) The sum of $12,000,000 is appropriated from the
general fund to the Alaska public building fund (AS
37.05.570).
(e) The amount necessary to have an unobligated balance
of $5,000,000 in the state insurance catastrophe reserve
account in accordance with AS 37.05.289 is appropriated from
the general fund to the state insurance catastrophe reserve
account (AS 37.05.289).
This amendment also deletes "$300,000" from subsection (b) of
Section 52. DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION., on page 119, line 25 and
inserts "$40,300,000". The amended language reads as follows.
(b) The sum of $40,300,000 is appropriated from the
general fund to the information services fund (AS
44.21.045(a)).
Co-Chair Green moved for adoption.
Ms. Blaisdell explained the $12 million appropriated to the Alaska
public building fund would be distributed to those state agencies
that participate in the public building fund. The monies would be
utilized for maintenance expenses.
Ms. Blaisdell next reminded that the State of Alaska is self-
insured. The appropriation made in Sec 20(e) would be utilized for
management costs.
Ms. Blaisdell spoke to the fund transfer of $40.3 million to the
information services fund. The information services fund is
utilized to pay expenses including payroll associated with
information services activities, communications and the enterprise
technology fund.
6:19:46 PM
Ms. Blaisdell clarified that the effective date of the provisions
in the amendment should be July 1, 2005.
Senator Stedman asked if the original dollar amount of $300,000
appropriated in Section 52(b) page 19 was a typographical error.
Ms. Blaisdell affirmed.
Co-Chair Green reminded the Committee of the discussions relating
to this matter beginning six to eight weeks prior, in which it was
determined that no more than 30 percent of the amount requested
would be appropriated for the information services fund. Many of
the participating agencies have received less than sufficient
funding for this purpose for several years.
There being no objection, Amendment #36 was ADOPTED.
AT EASE 6:21:36 PM / 8:25:39 PM
The bill was HELD in Committee.
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