Legislature(1993 - 1994)
02/10/1994 08:00 AM House STA
| Audio | Topic |
|---|
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
February 10, 1994
8:00 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Al Vezey, Chairman
Representative Pete Kott, Vice Chairman
Representative Bettye Davis
Representative Gary Davis
Representative Harley Olberg
Representative Jerry Sanders
Representative Fran Ulmer
MEMBERS ABSENT
None
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
*HCR 29: Relating to the military operations
areas environmental impact statement
of the United States Air Force.
*HCR 30: Relating to the twenty-sixth annual
Girls' State.
*HB 395: "An Act relating to retirement benefits
for the administrative director of courts;
and providing for an effective date."
*HB 411: "An Act relating to the art in public places
requirements for state-owned and state-leased
buildings and facilities."
(* First public hearing)
WITNESS REGISTER
COLONEL RICHARD HASSEN
ALCOM-J4
5800 6th Street, Ste 203
Elmendorf AFB, AK 99506-2150
Position Statement: Testified in support of HCR 29
PAULA DITTON, Staff
Representative Gail Phillips
Alaska State Capitol, Room 216
Juneau, AK 99811
Phone: 465-2689
Position Statement: Testified in support of HCR 30
BOB STALNAKER, DIRECTOR
Division of Retirement and Benefits
Department of Administration
P.O. Box 110203
Juneau, AK 99811
Phone: 465-4471
Position Statement: Answered questions on HB 395
TIM WILSON, Executive Director
Alaska State Arts Council
411 W. 4th Ave. Suite 1E
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 279-1558
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
PATRICIA WOLF, Director
Anchorage Museum
121 W. 7th Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 343-4326
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
ALDONA JOHAITI, Director
University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum
907 Yukon Dr.
Fairbanks, AK 99775
Phone: 474-6939
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JANEL THOMPSON, Director
Alaska Arts Association
P.O. Box 72786
Fairbanks, AK 99707
Phone: 456-6485
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
KATHLEEN BERNTSON
1260 Sayles St.
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-2944
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
MARGARET ORTIZ
3204 S. Tongass Hwy.
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-6321
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JOAN JACKSON, Board Member
Alaska State Council on the Arts
P.O. Box 374
Cordova, AK 99574
Phone: 424-7591
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
GAIL PARSONS
P.O. Box 2397
Homer, AK 99603
Phone: 235-3978
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
RICHARD "TOBY" TYLER
P.O. Box 1281
Homer, AK 99603
Phone: Not given
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
SANDY STOLLE
P.O. Box 2363
Seward, AK 99664
Phone: 224-5857
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
MICHAEL OLSON
P.O. Box 2152
Seward, AK 99664
Phone: 224-7161
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JOAN NUGENT
P.O. Box 8141
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-4350
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
MOLLY JONES, Manager
Anchorage One Percent For Art Project
121 W. 7th Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 343-6473
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JOCELYN YOUNG, Director
Arts and Education Program
Alaska State Council on the Arts
715 L St. Suite 6
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 276-8844
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JOAN CAHILL, Representing
Sealaska Heritage Foundation AND
NAA Kahidi Theater
One Sealaska Plaza
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: 586-9262
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
NATALEE ROTHAUS, Executive Director
Juneau Arts and Humanities Council
P.O. Box 20562
Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 586-2787
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
BARBARA SHORT, Coordinator
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
Chair, Alliance of Arts in Education
253 Hawk Rd.
Fairbanks, AK 99712
Phone: 457-1299
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
WANDA CHIN
P.O. Box 82148
Fairbanks, AK 99708
Phone: 474-0131
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
VICTORIA LORD, Executive Director
Ketchikan Arts and Humanities Council
P.O. Box 7342
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 247-8617
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
RAY TROLL
P.O. Box 8874
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-5954
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
LYNN NADEN, Board Member
Homer Council on the Arts
P.O. Box 2776
Homer, AK 99603
Phone: 235-5966
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
JIMMIE WILES
P.O. Box 734
Homer, AK 99603
Phone: 235-3492
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
IRA PERMAN
1041 W. 23rd Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: 272-8938
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
PAT PETRIVELLI, Executive Director
Institute of Alaska Native Arts
P.O. Box 70769
Fairbanks, AK 99707
Phone: 456-7491
Position Statement: Opposed HB 411
PREVIOUS ACTION
BILL: HCR 29
SHORT TITLE: COMMEND AIR FORCE: ENVIR IMPACT STATEMENT
SPONSOR(S): REPRESENTATIVE(S) JAMES,Vezey
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
01/24/94 2137 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
01/24/94 2137 (H) STATE AFFAIRS
02/10/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
BILL: HCR 30
SHORT TITLE: TWENTY-SIXTH ANNUAL GIRLS STATE
SPONSOR(S): REPRESENTATIVE(S)
PHILLIPS,Ulmer,Grussendorf,Navarre
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
02/02/94 2217 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
02/02/94 2217 (H) STATE AFFAIRS
02/10/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
BILL: HB 395
SHORT TITLE: COURT ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR IN PERS
SPONSOR(S): REPRESENTATIVE(S) VEZEY
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
01/24/94 2137 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
01/24/94 2137 (H) STATE AFFAIRS, JUDICIARY
02/10/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
BILL: HB 411
SHORT TITLE: REPEAL ART IN PUBLIC PLACES REQUIREMENT
SPONSOR(S): REPRESENTATIVE(S) VEZEY
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
01/20/93 (H) MINUTE(RES)
01/28/94 2177 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
01/28/94 2177 (H) STATE AFFAIRS, FINANCE
02/10/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
ACTION NARRATIVE
TAPE 94-10, SIDE A
Number 000
CHAIR Al VEZEY called the meeting to order 8:01 a.m.
REPRESENTATIVES KOTT, B. DAVIS, G. DAVIS, H. OLBERG, and J.
SANDERS were announced present. REPRESENTATIVE ULMER joined
the meeting at 8:02 a.m. CHAIR VEZEY, co-sponsor of HCR 29
with REPRESENTATIVE JEANNETTE JAMES, deferred the customary
sponsor statement and began testimony on HCR 29.
Number 044
HCR 29 COMMEND AIR FORCE: ENVIR IMPACT STATEMENT
COLONEL RICHARD HASSEN, ALCOM, ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE,
testified by offnet teleconference in favor of HCR 29. He
stated the Air Force's approach is to gain approval for the
necessary training areas that are essential to their mission
in Alaska, but the overall goal is to seek a balance between
necessary training and respect for the environment. To
illustrate how they seek this balance, COLONEL HASSAN spoke
about the Air Force Military Operations Area Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS) process. He said last year the Air
Force announced their intent to prepare an EIS with proposed
adjustments to military air space in Alaska. The purpose of
the EIS was to analyze potential environmental impacts on
these proposed changes in accordance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). COLONEL HASSAN stressed
that from the beginning of the EIS effort the Air Force has
sought maximum participation from the Alaskan public by
holding meetings in locations throughout the state. The
input gathered will be considered and addressed in the EIS
and will become a part of the Environmental Impact Statement
analysis.
COLONEL HASSEN mentioned four significant points about the
Air Force Military Operations Area EIS: 1) the changes are
only proposed, the Air Force is more than a year away from
any decisions; 2) the proposal is not expected to increase
the overall firing military activity in Alaska; 3) the
proposal will not change the public's existing right to
access any air space; and 4) the Air Force is serious about
public involvement. He said several adjustments have
already been incorporated into the original proposal because
of issues raised by concerned Alaskans. The draft EIS is
scheduled to be released this coming summer.
Number 136
CHAIR VEZEY asked COLONEL HASSAN to characterize the safety
aspects of the proposal.
Number 149
COLONEL HASSEN noted there are two very significant
outcomes. First, the Air Force believes that turning
temporary military operations areas into permanent military
operations air space is simply a terminology change as far
as the FAA and most citizens are concerned. He said a
significant sidelight is, when changing temporary to
permanent air space, that air space then becomes charted on
air space maps, which are available to all pilots. He
further stated that when air space is charted, it acts as an
additional advisory so people know where the Air Force is
allowed to train. Secondly, the Air Force believes that
over $1 million can be saved by not having to obtain
approval from the FAA for temporary air space. He gave an
example of how the Air Force requested approval for the same
space nine times over the last three years.
Number 185
REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS asked CHAIR VEZEY to affirm that HCR
29 is a letter of support for this action to take place and
asked if the actual change had to be done at the federal
level.
Number 192
CHAIR VEZEY told REPESENTATIVE B. DAVIS she was correct. He
added HCR 29 commends the Air Force for the open nature of
the EIS in support of a change in the federal declaration of
Alaskan airspace.
Number 199
REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS asked if there were any current
bills in Congress which HCR 29 could be tied to.
Number 201
CHAIR VEZEY did not believe so.
Number 203
COLONEL HASSEN was not aware of any bills. He noted that
the Air Force operates under and received guidance for
preparing the EIS from NEPA. COLONEL HASSAN pointed out
that the Air Force elected to proceed with the full EIS
approach in order to get the up-front, whole public
environment in their proposal, and going through the EIS
process provided this opportunity for public particpation.
CHAIR VEZEY asked for a recommendation from the committee.
Number 229
REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS moved that HCR 29 be passed out of
committee with individual recommendations.
Number 231
CHAIR VEZEY recognized REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS' motion. The
committee secretary called the roll and HCR 29 passed
unanimously from the House State Affairs Committee with
individual recommendations. HCR 29 will proceed to the
House Rules Committee.
HCR 30 - TWENTY-SIXTH ANNUAL GIRLS STATE
Number 256
CHAIR VEZEY opened discussion on HCR 30.
Number 265
PAULA DITTON, representing sponsor REPRESENTATIVE GAIL
PHILLIPS, read the following sponsor statement:
"House Concurrent Resolution 30 salutes the participants in
the 26th Annual Girls' State Program, to be held June 10-17
at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The resolution
salutes the sponsors, the American Legion Auxiliary and
recognizes government officials and agencies, including our
own Legislative Affairs Agency, as well as private
individuals and organizations who support and participate in
the program.
"I strongly support Girls' State as an exercise of youth
citizenship where delegates from all over the state learn
the duties of the various offices connected with city,
borough and state government.
"House Concurrent Resolution 30 has a zero fiscal note
attached."
Number 282
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT asked if HCR 30 was the same resolution
as was presented in 1993.
Number 285
MS. DITTON stated HCR 30 was the same.
CHAIR VEZEY clarified that last year was the 25th Annual
Girls' State.
Number 293
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT moved to pass HCR 30 out of committee
unanimously.
Number 304
CHAIR VEZEY recognized REPRESENTATIVE KOTT's motion. The
committee secretary called the roll and HCR 30 passed from
the House State Affairs Committee with unanimous "do pass"
recommendation.
HB 395 - COURT ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR IN PERS
Number 314
CHAIR VEZEY recognized himself as the sponsor of HB 395, and
turned the gavel over to VICE CHAIRMAN PETE KOTT.
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY began with, "This bill says that in the
future when the court system hires an administrative
director, if that person is hired after the effective date
of this legislation, that person will not have the option of
participating in the judicial retirement system." He
explained the reason the bill is so lengthy is to keep the
clarification in the statutes that there is indeed, or has
been in the past, an administrator of the Alaska Court
System that has been in the Judicial Retirement System.
Therefore, when the administration changes, there would be
continuity in the administration of the benefits.
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY said the Judicial Retirement System is
certainly the most generous retirement system, with the
state of Alaska paying 50.2 percent of an employees' salary,
on an annual basis, toward retirement benefits. He stated
the administrator of the Alaska Court System is the only
public employee of the state of Alaska, other than a judge
or a justice, who is allowed to participate in this system.
He explained that benefactors in this system receive a five
percent per year credit toward the retirement of their
salary, with a maximum of 15 years or 75 percent. This
retirement benefit is adjusted for every pay increase that
future employees in that position receive, with inflation
adjusted. He compared this with an employee in the PERS
system, who would receive after 30 years, approximately 66
percent of their salary retirement. He stated there were a
lot of inequities between the way this employee is treated
and other employees in the court system and the state of
Alaska. He felt this was an issue of equity and treating
our state employees in an equitable manner and was not the
kind of statute we should have especially, when the state is
in a budget cutting mode.
Number 377
REPRESENTATIVE HARLEY OLBERG inquired why REPRESENTATIVE
VEZEY restrained from changing the entire system, and asked
if he intended to do so in the future.
Number 387
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY replied the Senate currently has a bill
which evaluates the state's retirement system and that is
probably the primary reason why he has not worked on
proposing an overhaul of the state's retirement system. He
said the Judicial Retirement System, compared to the Public
Employees Retirement System and the Teachers Retirement
System, is a modestly small program. He suggested if
revisions are made to pension programs, that it be done as a
total package.
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY recognized there are reasons for having
a special retirement program for the Judiciary. At one
time, members of our Judiciary were members of the Public
Employees Retirement System.
Number 410
REPRESENTATIVE JERRY SANDERS liked the idea of HB 395, but
wondered if it was not scrutinizing one individual for a cut
and if there was a benefit to the state.
Number 415
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY reiterated that HB 395 did not single
out one individual, because under the current interpretation
of Alaska's Constitution, a person's retirement system
cannot be changed once they're employed. REPRESENTATIVE
VEZEY pointed out there is some legal argument to that, but
that is the legal guideline the state is operating under.
HB 395 says that future employees in this position would not
be brought into this program.
REPRESENTATIVE SANDERS reaffirmed HB 395 only applies to one
position.
Number 427
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY emphasized there may be severe
constitutionality questions if HB 395 applied to one person,
but at this time, the consensus is that since it applies to
a position and more than one person could fill that
position, it is constitutional.
REPRESENTATIVE OLBERG asked REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY if it has
been deemed unconstitutional to change a person's retirement
benefits after being employed.
Number 438
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY replied that was the definition of a
couple of court decisions he had read.
Number 444
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT introduced BOB STALNAKER as the next
witness.
Number 445
BOB STALNAKER, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF RETIREMENT & BENEFITS,
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, stated his department has a
neutral opinion of HB 395.
Number 450
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT asked for further questions.
Number 468
REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS asked, if a new person is hired as
administrator for the court system, would that person be
hired under the Supervisors PERS System?
Number 473
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY stated HB 395 would eliminate the
current administrative director's option to opt out of PERS
and go into the Judicial Retirement System.
Number 479
REPRESENTATIVE OLBERG moved that HB 395 be moved out of
committee with individual recommendations and unanimous
consent.
Number 481
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT recognized REPRESENTATIVE OLBERG's motion
and moved HB 395 out of the House State Affairs Committee
with individual recommendations.
Number 498
HB 411 - REPEAL ART IN PUBLIC PLACES REQUIREMENT
Recognizing CHAIR VEZEY as prime sponsor of HB 411, VICE
CHAIRMAN KOTT retained the gavel. He opened HB 411 for
discussion.
Number 500
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY said HB 411 removes the mandate that
one percent of the funding for state-owned or leased
facilities go to the arts council for the procurement of
art. HB 411 does not prohibit the procurement of art, but
it does allow the state greater flexibility to administer
capital improvement funds.
Number 516
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT opened teleconference sites for
testimony, beginning with Anchorage.
Number 519
TIM WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA STATE COUNCIL OF THE
ARTS, testified in opposition to HB 411. (A copy of his
written testimony is on file). He said currently there are
over 100 "Percent for Art" programs across the nation,
operated by the federal government, 29 states and numerous
cities. Anchorage is the only city in Alaska to operate a
municipal program, and it is managed by a full-time position
at the Anchorage Museum of History and Art.
MR. WILSON further stated that at the state level, the
Percent for Art program operates without a direct
administrative expense and every dollar spent in the program
goes directly to the art project. The program has no staff;
responsibility for compliance is that of the department
constructing the building or facility. He stated HB 411
would have a negative effect on the public and the artists,
but the biggest public impact of HB 411 would be on Alaska's
schools and children. In FY 93, every project in the
Percent for Art program was in either a school or university
building. He emphasized that the current fiscal impact
would be zero with the passage of this bill because all the
projects are already obliged under the FY 94 budget.
REPRESENTATIVE ULMER asked how many states operate a Percent
for Art programs.
MR. WILSON replied 29.
Number 573
PATRICIA WOLF, DIRECTOR, ANCHORAGE MUSEUM, testified in
opposition to HB 411. She stated the art acquired from the
Percent for Art programs has been successful in improving
the aesthetic environment of Alaska. She said the One
Percent for Art program established in 1978 by the
Municipality of Anchorage and administered by the Anchorage
Museum has provided art for more than 70 municipal
buildings, 47 schools, as well as facilities used by
residents and tourists. She stressed that children are
inspired by artistic projects in school. Art enhances the
children's learning environment by giving them daily contact
with art work with which they can identify.
MS. WOLF stated she understood the concern for fiscal
responsibility, but the money that would be saved by
eliminating the Percent for Art program is based on a
cyclical nature of construction budgets available to state
agencies and local governments, and is minimal. She
suggested the program be improved by more effective
administration instead of eliminated. She offered the
assistance of those involved in Anchorage's Percent for Art
program.
Number 615
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Fairbanks teleconference
site.
Number 615
ALDONA JOHAITI, DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS
MUSEUM, testified that art exemplifies Alaska's lifestyle,
enhances a person's environment and makes a significant
statement about what we value; what we think is important.
She emphasized that the Percent for Art program enhances
Alaska has a tourist destination. She said she is opposed
to HB 411.
Number 642
JANEL THOMPSON, DIRECTOR, FAIRBANKS ARTS ASSOCIATION,
testified in opposition of HB 411. She said the association
presents an artist in schools program each year, which
allows them to go into the schools and see how art in the
schools really affects the children. She commented that the
art in public places program provides a better environment
for individuals who are otherwise deprived of art work.
Number 659
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Ketchikan teleconference
site.
Number 664
KATE BERNTSON, a watercolor artist and graphic designer,
testified in opposition to HB 411. (Her written testimony
is on file). She mentioned that some of the finest works of
art in Ketchikan are located in the public health center and
the schools, giving the Alaskan children an opportunity to
grow up with the knowledge and expectation that art is an
important quality of life. She stated that her experience
in creating art work for two public buildings in Ketchikan
provided her with employment, stimulated the local economy,
and provided a piece of artwork that tells the story of the
community.
Number 679
MARGARET ORTIZ testified in opposition to HB 411. She
explained that people in most small communities are deprived
of artwork and greatly benefit from the art in public places
program. Communities do have a need for art to enhance
their quality of life and the education of our young people.
She requested the committee not eliminate the Percent for
Art program.
TAPE 94-10, SIDE B
Number 000
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Cordova teleconference site.
JOAN JACKSON, BOARD MEMBER, ALASKA STATE COUNCIL ON THE
ARTS, testified in opposition to HB 411. She said the
Percent for Art program provides a means of background and
history which is immediately visible to visitors. Without
Percent for Art, building owners may tend to opt out of
artistic projects in their buildings. MS. JACKSON suggested
the State Arts Council be allowed the opportunity to revamp
the program instead of using HB 411 to delete it. She also
suggested the one percent be reduced to half of one percent
if HB 411 was proposed to save money.
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Homer teleconference site.
GAIL PARSONS testified in opposition to HB 411. She
emphasized the importance of art, especially in Alaska. She
noted that without the One Percent for Art program, our
children would be shortchanged. She urged the committee to
"reconsider the bill and instead of repealing the One
Percent For Art; support it in the interest of a better
educated, healthier, more beautiful Alaska."
Number 123
RICHARD "TOBY" TYLER testified in opposition to HB 411. He
expressed his support of MS. JACKSON's testimony. MR. TYLER
said to the best of knowledge the local college in Homer was
the only building in his area that housed Percent for Art
work, but the addition of art made the building more
attractive. He mentioned, while most of the art in Homer is
donated, most places in Alaska do not have this benefit.
Number 156
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Seward teleconference site.
Number 161
SANDY STOLLE testified in opposition to HB 411. She
remarked that her participation in the One Percent for Art
program had allowed her personal growth, as well as the
opportunity to work on a much larger scale. She pointed out
the educational benefits included in the program; e.g., when
the artist goes into a school to do a piece of artwork, they
normally give a lecture that goes along with the artwork.
MS. STOLLE spoke of a prison project which required the
inmates to participate in the fabrication of the art piece.
Once the project was completed the inmates continued to work
on various projects that enhanced the community.
MICHAEL OLSON testified in opposition to HB 411. He agreed
art is a quality of life issue and it should be enhanced.
Seward does not have any One Percent for Art in their
schools. He remarked that artwork in public places has a
positive impact on tourism and suggested a revamping of the
program and a fulltime administrator on the state level to
manage the program.
Number 241
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Ketchikan teleconference
site.
JOAN NUGENT testified in opposition to HB 411. She shared
her experience of working on the One Percent for Art project
at the health center in Ketchikan. She said while the
budget was small, the art selected changed the facility from
a nice, but sterile building to a warm, welcoming building.
MS. NUGENT commented that the aesthetics of a community
influence where people go to vacation. She emphasized that
artists are residents of the state; they are a labor force
and an industry that is deserving of public support. She
maintained that removing the mandate would eliminate the One
Percent for Art program.
Number 308
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Anchorage teleconference
site.
MOLLY JONES, MANAGER, ANCHORAGE ONE PERCENT FOR ART PROJECT,
testified in opposition to HB 411. She stated the activity
of Anchorage's One Percent for Art program has gone up and
down with the economy, but Anchorage now has art located in
more than 70 buildings, including neighborhood recreation
centers, parking garages, swimming pools, utility buildings,
senior centers and 47 schools. More than 400 people have
served as volunteers on the art selection juries that have
chosen the works of art. She observed there has been very
little vandalism, which she believes is a testament to the
respect the public has for art in public places. She
offered, from an historical point, that Alaska was one of
the first states in the nation to have mandatory Percent for
Art legislation; now more than half of the states have such
laws.
Number 357
JOCELYN YOUNG, DIRECTOR, ARTS & EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR THE
ALASKA STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS, testified in opposition to
HB 411. She stated since 1982 she has coordinated many art
in schools residency programs where artists go into a
community and share their ideas and arts with students,
interacting in a very personal way. She affirmed that this
interaction has a strong impact on the artists' work, as
well as on the students. MS. YOUNG offered several examples
of how the Percent for Arts program has impacted rural
schools in Alaska.
Number 391
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved back to Juneau for testimony.
Number 397
JOAN CAHILL, representing the NAA KAHIDI THEATER and
SEALASKA HERITAGE FOUNDATION, testified in opposition to HB
411. (A copy of her written testimony is on file). She
believes "artistic expression is one of the few distinctive
factors that characterize human beings from all other life
forms." She considers artwork to be as important to
buildings as "bricks, glass, and concrete." Art in public
places "lends value, longevity, and pride in the buildings
we create."
Number 430
NATALEE ROTHAUS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JUNEAU ARTS &
HUMANITIES COUNCIL, testified in opposition to HB 411. She
stated the purpose of the percent for art program is to
"foster culture and the arts, and for the viable development
of its artists and craftsmen." She pointed out that in FY
93 every project was either in a school or a university
building. The result of these programs have improved the
environment of public buildings and made art accessible on a
daily basis to people from all walks of life. It has also
given artists work, support, and a place to display their
work. She further stated the Juneau Arts & Humanities
Council believes that public officials have a responsibility
to enhance the quality of life in Alaska.
Number 452
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Fairbanks teleconference
site.
BARBARA SHORT, ART COORDINATOR, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH
SCHOOL DISTRICT and CHAIR for the ALLIANCE OF ARTS IN
EDUCATION, testified in opposition to HB 411. Ms. Short
stated that half of the 30 schools in Fairbanks have Percent
for Art pieces. She gave examples of Percent for Art
projects currently in process that would not be possible if
this bill is passed. Ms. Short noted that North Pole
Elementary in Representative Vezey's district is in need of
artwork. She did not agree with the idea of reducing the
funding to a half of a percent, but instead suggested more
enforcement so it is more widely used.
Number 505
REPRESENTATIVE ULMER thanked BARBARA SHORT for her testimony
and the rest of the testifiers for their contributions.
Number 509
WANDA CHIN testified in opposition to HB 411. She remarked
that each community chooses art that is suitable for their
environment. She spoke of her own experience whereby she
was commissioned to produce a work of art. She suggested
that the program be improved, not eliminated.
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Ketchikan teleconference
site.
Number 555
VICTORIA LORD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KETCHIKAN ARTS &
HUMANITIES COUNCIL, testified in opposition to HB 411. MS.
LORD stated the Ketchikan Arts Council has been directly
involved in the Percent for Art project in Ketchikan and is
proud of the artwork displayed in the local public
buildings. She stressed that artists should not have to
donate their work, and she believes Percent for Art should
be expanded to include outdoor projects.
Number 584
RAY TROLL stated he is strongly opposed to HB 411. (A copy
of his written testimony is on file). He felt the state
office building in Ketchikan, which was built before the
Percent for Art program was established, is very bleak and
oppressive and needs the added improvement.
Number 595
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Homer teleconference site.
Number 597
LYNN NADEN, ARTIST and BOARD MEMBER, HOMER COUNCIL ON THE
ARTS, testified in opposition to HB 411. MS. NADEN
mentioned that most of the individuals testifying are art
educators, artists, or interested in promoting the arts.
She noted REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY's occupation is in
construction and questioned if he had any self-interest in
HB 411.
Number 609
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY could not recall the last time he may
have participated in a project that was subject to the One
Percent for Art. He said it is possible that there have
been projects, but he works primarily on power plants,
sewage treatment plants, highways and bridges, all of which
are not included in the Percent for Art program.
Number 616
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT asked to continue with JIMMIE WILES in
Homer.
Number 617
JIMMIE WILES testified in opposition to HB 411. He felt the
percent for art program should expand to two percent over
time as a statement of our commitment to cultural expansion
in Alaska.
Number 625
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Anchorage teleconference
site.
Number 628
IRA PERMAN testified as the parent of a child who goes to
Denali Elementary School in Anchorage. Mr. Perman stated
the recent renovation of the school included a mural on the
exterior of the building, which was paid for by the Percent
for Arts program. He noted that the improvements to the
building, as well as the neighborhood, were a result of the
artwork. Mr. Perman concluded that as long as there is
money to build schools and other capital projects, the One
Percent for Art program should continue to make these
projects attractive.
Number 644
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT moved to the Fairbanks teleconference
site.
Number 650
PAT PETRIVELLI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE OF ALASKA
NATIVE ARTS, testified that without the Percent for Art
program, the work of Alaska's artists would be limited to
museums and private collectors. She noted that artwork in
schools and public places conveys a message to the children,
emphasizing creativity and opportunity, while empty
buildings send a very different message. She encouraged the
committee to maintain the current level of support for art
programs throughout the state.
TAPE 94-11, SIDE A
Number 000
Hearing the end of teleconference testimony, VICE CHAIRMAN
KOTT called for a short recess at 9:33 a.m.
Number 018
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT reconvened the meeting at 9:42 a.m.
Public testimony was closed and HB 411 was opened for
committee debate and discussion.
Number 031
REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS commented she would liked to have
heard from children, particularly from some of the schools,
and some of the experiences they have had with this program.
As Chair of the Childrens' Caucus and a past School Board
Member, REPRESENTATIVE B. DAVIS expressed her strong support
for the Percent for Art program.
Number 049
REPRESENTATIVE ULMER added the testimony heard was very
persuasive. She related the importance of viewing art in
the context of an economic development activity. She noted
that many of the artists that testified would not be able to
survive unless they are paid for what they do. She pointed
out that other people in other professions are not expected
to volunteer their work, so why should artists be expected
to volunteer their work. She commented that artists should
be recognized as providing a very essential function in a
public building; it is important to have art create the kind
of environment that makes people feel good about where they
are, that helps them do their job, and that helps students
get inspired in the classroom. REPRESENTATIVE ULMER
commented it's part of a whole that makes this state a
better state and makes Alaskans unique. She further stated
that tourists don't come here just to see the mountains, but
also to learn about our culture; and one of the ways they do
that is through the art they see in the public buildings.
She reiterated that art is a very important part of our
economy, as well as the quality of life, and expressed her
opposition to moving HB 411 from committee.
Number 101
REPRESENTATIVE SANDERS believed he would vote to move HB 411
out of committee, and felt the one percent would be better
used not being mandated, but left to the discretion of
administrators and the public for use on buildings, building
maintenance, athletic programs or other programs that are in
danger of being cut in the school system under the present
economic condition.
Number 117
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY commented that his overall impression
from the testimony presented was the testifiers believed if
the mandated formula was to go away, the funding for art
would go away. He emphasized the purpose of HB 411 is to
remove a mandated formula and to allow art projects to be
funded as determined by the demands of the public.
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY related to the Greeks, who devoted a
tremendous amount of their resources to art; however, they
did not have a mandatory program. Each project was done on
a case by case basis. He reiterated that "this bill is not
a statement against art, it is really a statement that says
the appropriating bodies and the administrators are going to
have to address the situation of art on every case by case
basis."
REPRESENTATIVE G. DAVIS appreciated REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY'S
comments; however, he felt the testimony was very strong and
in-depth and had probably changed his mind. He stated while
he would be interested in hearing a discussion of HB 411 on
the House floor, he still would not want it to pass.
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT noted the importance of our culture and
recognized the tourist aspect of art in Alaska.
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY moved HB 411 be passed out of committee
with individual recommendations.
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT asked if there were objections.
REPRESENTATIVES ULMER and B. DAVIS objected.
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT asked for explanation.
Number 216
REPRESENTATIVE ULMER explained all of the testimony given
was opposed to HB 411 with exception of the sponsor,
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY. She remarked if the people favor the
mandate and don't want it changed, there is a good reason
for the bill not to move forward.
Number 230
VICE CHAIRMAN KOTT recognized REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY'S motion.
The committee secretary called the roll, and HB 411 passed
out of the House State Affairs Committee with individual
recommendations. HB 411 moved to House Finance Committee.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CHAIR VEZEY announced the State Affairs Subcommittee on the
Alaska Railroad would meet Saturday, February 12, to review
a draft report.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no more business before the committee, VICE CHAIRMAN
KOTT adjourned the meeting at 9:52 a.m.
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