Legislature(1999 - 2000)
04/19/1999 01:38 PM House FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE
April 21, 1999
1:40 P.M.
TAPE HFC 99 - 93, Side 1
TAPE HFC 99 - 93, Side 2
TAPE HFC 99 - 94, Side 1
TAPE HFC 99 - 94, Side 2
TAPE HFC 99 - 95, Side 1
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Therriault called the House Finance Committee
meeting to order at 1:40 p.m.
PRESENT
Co-Chair Therriault Representative Foster
Co-Chair Mulder Representative Grussendorf
Vice-Chair Bunde Representative Kohring
Representative Austerman Representative Moses
Representative J. Davies Representative Williams
Representative G. Davis
ALSO PRESENT
Sharon Barton, Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Administration; Michael A. Conway,
Division of Air and Water Quality, Department of
Environmental Conservation; Kevin Brooks, Director, Division
of Administrative Services, Department of Fish and Game;
Karen Rehfeld, Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Education; Juanita Hensley,
Legislative Liaison, Division of Motor Vehicles, Department
of Public Safety; Mark Badger, Director, Information
Technology Group, Department of Administration; Tom Lawson,
Director, Division of Administrative Services, Department of
Commerce and Economic Development; Percy Frisby, Director,
Division of Energy, Department of Community and Regional
Affairs; Peter Freer, Director, Southeast Regional Office,
Department of Community and Regional Affairs;
Yvonne Chase, Director, Division of Community and Rural
Development, Department of Community and Regional Affairs:
Tena Young, Department of Community and Regional Affairs;
Joseph Reeves, Deputy Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Corrections; Karen Crane, Director,
Libraries, Archives and Museums, Department of Education;
Dan Easton, Director, Division of Facility Construction and
Operation, Department of Environmental Conservation; Dana
LaTour, Director, Division of Elections, Office of the
Lieutenant Governor; Larry Dietrick, Program, Manager,
Prevention and Emergency Response program, Division of Spill
Prevention and Response, Department of Environmental
Conservation;
TESTIFIED VIA TELECONFERENCE
Barbara Brink, Director, Public Defender Agency.
SUMMARY
HB 52 "An Act making and amending capital appropriations
and reappropriations and capitalizing funds; and
providing for an effective date."
HB 52 was HELD in Committee for further
consideration.
HOUSE BILL NO. 52
"An Act making and amending capital appropriations and
reappropriations and capitalizing funds; and providing
for an effective date."
Co-Chair Therriault provided members with a spreadsheet
detailing the capital projects contained in HB 52 (copy on
file).
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
SHARON BARTON, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION discussed the
projects contained under the Department of Administration.
Pioneers' Homes Health and Safety Repairs $500,000
Ms. Barton explained that the six pioneer homes have a list
of $20 million dollars in deferred maintenance. This
appropriation relates to critical care areas and includes
projects relating to failure in the integrity of building
systems. There are projects in each of the six homes.
Public Defender Criminal Justice Information Integration
$400,000
Ms. Barton explained that this is a catch all project to
include the Alaska Public Defenders Agency in the Criminal
Justice Information Integration project.
BARBARA BRINK, DIRECTOR, PUBLIC DEFENDER AGENCY testified
via teleconference. She explained that the project would
allow their 13 offices to be electronically connected.
Attorneys would be connected through email. They would be
able to take advantage of electronic transfer of files and
cases. She gave examples of increased efficiencies that the
project would allow. She stressed that greater efficiencies
are needed in lieu of additional funding.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, Ms. Brink
clarified that they would not be compatible with the
Criminal Justice Information system without additional
hardware.
License Plates and Drivers License Manuals $200,000
Ms. Barton explained that this is an annual request for the
purchasing of license plate stock. The request is lower than
in previous years. The department has stock remaining from
the current year that will reduce the amount needed.
JUANITA HENSLEY, LEGISLATIVE LIAISON, DIVISION OF MOTOR
VEHICLES, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY explained that lower
than anticipated sales of the centennial plates resulted in
an overstock.
Vice-Chair Bunde questioned how close the program is to
being self-supporting. Ms. Hensley explained that it costs
approximately $7.09 dollars to reissue a set of plates.
There is a $5 dollar charge for the reissue. A general issue
plate costs the state $2.50 dollars. There are also added
costs for title registration and other administrative
functions.
Representative J. Davies asked if the amount would be enough
to issue dog-mushing license plates. Ms. Hensley noted that
the department is discussing a design with mushers.
MARK BADGER, DIRECTOR, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GROUP,
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION discussed the following six
projects. He observed that the use of technology addresses
the issue of better service to citizens. He noted that many
budget cuts have been resolved through smarter use of
technology.
Information Technology Literacy Project $175,000
Mr. Badger explained that this project would give all state
employees an opportunity for continuing education. The
University of Alaska pays half of the project's cost and
half is paid by the state. It leverages $4.5 million
dollars. Employees can receive training from their desks.
Bandwidth Increase $500,000
Mr. Badger emphasized that as more traffic flows over the
electronic highway, the roads need to be widened. Increasing
the bandwidth is a way to expand sections of the information
highway. There has been a steep increase in the number of
electronic transfers. This is a charge back operation and
rates are increased to cover costs.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that agencies were not able to
anticipate the increases. He asked if agencies considered
the bandwidth needed to run new systems. Mr. Badger stated
that the nature of technology is that many applications do
not fully disclose capacity requirements. There have been
unanticipated spikes. He added that the department is trying
to mitigate increasing costs. He stressed that the intent is
to prevent rates from becoming so high that they prohibit
usage.
Satellite Interconnection, Equipment Replacement and Repair
$150,000
Mr. Badger explained that the satellite interconnection is
the one system that reaches all sites in Alaska. He stated
that there are potholes in the satellite road. There is no
commercial outlet or radio system that reaches all 230
sites.
In response to a question by Vice-Chair Bunde, Mr. Badger
explained that the satellite roadway carries mostly
preschool and children's education programs during the day
and evening news items. The University of Alaska has its own
channel. The satellite is also used by Alaska One (statewide
television single), Alaska Two (Gavel to Gavel), Alaska
Three (distance education) and ARC's, public radio and
emergency communication.
Land Mobile Radio Conversion $615,000
Mr. Badger explained that there are new standards for
broadcasting from fire, emergency and police vehicles. Old
equipment needs to be replaced in order to communicate to
between vehicles. There is a federal mandate to replace all
public vehicles to a digital broadcast. This will allow the
coordination of services during emergencies. The cost of the
conversion is estimated at $20 million dollars. The request
would leverage federal funding. This funds a trunk or
conversion box.
Criminal Justice Integration Projects Analysis $200,000
Mr. Badger stated that this request would bring public
safety agencies together under the criminal justice
integration project. There are redundancies that would be
corrected by the project. It would assist on a statewide
basis to assure that what is purchased will work in Alaska's
satellite driven, rural environment.
Co-Chair Therriault asked if the entire process was set out
prior to the start of the project. Mr. Badger emphasized
that technology needs are constantly changing. The analysis
would be used to test assumptions before the system is
bought.
Representative J. Davies summarized that the request would
assure that the system is the most compatible. Mr. Badger
noted that Alaska's congressional delegation is interested
in helping Alaska to be a world player in information
technology. This is an authorization to spend money from the
Information Service Fund.
Information Service Fund Equipment Replacement $3,500,000
Mr. Badger noted that this request is an authorization to
spend money from the fund. The Department of Administration
is the central depository. The appropriation would buy
printers and replace failing hardware.
Bethel Courthouse Transfer $250,000
Ms. Barton explained that this appropriation was included in
the hopes that there would be space available in the Bethel
Courthouse.
Co-Chair Therriault asked if projects were ranked. Ms.
Barton stated that the projects were not ranked.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
TOM LAWSON, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT discussed
the projects under the Department of Commerce and Economic
Development.
Kodiak Launch Complex $5,000,000
Mr. Lawson noted that this request authorizes corporate
receipts. He explained that $5 million dollars are needed to
complete the project. Funding would come from the Alaska
Science and Technology Endowment Fund. Their grant is under
review. Final action is expected in June. No problems are
anticipated. Final construction is anticipated in the fall
of 1999.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that the House Finance Committee
has submitted legislation to authorize the transfer from
ASTF.
Salmon Marketing Trade Adjustment Assistance $5,000,000
Mr. Lawson noted that this is a federal grant to help market
salmon. There is a two step process. The Alaska Seafood
Marketing Institute (ASMI) is required to write a marketing
plan. The grant is expected in the next year.
Representative J. Davies asked if the total cost is $5
million dollars. Mr. Lawson clarified that it is the total
cost and no match is required.
Economic Development Matching Grant Program $200,000
Mr. Lawson noted that the program was created in 1980. It
has not been funded in the past two years. He emphasized
that the program would leverage over $9 million dollars from
a $1.3 million dollar investment. One state dollar leverages
over three non-state dollars. The request is for Alaska
Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA)
corporate receipts.
Co-Chair Therriault asked if the current program would
leverage three dollars for every state dollar. Mr. Lawson
noted that the grant would not go below a one-to-one match.
They attempt to achieve a three-to-one ratio. Grants are
used for economic development projects. Non-profits and
local governments are eligible.
Vice-chairs Bunde pointed out that AIDEA dollars are also
general funds.
EDA Annual Planning Grant $100,000
Mr. Lawson noted that the request matches federal dollars.
Grants focus on rural areas. He discussed past grants. The
current grant is working on rural exports. He noted that the
department would lose $200 thousand federal dollars in their
operating budget if the request is not authorized. The
grants have been funded through the capital budget.
(Tape Change, HFC 99 - 93, Side 2)
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS
Electrical Emergencies $366,100
PERCY FRISBY, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS noted that this request would
fund electrical emergencies from Rural Electric Revolving
Loan Fund (RERLF) receipts.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that the request is based on the
anticipated amount received to the fund. Mr. Percy stated
that there were two emergencies in FY 99 that cost $54,000
thousand dollars. In FY 98, there were seven emergencies
that cost $310,000 thousand dollars.
Representative Austerman clarified that funding is from the
Rural Electric Revolving Loan Fund program.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that the Fund is no longer being
utilized. Loan repayments are being spent on electrical
emergencies. Mr. Percy explained that the money accumulates
in the RERLF.
Rural Development Assistance Grants $800,000
PETER FREER, DIRECTOR, SOUTHEAST REGIONAL OFFICE, DEPARTMENT
OF COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS explained that the program
has not received state funding in the past several years.
The program has been funded through federal receipts. The
department has attempted to maintain the program, which was
previously funded with state dollars, through the use of
federal receipts from the United States Department of
Agriculture, U.S. Forest Services and Rural Development. The
department is limited in their use of federal funding due to
federal requirements that accompany the money.
Co-Chair Therriault pointed out that there is no restriction
on the use of municipal matching grants.
Bulk Fuel Storage Facility Upgrades $1,600,000
Mr. Percy observed that the funds would be from the 470
Fund. This request would be used to match federal dollars.
There is $5 million dollars in EPA funds.
Head Start Health and Safety Repairs $200,000
YVONNE CHASE, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF COMMUNITY AND RURAL
DEVELOPMENT, DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS
explained that the request is for health and safety repairs
to Head Start facilities around the state. The need for
repairs exceeds the request.
U.S. Forest Service Mini-Grants $200,000
This item was not discussed.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Grants $350,000
This item was not discussed.
Arctic Winter Games Team Alaska $75,000
TENA YOUNG, GRANTS ADMINISTRATOR, DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS explained that the total request is
$270 thousand dollars. They received $125 thousand dollars
in FY 99. The games occur every two years. The next games
occur in March 2000. The request of $75 thousand dollars
would help mitigate the cost of travel and uniforms.
Alaska Native Heritage Center $500,000
Ms. Young explained that the Center received a $500 thousand
dollar appropriation in the early 1990's. This item has not
received state funding since the first year. Three million
dollars is needed to complete the Center. The Center is
scheduled to open May 1, 1999.
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Maintenance, Renovation, Repair, Renewal and Replacement
$900,000
JOSEPH REEVES, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS explained that the
requests are prioritized by security, life safety, mission
support and others criteria. The maintenance request is
their highest priority. The department has identified $13
million dollars in deferred maintenance, $9.5 million
dollars in renewal and replacement and $8.5 million dollars
in renovation and remodeling that needs to occur over the
next five years to maintain their facilities for sustained
long-term operations.
Co-Chair Therriault clarified that the request does not
identified specific projects. Mr. Reeves noted that the
majority of their facilities are over 20 years old.
Unanticipated systems failures occur regularly. In response
to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, he stated that
projects that have been approved by the Office of Management
and Budget have made it through the legislature.
Criminal Justice Information System (OBSCIS) Replacement
$1,000,000
Mr. Reeves explained that this request would continue the
effort to convert systems to the criminal justice
information systems. They are requesting more federal funds.
Representative Austerman asked if the criminal justice
information system was tied to the Department of
Administration. Mr. Reeves replied that the Department of
Administration is the hub. The estimate completion date is
September 1999. The reporting system will have interface
capabilities for current criminal data base bookings, inmate
program development, tracking, and recording.
Equipment Replacement $250,000
Mr. Reeves stated that the request is for major kitchen
equipment. The equipment wears out rapidly. These funds
replace broken equipment. Four million meals a day are
cooked in Department of Corrections' kitchens.
Data Technical Support $300,000
Mr. Reeves observed that this money would support the
salaries of six or seven data specialist in the Department
of Administration.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Library - Repair Archives Building Foundation
$90,000
KAREN CRANE, DIRECTOR, LIBRARIES, ARCHIVES AND MUSEUMS,
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION explained that the building is
splitting apart. The building is behind the Goldbelt Hotel.
This appropriation would not permanently fix the problem.
The $90 thousand dollar request would provide interim
funding only. The front part of the building should
eventually be separated from the back of the building.
Library - Statewide Electronic Doorway $100,000
Ms. Crane provided information regarding the Statewide
Electronic Doorway (SLED) program. The University of Alaska
Fairbanks manages the program. The program offers access to
federal and state information. Most of the money would go
to Internet access. Email accounts are not offered. Part of
the funding goes to maintain a toll free phone help desk.
This is a reimbursable service agreement from the State
Library to the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
BIA School Sites Cleanup Planning $20,000
KAREN REHFELD, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION explained that this is a
new request to begin site redemption and cleanup at former
BIA school properties. There are sixty former BIA school
sites. Some of the sites are abandoned and becoming
hazardous to residents due to asbestos and other materials
left in the buildings. The request would be used to evaluate
two sites (Grayling and Nightmute) to determine the scope of
work needed.
Co-Chair Therriault asked if the buildings not in use are
boarded up. Ms. Rehfeld noted that many are still being
used. Sites that have been abandoned need to be demolished
and hazardous materials removed. The request would assess
the cost.
Vice-Chair Bunde questioned if there is a federal
responsibility for assistance. Ms. Rehfeld stated that there
are no assurances for federal assistance.
Representative Austerman questioned why the request is
contained in the capital budget.
Co-Chair Therriault pointed out that it is a one-time
request. Ms. Rehfeld explained that the Facilities Unit
within the Department of Education would manage the project.
AVTEC - Instructional Equipment Replacement $60,000
Ms. Rehfeld explained that this request would provide
computerized alignment machines, diagnostic equipment, gas
emissions analyzers required by the state for the automotive
inspection and certification program they offer.
Home Modifications for Individuals with Disabilities
$100,000
Ms. Rehfeld noted that this request is for housing
modifications for individuals with disabilities. The
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation manages this. The
modifications are for individuals with disabilities who are
participating in specific component plans.
Co-Chair Therriault asked for funding amounts in previous
years. Ms. Rehfeld noted that the program was funded at $100
thousand dollars.
Commission on Postsecondary Education-Equipment Replacement
$64,500
Ms. Rehfeld noted that this is for on going equipment
replacement.
Vice-Chair Bunde asked why the request is in the capital
budget. Ms. Rehfeld clarified that it would be corporate
receipts. The loan servicing system was has been upgraded
over several years.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
DAN EASTON, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF FACILITY CONSTRUCTION AND
OPERATION, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION provided
an overview of village safe water projects in the
department. He noted that the capital budget request is
different from previous requests. The match ratio has
changed. More federal funds are captured with fewer state
funds. The request includes approximately $6.6 million
dollars less state funds and $10.6 million in additional
federal funds and another $10 million in federal funds that
that are captured with matching funds outside of the
department. The additional $10 million dollars goes directly
to communities. The United States Department of Agriculture
funding comes as a pass through to communities. Specific
projects are contained in HB 52.
(Tape Change, HFC 99 -94, Side 1)
Representative J. Davies asked how project management is
done. Mr. Easton noted that the projects are managed in the
same manner. The funding for management is included as a
non-general fund appropriation.
Co-Chair Therriault asked where federal funds are noted. Mr.
Easton explained that the Village Safe Water Project
Administration $2,081,700 appropriation contained on page 6
pays for engineers and the administration of the program.
These funds are transferred to the operating budget. The
second appropriation is the Village Safe Water Feasibility
Studies. These are a combination of Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and state funding. Village safe water projects
funded through EPA begin on the bottom of page 7.
Co-Chair Therriault asked if projects are ranked. Mr. Easton
clarified that the projects are ranked. When projects are
placed in the capital budget legislation they are grouped by
funding source.
Representative Foster noted the number of feasibility
studies and master design projects. He asked if they are
done by the department. Mr. Easton explained that the
majority of projects are handled through contracts.
Representative Foster observed that the projects vary in
cost. Mr. Easton explained that the studies identify
alternatives, options, and costs. They lay the basis for the
project and are a critical first step.
In response to a question by Representative Austerman, Mr.
Easton explained that the administrative cost funds 21
positions. The funds are transferred from the capital budget
to the operating budget.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that the positions would be
eliminated when the funding is finished.
Representative Austerman asked if AHFC receipts are normally
used to fund these positions in the capital budget.
Vice-Chair Bunde asked if there are local hire concerns. Mr.
Easton noted that the vast majority is locally hired. Of
every dollar .70 percent is spent in urban Alaskan centers.
Thirty cents are spent in local communities for labor.
Vice-Chair Bunde asked if a local match is encouraged or
required. Mr. Easton stated that community contribution is
an integral part of the program. Communities operate and
maintain the systems. It costs more money to provide
drinking water to small communities on a per capita basis.
He added that off road communities have higher costs. Local
communities also contribute land and equipment. There is not
a specific requirement for a local match.
Vice-Chair Bunde noted that the responsibility lies with the
state if the local community fails to maintain operational
expenses. Mr. Easton replied observed that if something
breaks down the responsibility lies with the community.
There is a state program to assist communities.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Mulder, Mr. Easton
reviewed the appropriations. He noted that there is $1.8
million non-general fund dollars (AHFC) in Village Safe
Water Project Administration, in Village Safe Water Studies
there is $1.4 million in state dollars and $2.8 federal
dollars. There is $10.4 million in state dollars for EPA
matched projects and $20.7 in federal dollars. There is $6.6
million in state dollars and $20 million federal dollars in
USDA projects to communities. In the Municipal Water Sewer
Matching Grant Program there is $13.7 million in state
dollars and $4.5 federal dollars.
Representative J. Davies clarified federal funds are part of
the other funds. Mr. Easton observed that funding comes from
the USDA and the EPA.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, Mr. Easton
explained that the department receives more applications
than can be funded. The funding level is set by what is
available in federal funding and the state match that would
be required. The list has moved largely intact.
Representative J. Davies observed that the direct grant to
municipalities is $20 million in federal dollars.
Co-Chair Therriault noted that some water systems were over
built. He asked if an eye is being kept on maintenance and
operations. Mr. Easton stated that the department makes sure
that the communities understand that they will be
responsible for operation and maintenance of projects.
In response to a question by Representative Foster, Mr.
Easton noted that 65 percent of households in rural Alaska
have basic water and sewer. By 2003 83 percent of Alaskan
households will have access to water and sewer. The last 10
percent will be harder than the first 10 percent.
Representative J. Davies observed that local people are
being involved in the construction of systems.
Anchorage Allocation $1,500,000
Mr. Easton noted that the Anchorage allocation includes
several projects. Anchorage has tremendous water and sewer
needs. A decision was made to appropriate to Anchorage
without a competitive process. There are no other special
allocations. Anchorage provides a 50 percent match. Co-Chair
Therriault, Mr. Easton clarified that everything other than
Fairbanks is from the priority list. He observed that
Fairbanks has some private utilities.
Kodiak Island Borough Waste Management Implementation
$743,000
Mr. Easton explained that this project would be funded with
EVOSS funds.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Assumption
$125,000
MICHAEL A. CONWAY, DIVISION OF AIR AND WATER QUALITY,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION discussed air
quality requests. This project would implement state
assumption of aspects of the federal National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Co-Chair Therriault explained that it is a one time expense.
In response to a question by Representative J. Davies, Mr.
Conway responded that the percentage of the cost paid
through the permitting and the gain to the public needs to
be determined. Mr. Conway noted that EPA could continue to
do some aspects.
Fine Particulate Monitoring $494,500
Mr. Conway observed that the request is for the second year
of a five-year federally funded project. The Environmental
Projection Agency is looking to the state to define the
standard in Alaska. Monitors cover the major population
areas. The EPA is working to enter areas with smaller
populations. There is no requirement for state general
funds.
Upgrade, Private Underground Storage Tanks $5,000,000
LARRY DIETRICK, PROGRAM, MANAGER, PREVENTION AND EMERGEINCY
RESPONSE PROGRAM, DIVISION OF SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION noted that the
funding source is the Storage Tank Assistance Fund. There
would be 49 upgrades, 127 closures and 32 cleanups at
priority sites. The program would be completed and
terminated on June 30, 2000.
Upgrade, State-Owned Underground Storage Tanks
$2,500,000
Mr. Dietrick explained that this request applies to state
owned tanks that are out of compliance.
(Tape Change, HFC 99 - 94, Side 2)
Mr. Dietrick noted that there are 45 tanks that will be
closed and 39 that would be closed.
Representative Austerman observed that the Alaska Civil Air
Patrol has received several pieces of property with storage
tank problems. Mr. Dietrick did not know if they were on the
list, as state owned tanks.
Representative Austerman and Representative G. Davis felt
that the Alaska Civil Air Patrol should be considered under
state owned operations.
Statewide Contaminated Cleanup $5,000,000
Mr. Dietrick noted that this would be funded from the Oil
and Gas Hazardous Substance Response Fund. These projects
are the highest-ranking contaminated sites in the state.
There would be 6 private and 10 state owned sites, 11 state
owned sites with underground leaking sites that are taken
out of service in FY00.
In response to a question by Representative G. Davis, Mr.
Dietrick explained that when another state agency has a site
the funding is transferred as a RSA.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault Mr.
Dietrick noted that this item was funded at $1.5 million
dollars in FY99.
Upgrade of State-Owned Aboveground Storage Tanks
$1,200,000
Mr. Dietrick noted that this request would carry out
upgrades on above ground tanks. The estimated cost for FY01
would be $1 million dollars. After FY01, a federal funding
source would kick in. Federal funding is being sought. This
is the first year the department has sought funds. The
Department of Community and Regional Affairs had a related
appropriation for the past two years.
Co-Chair Therriault asked why federal funding would not be
increased until the out years. Mr. Dietrick explained that
federal funding has not been locked in.
Representative Austerman clarified that funding would be
through the Oil and Hazardous Waste Fund.
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
Statewide Facilities Deferred Maintenance $400,000
KEVIN BROOKS, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME explained that this is the
department's number one priority. There are about $3 million
dollars of deferred maintenance projects.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, Mr. Brooks
clarified that the projects are listed alphabetically.
Vessel and Aircraft Maintenance and Repair $200,000
Mr. Brooks spoke to the component. This would be used to
address life and safety issues. Co-Chair Therriault asked if
there had been a standard amount over the years. Mr. Brooks
replied that this component had been appropriated at
approximately $400 thousand dollars. This would be a minimal
amount needed to address critical needs.
Representative J. Davies asked if these are major repair
items. Mr. Brooks replied that they are. These are major
overhauls.
Upper Cook Inlet Salmon Research $500,000
Mr. Brooks acknowledged that this item be placed in the
operational category. This project received 470 funds three
years. The funding will run out on June 30, 1999. The
request is needed to complete the work. Two hundred and
fifty thousand of the amount would be from commercial
fisheries.
In response to Representative J. Davies, Mr. Brooks stated
that the Department is concerned with the sockeye run in
Cook Inlet. The Department is trying to disentangle the
stock.
Dock Repair, Maintenance and Replacement $375,000
Mr. Brooks stated that this component is tied to statewide
facilities. Two docks have been identified that are in need
of repair. The Department of Fish and Game and the
Department of Public Safety use King Salmon as a staging
point. The amount was too big to address in the regular
deferred maintenance budget.
Southeast Region Vessel Facility $1,378,200
Mr. Brooks stated that this project has been before the
legislature for the past several years. The state agencies
have to vacate the sub-port building. Space has been
identified for a metal frame building to be use for vessel
repairs and other functions. There has been an eviction
notice to get out of the facility. Co-Chair Therriault asked
if it was an actual eviction notice or ask for paying the
full rent. Mr. Brooks understood that there is a one year
extension. The eviction has been forestalled for several
years.
Kachemak Bay Research Reserve Facilities and Operations
$1,385,700
Mr. Brooks explained that the project would receive $1.3
million dollars in federal funds and $85.7 thousand dollars
in state match. This is a phased project. The initial
appropriation is for a facility design and initial
construction.
In response to a comments by Representative G. Davis, Mr.
Brooks stated that it is not the department's intent to
request additional state dollars. It would have to be funded
through federal dollars.
In response to a question by Representative Austerman, Mr.
Brooks explained that the project is part of the National
Research Reserve Program and would be dedicated to longterm
research and education. He noted that three positions in
their operating budget would be federally funded.
Co-Chair Therriault observed that additional federal funding
is expected in subsequent years.
Representative J. Davies asked if there is a federal
research facility in Homer. Mr. Brook was unaware of any
related projects in Homer. The cities of Homer and Seldovia
support the project.
Representative J. Davies asked if the facility is related to
a University of Alaska. Mr. Brooks did not know the answer.
Nearshore Fisheries Stock Assessment and Research
$1,200,000
Mr. Brooks noted that the request is for federal receipt
authority for developing fisheries and under utilized
stocks. They anticipate a three-year project.
Representative Williams questioned how it would affect
urchin fisheries. Mr. Brooks was not sure of a connection to
the urchin fisheries.
Representative J. Davies clarified that the $1.2 million
dollars would be spread over three years.
Sport Fish and Recreational Boating Access and Facility Dev.
$2,700,000
Mr. Brooks noted that the request is for a sport fish
project that would receive federal aid dollars derived from
an excise tax on fishing tackle and bulk fuel sales. There
is a 15 percent set a side for access projects. The Division
has a list of the projects.
Representative J. Davies asked if the funds could be used
for the acquisition of a landing site. Mr. Brooks answered
that they could use the funds for acquisition of landing
sites.
In response to a question by Co-Chair Therriault, Mr. Brooks
noted that they work cooperatively with the Division of
Parks.
In response to a question by Representative Austerman, Mr.
Brooks stated that there is no requirement to set aside
funding for habitat restoration or protection. The Divisions
of Sport Fish and Habitat work cooperative within the
department.
Western Alaska Salmon Disaster $7,000,000
Mr. Brooks noted that the request is in response to fishing
failures. The intent is to address long term problems with
the stocks. The funding is one-time but would be spread out
over multiple years. This is an amendment to the Governor's
request.
Recreational Boat Sewage Pumpout Facility Development
$500,000
Mr. Brooks explained that the project would receive a one-
time $500 thousand dollars federal appropriation for sewage
pumpout facilities. There is a required 25 percent match. In
kind match from municipalities could be used. It would not
require general funds.
Transient Boat Moorage Development $500,000
Mr. Brooks noted this project is also a one-time federal
appropriation. Boat moorage facilities would be placed
intervals for one-day journeys. They would be designed to
require very little maintenance. The department would work
with local operators for pumpout facilities. Local operators
could charge moorage fees to cover their costs.
Anchorage Urban Fisheries Public Access Development
$150,000
Mr. Brooks explained that this request would be paid from
federal sport fish funds. This would provide facilities for
increased usage. This project is geared toward walk-up
fisheries.
(Tape Change, HFC 99 - 95, Side 1)
Port Graham Hatchery Reconstruction $750,000
Mr. Brooks explained that EVOSS funds would be used to
repair damages from fire. It is not a state facility. The
hatchery enhances pink, sockeye and coho salmon. It benefits
both local subsistence and commercial fisheries.
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Projects
$500,000
DANA LATOUR, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ELECTIONS, OFFICE OF THE
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR explained that request would continue
work required to comply with American with Disabilities
projects. The Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities compiled the list.
AccuVote System $310,900
Ms. LaTour explained that the project is for the second year
lease payment of a six-year project. The project was
approved for FY99. The project had a total cost of $2
million dollars. The project cost was less than anticipated.
The balance from FY99 of $77 thousand dollars was applied to
the second year lease payment.
In response to a question by Representative Austerman, Ms.
LaTour explained that the equipment was bought on a lease
purchase. Precinct tabulators are in 275 of the state's 463
precincts. There is legislation pending to purchase
tabulators for the remaining precincts.
HB 52 was HELD in Committee for further consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 4:58 p.m.
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