2025-11-13 Work SessionKodiak Island Borough
Assembly Work Session
Assembly Chambers
Thursday, November 13, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Work Sessions are informal meetings of the Assembly where members review forthcoming programs of the
borough, receive progress reports on current program or projects or receive other similar information from the
manager. All discussions and conclusions are informal and there are no official actions taken. The Assembly also
review the upcoming regular meeting agenda packet and request and/or receive information from staff. This work
session is open to the public and will be broadcast on the Borough's YouTube Channel. Meeting packets are
available online.
Any public documents related to the agenda that are received and shared with elected officials after the initial
agenda packet has been released will be included in the Supplemental Materials section below. The deadline for
releasing supplemental materials is noon on the day of the meeting.
Page
1. CITIZENS' COMMENTS 1-907-486-3231 or Toll Free 1-855-492-9202
(Limited To Three Minutes Per Speaker)
2. AGENDA ITEMS
a. Discover Kodiak Presentation
4
Agenda Item Report - Pdf
b. Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The
5-9
Property At 3523 E. Rezanof Drive
Agenda Item Report - Pdf
C. North Star School Facility Update
10 - 22
Agenda Item Report - Pdf
d. Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And
23 - 139
Position Statements
Agenda Item Report - Pdf
e. Review Of The Proposed Revisions To The Liquor License Code
140 - 147
Agenda Item Report - Pdf
3. PACKET REVIEW
The DRAFT regular meeting packet is available online at Kodiak Island Borough -
Meeting Type List (civicweb.net).
a. PUBLIC HEARING
• Ordinance No. FY2026-12, Amending Title 2
Page 1 of 165
Administration And Personnel, Chapter 2.125
Architectural/Engineering Review Board, Section
2.125.030 Qualifications
CONTRACTS
• Contract No. FY2026-26, Mill Bay Beach Stairs And Picnic
Table Replacement With S&S Enterprise DBA Kodiak
Lawn Care
RESOLUTIONS
• Resolution No. FY2026-10, Appointing The Borough
Attorney
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION
• Ordinance No. FY2026-13, Accepting And Appropriating
Funds From The 2020 Alaska Pacific Cod Federal Fishery
Disaster Relief Distribution
• Ordinance No. FY2026-14, Accepting And Appropriating
Funds From The 2021 Chignik Salmon Federal Fishery
Disaster Relief Distribution
OTHER ITEMS
• Appointments To The Providence Kodiak Island Medical
Center Community Advisory Council (Ms. Shuravloff-
Nelson, Mr. Tvenge, Ms. Paulson, Ms. Simeonoff, Ms.
Davidson, And Mr. Roberts)
• Declaring An At -Large Seat And A Construction Business
Representative Seat Vacant On The Solid Waste Advisory
Board (Ms. Andie Wall And Mr. Douglas Hogen)
4. MANAGER'S COMMENTS
a 2025-11-13 Borough Manager's Report
5. CLERK'S COMMENTS
a 2025-11-13 Borough Clerk's Report
6. ASSEMBLY MEMBERS' COMMENTS
7. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
8. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS
148 - 154
155 - 158
a. Revised Draft Of The Liquor License Code Amendment 159 - 163
Ordinance No. FY2024-NN Liauor Code Draft 2
b. Agenda Item 2.0 North Star School Facility Update 164
2.C. North Star School Facility Update
C. Citizen Sign -in Sheet 165
Page 2 of 165
This meeting is open to the public and will be broadcast on the Borough's YouTube Channel. Meeting packets are available
online. Please subscribe to get meeting notifications when meeting packets are published. For public comments, please call
(907) 486-3231 or (855) 492-9202.
Page 3 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #2.a.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
STAFF REPORT
NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ASSEMBLY WORK SESSION
SUBJECT: Discover Kodiak Presentation
ORIGINATOR: Meagan Christiansen, Grant Writer/Special Projects Support
RECOMMENDATION:
DISCUSSION:
The agreement for the Kodiak Island Borough contribution of funds to Discover Kodiak for the
provision of destination marketing and tourism development requires that a presentation be
made to the Assembly on a quarterly basis to share a summary of the quarter's activities.
ALTERNATIVES:
FISCAL IMPACT:
OTHER INFORMATION:
Kodiak Island Borough
Discover Kodiak Presentation
Page 4 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #2.b.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
STAFF REPORT
NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ASSEMBLY WORK SESSION
SUBJECT: Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property At
3523 E. Rezanof Drive
ORIGINATOR: Aimee Williams, Borough Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
DISCUSSION:
The Service Area #1 Board of Directors voted to approve the lease of 3523 E. Rezanof Dr. for
Road Service Area storage purposes. SA No.1 uses the property to store gravel, calcium
chloride, and salt, that will be accessed by their contractor. This location has been used for
over five years and SA No.1 residents have not paid any kind of fees for use of the property.
ALTERNATIVES:
FISCAL IMPACT:
OTHER INFORMATION:
Monday, March 31, 2025 - Approval of the lease by SA#1 Board of Directors
Kodiak Island Borough
Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property A...
Page 5 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #2.b.
Rental Agreement
Page 1 of 4
RENTAL AGREEMENT
THIS RENTAL AGREEMENT is executed in duplicate this
1st day of April, 2025, by and between Fields Rentals hereinafter called
the "Landlord" and Kodiak Island Borough on behalf of Service District 1,
is hereinafter called the "Tenant" as follows:
1. Landlord, in consideration of rents, covenants and
agreements hereinafter set forth to be paid and performed by Tenant does
hereby rent to Tenant, and Tenant does hereby accept and rent from
Landlord, that certain rental property described as:
3523 E. Rezanof Dr.
Located in Kodiak, Alaska, hereinafter referred to as, the "Rented
Premises."
This lease shall run for a period of 1 year commencing on the
lst day of January, 2025.
Lease is extendable in yearly increments (4) for a total of 5
years.
Tenant agrees to give written OR verbal notice, thirty (30) days before
the next lease extension which is on January 1 annually. Also, Tenate
agrees to give written notice of his intention to vacate the premises.
2. Tenant agrees to pay as rent, the sum of
$1,000 per month, in two annual payments. First Payment due on or before
January 1 and second payment due on or before July 1st. Rent shall increase
by 5% at each extension as follows:
2026: $6,300 on or before January 1 and $6,300 on or before July 1st.
2027: $6,515 on or before January 1 and $6,515 on or before July 1st.
2028: $6,841 on or before January 1 and $6,841 on or before July 1st.
2029: $7,183 on or before January 1 and $7,183 on or before July lst
Rent shall be paid to Landlord at 4022 Cliffside Rd., Kodiak, AK 99615
or at such other place as Landlord may hereafter designate in writing.
Page 6 of 165
Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property A...
AGENDA ITEM #2.b.
Rental Agreement
Page 2 of 4
3. Tenant has examined the Rented Premises, accepts them in their present
condition, and covenants to keep the premises at all times clean and in as
good order and condition as they are now in or may hereafter be put in by
Landlord, ordinary wear and tear resulting from careful usage and damage
by the elements without fault on the part of Tenant alone excepted. After
examination of the rented premises Tenant has executed the attached
Condition of Rented Premises form which is incorporated into this Agreement
and is made a part hereof by reference.
4. Landlord or his authorized agent may have access to the
premises in any emergency situation, without notice. In addition, upon
twenty-four (24) hours' notice of intent to enter, Tenant shall allow the
apartment manager or his agent free access to the rented premises for the
purpose of inspection, or to show the premises to prospective renters,
purchasers, mortgagors, or to any other person having a legitimate interest
therein, or to make necessary repairs or improvements, but this right shall
not be construed as an agreement on the part of the Landlord to make any
repairs or improvements. Such entry to the Landlord or his agents shall
be at reasonable times.
5. (a) Tenant shall not assign this agreement or any interest
therein. This agreement shall not be assignable or transferable by
operation of law.
6. (a) If rent is unpaid when due and Tenant fails to pay rent
within ten (10) days after written notice of such non-payment of rent and
Landlord's intention to terminate this Agreement, this tenancy shall
terminate and the Landlord may immediately recover possession of the rental
unit.
(b) If there is any other material noncompliance with any
of the provisions of this Rental Agreement, Landlord shall serve written
notice on Tenant specifying the acts and omissions constituting such breach
and specifying that the rental agreement will terminate upon a date twenty
(20) days after receipt of the notice. Tenant shall have ten (10) days to
remedy such a breach. If the breach is remedied by repairs or the payment
of damages or otherwise before the date specified in the notice, the Rental
Agreement will not terminate.
(c) In the absence of due care by Tenant, if substantially
the same act or omission which constituted a prior breach for which notice
was given recurs within six (6) months, Landlord may terminate this Rental
Agreement upon ten (10) days written notice specifying the breach and date
of termination of the Rental Agreement.
7. Should the leased premises be wholly or partially destroyed
this Agreement shall be automatically and immediately terminated.
8. Tenant insurance is available through insurance carriers. It
is the Tenant's responsibility to provide his own fire, liability, casualty
Page 7 of 165
Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property A...
AGENDA ITEM #2.b.
Rental Agreement
Page 3 of 4
or theft insurance, if such insurance is desired. landlord shall not be
responsible for any loss of, or damage to property of Tenants or for
liability except as required by law.
9. Waiver of any default, or of the breach of any of the
covenants, conditions or rules herein contained shall not constitute a
waiver of any subsequent default or of any subsequent breach of the same
or of any other covenant, condition or rule herein contained.
10. Tenant hereby agrees that the Landlord shall have the right
to place and maintain "For Rent" signs in the Rented Premises and to show
the Rented Premises to prospective tenants at reasonable hours for a period
of thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the tenancy under this
agreement.
11. Service of all written notices required by this agreement
is sufficient if given personally or mailed to the party involved at his
respective address as set forth in this agreement, or at such address as
the party may provide in writing from time to time. Any such notice mailed
to such address is effective when deposited in the United States mail,
duly addressed and with postage prepaid.
12. If Landlord sells his interest in the rented premises, then,
at the option of Landlord or Tenant, this Agreement may become null and
void, and the terms will be of no effect after the date of sale, and after
thirty (30) days prior notice has been given.
13. This instrument, its attachments and rules promulgated now
or hereafter under its terms, embodies the whole contract between the
parties, and no representation or agreement has been made by either of
such parties that is not embodied herein.
14. Tenant agrees that the premises is to be used and occupied
only by Service District 1 contractors.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have signed this Agreement the
year and day first hereinabove written.
Kodiak Island Borough
11
Dun an Fields, for ie ds Rentals
Page 8 of 165
Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property A...
AGENDA ITEM #2.b.
Service District 1
um E� E-D
0 CT 1 0 2024
Duncan Fields 7 KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
Fields Rentals `Nr ,^^,INTFRiNG & FACUT11!
4022 Cliffside Rd.
Kodiak, AK 99615
October 6, 2024
Re: Rent for use of Gravel/Salt Storage and Distribution Property
Dear Service District 1 Board:
As you are aware I own the property along Rezanof drive that the Service District has been using
for gravel and salt storage and distribution. Initially, when the Service District first move
materials and equipment on the property, it was communicated to be a "temporary" use. There
was some additional clearing done and, generally speaking, the property was improved.
Thinking back, that must have been 5 or 6 years ago.
As I paid the increased property taxes on the property this year, I came to realize that I couldn't
continue to have Service District 1 continue to use the property for free. I need to secure some
income from the property. Consequently, I'd like to propose a lease to the Service District. I'm
requesting that the Service District pay $1,000 per month in rent. The term of the lease could
be month to month or for as long as the Service District would want, up to 5 years.
If you have any questions regarding my request for the Service District to pay rent for the use of
the sand/gravel/salt storage property please do not hesitate to contact me.
Truly ours,
uncan Fie s
Page 9 of 165
Discussion Of The Service Area No. 1 Rental Agreement For The Property A...
AGENDA ITEM #2.c.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
STAFF REPORT
NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ASSEMBLY WORK SESSION
SUBJECT: North Star School Facility Update
ORIGINATOR: Aimee Williams, Borough Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
DISCUSSION:
North Star Elementary has been turned over to the Kodiak Island Borough and is now a KIB
facility separate from the Kodiak Island Borough School District. The KIB Assembly has had
several discussions about which use of the facility would be in the best interest of the
residents.
Options considered include:
1. Renting the space to others (Sun'aq is requesting space for use as a daycare)
2. Selling the building
Costs of the facility are attached for your review.
ALTERNATIVES:
FISCAL IMPACT:
OTHER INFORMATION:
The Sun'aq Daycare Workgroup presented to the Assembly on August 14, 2025. They proposed
leasing space at the North Star Facility for use as an expanded daycare. Sun'aq currently runs a
daycare out of the St. Mary's Catholic Church buildings in the location where St. Mary's School was
previously located. The school has outgrown the space, and they are looking for opportunities to serve
more community members, as they currently have 40+ children on their waiting list.
Sun'aq has partnered with Kodiak Island Housing Authority and Kodiak Area Native Association to
assist as applicable.
Kodiak Island Borough
North Star School Facility Update
Page 10 of 165
N
0
Budget
Performance Report
dQ
goDLAK ISLAND
Fiscal Year to Date 11/10/25
BaRQUGH
Include Rollup Account and Rollup to Account
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Current Month
YTD
YTD
Budget -YTD % Used/
Account
Account Description
Budget
Amendments
Budget
Transactions
Encumbrances
Transactions
Transactions Redd
Prior Year Total
Fund 220 - Building & Grounds
EXPENSE
Department 234 - School Buildings - KIB
Sub -Department 240 - North Star Elementary
410
410.110
Salaries
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
1,732.45
(1,732.45) +++
.00
410.130
Overtime
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
104.10
(104.10) +++
.00
410 - Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$1,836.55
($1,836.55) +++
$0.00
420
420.110
Unemployment Taxes
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
1.84
(1.84) +++
.00
420.120
FICA Taxes
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
83.70
(83.70) +++
.00
420.130
Group Insurance
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
247.66
(247.66) +++
.00
420.140
Retirement
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
387.06
(387.06) +++
.00
420.150
Workers Compensation
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
28.84
(28.84) +++
.00
420 - Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$749.10
($749.10) +++
$0.00
450
450.221
Property Insurance
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
27,256.70
(27,256.70) +++
.00
450.350
Electricity
.00
.00
.00
3,664.81
.00
10,576.11
(10,576.11) +++
.00
450.360
Fuel- Heating
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
15,585.54
(15,585.54) +++
.00
450.370
Water & Sewer
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
1,517.90
(1,517.90) +++
.00
450.390
Refuse Collection - Disposal
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
92.58
(92.58) +++
.00
450.430
Maint & Repairs
.00
.00
.00
101.22
.00
2,564.02
(2,564.02) +++
.00
450 - Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,766.03
$0.00
$57,592.85
($57,592.85) +++
$0.00
Sub -Department 240 - North Star Elementary Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,766.03
$0.00
$60,178.50
($60,178.50) +++
$0.00
Department 234 - School Buildings- KIB Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,766.03
$0.00
$60,178.50
($60,178.50) +++
$0.00
EXPENSE TOTALS
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,766.03
$0.00
$60,178.50
($60,178.50) +++
$0.00
Fund 220 - Building & Grounds Totals
REVENUE TOTALS
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00 +++
.00
EXPENSE TOTALS
.00
.00
.00
3,766.03
.00
60,178.50
(60,178.50) +++
.00
Fund 220 - Building & Grounds Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
($3,766.03)
$0.00
($60,178.50)
$60,178.50
$0.00
Grand Totals
REVENUE TOTALS
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00 +++
.00
EXPENSE TOTALS
.00
.00
.00
3,766.03
.00
60,178.50
(60,178.50) +++
.00
Grand Totals
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
($3,766.03)
$0.00
($60,178.50)
$60,178.50
$0.00
Run by Dora Cross on 11/10/2025 01:10:23 PM
Page 1 of 1
GROWING CARE FOR
OUR FUTURE
EXPANDING CHILDCARE FOR
KODIAK'S FAMILIES
PRESENTED BY:
• • Sun a
VW TRIBE OF I<ODIAI<
AUG U ST 1472025
a
rA
I ' -I
A SHARED COMMUNITY NEED
Without childcare, there is no
wo r kfo rce
Families struggle to take or keep
jobs
► Businesses find it difficult to hire
or retain staff
Our community risks losing young
families and future generations
W . ■
..
WHO WE ARE
• Sun'aq's commitment to family
wellness and culture; Su n'aq Tribe
is dedicated to building Tribal
unity, strengthening cultural
identity, and preserving ancestral
I ife ways.
• Decades of investing in
community solutions; and
• Stepping up to meet a critical
need for our current workforce,
economy, and children's
development.
• Since 2022 Su n'aq Tribe has served as
a staple child care facility in Kodiaks
community when opening Alutiingcut
Child Care Center
LI
J
G,7
V4b
•
THE NEED
• Providers:l0 licensed providers in
Kodiak (in home, headstart, CDC,
etc.)
• Capacity: all are full; some closing
soon
• Waitlist: Alutiingcut alone has 48
children waiting
• Impact: Families leaving jobs or
the island
s
.—Aloft
;
..■s r
r3lF
R
CHILDCARE ACCESS =
WORKFORCE AND
ECONOMIC GROWTH
A shortage of qualified workers is the
number one problem facing Alaska
businesses.
• Lack of reliable childcare is a major driver of
this shortage.
• Childcare programs, play a vital role in
supporting overall family health and
wellbeing.
• Childcare programs serve a crucial
economic role, by providing care for
children while families work.
• Stable, quality childcare benefits the entire
workforce by allowing more adults to
secure and maintain employment.
T
`
6h
Ib
PROPOSED CHILDCARE
E�i
• Serving ages: 2-S
• Sugpiaq/Alutiiq cultural and language
programming
• Max capacity: 72
• Hours of operation: 7:30a m - 5:30 pm
• Tuition fee range: $1,12S - $1,17S
• Open to ANY child
• Capacity for multiple classrooms.
Affordable tuition with State and
Tribal assistance.
Deeply rooted in AI uti iq culture and
language.
�i
FACILITYVISION
• Convert unused North Star Elementary
facility into a safe, nurturing center.
• Welcoming, culturally connected
environment for all children and families
on Sugpiaq/Alutiiq land.
• Designed to support working families and
our youngest learners excel.
NORTH STAR ELEMENTARY
• The Sun'aq Tribe has begun
conversations with the Kodiak Borough
to explore the possibility of utilizing
unused space in the former North Star
Elementary School.
• Initial discussions have been positive and
parties are investigating next steps for
moving forward.
• Many community leaders and
organization are in support of North Stars
utilization by STK for expanded cult
Child Care access to community
memembers.
SUPPORTERS IN OUR COMMUNITY
p,Ft K
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2
1
I1`ODIAK ISLAND
-
jILDVS , RCE
i Aoo�cI or u s A NRD
Ar
Of
04
Ao
1
Alp
TO BUILD A STRONG PROGRAM THAT CAN CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT.
JOIN THE
MOVEMENT
• Support working families
• Strengthen local businesses.
• Give children a safe, nurturing
start in life.
We respectfully request that the Kodiak Island
Borough Assembly consider leasing a portion of
North Star Elementary to the Sun'aq Tribe at a rate
that supports and enhances the child care needs of
the Kodiak community.
WWII
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
STAFF REPORT
NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ASSEMBLY WORK SESSION
SUBJECT: Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position
Statements
ORIGINATOR: Nova M. Javier, MMC, Borough Clerk
RECOMMENDATION:
Review documents as a governing body.
DISCUSSION:
The Alaska Municipal League (AML) Conference is scheduled to take place in Anchorage
from December 10-12. During the business meeting on December 12, the Mayor, as the
Borough's representative, will have the opportunity to cast votes on all resolutions and bills
included in the attached legislative review packet. Therefore, it is recommended that the
Assembly review and provide direction regarding the resolutions and legislation presented.
The deadline for submitting resolutions to AML was October 24. Resolutions not submitted by
this deadline may still be proposed directly to the Resolution Committee on December 10 for
consideration at their meeting. However, any resolution submitted in this manner must be
sponsored by the Kodiak Island Borough and supported by representatives from at least five
(5) member municipalities.
ALTERNATIVES:
FISCAL IMPACT:
OTHER INFORMATION:
Kodiak Island Borough
Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position Stat...
Page 23 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
From: Sarah King
Sent: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 7:42 AM
Cc: Nils Andreassen <nils(q)_akml.org>; Alicia Hughes-Skandijs <Alicia(cDakml.org>; Carole
Triem <carole(aD_akml.org>; Adam Kane <adam(a)akml.org>
Subject: 2025 AML Business Meeting Documents
Good morning,
The AML Annual Business Meeting will be on Friday, December 12th, 2025, at 10:30 AM. The
following documents are attached for your review for the Business Meeting:
• 2026 AML Draft Resolutions
• Legislative Review for Membership consideration
• Carry forward Resolutions (part of consent agenda)
• Resolution guidelines
• 2026 Board of Directors Application
The 2026 AML Resolutions will go before the Resolutions Committee on Wednesday, December
101h to be reviewed and acted upon for final recommendation to the AML Membership. If you
have any questions about the Resolutions Procedures, please see attached.
The Legislative Review is a list of current legislation for members to consider during the annual
meeting. These draft positions are based on current resolutions or AML's position statement or
reflect our understanding of how they impact local governments. During the business meeting
we will have a lightning round of support/oppose votes on each bill. This will inform AML action
during the upcoming legislative session. These positions may change as we learn more or if
bills are amended, and do not reflect a final position of AML. Instead, we're trying to understand
how members think about them and how we can work to reflect that effectively.
At the business meeting on December 12th, one representative from each member municipality
will have the chance to vote on each new draft resolution and bill in the legislative review. With
this in mind, review documents with your governing body considering your municipality's
position and if any amendments should be made so that your municipality's representative has
the confidence and authority to take a position and actively participate in discussions.
We look forward to seeing each of you at the 2025 AML Annual Local Government Conference
on December 10-12th. For all information related to the conference, please visit the AML Annual
Conference website at https://amIannual.org/.
Thank you and please let me know if you have any questions.
Sarah King
Special Projects Coordinator
Y
Alaska Municipal League
ALASKA
907-790-5378 j ! • MUNICIPAL
1 LEAGUE
4 •.••� 1950-2025
Page 24 of 165
Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position Stat...
AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-01
2 A resolution calling on the legislature to stabilize K-12 funding by establishing an inflation-
3 adjusted BSA, creating a Base Facilities Allocation for major maintenance, and restoring
4 predictable school bond debt reimbursement
5 WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has a constitutional obligation to maintain a system of public
6 schools, and AML members have consistently called for sufficient, inflation-proofed State
7 funding for basic public needs and State obligations, affirming that services delivered locally on
8 the State's behalf should be fully funded by the State; and
9 WHEREAS, AML's 2025-2026 Principles & Policy Statements urge the State to increase and
10 inflation -proof the Base Student Allocation (BSA), continue a well -funded school bond debt
11 reimbursement program, increase investment in school construction and deferred maintenance,
12 and to increase budget certainty for school districts and local governments; and
13 WHEREAS, the same AML policy statements explicitly support providing a Base Facilities
14 Allocation to address deferred maintenance and facilities' needs - an approach AML members
15 propose to implement as a dedicated BFA for major -maintenance set -aside to ensure predictable,
16 timely upkeep and safe learning environments; and
17 WHEREAS, AML members previously adopted Resolution 92023-12 requesting the State to
18 increase and inflation -proof the BSA, establishing organizational intent and continuity on this
19 issue; and
20 WHEREAS, in April 2025 the Legislature passed HB 69 to raise the Base Student Allocation by
21 $1,000 per student (z$253 million/year), which was then vetoed by the Governor, with
22 lawmakers ultimately failing to override the governor's veto, then passed HB 57 to raise the BSA
23 by $700 and overrode the Governor's veto of that bill, creating certainty in statute for a year-to-
24 year funding increase; and
25 WHEREAS, inflationary pressure persists in Urban Alaska (Anchorage CPI-U +2.4% year-over-
26 year as of August 2025), and district officials from across the state have reported that if the BSA
27 had kept pace with inflation it would be about $1,500 higher than today - eroding real purchasing
28 power in classrooms; and
29 WHEREAS, the Department of Education & Early Development (DEED) reported $36.19
30 million (FY24 supplemental) + $26.57 million (FY25) for the Major Maintenance priority list -
31 only enough to fully fund the first 26 projects - and in the FY26 cycle the Legislature discussed
32 adding $19 million (Senate) + $19 million (House), covering only the top nine additional
33 projects, underscoring the depth of unmet needs; and
34 WHEREAS, Alaska's K-12 system serves nearly 130,000 students statewide, and predictable
35 capital upkeep is necessary to keep facilities safe, healthy, and open for learning across all
36 districts; and
37 WHEREAS, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District faced a $16 million deficit for
38 FY26, with plans that included increasing class sizes by 2.5 students and more than 150 position
39 reductions, illustrating the real -world impacts of formula volatility; and
40 WHEREAS, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District signaled that up to 120 positions
41 could be cut absent higher per -student funding, further evidencing the statewide strain; and
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1 WHEREAS, districts are increasingly forced to rely on one-time funds and draws on fund
2 balance to bridge structural gaps; Anchorage School District budget documents explicitly project
3 using fund balance to cover shortfalls; and
4 WHEREAS, since 2015 a state moratorium has blocked school bond debt reimbursement for
5 new bonds, shifting costs to local taxpayers and delaying needed projects; pending legislation
6 (SB 184) updates statutory dates governing eligibility, further highlighting the need for
7 predictable, tiered reimbursement going forward; and
8 WHEREAS, DEED's capital program consistently leaves many qualified projects unfunded
9 each year; analyses indicate only about 14% of annual school construction/major maintenance
10 submissions receive funding on average, despite statutory expectations for district preventive
11 maintenance; and
12 WHEREAS, uncertainty around annual BSA adjustments, deferred maintenance funding, and
13 the on-again/off-again nature of school bond debt reimbursement complicate local budgeting,
14 impede long-term capital planning, and transfer risk to municipalities and taxpayers; and
15 WHEREAS, a durable statutory framework - linking the BSA to inflation, creating a protected
16 and predictable facilities maintenance mechanism, and restoring reimbursement predictability -
17 would align State obligations with local implementation realities and voter decision -making;
18 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the
19 Governor and Alaska Legislature to enact the following:
20 1. Enact statute establishing an automatic multi -year BSA escalator tied to a transparent
21 inflation index (e.g., CPI-U or a composite index reflecting education cost drivers), with a
22 reasonable floor and a periodic review clause, to restore and maintain purchasing power and
23 budgeting certainty.
24 2. Create a dedicated Base Facilities Allocation (BFA) for school major maintenance that is
25 structured with PCE-style safeguards (protected corpus/earnings mechanism, formula -driven
26 distributions, and statutory sweep protection), with:
27 a. Formula allocations based on facilities condition, deferred maintenance backlog,
28 rurality/logistics factors, local contributions, and student counts;
29 b. Annual publication by DEED of each district's BFA eligibility, award, and project list;
30 c. Coordination with REF/SRF and other state/federal capital tools to leverage dollars and
31 accelerate health/safety and energy -efficiency projects.
32 3. Reinstate and fund school bond debt reimbursement with predictable tiers (e.g., by
33 community cost factors or project type) and clear statutory timelines for application,
34 approval, and payment, so local voters have confidence when considering bonds. Back the
35 intent of SB 184 and codify payment -timing and percentage -certainty to prevent ad -hoc
36 reductions or delays.
37 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature include a municipal and school district
38 implementation impact/fiscal note with related legislation, and that State agencies publish
39 uniform guidance (eligibility, timelines, reporting) to minimize administrative burden and
40 maximize access for small and rural districts;
41 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML directs its advocacy to support these measures,
42 including testimony, coalition building with education stakeholders, and technical assistance to
43 members preparing bond proposals and facilities plans.
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1 Resolution #2026-02
2 A resolution on Railbelt energy reliability and energy affordability and calling for time-
3 bound implementation with local governments as full partners
4 WHEREAS, Alaska's communities depend on reliable and affordable energy to ensure the
5 health, safety, and economic wellbeing of their residents, and energy insecurity threatens vital
6 municipal services such as emergency response, education, and public facilities; and
7 WHEREAS, long-term energy planning is critical to maintaining the resilience of the Railbelt
8 region, which faces growing concerns around natural gas supply, increasing costs; and
9 WHEREAS, local governments are on the frontlines of these challenges and must be active
10 participants in identifying energy needs, evaluating resource options, and shaping solutions that
11 align with community priorities and financial realities; and
12 WHEREAS, thoughtful coordination among municipalities, utilities, state agencies, and regional
13 stakeholders is essential to ensure a balanced approach that prioritizes public benefit, energy
14 security, and economic development across the Railbelt; and
15 WHEREAS, attracting new investment in energy production and infrastructure, including
16 natural gas development in Cook Inlet, will require a combination of beneficial policy and
17 reliable market conditions to ensure long-term affordability and energy supply; and
18 WHEREAS, the Southcentral Mayors' Energy Coalition (Coalition) has been committed to
19 exploring energy alternatives, assessing energy deficits, and advancing policies that reflect the
20 shared interests of Railbelt communities.
21 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML, consistent with the goals of the
22 Coalition:
23 1. Supports coordinated, long-term energy planning that accounts for current and projected
24 needs, the changing natural gas supply, and the need for a diversified energy mix.
25 2. Urges inclusive and transparent engagement of local governments in all regional energy
26 decisions, including infrastructure planning, energy resource development, and rate -setting
27 processes that may affect municipal services and residents.
28 3. Encourages investment in alternative and complementary energy options, including storage,
29 renewables, efficiency measures, and distributed energy systems that can reduce dependence
30 on a single fuel source and strengthen community -level resilience.
31 4. Calls for fair cost allocation and mitigation of financial impacts on municipalities and
32 residential users, especially in scenarios that require major investments in generation,
33 transmission, or backup capacity.
34 5. Affirms the need for local decision -making and alignment with municipal planning, land use
35 priorities, and economic development strategies.
36 6. Commits to collaboration and regional coordination through the Coalition, working together
37 to share data, align priorities, and ensure energy solutions are tailored to the unique needs and
38 capacities of each community; and
39 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that AML supports and will contribute to advocacy that
40 facilitates municipal participation in state and regional energy forums; supports outreach and
41 communication around local energy priorities; helps identify grant and funding opportunities for
42 energy investments and resilience; and promotes collaboration that leads to cost-effective,
43 community -driven energy solutions.
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1 Resolution 2026-03
2 A resolution restating AML's position on state fiscal policy and calling for stable services,
3 new revenues, protection of local authority, and a strategy to counter net outmigration
4 WHEREAS, Alaska's fiscal stability underpins the basic public services that municipalities
5 deliver or rely upon, and state revenue volatility has increased as oil throughput and production
6 have trended downward from historic highs, even as monthly production fluctuates year-to-year;
7 continued dependence on earnings draws from the Permanent Fund now provides over half of the
8 general fund, which heightens the need for disciplined, rules -based budgeting and diversified
9 revenues; and
10 WHEREAS, Alaska's population grew modestly in 2024, but the state's own long-range outlook
11 anticipates persistent demographic headwinds and potential decline without policy responses that
12 improve affordability, workforce, and opportunity - factors that directly affect municipal
13 economies and tax bases; and
14 WHEREAS, AML's adopted Principles and Policy Statements call for: maximum local self-
15 government; preserving the municipal tax base and revenue authorities; increasing and inflation-
16 proofing State investment in basic public needs and obligations; another broad -based tax to close
17 the structural gap, in addition to the one required of some local governments for a contribution to
18 public education ; continued sustainable draws from the Permanent Fund; and a capital budget
19 that grows with needs, rather than shifting State costs to local governments; and
20 WHEREAS, AML policy further directs the State to oppose preemption of local sales tax
21 authority; reimburse - or make optional/needs-based - State -mandated exemptions; and ensure
22 any spending cap does not disproportionately harm local governments and school districts while
23 statewide obligations are inflation-proofed; and
24 WHEREAS, predictable intergovernmental transfers (e.g., Community Assistance, education
25 formula funding) and a sufficient capital budget are essential to municipal planning, deferred
26 maintenance, and economic development; and AML policy urges returning Community
27 Assistance to $60 million (inflation -indexed) and increasing capital investment; and
28 WHEREAS, removing barriers and improving service delivery requires efficiencies, shared
29 services, and third -party partnerships - along with reduced administrative burdens and stronger
30 State technical assistance to local governments, consistent with AML policy.
31 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) reaffirms
32 the following framework for a responsible State of Alaska fiscal policy:
33 1. Close the Structural Gap with New, Broad -Based Revenues - Enact a broad -based statewide
34 tax calibrated to long -run needs and economic conditions; maintain the statutory Percent-of-
35 Market -Value (POMV) draw discipline; and right -size the unrestricted general fund to
36 reliably fund State obligations and partnership programs on which municipalities depend.
37 2. Preserve Municipal Taxing Authority and Local Revenues - Oppose preemption of local
38 taxation (including sales and locally levied resource taxes), maintain the structure of the oil
39 & gas property tax, and reject any measure that restricts municipal fees or revenue tools.
40 3. Remove or Reimburse Mandatory State -Imposed Exemptions - Reimburse the value of all
41 mandatory property tax exemptions (e.g., AS 29.45.030(e) senior/disabled-veteran) or make
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1 them optional/needs-based at local discretion; ensure any changes avoid shifting costs to
2 municipalities.
3 4. Protect Intergovernmental Transfers and Inflation -Proof State Obligations - Maintain and
4 inflation -adjust formula funds and shared -revenue programs (e.g., Community Assistance,
5 education formula/BSA, debt reimbursement) to preserve service levels amid rising costs;
6 pay on time.
7 5. Reject a One -Size -Fits -All Appropriation Limit - Oppose constitutional/statutory spending
8 caps that fail to account for inflation, population shifts, capital needs, disaster response, and
9 intergovernmental transfers to school districts and local governments; any limit must
10 explicitly accommodate these purposes.
11 6. Rebuild the Capital Budget and Tackle Deferred Maintenance - Commit to a multi -year
12 capital program sized to inflation and need - funding transportation, water/sewer, energy,
13 public facilities, and resilience - so municipalities can plan and match federal opportunities.
14 7. Continue Efficiency, Shared Services, and State Footprint Reforms - Reduce administrative
15 burdens; expand shared -service delivery through regional or third -party partners
16 (procurement, engineering, grant management); and deploy State technical assistance that
17 lowers local costs and increases draw -down of federal dollars.
18 8. Target Incentives to Reverse Net Outmigration - Align State incentives with AML priorities -
19 childcare, housing, workforce training, and competitive public employment benefits - to
20 attract and retain residents and employers, acknowledging demographic and migration
21 pressures.
22 9. Respect Local Self -Government and Avoid Cost Shifts - Reject policies that shift State
23 expenses or unfunded mandates to municipalities; require municipal/fiscal impact notes on
24 legislation; and consult local governments early on major fiscal changes.
25 10. Transparency and Stability - Publish clear, timely revenue and expenditure outlooks;
26 maintain predictable disbursement schedules for shared programs; and use multi -year
27 budgeting practices that give municipalities reliable planning horizons; and
28 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML urges the Governor and Legislature to work
29 collaboratively on a comprehensive fiscal package in the 2026 session that (a) establishes new
30 broad -based revenues; (b) protects municipal taxing authority and local revenues; (c) inflation-
31 proofs obligations and transfers; (d) rebuilds the capital budget; and (e) implements efficiency
32 and shared -service strategies that reduce total system cost while improving service delivery; and
33 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will support this effort by providing non -partisan
34 analysis, facilitating local government input, and publishing options that reflect municipal
35 impacts - including how various revenue structures, exemption reforms, and appropriation -limit
36 designs would affect local governments and residents.
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1 Resolution #2026-04
2 A resolution calling for Alaska LNG development to include local benefits and deliver
3 community value
4 WHEREAS, reliable and affordable energy is foundational to public health, safety, and
5 economic resilience in Alaska's communities, and large energy developments have direct local
6 implications for ports, roads, utilities, housing, and public services; and
7 WHEREAS, renewed commercial interest and project adjustments have kept Alaska LNG in
8 public focus, presenting both opportunity and risk for Alaska's municipalities; and
9 WHEREAS, local governments bear front-line impacts from construction and operations -
10 traffic and road wear, port and harbor use, public safety demand, workforce housing pressure,
11 and utility capacity needs - while also shouldering expectations to translate large projects into
12 lasting community benefits; and
13 WHEREAS, clear, enforceable benefit commitments - developed with host and corridor
14 communities - are essential to align State support with local priorities, maintain public trust, and
15 ensure that if Alaska LNG advances, communities benefit in measurable, durable ways; and
16 WHEREAS, respect for municipal authority, planning processes, and existing local revenue
17 tools is vital to equitable project development and to sustaining the services residents depend on.
18 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML supports continued progress toward an
19 economically viable Alaska LNG project and urges the Governor, Legislature, and the Alaska
20 Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) — and the companies they work with — to condition
21 any State support (financial, statutory, regulatory, or administrative) on adoption of a community
22 benefits structure, especially to include host and corridor municipalities that includes, at
23 minimum, the following:
24 1. Reauthorize the Municipal Advisory Gasline Project Review Board — This Advisory Board
25 comprised of municipal officials could be instrumental in developing a framework to
26 evaluate the local governmental options that could be adopted to address and mitigate the
27 impacts of new infrastructure associated with the development of the State's North Slope
28 natural gas resources, recommending legislative options to minimize the financial impact to
29 communities in proximity to a North Slope natural gas project infrastructure, and
30 recommending legislative options to minimize the financial impact to communities not in
31 proximity to a North Slope natural gas project. Include municipal representation in
32 negotiations and as part of an ongoing oversight body; public, quarterly reporting on metrics
33 (revenues shared, funds deployed, local hire/apprenticeships, offtake subscriptions,
34 mitigations delivered); and a dispute -resolution and enforcement pathway.
35 2. Maintain Current Oil and Gas Property Tax — Many communities benefit directly from
36 current oil and gas property taxes, which contribute to their ability to fund education,
37 emergency response, and public infrastructure. No action should be taken to preempt or
38 diminish existing municipal revenue authority.
39 3. Port, Road, and Public Safety Impact Mitigation Funds — The project and partnership should
40 provide dedicated, multi -year funds for port/harbor improvements, road maintenance and
41 upgrades, traffic management, emergency response, and workforce housing and public
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1 facilities necessary to safely host construction and operations - available before and during
2 peak impact periods. These investments are necessary to meet the needs of project
3 development.
4 4. Skilled -Trades Pipelines & Local Hire — In cooperation with local governments, establish a
5 coordinated workforce plan (with UA, AVTEC, unions, school districts, Tribes, and
6 employers) that establishes registered apprenticeships, pre -apprenticeship bridges, and local
7 hire targets, with transparent reporting on Alaska resident participation and
8 small/disadvantaged business opportunities.
9 5. Firm Gas Offtake for Public Buildings & Utilities at Transparent Pricing — Identify set -aside
10 firm service off -take options (where infrastructure allows) for municipal facilities and
11 community utilities, with transparent, cost -based tariffing and predictable indexation to
12 enable conversions, efficiency upgrades, and long-term budgeting for essential public
13 services. Determine the extent to which gas offtake can reduce cost of living and the high
14 cost of delivering public services in Alaska, and implement solutions.
15 6. Local Authority & Compliance Safeguards — Ensure an explicit commitment that the project
16 will respect municipal home -rule and general -law powers, local planning and permitting, and
17 will not reduce environmental and safety compliance obligations. Any project -driven local
18 requirements must be funded, with no unfunded mandates or preemption of authority by the
19 State.
20 7. Corridor & Regional Considerations — Include provisions that recognize cumulative impacts
21 across the corridor (construction staging, traffic, workforce logistics), ensuring proportional
22 benefits to non -terminal municipalities, and support collaboration among neighboring
23 communities; and
24 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML urges AGDC and relevant State agencies to negotiate
25 these concurrently with commercial agreements — and encourages Glenfarne, 8 Star Alaska, and
26 other companies involved in developing, managing, or delivering Alaska LNG to be receptive to
27 - such that commitments are effective at Final Investment Decision (FID) and funded in advance
28 of peak construction; and to align State infrastructure investments (ports, roads, utilities,
29 housing) with priorities identified by host municipalities; and
30 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML encourages the Legislature to provide enabling
31 statutes and appropriations necessary to implement these terms without restricting existing
32 municipal revenues or authorities; and to require periodic oversight hearings on performance;
33 and
34 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will be a constructive partner by convening affected
35 municipalities to define shared priorities, assisting members with workforce and facility offtake
36 readiness, supporting coordinated corridor planning, and providing model agreements and
37 public -facing reporting templates.
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1 Resolution #2026-05
2 A resolution calling on DOT'S AMHS to implement its 2045 plan by establishing near -term
3 service metrics, capital cadence, transparent performance, and community partnerships.
4 WHEREAS, the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is a lifeline for many coastal
5 communities - supporting public safety and health access, K-12 and university travel, essential
6 freight, tourism, and regional commerce - and service uncertainty directly disrupts local
7 economies and municipal operations; and
8 WHEREAS, DOT&PF's AMHS 2045 long-range plan provides a strategic vision, and
9 communities and residents need near -term reliability of service levels, maintenance windows,
10 and vessel replacement in order to plan budgets, events, freight, and emergency services; and
11 WHEREAS, local governments own and operate ports, harbors, terminals, roads, emergency
12 services, and visitor infrastructure that are affected by AMHS schedules, and should be
13 considered essential partners in near- and long-term planning, setting service standards and
14 sequencing capital; and
15 WHEREAS, transparent, time -bound implementation - paired with public performance
16 reporting - will improve accountability, affordability, and reliability while complementing
17 municipal authority, planning processes, and local revenue tools.
18 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges the
19 Governor, Legislature, and DOT&PF to adopt the following near -term AMHS implementation
20 framework aligned with the 2045 plan:
21 1. Establish by statute or policy five-year rolling service goals that set minimum monthly calls
22 by passenger and freight needs, co -developed with local governments, businesses, and
23 Tribes, using criteria that recognizes community conditions, such as modal connectivity,
24 affordability, medical/education needs, freight dependence, and seasonal demand. Publish
25 and update annually, with variance that is documented and communicated to AMHS
26 communities.
27 2. Publish annually an AMHS Maintenance Windows Calendar (vessels and terminals) that
28 identifies planned out -of -service periods, expected return -to -service dates, and contingency
29 coverage so communities can plan freight, events, and essential travel. Most important is to
30 understand the variables involved, and report on progress.
31 3. Adopt a fleet recapitalization ladder that sets target replacement/overhaul intervals by vessel
32 class, sequenced over a multi -biennium horizon; pair with a predictable capital program
33 (planning, design, build) so that aging vessels do not create avoidable service gaps. This is
34 especially important for the Legislature to review as part of its deferred maintenance and
35 capital budget planning. Consider including this as part of a broader asset management plan
36 or structure.
37 4. Enhance efforts and ensure sufficient funding to maintain a published service contingency
38 playbook (replacements, charters, alternate routings, freight bridges) to uphold the service
39 standards during unplanned outages; coordinating with local government administration,
40 emergency managers and harbor masters to execute contingency plans.
41 5. Work toward and establish route -level, public -facing dashboards showing factors like on-
42 time performance, cancellations (with cause), vessel tracking, capacity utilization,
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1 maintenance availability, customer notification timeliness, and fare/affordability indicators;
2 include quarterly progress against the rolling service standard. This can be shored up with
3 regular communication and community engagement.
4 6. Work with stakeholders to maintain or enhance fare policies and discounts that protect
5 resident affordability and access to essential services (medical, education, government
6 travel), with any fuel surcharges or adjustments published through a transparent formula.
7 AML recognizes that rate -setting is a challenging endeavor and iterative process, where State
8 revenue recovery must be balanced with affordability relative to alternative modes of public
9 transit.
10 7. Formalize a local coordination protocol that aligns schedule decisions with municipal
11 planning calendars; continues to coordinate with local governments with home-rule/general-
12 law powers, harbor/port policies, and land -use and permitting.
13 8. Sequence vessel deployments and capital projects to preserve access across regions; convene
14 regular multi -port coordination meetings to manage seasonal peaks, events, and construction
15 impacts; and
16 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML urges the Legislature to align appropriations and
17 reporting with this framework - supporting the capital ladder, requiring dashboard publication,
18 and holding periodic oversight hearings on service standard compliance. This includes
19 aggressively pursuing all potential and available funds, providing the necessary matching funds
20 where required, and ensuring sufficiency of revenues, even while continuing to look for
21 operational efficiencies; and
22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will be a constructive partner by convening member
23 communities to help define community classes and baseline calls, providing feedback on the
24 maintenance calendar and dashboards, and collaborating on grant and capital strategies that
25 improve service and affordability.
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1 Resolution 2026-06
2 A resolution addressing compliance with State law by adopting and supporting measures to
3 strengthen property assessment at full market value
4 WHEREAS, Alaska Statutes (AS 29.45.110) require municipalities to assess property at its full
5 and true market value each year, reflecting what a knowledgeable buyer would pay a willing
6 seller; and
7 WHEREAS, accurate market -value assessment is vital to fairly distributing the property tax
8 burden and upholding taxpayers' trust in the system; and
9 WHEREAS, Alaska is one of only a few states with no requirement to disclose real estate sales
10 prices to any public official, resulting in local assessors lacking direct access to the very market
11 data needed to fulfill the state mandate; and
12 WHEREAS, the absence of mandatory disclosure leads to an incomplete and often unreliable
13 picture of the real estate market, as assessors must rely on voluntary sale notifications, private
14 data sources, and appeals to gather sales information; and
15 WHEREAS, this data gap disproportionately affects high -value residential and commercial
16 properties, which are less frequently reported and thus tend to be assessed below true market
17 value, shifting tax burdens to other property owners and undermining uniformity; and
18 WHEREAS, previous calls for full public sales disclosure in Alaska (including AML Resolution
19 2019-04) have not been enacted due to concerns raised by interest groups, indicating that new
20 approaches are necessary to achieve fair assessment without triggering political opposition; and
21 WHEREAS, several states have successfully implemented systems for confidential sales price
22 reporting — requiring that sales information be filed with assessors for valuation purposes but
23 kept confidential by law — a model that could enhance assessors' data in Alaska while respecting
24 privacy; and
25 WHEREAS, Alaska's State Assessor and professional assessment community have endorsed
26 exploring solutions such as limited -access disclosure, data sharing, and improved analytical tools
27 to meet the full -value standard; and
28 WHEREAS, advances in mass appraisal modeling, data analysis, and inter -agency cooperation
29 now provide new opportunities for local and state governments to estimate market values with
30 greater accuracy even in the absence of publicly disclosed sales (for example, by pooling
31 regional sales data and utilizing income and cost valuation methods alongside the best available
32 sales estimates); and
33 WHEREAS, ensuring assessment equity may also require policy innovations such as property
34 class differentiation in taxation, which would necessitate state enabling legislation but could help
35 correct imbalances between under -assessed and fairly assessed categories of property, thereby
36 improving fairness in the tax system.
37 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges the
38 State of Alaska to adopt and support, and for local governments to consider, the following
39 measures to strengthen property assessment at full market value without mandatory public
40 disclosure of sales prices:
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1 1. Enact state legislation to require the disclosure of real property sales prices to a designated
2 public office (such as local assessors or a state real estate database) with strict confidentiality
3 protections, so that assessors can access actual sales data for valuation purposes. This
4 legislation should ensure the data is exempt from public records and used solely to improve
5 assessment accuracy and equity.
6 2. Alternatively, facilitate voluntary data -sharing agreements between local governments and
7 real estate industry sources (e.g. MLS systems and realtor associations) to grant assessors
8 access to sales information under confidentiality terms. AML could coordinate a statewide
9 sales data repository where municipalities can securely contribute and access pooled sales
10 data (including information gleaned from voluntary sale disclosures, recorded transfer
11 affidavits, appeals evidence, etc.), thereby broadening the market information available to all
12 jurisdictions.
13 3. Invest in and deploy modern statistical appraisal tools to bridge the data gap. This includes
14 providing state assistance or funding for advanced CAMA software and training so that every
15 municipal assessor can analyze market trends using the best available inputs (sales, income,
16 and cost data). The State could consider partnering with expert organizations (such as the
17 IAAO or tech firms) to develop Alaska -specific automated valuation models that incorporate
18 regional economic indicators and any available sales proxies. Additionally, consider the use
19 of the income approach for commercial properties by supporting local ordinances or state
20 laws that allow assessors to collect rental and expense data from commercial property owners
21 for more accurate market valuations.
22 4. Introduce enabling legislation to permit split property tax rates or assessment ratios by
23 property class, such as differentiating between commercial and residential property tax
24 burdens. This would allow municipalities, if needed, to apply a separate mill rate to classes
25 that are demonstrably under -assessed relative to others, in order to correct inequitable tax
26 distribution.
27 Any implementation of this tool should be grounded in objective analysis (e.g. sales ratio
28 studies) and designed to maintain revenue neutrality while improving fairness (preventing
29 one class of taxpayers from subsidizing another due to assessment inaccuracies). AML will
30 work with the legislature to ensure that such classification authority is consistent with the
31 Alaska Constitution and crafted to address the unique market conditions in non -disclosure
32 environments.
33 5. Expand the role of the State of Alaska in supporting local assessments at market value. This
34 includes strengthening the State Assessor's Office with resources to provide technical
35 appraisal assistance to boroughs and cities, and to conduct periodic equalization studies that
36 identify disparities in assessment levels between communities or property types; and
37 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML and its member municipalities commit to ongoing
38 collaboration in pursuing these solutions. We will share best practices, support pilot programs
39 (such as a trial confidential disclosure program or a regional data cooperative), and engage with
40 stakeholders — including the real estate industry and the public — to demonstrate that these
41 measures can improve tax fairness and transparency without compromising privacy. By taking
42 these steps, local governments and the State can better fulfill the mandate of full -market -value
43 assessment, thereby ensuring that Alaska's property tax system remains equitable, lawful, and
44 worthy of public trust.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-07
2 A resolution calling for an accurate and full count in the next U.S. Census and calling for a
3 State -Local -Federal partnership to meet community needs
4 WHEREAS, a complete and accurate decennial Census is essential to fair representation,
5 equitable distribution of federal and state resources, sound local planning, and data -driven
6 decisions across Alaska's municipalities and boroughs; and
7 WHEREAS, Alaska's unique conditions - including remote and roadless communities, seasonal
8 and shift -based workforces, widespread P.O. box addressing, language access needs, harsh
9 weather, and group -quarters concentrations - require tailored outreach, flexible enumeration
10 timing, and strong local engagement to achieve a full count; and
11 WHEREAS, AML's Principles and Policy Statements call on the State to provide resources and
12 technical assistance that enhance the capacity of communities, and to foster municipal -Tribal
13 collaboration, both of which are integral to a successful complete -count effort; and
14 WHEREAS, AML policy supports closing Alaska's digital gaps by improving access to
15 affordable, high-speed broadband and supporting short- and long-term strategies for broadband
16 and cellular coverage, which directly aid self -response options, community kiosks, and digital
17 outreach during the Census; and
18 WHEREAS, the State's commitment to provide resources and support for municipalities to
19 better access grant opportunities aligns with micro -grant programs that help communities hire
20 local coordinators, translators, and enumerators and to conduct culturally appropriate outreach.
21 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML)
22 encourages every member municipality and borough to prepare for the upcoming U.S. Census
23 by:
24 1. Establishing a local Complete Count Committee (CCC) (or joining a regional/Tribal CCC),
25 designating a local Census lead, and adopting a Census Outreach Plan that budgets for
26 translation, senior outreach, remote -site logistics, and group -quarters coordination.
27 2. Updating local data ahead of enumeration by participating fully in address and boundary
28 programs (e.g., LUCA/MAF-TIGER updates, BAS), verifying group -quarters and seasonal
29 housing lists, and coordinating with school districts, utilities, housing authorities, and Tribal
30 partners.
31 3. Expanding self -response access, including pop-up response centers/kiosks at libraries, city
32 halls, schools, and clinics; leveraging local media and trusted messengers; and aligning
33 outreach with cultural calendars and subsistence/work seasons; and
34 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML urges the State of Alaska (Governor's Office,
35 DCCED, DOA, DOLWD, DEED, DHSS, DOT&PF) to:
36 1. Stand up a State Complete Count Office to coordinate interagency actions, provide toolkits,
37 and convene regular briefings with municipal and Tribal governments.
38 2. Fund local outreach through pass -through micro -grants to municipalities, Tribes, and
39 community -based organizations for CCC staffing, translation/interpretation, youth and elder
40 engagement, and transportation for remote households.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 3. Support address modernization by assisting communities with E-911 addressing, GIS
2 address -point creation, and MAF/TIGER updates; provide technical assistance and
3 software/training to small jurisdictions.
4 4. Recruit and retain local enumerators, including differential pay for remote duty, travel/per
5 diem support, and partnerships with workforce programs and the University/AVTEC to build
6 a statewide "Census -ready" hiring pool.
7 5. Coordinate Remote Alaska operations (with Tribes, boroughs, and communities) to align
8 enumeration timing and logistics with winter/spring access windows and local events, and to
9 ensure culturally appropriate language access.
10 6. Expand digital access for Census response, including pop-up Wi-Fi hotspots and public
11 kiosks, leveraging ongoing State broadband investments and planning committees.
12 7. Provide legal and technical support for boundary/annexation updates, group -quarters
13 enumeration, and post -enumeration review processes appropriate to Alaska's needs; and
14 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML urges the U.S. Census Bureau and federal partners
15 to:
16 1. Adapt operations for Alaska, including flexible enumeration schedules; robust local hiring;
17 language services (translation and interpretation with Alaska Native languages); expanded
18 group -quarters protocols; and village -based logistics support.
19 2. Fund cooperative agreements with the State and local/Tribal governments for outreach,
20 translation, and rural logistics; provide early, predictable grant windows sized to Alaska's
21 travel and shipping realities.
22 3. Improve address -file and feedback tools (MAF/TIGER) and training (e.g., GUPS), simplify
23 submission for small governments, and create a dedicated Small -Jurisdiction Help Desk for
24 Alaska.
25 4. Ensure strong post -enumeration remedies, including timely Count Question Resolution and
26 group -quarters review windows, with clear guidance tailored to remote and seasonal housing
27 contexts; and
28 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will develop and maintain a Census Readiness
29 Toolkit, host training and peer exchanges, coordinate with Tribal organizations and community
30 partners, and advocate for resources that enable every Alaska community - large and small,
31 roaded and remote - to achieve a full and accurate count.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-08
2 A resolution requesting legislation to clarify the nonprofit property tax exemption
3 WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League (AML) works to strengthen local governments and
4 improve the condition of communities; and
5 WHEREAS, local governments and charitable nonprofits work together to meet public needs,
6 with nonprofits often providing services that reduce the burden on government and maximize the
7 impact of public funds; and
8 WHEREAS, nonprofits are economic drivers of employment, leveraging resources both time
9 and money into local government budgets and communities and
10 WHEREAS, Alaska Statute 29.45.030(a)(3) currently exempts from general taxation property
11 used exclusively for nonprofit religious, charitable, cemetery, hospital, or educational purposes;
12 and
13 WHEREAS, stable and predictable property tax rules for nonprofits enable both local
14 governments and charitable organizations to plan effectively, foster collaboration, and ensure that
15 resources are directed toward mission -driven community benefit rather than administrative or
16 legal disputes; and
17 WHEREAS, municipalities have faced ambiguity in interpreting the extent to which nonprofit
18 property qualifies for exemption, particularly in cases of partial use, incidental use, revenue
19 generation, or leasing arrangements; and
20 WHEREAS, in Fairbanks the Fairbanks North Star Borough partially revoked the charitable
21 property tax exemption of Victory Ministries' Camp Li-Wa after discovering portions of the
22 property were being rented to the general public, leading to litigation and remand for more
23 detailed factual findings; and
24 WHEREAS, in that same case the Supreme Court criticized the lack of clarity in the assessor's
25 factual findings and jurisdictional process for appeal, highlighting the need for clearer statutory
26 direction in tax exemption decisions; and
27 WHEREAS, in Kodiak, a Superior Court ruled in favor of the Kodiak Area Native Association
28 (KANA), exempting most of its holdings (clinic, wellness center, child advocacy center, and
29 other buildings) from property tax, a decision currently under appeal, illustrating the unsettled
30 nature of exemption law in Alaska and its potential statewide implications; and
31 WHEREAS, in Nome, a related dispute involves the Norton Sound Health Corporation (a tribal
32 nonprofit health organization) over property tax exemption status, as the City of Nome
33 maintained that certain properties were ineligible, and the issue is now before higher courts; and
34 WHEREAS, these Kodiak and Nome cases have drawn widespread municipal and tribal amicus
35 support because their outcome may set precedent affecting municipalities' ability to enforce or
36 challenge exemptions statewide; and
37 WHEREAS, the lack of statutory clarity has resulted in inconsistent application across
38 jurisdictions, legal disputes, and challenges for both local governments and nonprofit
39 organizations seeking to comply with the law; and
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League supports legislative changes that provide
2 municipalities with clear guidance, protect the integrity of the property tax base, and respect the
3 essential public service roles that nonprofits play in Alaska communities; and
4 WHEREAS, AML proposes clarifying amendments to AS 29.45.030, including:
5 . Defining charitable nonprofits as 501(c)(3) organizations as a first step in the determination;
6 . Enabling local governments to further define charitable activity in order to determine exempt
7 status consistent with purposes that align with advancing the public good and serving those
8 otherwise unable to afford services;
9 . Requiring spatial apportionment for properties partially used for non-exempt purposes;
10 . Allowing mission -related income generation (e.g., grants, donations, earned revenue) to
11 remain consistent with exempt status;
12 . Establishing rules for leased property based on the status of the lessee nonprofit;
13 . Maintaining exemption for properties under construction or reconstruction for exempt
14 purposes, with accountability measures; and
15 • Clarifying that incidental or vitally necessary uses remain exempt; and
16 WHEREAS, such clarifications will help ensure consistency, fairness, and transparency for both
17 municipalities and nonprofit organizations while preserving local taxing authority.
18 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League recognizes the
19 importance of a clear, statewide definition of "exclusive charitable use" to ensure fair and
20 consistent application of exemptions, and encourages the State and local governments to work
21 collaboratively with the nonprofit sector, through the Foraker Group, to achieve this goal; and
22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the Alaska State
23 Legislature to adopt amendments to AS 29.45.030 that clarify nonprofit property tax exemption
24 standards consistent with AML's position; and
25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML supports statutory language ensuring that
26 exemptions are applied fairly, consistently, and in a manner that balances municipal fiscal needs
27 with recognition of the vital role of nonprofit organizations in Alaska communities, and that
28 hereby AML affirms the value of strong partnerships between local governments and nonprofits,
29 and acknowledges that stable, predictable tax rules benefit both sectors and the communities they
30 serve.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-10
2 A resolution calling on DOT&PF to advance fair, transparent, and locally -driven programs
3 and decisions
4 WHEREAS, AML supports competitive transportation programs that are fair, transparent, and
5 data -informed, with public -facing documentation of criteria, scoring, and how projects are
6 ranked and selected; AML further supports the role of area/regional planners to inject local
7 knowledge early in evaluations; and
8 WHEREAS, robust local and regional engagement - including letters/resolutions of support,
9 proactive technical assistance to rural applicants, and consultation through Regional Planning
10 Organizations (RPOs) - helps align project scopes with community plans and overcome capacity
11 barriers in small jurisdictions; and
12 WHEREAS, AML encourages DOT&PF to recognize and prioritize high -need and underserved
13 areas (e.g., persistent -poverty, rural, and vulnerable road -user hot spots) through explicit scoring
14 criteria and clear definitions tailored to Alaska's context; and
15 WHEREAS, clarity about the respective roles of the State and MPOs in suballocated programs,
16 and MPO flexibility to apply locally appropriate evaluation criteria (consistent with federal
17 requirements), strengthens collaboration and keeps decisions close to affected communities; and
18 WHEREAS, final selections made centrally should follow an objective framework,
19 documenting any adjustments to preliminary scores and offering opportunities for outside input
20 or observation to bolster confidence in outcomes; and
21 WHEREAS, clear maintenance & management (M&M) expectations, templates, and duration
22 standards are essential so sponsors understand long-term responsibilities and can right -size
23 commitments to capacity; and
24 WHEREAS, matching -funds policy should be transparent and equitable - acknowledging
25 existing State policy on local match while utilizing BIL flexibilities (e.g., hardship/average-share
26 provisions) and ROW credit tools to reduce barriers in disadvantaged and rural communities; and
27 WHEREAS, user-friendly application platforms ("Hub"), hands-on planner assistance, strong
28 linkage to local plans, and treating guidance as a living document with debriefs and updates will
29 improve accessibility and program quality across DOT&PF initiatives; and
30 WHEREAS, improvements should be sought across statewide transportation programs that
31 include Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), Highway Safety Improvement Program
32 (HSIP), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ), and Statewide
33 Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
34 NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML urges DOT&PF to extend the following
35 program practices across statewide transportation programs (e.g., competitive or prioritization
36 processes):
37 1. Ensure that project scoping discussed with local governments stays consistent, and if
38 managed by DOT&PF ensures that MPOs and non -metropolitan local governments are
39 coordinated with and have a role in decision -making.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
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1 2. Ensure a transparent process for reprogramming STIP projects, where cost increases result in
2 deprioritizing a project or require moving funds from one project to another, and include
3 either public notice or some oversight tool to help in determination of final decision.
4 3. Publicly post program criteria, weighting, scoring rubrics, decision procedures, and post-
s award score summaries/debriefs to uphold a fair, transparent, and consistent process
6 statewide.
7 4. Require (or encourage) local endorsement and consistency with adopted local/tribal plans;
8 provide proactive rural TA during early concept phases; leverage RPOs and other regional
9 bodies for outreach/advisory roles.
10 5. Add measurable "risk/need" scoring (persistent poverty, rurality, safety risk) and define
11 Alaska -specific high -need criteria with municipal input.
12 6. Affirm MPO autonomy to adopt locally appropriate evaluation criteria within federal
13 guardrails, with transparent Local Control Plans developed collaboratively and posted
14 publicly.
15 7. Adopt an objective PEB-style framework (or equivalent) across programs: document any
16 score adjustments to meet program goals, offer optional outside briefing/observation, and
17 publish a rationale for the final slate.
18 8. Include AML or local government representative as part of PEB decision -making process.
19 9. Provide M&M templates, define duration/standards, and identify where State technical
20 support can assist small sponsors.
21 10. State plainly when local match is required and how it's calculated; apply BIL match flex
22 (e.g., hardship or program -average provisions) for disadvantaged communities; promote
23 ROW credit and eligible in -kind strategies.
24 11. Expand planner -assisted entries in the Funding Hub; weight "in local/tribal plans" in scoring;
25 and treat guidebooks as living documents with post -cycle debriefs, accessibility (Section
26 508), and corrected links/citations.
27 12. Where local capacity is scarce, allow exceptions to any internal caps on State -sponsored
28 projects so worthy projects aren't left behind;
29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will be a positive partner by: (a) offering training
30 and technical assistance on the Funding Hub and program requirements; (b) helping DOT&PF
31 define "high -need" criteria and hardship -match policies; (c) supporting RPO pilots and MPO
32 coordination; and (d) convening post -cycle debriefs with members to inform continuous
33 improvement.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-11
2 A resolution supporting facility maintenance workforce development to build Alaska's
3 public -sector technician pipeline and reducing deferred maintenance
4 WHEREAS, Alaska faces a multi -billion -dollar backlog of deferred maintenance across public
5 facilities, including an estimated $2.4 billion at the State level (with the University of Alaska
6 accounting for —63% / $1.5 billion), while local governments confront substantial, but under-
7 documented, needs of their own; and deferred upkeep increases operating costs and risks service
8 disruptions in clinics, utilities, schools, and critical public buildings; and
9 WHEREAS, the current public -sector facilities workforce is too small and aging - about 4,044
10 general maintenance and repair workers statewide (public + private) with modest projected
11 growth and significant retirements ahead - leaving municipalities and tribes, especially in rural
12 Alaska, struggling to recruit and retain qualified technicians; and
13 WHEREAS, rural communities often rely on a single generalist (or none) to maintain multiple
14 systems, face high turnover, and must wait for itinerant crews - conditions that exacerbate
15 deferred maintenance and increase long-term costs; and
16 WHEREAS, existing training is fragmented and unevenly accessible, with capacity limits and
17 geographic barriers; while past efforts like the Rural Alaska Maintenance Partnership (RAMP)
18 created statewide facility maintenance technician standards and curricula, the coalition ended
19 when project funding lapsed, leaving a coordination gap despite strong foundations to build
20 upon; and
21 WHEREAS, the lack of a recognized, statewide credential and a clear career ladder for Facility
22 Maintenance Technicians (FMTs), combined with the absence of a comprehensive municipal
23 facility -condition and maintenance -needs dataset, hinders workforce planning, funding
24 prioritization, and targeted training investments; and
25 WHEREAS, proven models exist to emulate - e.g., circuit -rider support like the Remote
26 Maintenance Worker (RMW) program for water/sewer, successful regional trainings, and
27 apprenticeship pathways - that can be adapted to building facilities with sustained coordination
28 and investment.
29 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the
30 Governor, Legislature, and State agencies (DCCED, DOLWD/AWIB, DEED, AEA, ADEC) to
31 partner with AML, the University of Alaska, AVTEC, tribal and regional organizations, and
32 federal funders to establish a Statewide Facility Maintenance Workforce Initiative with the
33 following components:
34 1. Reconstitute "RAMP 2.0" under an institutional home - Convene a standing Facilities
35 Maintenance Workforce Working Group to update and adopt the FMT standards, align
36 curricula across providers, and coordinate delivery statewide.
37 2. Create a recognized FMT credential and registered apprenticeship - Establish a multi -level
38 FMT certification (Level I —III) endorsed by AWIB and a Registered Apprenticeship template
39 that municipalities and tribes can adopt, with wage progressions and reciprocity across
40 employers.
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1 3. Expand regional and mobile training ("circuit -rider" model) - Fund itinerant instructors and
2 short, intensive modules (e.g., boilers, controls, electrical troubleshooting) delivered in hub
3 communities, paired with online theory and on-the-job mentoring.
4 4. Stand up a statewide public -facility data project - Conduct a Public Facilities Asset &
5 Condition Survey and maintain an "Infrastructure Health Index" for municipal and tribal
6 facilities to quantify backlog, guide workforce sizing, and target funds.
7 5. Incentivize hiring, training, and retention - Create a Maintenance Workforce Grant/Match for
8 municipal apprenticeships, tuition support/loan forgiveness for FMTs serving in Alaska
9 public roles, and authorize a small training set -aside in capital appropriations to build the
10 workforce that will maintain new assets.
11 6. Pilot regional shared -service maintenance teams - Launch regional maintenance teams
12 (borough/tribal consortia) to rotate through multiple communities, perform preventive
13 maintenance, and mentor local hires - modeled on RMW success.
14 7. Elevate asset management and preventive maintenance - Embed asset -management practices
15 and preventive maintenance policies in local governance and procurement, with templates,
16 training, and technical assistance for small communities; and
17 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will convene partners for an annual Alaska Facilities
18 Maintenance Summit, maintain a resource hub for practitioners, and assist members in launching
19 apprenticeships and adopting the FMT credential - so that Alaska's public infrastructure is
20 protected by a strong, locally rooted maintenance workforce.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-12
2 A resolution calling on Congress to restore & replace FEMA mitigation programs and
3 speed up public assistance for Alaska communities
4 WHEREAS, Alaska's municipalities and boroughs face frequent, high -cost disasters across vast,
5 roadless regions, and reliable federal programs for mitigation and recovery are essential to
6 protect public health, safety, and critical infrastructure; and
7 WHEREAS, FEMA's pause and transition away from the competitive BRIC program has
8 disrupted the cadence of pre -disaster mitigation funding just as communities are planning
9 resilience projects and updating hazard mitigation plans; and
10 WHEREAS, comprehensive federal reform under consideration (including the proposed FEMA
11 Act of 2025) would modernize mitigation and recovery - e.g., formula -based pre -disaster
12 mitigation with rural set -asides, faster estimate -based Public Assistance with obligation clocks,
13 procurement parity for local governments, small -disaster block grants, environmental
14 streamlining, and public dashboards - changes that are well -suited to Alaska if implemented with
15 capacity support and Alaska -specific flexibility; and
16 WHEREAS, Alaska's smallest municipalities, Tribes, and unorganized communities require
17 technical assistance, simplified applications, predictable timelines, and the ability to pool
18 services (e.g., regional cost -estimating) to successfully access and administer federal disaster
19 funds.
20 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges
21 Congress and the Administration to enact legislation and administrative actions that:
22 1. Reinstate multi -year pre -disaster mitigation (as a successor to BRIC/HMGP) with a
23 predictable annual formula, a meaningful rural/remote set -aside, a preserved Tribal set -aside,
24 and a minimum 50% pass -through to local governments, paired with Direct Technical
25 Assistance for small jurisdictions and streamlined, consolidated applications.
26 2. Speed up Public Assistance (PA) by codifying statutory obligation clocks (e.g., 90-day
27 approval of certified estimates) and timely disbursement, authorizing advance/progress
28 payments and management cost flexibility for small applicants, enabling direct grants to local
29 governments (where capacity exists), maintaining an inflation adjustment, and recognizing
30 procurement parity so Alaska municipalities can use their own procurement rules consistent
31 with federal standards.
32 3. Activate small -disaster block grants for multi -community rural events, with state or
33 designated intermediary administration, distribution plans that reference local hazard
34 mitigation plans and capital programs, and an enhanced cost share for frontier states to reflect
35 extreme logistics.
36 4. Invest in local capacity and planning by funding every Alaska community's hazard mitigation
37 plan (or multi jurisdictional regional plans) on an accelerated timeline; allowing longer plan
38 cycles or phased updates for small communities; and explicitly making shared -service
39 models eligible (e.g., regional engineering/estimating benches and grant administration
40 pools) under PA/HMGP management costs.
41 5. Make mitigation incentives feasible for Alaska by implementing building -code incentives
42 with functional -equivalency options and state/engineer attestations that reflect
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
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1 Arctic/permafrost conditions, so small communities without formal code enforcement can
2 still qualify for enhanced cost shares when they build to resilient standards.
3 6. Increase field presence and transparency by strengthening FEMA's Alaska Area Office
4 capacity, expanding technical assistance to rural communities, and maintaining public IA/PA
5 dashboards that show application status, obligations, disbursements, and reasons for delay;
6 and
7 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the State of Alaska (DHS&EM and partner agencies)
8 should pre -position implementation to take full advantage of federal reforms by: (a) organizing a
9 statewide pre -approved mitigation portfolio with at least one project per borough/census area to
10 unlock enhanced cost shares; (b) establishing on -call estimating teams and cooperative contracts
11 communities can use to meet estimate -based PA requirements; and (c) preparing a small -disaster
12 block grant playbook for rapid, equitable distributions in multi -village events; and
13 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that nothing in these reforms should shift costs or unfunded
14 mandates to municipalities, preempt local authority, or restrict local revenue tools; rather,
15 reforms should reduce complexity, speed reimbursements, and expand mitigation - particularly in
16 communities that lack the fiscal capacity to bridge federal delays; and
17 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will be a constructive intergovernmental partner by
18 coordinating member input on federal rulemaking, sharing model applications and procurement
19 templates, facilitating pooled technical resources (estimating, grant management), and tracking
20 dashboard performance to elevate bottlenecks affecting Alaska communities.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-13
2 A resolution urging the State to accelerate housing delivery with a state -local fast lane for
3 infrastructure and modular approvals
4 WHEREAS, Alaska faces a persistent housing shortage that local governments experience daily
5 through constrained supply, rising costs, and project delays tied to subdivision, utility, and site-
6 readiness bottlenecks; and
7 WHEREAS, AML's Principles call for maximum local self-government, preservation of the
8 local tax base, and State resources and technical assistance that enhance community capacity -
9 standards that should guide any housing fast -lane approach; and
10 WHEREAS, AML policy further supports State actions that help municipalities access grants
11 and remove barriers of cost, timing, match, and complexity, and to recognize and address aging
12 transportation, energy, and water/sewer infrastructure that directly affect housing delivery; and
13 WHEREAS, recent legislative attention to housing underscores an urgent need to convert policy
14 intent into near -term, on -the -ground delivery without preempting local plans, revenues, or public
15 processes; and
16 WHEREAS, modular/pattern designs, predictable infrastructure financing, and coordinated
17 State —local permitting can shorten timelines and lower costs while maintaining safety,
18 environmental, and building -code compliance;
19 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges the
20 Governor, Legislature, and relevant State agencies (DCCED, AHFC, DEC, DOT&PF, DOA) to
21 adopt the following Housing "Fast -Lane" package:
22 1. One -Stop Permit Concierge (State —Local Fast Lane) - Establish a single navigator and
23 consolidated application for subdivision, utility extensions, access/ROW, DEC approvals,
24 and related reviews with parallel processing and published service -level timelines. Local
25 comprehensive plans, zoning, and standards remain controlling; State assistance is additive,
26 not preemptive.
27 2. Statewide Pre -Approved Modular "Pattern Book."- As a step toward reducing the costs of
28 construction, consider pre -approving standard residential designs that meet Alaska snow,
29 wind, seismic, and energy codes. Municipalities could opt in by resolution; local review
30 could be focused on site -specific items (foundation/soils, utilities, flood/erosion,
31 historic/design overlays). Target an expedited 15-30 day local check for pattern -book
32 submittals.
33 3. Infrastructure Readiness Fund (IRF) - Authorize and capitalize an IRF to advance
34 water/sewer, roads, sitework, and power/telecom that unlock buildable lots. Allow repayment
35 from lot sales, PILOTS, tap/connection fees, and participation agreements, and enable
36 braiding with federal formula/competitive funds to close gaps.
37 4. Public Developer Model - With Local Support - Enable a State or local public development
38 entity (or interlocal authority) to assemble land, entitle, deliver horizontal infrastructure, and
39 procure pattern -book units - paired with planning/PM technical assistance and start-up
40 operating support for small communities. This shall not restrict municipal revenue tools and
41 shall avoid cost -shifts to municipalities.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 5. Empower Local Housing Authorities - Incentivize municipalities to form local housing
2 authorities (or join regional/interlocal authorities) that complement AHFC and Tribal housing
3 - including shared procurement, compliance services, and project management - so that
4 delivery capacity exists statewide.
5 6. Guardrails: Respect for Local Government - The fast lane shall not preempt local planning,
6 zoning, design standards, or public involvement; shall not restrict municipal revenues
7 (property/sales/excise, impact/utility fees); and shall not impose unfunded mandates. All
8 environmental, safety, and building -code requirements remain in force.
9 7. Transparency & Accountability - Publish a public Housing Delivery Dashboard tracking
10 permit timelines, IRF deployments, units enabled, affordability outcomes, and geographic
11 equity; include annual debriefs to improve processes; and
12 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that ANIL will support implementation by: (a) providing a
13 Housing Fast -Lane Toolkit (model resolutions, pattern -book adoption steps, IRF repayment
14 templates); (b) convening a Local Housing Authorities Cohort; and (c) offering training on
15 subdivision/utility sequencing, modular procurement, and grant/loan packaging - consistent with
16 AML7s role to enhance municipal capacity.
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-14
2 A resolution urging the Federal and State governments to mitigate the impact of federal
3 cuts to public media, libraries, schools, rural health, and public assistance and calling for
4 renewed Federal and State investment
5 WHEREAS, Alaska's communities rely on a fabric of federally supported services - public
6 media, libraries, K-12 programs, rural health care, and public assistance - that are especially
7 critical in a vast, high -cost, and largely roadless state; and
8 WHEREAS, Congress' 2025 rescission of major Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)
9 funds has left Alaska stations facing layoffs, service reductions, or possible closure, with Alaska
10 outlets publicly warning of severe impacts and launching emergency appeals; these stations are
11 essential for emergency alerts and rural news; and
12 WHEREAS, federal library support through the IMLS "Grants to States" (LSTA) program
13 provides core capacity to Alaska's library system; in FY2024 the Alaska State Library received
14 $1,276,792 in federal LSTA funds to advance access, literacy, and statewide services that reach
15 rural and tribal libraries; and
16 WHEREAS, Alaska's community health centers served 110,513 patients in 2023 across 195
17 delivery sites - 96% located in rural areas - and depend primarily on federal grants and Medicaid
18 to keep doors open in remote communities; and
19 WHEREAS, federal Impact Aid and related K-12 supports are significant in Alaska; recent
20 reporting shows districts eligible for large awards (e.g., $21 million in Lower Kuskokwim, $17
21 million in Anchorage) within an Alaska total around $119 million, underscoring the
22 consequences of federal reductions or delays for school operations; and
23 WHEREAS, food security programs also constitute a substantial lifeline: in FY2024, SNAP
24 supported—68,700 Alaskans and brought an estimated $250.8 million in benefits into the state
25 economy - aid that is especially vital in rural areas with high food prices; and
26 WHEREAS, connectivity for schools and libraries depends on the federal E-Rate program and
27 state coordination, which together help offset Alaska's extreme broadband costs and maintain
28 educational access.
29 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges
30 Congress and the Administration to:
31 1. Restore and/or sustain federal investments in public media (CPB), libraries (IMLS/LSTA),
32 K-12 supports (Impact Aid, Title I, E-Rate), Head Start/Early Learning, rural health
33 (HRSA/CHC grants, IHS), and core safety -net programs (SNAP/WIC), with stability and
34 multi -year certainty.
35 2. Provide rural set -asides and Alaska -appropriate flexibilities to reflect high logistics costs,
36 sparse infrastructure, and unique service delivery models (e.g., regional/tribal consortia).
37 3. Maintain timely obligation and disbursement for grants and benefits, with public dashboards
38 and small jurisdiction technical assistance so local governments can plan and avoid cash-
39 flow crises.
40 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, in the event of sustained federal disinvestment, the State
41 of Alaska should enact a Community Services Stabilization Package that:
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1 1. Establishes a Public Media Bridge Fund to preserve emergency communications and rural
2 news while federal CPB support is unresolved;
3 2. Provides LSTA-match and gap grants to keep statewide library services, interlibrary loan,
4 and small -library operations whole;
5 3. Creates a Rural Health Continuity Fund to stabilize community health center operations
6 during federal grant disruptions;
7 4. Shields schools from abrupt federal shortfalls (e.g., temporary Impact Aid backstops and
8 broadband continuity for E-Rate-dependent connections);
9 5. Ensures food security continuity through targeted state supplements or logistics support if
10 federal nutrition benefits are cut or delayed.
11 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that these measures must respect municipal authority, avoid
12 restricting local revenue tools, and not impose unfunded mandates; state assistance should flow
13 in partnership with local governments, tribes, and regional organizations to reflect local plans
14 and priorities.
15 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will coordinate member input, compile Alaska-
16 specific impact data across the above sectors, and advocate jointly with statewide partners so that
17 every community - large, small, urban, rural, and remote - retains access to the essential services
18 that underpin health, education, information, and civic life.
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1 Resolution #2026-16
2 A resolution calling on the Legislature to modernize Alaska's Public Employee Retirement
3 System with local -option participation, State on -behalf contributions, and actuarial
4 guardrails that protect municipalities
5 WHEREAS, AML's Principles and Policy Statements affirm that the State should fully fund
6 services delivered locally on its behalf and oppose cost -shifting to municipalities, including
7 opposing any shift of the State's on -behalf payment (over 22%) and calling for active reductions
8 of PERS/TRS unfunded liabilities and eliminating termination study/late payment costs; and
9 WHEREAS, Alaska's Constitution establishes that membership in public retirement systems is a
10 contractual relationship and that accrued benefits shall not be diminished or impaired,
11 underscoring the need for clear guardrails when plan designs change; and
12 WHEREAS, the State has historically exercised sole administrative control over actuarial
13 methods/assumptions and investments, and past blended accounting practices commingled
14 employer contributions so one employer's actions affected others' liabilities; and
15 WHEREAS, between 1994-2006 these effects were compounded through RRA policies
16 (transfers, reallocations, and rate setting), while municipalities paid what was required,
17 contributing to today's legacy liabilities; and
18 WHEREAS, in 2008 statutes were amended recognizing State responsibility for most unfunded
19 pension/health liabilities, setting a 22% PERS employer cap (12.56% TRS) and State on -behalf
20 payments above the cap, with a fixed 25-year amortization; and in 2014 the Legislature added $1
21 billion and extended amortization to 2039; and
22 WHEREAS, the re -amortization increased total State funding for PERS/TRS by about $2.73
23 billion through 2039 and increased other non -State employer funding by about $2.529 billion,
24 reinforcing the need to protect municipalities from added liabilities; and
25 WHEREAS, actuarial assumption changes (inflation z 3.12%--+2.50%, total return
26 8.00%--+7.38%, payroll growth 3.62%--+2.75%), smoothing, and layered amortization, combined
27 with a four-year lag between experience and changes, have mitigated volatility but also not been
28 aggressive enough at increasing liabilities for all employers; and
29 WHEREAS, for example, in FY23 higher -than -assumed salaries produced an estimated $94
30 million liability loss and larger -than -expected PRPAs added about $366 million in liability; and
31 WHEREAS, current structures show full actuarial rates of roughly 27.67% for PERS (=22%
32 employer + 6.33% State) and 31.33% for TRS (=12.56% employer + 18.77% State),
33 underscoring the importance of preserving a clear on -behalf framework; and
34 WHEREAS, Alaska's employer mix is highly skewed - 77 smallest employers I% of payroll,
35 64 of 165 cities/boroughs participate - so a realistic offramp and risk management are essential
36 for small and remote communities; and
37 WHEREAS, the 2008 salary floor produced about $6 million in impacts across listed employers
38 in FY21, illustrating how unresponsive the system is to changing dynamics of employers, which
39 also has the perverse incentive to continue growth of payrolls and staffing; and
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1 WHEREAS, delinquent employer balances in FY18—FY21 totaled $26,596,459, and tools like
2 termination studies and 11-15% interest on past -due payments can trap communities as
3 "prisoners of PERS"; and
4 WHEREAS, other constraints - the salary floor, retiree -hiring limits that add liability, and
5 barriers to paying down debt - further restrict right -sizing and local flexibility; and
6 WHEREAS, proposals to add Social Security would add roughly +6% of payroll and affect 27
7 local governments, all school districts, the University, and housing authorities - impacts that must
8 be evaluated to avoid unintended employer and employee liabilities; and
9 WHEREAS, peer -state tools such as Oregon's Employer Incentive Fund (25% match for side
10 accounts), rate pooling, member redirect, work -after -retirement flexibility, salary limit, and
11 district UAL funds demonstrate portable, guardrailed ways to manage UAL and stabilize rates.
12 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the
13 Governor and Alaska Legislature to enact retirement legislation and administrative reforms that:
14 1. Provide a local -option path for municipalities and school districts to opt -in to participate in a
15 reformed defined -benefit or hybrid tier, paired with State on -behalf contributions so
16 employer rates do not create or increase municipal unfunded liabilities; avoid cost -shifting to
17 local governments.
18 2. Require prospective actuarial valuations before employer elections; adopt employer -rate
19 caps, automatic risk -sharing (employee rates/benefit accruals), closed -period amortization for
20 legacy UAL, and no retroactive benefit increases without identified funding, to decrease
21 overall PERS/TRS UAL and protect local budgets.
22 3. Preserve the State on -behalf payment and clarify that the State covers costs above the
23 municipal employer cap associated with any new tier, preventing municipal cost shifts.
24 4. Provide reciprocity, reasonable vesting, service -credit purchase options, DC--+DB transfer
25 windows or default lifetime -income options within DC, and pooled administration that
26 reduces small -employer barriers; pair with technical assistance for Tier 4 employees.
27 5. Eliminate or reduce termination -study fees and late -payment penalties where actuarially
28 immaterial; standardize employer election timelines and templates.
29 6. Include with any retirement legislation a municipal implementation impact and fiscal note,
30 published prior to effective dates, so local governing bodies can make informed decisions;
31 and
32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML will support members with model
33 ordinances/resolutions, peer learning, and testimony to advance these changes, ensuring that any
34 retirement reform strengthens recruitment and retention without adding municipal unfunded
35 liabilities.
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Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-17
2 A resolution calling for a state -federal -local partnership for predictable, community -ready
3 decisions to respect local authority while accelerating permitting
4 WHEREAS, the State of Alaska and the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council have
5 entered into an agreement to coordinate FAST-41 implementation and accelerate, improve
6 transparency of, and add predictability to major project reviews; and Alaska's municipalities -
7 who plan, zone, permit, tax, provide utilities and emergency services, and bear near -term impacts
8 - must be active partners in any fast -track approach; and
9 WHEREAS, AML - supported by the Denali Commission - has launched a Local Government
10 Capacity, Resilience, and Community Development initiative (planning framework, governance
11 report, and toolkit) that can be aligned with the State -Permitting Council effort to prepare
12 municipalities for early, continuous, and effective engagement on FAST-41 projects; and
13 WHEREAS, the MOU framework and AML's initiative together create an opportunity to
14 formalize municipal engagement protocols, capacity -building, and timely information sharing
15 (e.g., FIN templates, Dashboard updates) so local planning processes are respected and
16 communities can meaningfully shape siting, mitigation, and benefits; and
17 WHEREAS, proposals to shorten review timelines must not truncate or preempt municipal
18 authorities or planning cycles (comprehensive plans, land use and platting, rights -of -way,
19 portsiharbors, utilities, hazard mitigation, capital budgeting), and must provide resources so
20 small jurisdictions can participate without unfunded mandates; and
21 WHEREAS, predictable schedules, scoped reviews, and early issue -spotting - paired with clear
22 municipal points of contact, data sharing, and transparent milestone tracking - can both
23 accelerate high -quality decisions and improve local outcomes.
24 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League (AML) urges the
25 Governor, the Department of Natural Resources (OPMP), and the Federal Permitting Council to
26 incorporate the following Local Partnership Principles into FAST-41 implementation and any
27 similar accelerated processes:
28 1. Fast -track tools will recognize municipal home -rule and general -law powers and align with
29 adopted comprehensive plans, zoning/platting, port and utility policies, hazard -mitigation and
30 transportation plans, and local timelines for public notice and deliberation.
31 2. Establish a Municipal Engagement Protocol that begins before FIN submission and continues
32 through NEPA/state permits, with clear comment windows aligned to municipal meeting
33 calendars and a single municipal POC per community.
34 3. Maintain a project dashboard (state/federal) that posts schedules, milestones, data
35 inventories, socioeconomic baselines, draft analyses, and response -to -comment matrices
36 accessible to local governments.
37 4. Provide technical assistance and funding for small and rural municipalities to participate
38 (staff time, travel, translation, independent review), and offer reasonable cost -recovery
39 mechanisms when local staff support state/federal processes.
40 5. Require Local Impact & Benefits Statements addressing workforce housing, public
41 safety/EMS, utilities capacity, transportation, subsistence/public access, and revenue/fiscal
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1 effects, with mitigation and monitoring commitments co -developed with the host
2 municipality.
3 6. Coordinate across projects and jurisdictions to manage cumulative effects and infrastructure
4 sequencing, using regional workgroups where appropriate; and
5 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML recommends the State and Permitting Council take
6 the following implementation steps in partnership with municipalities:
7 . Name AML as the municipal liaison under the MOU framework for outreach, schedule
8 coordination, and two-way information flow with member governments.
9 . Include AML in project -identification discussions so locally significant projects are surfaced
10 early for FAST-41 consideration.
11 . Co -develop a Local FAST-41 Plan that maps municipal decision points, model timelines,
12 engagement checklists, and standard conditions for common impact areas (traffic, housing,
13 utilities).
14 . Stand up a Municipal Technical Advisory Group to OPMP/PERMITS Council to review
15 schedules, flag local conflicts, and suggest mitigation/benefits commitments aligned with
16 local plans; and
17 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML commits to being a positive partner by:
18 • Publishing a Permitting Readiness Tootkit (templates for resolutions, comment letters,
19 meeting calendars, local permitting checklists) and delivering training/webinars on FAST-41
20 and state permitting.
21 • Issuing plain -language briefs that translate Dashboard updates and key milestones for local
22 officials and the public.
23 • Supporting regional coordination among municipalities to synchronize schedules and share
24 technical resources.
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Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-18
2 A resolution addressing local government access to affordable property insurance
3 WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League (AML) represents the unified voice of Alaska's 165
4 cities, boroughs, and unified municipalities; and
5 WHEREAS, local governments across Alaska are required to maintain adequate property
6 insurance coverage in order to responsibly manage public assets, protect taxpayer investment,
7 and ensure continuity of critical services; and
8 WHEREAS, many local governments have few financial resources and limited tax bases,
9 resulting in difficulty affording rising insurance premiums and deductibles; and
10 WHEREAS, insurance markets in Alaska are further strained by geographic isolation, a limited
11 pool of insurers willing to underwrite rural municipal property, and increased risks associated
12 with climate impacts, natural disasters, and aging infrastructure, which drive up costs; and
13 WHEREAS, timing of State of Alaska financial support, including Community Assistance
14 payments, often occurs later in the fiscal year (September or October), while local governments
15 are required to pay property insurance premiums in July, creating cash flow challenges; and
16 WHEREAS, this timing mismatch forces municipalities to choose between delaying critical
17 payments, borrowing at unfavorable rates, or drawing down limited reserves; and
18 WHEREAS, smaller and rural communities, in particular, face disproportionate challenges, as
19 they often lack access to affordable credit or local banking services, and cannot spread risk
20 across a large base of taxable property; and
21 WHEREAS, ensuring timely, affordable access to property insurance is essential to the financial
22 health, resilience, and stability of Alaska's municipalities.
23 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the State of
24 Alaska to explore solutions that support municipalities in meeting their property insurance
25 obligations, including:
26 1. Establish a state -backed revolving loan fund, bridge loan program, or advance payment
27 mechanism to provide municipalities access to Community Assistance funds earlier in the
28 fiscal year, aligned with insurance premium deadlines.
29 2. Explore state guarantees to lower premiums, improve access to coverage, and provide more
30 stability in the insurance market for local governments.
31 3. Provide targeted state financial assistance or grants for the smallest and most resource-
32 limited municipalities to ensure no community is left uninsured due to affordability.
33 4. Pursue statutory or regulatory changes that allow municipalities to use state funding more
34 flexibly or predictably for property insurance obligations; and
35 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML supports collaboration between the State of Alaska,
36 Public Entity Pools such as Alaska Public Risk Alliance, insurance providers, and municipalities
37 to identify long-term strategies that ensure sustainable, affordable, and timely access to property
38 insurance for all local governments in Alaska.
39
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1 Resolution #2026-19
2 A resolution in support of continued federal operation of Alaska's Bypass Mail Program
3 WHEREAS, AML's guiding policies and principles include to ensure equitable, reliable access
4 to essential services for rural and remote communities; support federal programs that sustain
5 Alaska's year-round community viability and economic development; promote cost-effective
6 intergovernmental solutions that recognize Alaska's unique geography and logistics; and oppose
7 federal actions that would reduce service, increase disparate costs, or destabilize rural supply
8 chains without full consultation with Alaska stakeholders.
9 WHEREAS, Alaska's Bypass Mail is an Alaska -only classification of parcel post that allows
10 palletized shipments from a single seller to a single recipient to travel directly by private air
11 carriers to off -road communities, "bypassing" postal facilities —an arrangement designed to
12 ensure basic goods reach rural Alaska at affordable rates; eligibility includes palletized, shrink-
13 wrapped orders with a minimum weight of 1,000 pounds.
14 WHEREAS, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has recognized the Bypass Mail process in federal
15 handbooks and contracting practices, reflecting that the program is integral to Alaska's logistics
16 and not replicated elsewhere in the nation.
17 WHEREAS, independent analyses and USPS OIG reporting have long documented how the
18 program moves bulk essentials directly to rural recipients via air carriers, functioning as a lifeline
19 in roadless regions by reducing handling and keeping delivered prices lower than they would
20 otherwise be.
21 WHEREAS, potential USPS operational or policy changes discussed in 2025 prompted concern
22 that Alaska's Bypass Mail could face disruption or erosion, despite its unique statutory and
23 practical role for rural communities; estimates put the USPS cost associated with the program at
24 approximately $133 million in 2022.
25 WHEREAS, in 2025 USPS signaled or implemented adjustments affecting packages and
26 consolidators as part of broader network changes, adding uncertainty for shippers and
27 communities dependent on Bypass Mail's continuity.
28 WHEREAS, multiple Alaska news outlets reported 2025 rate increases for Bypass Mail (on the
29 order of —9.4% in July 2025), with grocers and residents warning that higher transport costs
30 directly raise food and household prices in rural Alaska.
31 WHEREAS, Bypass Mail underpins local commerce and quality of life across hundreds of
32 communities off the road system, and its stability is essential to maintaining affordable access to
33 food, medicine, and basic goods year-round.
34 WHEREAS, Congress has previously acted to structure and protect Alaska's rural mail and
35 cargo framework (e.g., Rural Service Improvement Act and related statutory provisions)
36 recognizing Alaska's unique transportation realities and need for dependable air service.
37 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML:
38 1. Urges the United States Congress and the Administration to maintain and fully support
39 the Alaska Bypass Mail program as a distinct, federally managed service essential to the
40 health, safety, and economic well-being of Alaska's rural and remote communities.
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1 2. Calls on USPS, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and other relevant federal
2 agencies to avoid policy or operational changes that would reduce service levels, increase
3 costs disproportionately, or destabilize rural supply chains, and to consult with Alaska
4 local governments, carriers, shippers, and the State of Alaska prior to any proposed
5 adjustments affecting Bypass Mail.
6 3. Requests Congressional oversight and, as needed, clarifying legislation or report
7 language to sustain the program's statutory footing, ensure cost-effective contracting and
8 operations suited to Alaska's conditions, and provide budgetary support adequate to
9 maintain reliable, affordable delivery of essentials.
10 4. Supports data -driven transparency from USPS on Bypass Mail rates, volumes, costs, and
11 service performance, so that local governments and residents can understand and plan for
12 impacts.
13 5. Directs that copies of this resolution be transmitted to Alaska's Congressional Delegation,
14 the Postmaster General, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and the Governor of
15 Alaska.
16
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Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
Resolution #2026-20
A resolution supporting full state funding for school bond debt reimbursement and
addressing shortfalls impacting Alaska municipalities.
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League (AML) recognizes the importance of State support
for school bond debt reimbursement in maintaining affordable property taxes and ensuring
adequate educational facilities across Alaska municipalities; and
WHEREAS, the State's commitment to reimburse existing school bond debt is essential for the
fiscal stability of local governments and the well-being of Alaska's communities; and
WHEREAS, recent reductions in school bond debt reimbursement funding have resulted in
significant budget shortfalls for municipalities, placing an increased financial burden on local
taxpayers; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature's increase to the Base Student Allocation (BSA) was not
accompanied by corresponding support for school facility funding, further exacerbating the
challenge for municipalities to meet educational infrastructure needs; and
WHEREAS, AML policy supports equitable and reliable State partnership in funding
educational facilities, as outlined in the AML Position Statement on school funding and
municipal fiscal health.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the
Governor and Legislature to:
1. Include full funding for existing school bond debt reimbursement in the Fiscal Year (FY)
2027 State budget;
2. Address shortfalls from FY 2026 to ensure municipalities are made whole; and
3. Maintain the State's commitment to school facility funding as a critical component of
Alaska's educational and community infrastructure.
SUBMITTED BY. MAT SU BOROUGH
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1 Resolution #2026-21
2 A resolution in support of raising the maximum available Harbor Facility Grants to
3 $7,500,000 annually for eligible projects.
4 WHEREAS, Senate Bill 291 established the Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Program on July
5 1st, 2006 in which the total amount of grant money made available to a municipality was
6 limited to not exceed $5,000,000 in a fiscal year; and,
7 WHEREAS, the Municipal Harbor Facility Grant is the single most significant funding tool
8 available to Alaskan Harbormaster to plan, maintain and recapitalize port and harbor
9 infrastructure; and,
10 WHEREAS, testimony from a legislator advocate stated "SB 291 would establish the
11 municipal harbor facility grant fund to which the Legislature would make an annual
12 appropriation from the watercraft fuel tax account and from the state portion of the fisheries
13 business tax. Both sources come from the marine industry so harbor users would generate the
14 revenue for the program".
15 WHEREAS, Senate Bill 291 was envisioned to cap the funds that can be used per community
16 per year at $5 million so that a large community couldn't take all the available funds in any
17 given year. The expectation is that communities would establish, maintain, and run an
18 enterprise fund into perpetuity; and
19 WHEREAS, the State of Alaska over the past nearly 30 years has transferred ownership of
20 most of these State-owned harbors, many of which were at or near the end of their service life
21 at the time of transfer, to local municipalities; and
22 WHEREAS, these harbor facilities continue to require substantial municipal financial
23 investment to maintain and for capital improvement projects; and
24 WHEREAS, construction, shipping and mobilization costs to remote portions of Alaska have
25 outpaced the national consumer price index since the pandemic; and,
26 WHEREAS, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI calculator indicates that $5M in
27 July 2006 when the Senate Bill 291 was enacted would be inflated to $7,511,000 as of July
28 2023.
29 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML urges the Governor and the Alaska
30 Legislature to amend AS 29.60.800 raising the maximum Harbor facility grant fund award to
31 $7,500,000 per eligible project.
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Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-22
2 A resolution supporting full funding ($18,186,535) for the Harbor Facility Grant Program
3 in the FY 27 State Capital Budget.
4 WHEREAS, the majority of the public boat harbors in Alaska were constructed by the State
5 during the 1960s and 1970s; and
6 WHEREAS, these harbor facilities represent critical transportation links and are the
7 transportation hubs for waterfront commerce and economic development in Alaskan coastal
8 communities; and
9 WHEREAS, the harbor facilities in Alaska are ports of refuge for ocean going vessels, and serve
10 as essential transportation hubs to coastal Alaskan communities for supplies, trade in goods and
11 services and connections to the world market for our exports and imports; and
12 WHEREAS, the State of Alaska over the past nearly 30 years has transferred ownership of most
13 of these State-owned harbors, many of which were at or near the end of their service life at the
14 time of transfer, to local municipalities; and
15 WHEREAS, the municipalities took over this important responsibility even though they knew
16 that these same harbor facilities were in poor condition at the time of transfer due to the state's
17 failure to keep up with deferred maintenance; and
18 WHEREAS, consequently, when local municipal harbormasters formulated their annual harbor
19 facility budgets, they inherited a major financial burden that their local municipal governments
20 could not afford; and
21 WHEREAS, in response to this financial burden, the Governor and the Alaska Legislature
22 passed legislation in 2006, supported by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port
23 Administrators, to create the Municipal Harbor Facility Grant program (AS 29.60.800); and
24 WHEREAS, the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities utilizes a beneficial
25 administrative process to review, score and rank applicants to the Municipal Harbor Facility
26 Grant Program, since state funds may be limited; and
27 WHEREAS, for each harbor facility grant application, these municipalities have committed to
28 invest 100% of the design and permitting costs and 50% of the construction cost; and
29 WHEREAS, the municipalities of the Anchorage, Kake, Kodiak, Petersburg, Unalaska, and
30 Wrangell have committed to contribute half of their project cost in local match funding for
31 FY2027 towards harbor projects of significant importance locally as required in the Harbor
32 Facility Grant Program; and
33 WHEREAS, completion of these harbor facility projects is dependent on the 50% match from
34 the State of Alaska's Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Program; and
35 WHEREAS, during the last seventeen years the Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Program has
36 only been fully funded twice; and
37 WHEREAS, a survey done by the Alaska Municipal League of Alaska's ports and harbors found
38 that from the respondents, the backlog of projects necessary to repair and replace former State-
39 owned harbors has increased to at least $500,000,000; and
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1 WHEREAS, given that Alaska is a maritime state and that our harbors are foundational to both
2 our way of life and the economy of this great State it is in the public's best interest to maintain
3 this critical infrastructure by using State, Local and Federal funds to recapitalize the crucial
4 harbor moorage infrastructure statewide.
5 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that AML urges full funding by the Governor and
6 the Alaska Legislature for the State of Alaska's Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Program in the
7 FY 2027 State Capital Budget in order to ensure enhanced safety and economic prosperity
8 among Alaskan coastal communities.
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Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League
1 Resolution #2026-23
3 A resolution requesting assistance from the Alaska Municipal League to Address Alaska
4 Police Standards Council Recertification Requirements for Police Chiefs in Rural Alaska
5 WHEREAS, the City of King Cove (City) is seeking assistance from the Alaska Municipal
6 League to help address the issue of Alaska Police Standards Council (APSC) recertification
7 requirements for Police Chiefs in rural Alaska;
8 WHEREAS, the City understands, respects, and supports the authority and responsibilities of
9 APSC to certify qualified law enforcement personnel throughout Alaska;
10 WHEREAS, however, King Cove, like other small, rural Alaska cities have a difficult time
11 recruiting and hiring qualified law enforcement personnel;
12 WHEREAS, King Cove was recently able to identify and hire a law enforcement officer (i.e.
13 Policy Chief) with 35 years of law enforcement experience, including DEA service and
14 international assignments, but our new Chief has not served in a standard patrol officer role
15 within the past five years;
16 WHEREAS, because of this five-year "gap" in his law enforcement career as a patrol officer,
17 current APSC criteria requires him to attend the traditional 16-week academy before
18 recertification can be approved;
19 WHEREAS, King Cove, and other rural Alaska police departments lack sufficient resources and
20 depth of personnel to cover for a Chief being absent for the 16-week recertification Academy;
21 and,
22 WHEREAS, APSC may waive certain requirements for police chiefs and officers with
23 equivalent out-of-state certification of federal experience, but the 5-year gap rule is currently a
24 firm regulatory barrier.
25 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the King Cove City Council respectfully requests
26 AML's assistance to help us address these issues and develop an advocacy with APSC regulatory
27 revisions to: 1)expand recognition of federal service to assist I fulfilling current, or amended,
28 APSC requirements; 2) codify rural/community Police Departments hardship waivers; and 3)
29 provide some regulatory flexibility in resolving this issue;
30 BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED, the King Cove Council encourages more appointments to the
31 APSC board that reflect real-time, rural municipal concerns on this matter of APSC certification
32 criteria; and
33 FINALLY BE IT RESOLVED, the King Cove City Council hereby offers and directs our city's
34 administration to actively engage and participate in this process in any manner that can
35 potentially result in the needed modifications to the current APSC regulations to help our city
36 and other rural Alaska Police Departments.
37
38
SUBMITTED BY. CITY OF KING COVE COUNCIL
RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE ACTION: BUSINESS MEETING ACTION:
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AGENDA ITEM #2. d.
A LAS KA
MUNICIPAL
LEAGUE
2025 ADOPTED
RESOLUTIONS
AML PRINCIPLES
• Ensure that policies of the state provide for
maximum local self-government.
• Remove inequitable tax burdens and maintain
local revenue authorities.
• Maintain and increase revenue sharing as an
investment in and partnership with municipalities.
• Expect sufficient and inflation-proofed State
funding for basic public needs and State
obligations.
• Services that are delivered by local governments
on behalf of the State should be fully funded by
the State.
• Preserve the tax base of local governments.
• Provide resources and technical assistance that
enhance the capacity of communities.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Table of Contents
Resolution #2019-03 A resolution in support of the development of a Community Dividend ....................5
Resolution #2019-04 A resolution requesting that the Alaska State Legislature fund the Senior
Citizen's/Disabled Veteran's property tax exemption as required in AS 29.45.030(g)..................................6
Resolution #2019-06 A resolution supporting legislation adopting real property sales disclosure in Alaska
...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Resolution #2019-08 A resolution supporting the State's implementation of a broad -based tax ...............8
Resolution #2019-09 A resolution requesting that Title 29 be amended to remove the audit requirement
for Community Assistance, and provide a one-time waiver of past audit requirements, thereby releasing
all outstanding Community Revenue Sharing/Assistance funds...................................................................9
Resolution #2020-01 A resolution encouraging the Legislature to meet as the Assembly of the
Unorganized Borough, and to take up its governance as required by the Constitution .............................10
Resolution #2020-04 A resolution opposing any increase to the required minimum local contribution or
decreases to State funding levels; removing the maximum local contribution allowable; and considering
Impact Aid as part of the local contribution...............................................................................................11
Resolution #2020-06 A resolution in support of economic, resource and infrastructure development that
benefits local governments, the State of Alaska, and Alaska residents......................................................12
Resolution #2020-08 A resolution encouraging the State of Alaska to develop a plan to transfer authority
to accept federal funds from the State directly to local governments or their designee ...........................13
Resolution #2020-09 A resolution supporting the effort to maximize local self-government, respect local
control, and encourage the State to provide funding for the adoption of powers and incorporation,
including borough formation where feasible..............................................................................................14
Resolution #2020-10 A resolution supporting reform of the USDA Forest Service Secure Rural Schools
program to include long-term certainty and sustainability of funding.......................................................15
Resolution #2020-11 A resolution in support of reform of the PILT funding formula to extend multipliers
to smaller population counties (boroughs), and permanently authorizing the program ...........................16
Resolution #2020-14 A resolution opposing any State action that would diminish the ability of local
governments to tax or receive a share of State tax on local economic activity..........................................17
Resolution #2020-16 A resolution opposing any further reductions to Community Assistance and in
support of an appropriation to the Community Assistance Fund that would bring the Fund total back up
to$90 million..............................................................................................................................................18
Resolution #2020-17 A resolution supporting Amendments to AS 29.45.500 to Require Municipalities to
Pay Reasonable Interest on Tax Refunds.....................................................................................................19
Resolution #2021-01 A resolution in support of a legislative process that recognizes local governments as
inherent partners in the delivery of State objectives.................................................................................20
Resolution #2021-03 A resolution in support of State policy and budget development that reflects a
sustainable draw from the Permanent Fund's Earnings Reserve................................................................21
Resolution #2021-06 A resolution supporting a statewide comprehensive Alaska health initiative .......... 22
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-07 A resolution requesting renewed State support and increased funding for local
emergency planning committees and preparedness..................................................................................23
Resolution #2021-08 A resolution in support of a balanced approach to addressing the State of Alaska's
deficit and continuing fiscal challenges......................................................................................................24
Resolution #2021-09 A resolution in support of increased funding for community and regional jails, and a
base level of funding for Village Police Officers..........................................................................................26
Resolution #2021-13 A resolution in support of establishing standards and regulations for unorganized
boroughs.....................................................................................................................................................27
Resolution #2021-21 A resolution requesting that the Legislature review and make optional exemptions
that are more appropriately decided at the local level..............................................................................28
Resolution #2022-04 A resolution encouraging the RCA and Legislature to make adjustments to the
Power Cost Equalization program for communities and utilities that are moving towards energy
independence using renewable generation................................................................................................29
Resolution #2023-01 A resolution calling for legislation to protect public interest by lessening the burden
of commercial public records requests on Alaska's local governments......................................................31
Resolution #2023-02 A resolution in support of reducing the number of required city council officials
from seven to three in communities under 1,000, via referendum or other mechanisms ........................32
Resolution #2023-03 A resolution urging the Governor and Legislature to exercise oversight of the Local
Boundary Commission, to meet the Constitutional obligation for maximum local self- government .......33
Resolution #2023-04 A resolution supporting the sustainability of Community Assistance ......................34
Resolution #2023-05 A resolution opposing any changes to PERS/TRS that increase the unfunded liability
and supporting additional State contributions that reduce the non -state employer share in order to
increase the efficacy of recruitment and retention in Alaska.....................................................................35
Resolution #2023-06 A resolution expressing concern about consideration of a State spending cap .......
37
Resolution #2023-07 A resolution to support full funding of State -directed presumptions of liability,
including the consideration of a Trust to support local government employers impacted thereby ..........39
Resolution #2023-08 A resolution supporting the establishment of public safety matching funds by the
State............................................................................................................................................................
40
Resolution #2023-09 A resolution in support of accelerating the transfer of State lands to local
governments, completing the municipal lands program, and waiving additional survey costs.................41
Resolution #2023-10 A resolution supporting State provision of non-federal match for local government
infrastructure projects, and to address gaps in federal infrastructure funding..........................................43
Resolution #2023-11 A resolution supporting the ability for school districts to more efficiently deliver
education to changing school populations by consolidating facilities without penalty .............................44
Resolution #2023-12 A resolution requesting that the State increase and inflation -proof the BSA and
implement a more equitable local funding mechanism than the required local contribution ..................45
Resolution #2023-13 A resolution supporting the reduction of the interest rate on bulk fuel loans to not
more than 2% and increasing the cap on funding as or when fuel prices increase....................................46
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Resolution #2023-15 A resolution supporting statutory change to allow for the implementation of
Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs)..........................................................................47
Resolution #2024-01 A resolution in support of possible legal action to determine the full extent of the
State's constitutional obligation to provide for a system of public education............................................48
Resolution #2024-03 A resolution in support of a strategic workforce recruitment and retention effort by
and with the State of Alaska to correct high public sector vacancy rates...................................................49
Resolution #2024-04 A resolution in support of requiring the Legislature to include fiscal notes that
quantify costs to municipalities and school districts in legislation that impacts these entities.................50
Resolution #2024-05 A resolution in support of legislation that requires prompt payment of contracted
and formula funding obligations, including the distribution of Community Assistance .............................51
Resolution #2024-06 A resolution in support of expanded funding for NOAA and partners to complete
mapping and bathymetry of Alaska's coastal zone.....................................................................................52
Resolution #2024-07 A resolution in support of changes to HUD regulations to increase participation of
Alaska local governments in HUD -funded programs..................................................................................53
Resolution #2024-08 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature encourage economic
development through housing investments and policymaking..................................................................54
Resolution #2024-09 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature assist communities in
addressing homelessness............................................................................................................................55
Resolution #2024-10 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature approve an infrastructure
general obligation bond for the 2026 election...........................................................................................56
Resolution #2024-11 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature invest resources to address the
state's behavioral health needs, from crisis response to community -based services................................57
Resolution #2025-01 A resolution supporting an analysis of the demand for and impact of charter
schools on the public education system and opposing changes to the charter school creation process
that bypass local school district approval...................................................................................................58
Resolution #2025-02 A resolution calling for State funding to subsidize water and wastewater operations
costs in high rate burden communities.......................................................................................................59
Resolution #2025-03 A resolution supporting a Statewide Electronics Product Stewardship Program ..... 60
Resolution #2025-04 A resolution supporting an amendment to Alaska Statute 29.71.800 to allow for
webbased public notice.............................................................................................................................61
Resolution #2025-05 A resolution urging the Alaska Legislature to maintain funding for Public Libraries
Assistance Grant and the Statewide Library Electronic Doorway at least at FY 2024 levels.......................62
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Resolution #2019-03 A resolution in support of the development of a Community Dividend
WHEREAS, community revenue sharing began in 1969 to help ease fiscal problems facing local
governments, stabilize or reduce local property taxes, encourage local provision of public services, and
stabilize local budgets and planning; and
WHEREAS, revenue sharing has undergone significant and dramatic changes since 1969, leading to a
situation in 2004 where all revenue sharing programs were proposed for elimination after years of
reductions, which corresponded to increased property taxes, elimination of municipal services, and
reduced capacity; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska exempts itself from local taxes even though it uses local services and
approximately $1.6 billion (2023) in property taxes are paid by local taxpayers to subsidize State
operations; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League has been firm in its advocacy for the absolute necessity of a
form of and enough revenue sharing that strengthens the capacity of municipal governments, alleviates
the need for higher local taxes, and bolsters the delivery of public services; and
WHEREAS, the recent fiscal crisis experienced by the State of Alaska made apparent the reality of cost -
shifting to municipalities and the potential for State reductions to municipal budgets, particularly in the
form of reduced or eliminated revenue sharing; and,
WHEREAS, uncertainty at the State level — due either to limits to annual appropriations or the
mechanism by which current Community Assistance funding is currently secured — necessitates a new
way to approach revenue sharing; and
WHEREAS a community dividend is a feasible method with which to reimburse local government for
State tax exemptions, fund local contributions to education, replace revenue sharing or community
assistance, and keep Alaska's promises;
WHEREAS, the earnings from the Alaska Permanent Fund are a credible and sustainable vehicle for such
funding; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska State Legislature considered this question in 2006, with support from many
stakeholders, including the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce; and
WHEREAS, a community dividend meets the State's obligation to municipal governments and provides a
sustainable pathway for maximizing local government.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the Alaska State
Legislature to consider the development of a Community Dividend.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 16, 2018.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2019-04 A resolution requesting that the Alaska State Legislature fund the Senior
Citizen's/Disabled Veteran's property tax exemption as required in AS 29.45.030(g)
WHEREAS, in the 1980s, the State of Alaska imposed a mandate that required all municipalities that levy
a property tax, to exempt the first $150,000 value of primary homes belonging to seniors and disabled
veterans, from that property tax; and
WHEREAS, property tax exemptions raise the property tax liability to those individuals who do not
receive the benefits of those exemptions; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska also passed law in statute that requires the State to reimburse
municipalities for those exemptions; and
WHEREAS, the State and Legislature have not funded this program and the municipal reimbursement
since 1997; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has continued to require municipal exemptions; and
WHEREAS, one of the primary duties of a municipality is to levy taxes in support of its corresponding
obligations to provide public services, and most importantly public education; and
WHEREAS, municipalities have the best understanding of citizen concerns and priorities, municipal
budgets and should have sole authority to identify the need for and grant exemptions; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance provided to 164 municipalities has decreased to $30 million per year,
the Senior Citizen's/Disabled Veteran's Property Tax exemption is now costing the 18 municipalities that
levy a property tax a total of over $105 million per year (2023).
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League requests that the Alaska State
Legislature fund the Senior Citizen's/Disabled Veteran's Property Tax exemption as required in AS
29.45.030(g).
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 16, 2018.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2019-06 A resolution supporting legislation adopting real property sales disclosure in
Alaska
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League supports the goal to promote the fair and equitable distribution
of the property tax burden which funds local governments; and
WHEREAS, Alaskans, municipalities, and the State benefit from the assessment of fair and equitable
values of real property within all taxing jurisdictions in the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, an assessor is required, per AS 29.45.110, to assess all property at full and true value, as of
January 1 of the assessment year. The full and true value is the estimated price that the property would
bring in an open market and under the then prevailing market conditions in a sale between a willing
seller and a willing buyer both conversant with the property and with prevailing general price levels; and
WHEREAS, while the legal mandate for assessment at full and true value exists, the sales data that is
necessary to determine full and true value is not readily available due to the lack of sales disclosure in
the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the Legislative Research Services Division reports that Alaska is one of six states for which
sales disclosure for property exchanges are not disclosed; and
WHEREAS, data is currently obtained from requests for voluntary sales information through
questionnaires mailed in many jurisdictions, which result in incomplete, unreliable, and in some cases
translated to inaccurate reflections of actual market value; and
WHEREAS, sales disclosure would assist in the fair distribution of the tax burden to all taxpayers and
would enhance the accuracy and the timeliness of assessments; and
WHEREAS, sales disclosure would enhance the ability of assessment professionals to meet the full and
true value mandate and would also aid the public in obtaining information in order to interact within
local real estate markets; and
WHEREAS, the lack of sales data in some jurisdictions limits the ability to fairly distribute the tax burden
and also to fund local services; and
WHEREAS, sales disclosure would enable property owners to gather data to provide support for legally
entitled property tax appeals under AS 29.45.190; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature has preempted the authority of municipal governments to tax real estate
transfers, ensuring that the data made available by mandatory disclosure cannot be used to tax property
owners.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges the Alaska State Legislature to
enact legislation requiring disclosures of all real property sales in the State of Alaska.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 16, 2018.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2019-08 A resolution supporting the State's implementation of a broad -based tax
WHEREAS, in response to a fiscal crisis caused by low oil prices and other circumstances, the State of
Alaska has made significant headway in decreasing the overall size of government by reducing agency
and programmatic spending; and
WHEREAS, in 2018 the Alaska State Legislature took a positive step toward addressing additional
revenue by allowing access to excess earning of the Permanent Fund; and
WHEREAS, there remains a gap between revenues and current expenses, and an even more significant
gap between revenues and the ability of the State to address fundamental challenges facing Alaska,
including but not limited to public safety, education, infrastructure, and energy; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League in 2016 submitted a Sustainability Plan to the Legislature, some
of which has been addressed;
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League has supported the implementation of a broad -based tax as part
of a sustainable fiscal plan; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League understands an income tax as being able to capture revenue
from out- of -state employees, which is 20% of Alaska's total payroll, is least regressive, and give Alaskans
a direct interest in state governance; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League believes that a statewide sales tax would 1) be feasible where no
current sales tax exists, but 2) may erode the municipal tax base, thereby shifting revenue from one level
of government to another, while undercutting the ability of local governments to deliver essential
services; and
WHEREAS, municipalities across Alaska have identified continued challenges related to increased
expenses and community needs; and
WHEREAS, municipalities across Alaska are concerned that lack of revenue at the State level will result in
the inability to address essential public services that are important to Alaskans and to Alaskan
businesses.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the State's consideration
of a broad -based tax; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League stands ready to work with the Alaska State
Legislature to mitigate potential negative impacts, as necessary.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 16, 2018.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2019-09 A resolution requesting that Title 29 be amended to remove the audit
requirement for Community Assistance, and provide a one-time waiver of past audit requirements,
thereby releasing all outstanding Community Revenue Sharing/Assistance funds
WHEREAS, Alaska's municipal governments consider community revenue sharing, now known as
Community Assistance, an essential and fundamental component of their annual budget; and
WHEREAS, municipalities are diverse and wide-ranging in their population size, budget composition, and
state and federal statutory and regulatory requirements; and
WHEREAS, AS 29.180.020 outlines the requirements necessary to receive Community Assistance
funding, including, "if the municipality is a borough, unified municipality, or first-class city, a copy of the
annual audit reviewed by a certified public accountant"; and
WHEREAS, the cost of completing an audit consistent with this requirement may represent 30- 50% of
the annual funding received by a municipality from Community Assistance; and
WHEREAS, the bulk of these municipalities are already required to complete an audit based on other
state and federal funding requirements, and submission to DCRA can be encouraged; and
WHEREAS, for the remainder, the audit requirement presents an additional bureaucratic burden that
requires municipal governments to allocate funding to its fulfillment and away from delivery of services
in the public benefit; and
WHEREAS, there are more effective and cost-efficient ways in which to assure DCRA of a community's
overall health and compliance capabilities; and
WHEREAS, the State has withheld and currently withholds payment of Community Revenue Sharing and
now Community Assistance when the audit requirement, among others, is not met; and
WHEREAS, many municipalities are desperately in need of access to those funds, which assist in general
operations, strengthening administrative capacity, and contributing to education, energy and public
safety needs; and
WHEREAS, alleviating the costs of compliance for municipal governments increases overall the economic
health of the state, decreases the need for increased local taxes, and reduces programmatic costs within
the State.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League requests that the Alaska State
Legislature amend Title 29 to remove the audit requirement for Community Assistance, and provide a
one-time waiver of past audit requirements, thereby releasing all outstanding Community Revenue
Sharing/Assistance funds.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 16, 2018
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-01 A resolution encouraging the Legislature to meet as the Assembly of the
Unorganized Borough, and to take up its governance as required by the Constitution
WHEREAS, Article 10 of the State Constitution describes one purpose of the State as to provide for
maximum local self-government with a minimum of local government units, and to prevent duplication
of tax -levying jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, furthermore, Article 10 requires that the entire state be divided into organized and
unorganized boroughs; and
WHEREAS, Article 10 dictates the responsibility of the Legislature to function as the assembly of
unorganized boroughs, including to allow maximum local participation and responsibility, and to exercise
any power or function of an organized borough; and
WHEREAS, the fundamental responsibilities of an organized borough are to provide for planning and
platting, education, and taxation; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature has not operated in its history as an assembly of the unorganized borough,
nor fully taken up those responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, it can be argued that while the Legislature has delegated responsibility for planning to various
state agencies and education to the Department of Education, there remains the issue of taxation; and
WHEREAS, it is a principle of the Alaska Municipal League that the state should not compel organization;
and
WHEREAS, it is clearly the responsibility of the Legislature to address 1) the number of unorganized
boroughs, consistent with common interests, and 2) education, planning and taxation within the
unorganized boroughs; and
WHEREAS, acting in this capacity provides a meaningful and transparent process to maximize local
participation and responsibility.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the Legislature to meet
as the Assembly of the Unorganized Borough, and to take up its governance as required by the
Constitution.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
10
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-04 A resolution opposing any increase to the required minimum local contribution
or decreases to State funding levels; removing the maximum local contribution allowable; and
considering Impact Aid as part of the local contribution
WHEREAS, public education is a State obligation included in Article 7 of the Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the State delegates some of its responsibility to local governments, including education
powers — and funding roles — to all boroughs, and home rule and first-class cities; and
WHEREAS, education is one of the largest State budget items, and is by far the largest budget item for
those local governments with education powers; and
WHEREAS, as part of the funding formula designed by the State, a minimum local contribution of 2.65
mils (or equivalent) is required; and
WHEREAS, many local governments contribute beyond what is required, but at least nine contribute
below 4 mils; and
WHEREAS, increases to the local contribution will mean trade-offs for each local government, who must
choose between increasing taxes and decreased spending on other essential programs, including public
safety and infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, five local governments currently fund their schools to the cap (2023), and should be given the
opportunity to contribute as they wish, consistent with local control; and
WHEREAS, federal Impact Aid is distributed to school districts by the U.S. Dept. of Education to make up
for the loss of property tax revenue due to tax-exempt federal property, and to compensate them for
continued provision of education for federally connected children; and
WHEREAS, the State considers Impact Aid part of its contribution to education, and if it were counted as
part of the local contribution, local spending on education would increase from 40% to 53% of what the
State spends overall; and
WHEREAS, instead of shifting the cost of education — and the State's responsibilities —to local
governments, the State should give greater flexibility to local governments to give as they are able, even
as the State ensures adequate levels of funding.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League opposes any increase to the
required local contribution for education funding or reductions to the adequacy of State funding of
education; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League supports removing the cap on local
government contributions and counting Federal Impact Aid as part of the local government contribution.
Updated December 2023.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
11
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-06 A resolution in support of economic, resource and infrastructure development
that benefits local governments, the State of Alaska, and Alaska residents
WHEREAS, the Act of Statehood was only granted to Alaska in 1959, after the commercial discovery of oil
led Congress to finally vote in favor of Alaska's statehood, believing that the State could have a healthy
economy through development of its natural resources; and
WHEREAS, Alaska depends on responsible development of its natural resources to expand and support
its economy, and the right to taxation of the reserved value and production of those resources is
reserved to the State; and
WHEREAS, Article VIII of our State constitution mandates that Alaska develop its resources to the
maximum benefit of all Alaskans; and
WHEREAS, those benefits include thousands of family wage jobs in Alaska, contributions to two-thirds of
the Alaskan economy, as much as ninety percent of State general fund revenues; and
WHEREAS, State revenue contributes to State responsibilities, including public education, the university,
public welfare, and public health; and
WHEREAS, in some communities, resource development is the sole or major contributor to local
government, providing needed government services to area residents; and
WHEREAS, infrastructure development enables effective resource production and reduces the
transaction costs of development; and
WHEREAS, investments by and collaboration between the State, local and federal governments,
alongside industry, contribute to infrastructure development, and economic development more broadly;
and
WHEREAS, that partnership enables not only continued and new responsible resource development to
occur, but makes possible new and different economic development opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's local governments are committed to strengthening the relationships they have with
oil and gas, mining, fishing, timber, and tourism industries.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports economic, resource and
infrastructure development that benefits local governments, the State of Alaska, and Alaska residents.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
12
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-08 A resolution encouraging the State of Alaska to develop a plan to transfer
authority to accept federal funds from the State directly to local governments or their designee
WHEREAS, approximately $60 million is transferred annually from the Federal government to the State
for distribution to local governments; and
WHEREAS, the State collects about $80 million annually in taxes on local economic activity that have
revenue sharing statutes attached to them; and
WHEREAS, the nearly $150 million in funds held by the State for distribution to local governments
accrues interest earnings that are not added to the amounts available for distribution; and
WHEREAS, PILT funding of nearly $33 million and Secure Rural Schools funding (within the Unorganized
Borough) represents examples of federal funding for local governments that unnecessarily goes to the
State for distribution; and
WHEREAS, the Community Assistance funding is formula -driven, similar to calculations made for PCE
distribution; and
WHEREAS, Shared Fish Taxes, Aviation Motor Fuels Tax, and the Commercial Vessel Passenger Tax all
represent examples of taxes collected by the State but with Statutes that direct some portion to be
shared with local governments; and
WHEREAS, hundreds of millions of dollars of funding that will ultimately be distributed to local
governments rests with the State for anywhere between three and six months; and
WHEREAS, in an environment of fiscal austerity, fund and grant management should be considered an
area where the State can reduce its footprint; and
WHEREAS, local governments have the capacity, individually or collectively, to effectively manage these
funds and their reporting; and
WHEREAS, reducing the State's role as middleman is one way in which to right size state government
even as the State strengthens local governments.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the State of Alaska to
develop a plan to transfer authority to accept federal funds from the State directly to local governments
or their designee.
Updated December 2023.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
13
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-09 A resolution supporting the effort to maximize local self-government, respect
local control, and encourage the State to provide funding for the adoption of powers and
incorporation, including borough formation where feasible
WHEREAS, Alaska's Article 10 on local government requires the State to provide for maximum local self-
government (with a minimum of local government units and to prevent duplication of tax -levying
jurisdictions); and
WHEREAS, the context within which this was written included examples from other states of multiple
tax- levying entities with overlapping authority, from school districts to cities and utilities; and
WHEREAS, the State has kept its framework for local government fairly straightforward, with classes of
cities and boroughs that have non -duplicative responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, there remain numerous communities that have not incorporated, including within the
Unorganized Borough, which itself remains unincorporated; and
WHEREAS, AML has prioritized over its history a principle of local control, which should be understood as
the belief that State government should not direct or restrict municipal decision- making; and
WHEREAS, local control is different than a community's interest in incorporating as a city or a region as a
borough; and
WHEREAS, in fact, an unincorporated city or borough is ceding local control for State management, and
depriving residents of maximum local self-government; and
WHEREAS, one role of the State may be to incentivize incorporation or organization of the city and
borough, including to encourage and provide resources for the adoption of additional powers; and
WHEREAS, municipal governments in Alaska provide important services to residents, including public
safety, education, public infrastructure, and quality of life programs; and
WHEREAS, during periods of fiscal uncertainty, active and healthy local governments can provide the
backstop on loss of services and continue to maintain community and economic development.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the effort to maximize
local self- government, respect local control, and encourage the State to provide additional resources for
the adoption of powers and incorporation, including borough formation where feasible.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-10 A resolution supporting reform of the USDA Forest Service Secure Rural Schools
program to include long-term certainty and sustainability of funding
WHEREAS, A March 2017 Report by the Congressional Research Service confirmed 61% of all land (224.2
Million Acres) in Alaska is owned by the federal government; 57% (129 Million Acres) of which is
managed by agencies with preservation and conservation of land as core mission components, and will
likely never be available for development; and
WHEREAS, the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self -Determination Act (SRS) was enacted in 2000
to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands; and
WHEREAS, critical services at the county level have historically been funded in part with a 25 percent
share of timber receipts from federal U.S. Forest Service lands and a 50 percent share of timber receipts
from federal Oregon and California Grant Lands managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management; and
WHEREAS, as those revenues have fallen or fluctuated due to reduced timber harvest and market forces,
SRS payments helped bridge the gap to keep rural schools open, provide road maintenance, support
search and rescue efforts and other essential county services; and
WHEREAS, since enacted in 2000, SRS has provided more than $7 billion in payments to more than 700
counties and 4,400 school districts in more than 40 states to fund schools and essential services like
roads and public safety; and
WHEREAS, local governments in Alaska use the SRS funding to supplement transportation funding, and
school operations and capital project needs; and
WHEREAS, the elimination of SRS would have an immediate and detrimental effect on the school system
and on local transportation infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, local governments who experienced the loss of these funds would be faced with choices of
increased taxes or the loss of jobs, including at schools; and
WHEREAS, a short-term solution for SRS should result in continued funding over the next two years, and
a long-term fix must account for the sustainability of the program; and
WHEREAS, a sustainable program may include funding features such as a forest visitor fee, or
consolidation within the PILT formula, as an additional factor, or may require a large set -aside that
produces a return of sustainable revenue overtime.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports reform of the USDA Forest
Service Secure Rural Schools program to include long-term certainty and sustainability of funding.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-11 A resolution in support of reform of the PILT funding formula to extend
multipliers to smaller population counties (boroughs), and permanently authorizing the program
WHEREAS, through the federal PILT payment, the Department of Interior provides revenue to counties
and county equivalents, such as boroughs, to compensate for nontaxable federal acreage within their
respective jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, in Alaska, PILT funding is distributed not only to boroughs but also to cities within the
unorganized borough, and in 2023 was valued at $35,448,677; and
WHEREAS, many Alaska boroughs and cities fund the provision of fire and emergency medical response
services to the federal lands and infrastructure as well as providing other services, such as solid waste,
public safety, and transportation; and
WHEREAS, the numerous nightly camping and lodging offerings located on federal lands are exempt
from local taxation; and
WHEREAS, while the annual number of visitors to these federal lands number over 2,920,250, according
to the National Park Service, PILT payments are calculated on the local government's year round
population, which in many cases can be fewer than 2,000 residents; and
WHEREAS, the National Association of Counties (NACo) has found that the current PILT formula places
counties and boroughs with populations under 5,000 in an unfavorable position in relation to counties
with populations greater than 5,000; and
WHEREAS, at their Annual Conference in July 2018, NACo adopted a resolution titled "Resolution on
Amendments to PILT Population Caps'; and
WHEREAS, this resolution "supports amending the PILT formula to extend the population multipliers to
include additional multipliers for local governments with populations in the range 4,000, 3,000, 2,000
and 1,000"; and
WHEREAS, this amendment increases total PILT funding for numerous Alaska local governments; and
WHEREAS, changes to the PILT formula will strengthen the capacity for partnerships that develop at the
local level, it will improve the local government's ability to support tourism and access within federal
lands, and it will increase community and economic development.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Alaska Municipal League supports reform of the PILT funding
formula to extend multipliers to smaller population counties (boroughs), including through federal
legislation as that addressed within the Small County PILT Parity Act; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that AML supports permanent reauthorization of the PILT program.
Updated December 2023
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-14 A resolution opposing any State action that would diminish the ability of local
governments to tax or receive a share of State tax on local economic activity
WHEREAS, actions by the State to eliminate or reduce the sharing of taxes on local economic activity
threatens the sustainability of cities and boroughs in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the Petroleum Property Tax recognizes the value of oil and gas property, the benefits to
industry of offering this tax credit, and that the State already collects royalty and production taxes on oil
and gas development; and
WHEREAS, local governments should benefit from that taxable property, avoid duplicate taxes on the oil
and gas industry, and invest in public infrastructure that supports continued development; and
WHEREAS, the revenue from the Petroleum Property Tax is a fundamental component of the budgets of
those who receive it, including more than 80% of some; and
WHEREAS, the Shared Fish Tax, similarly, works to avoid duplicate taxes on industry and provides
revenue that local governments can use to improve local infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, moreover, the Statutes providing for the Shared Fish Tax actually allow for 100%to be shared,
beyond the 50%, indicating full recognition of the value this revenue has for local governments; and
WHEREAS, there are many other arrangements whereby the State collects a tax on local economic
activity and shares it with local governments; and
WHEREAS, sharing of that revenue reflects a partnership between the State and local government that
predates Statehood; and
WHEREAS, local governments object to the scale and scope of the State's actions, the time available in
which to respond, and the lack of negotiation; and
WHEREAS, local governments understand the fiscal challenges facing the State, but that State
sustainability cannot come at the expense of local governments.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League opposes any State action that
would diminish the ability of local governments to tax or receive a share of State tax on local economic
activity.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-16 A resolution opposing any further reductions to Community Assistance and in
support of an appropriation to the Community Assistance Fund that would bring the Fund total back
up to $90 million
WHEREAS, the veto of $30 million to recapitalizing the Community Assistance Fund directly affects the
operations of local governments by reducing the formula -driven distribution in FY24 by a third; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance (known formerly as Community Revenue Sharing) represents a
decades -long partnership between local governments and the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, that partnership is a recognition of the State's retention of royalty and production rights on
resource development, that local tax bases would not be able otherwise to ensure operations, and the
need to deliver essential public services outside of State government; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance has seen continued degradation over the years, including in the least
five by 50%, or if measured from FY20 to FY85 and adjusting for inflation, the value of Community
Assistance should be 984% greater than it currently is; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance represents as much as 80% of some local government budgets, and
for 100 communities greater than 20%; and
WHEREAS, when Community Assistance was zeroed out in the early 2000s, 14 local governments ceased
day- to -day operations; and
WHEREAS, the formula of the Community Assistance Fund determines the annual payment to
communities, with a payout of a third of available funds; and
WHEREAS, by not recapitalizing the fund, the payment to local governments will be reduced from $30
million in FY23 to $20 million in FY24.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League opposes any reductions to
Community Assistance and supports an appropriation to the Community Assistance Fund that would
bring the Fund total back up to $90 million.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2020-17 A resolution supporting Amendments to AS 29.45.500 to Require Municipalities
to Pay Reasonable Interest on Tax Refunds
WHEREAS, Alaska Statute 29.45.500 requires municipalities to pay interest on certain taxes it refunds to
taxpayers, including taxes refunded after "a remittance by a taxpayer through error"; and
WHEREAS, the statute presently requires municipalities to pay interest fixed at 8%; and
WHEREAS, 8% is not presently a market interest rate, and is grossly excessive to fairly compensate
taxpayers for the lost time -value of money; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of the fact that market interest rates fluctuate, the Alaska State Legislature has
in other circumstances, such as for pre -judgment interest awarded in lawsuits under AS 09.30.070, tied
interest rates to the "12th Federal Reserve District discount rate in effect on January 2 of the year"; and
WHEREAS, interest required to be paid by municipalities to taxpayers should likewise be tied to a market
index; and
WHEREAS, municipalities should not be required to pay non -market interest rates when refunding taxes
it receives from taxpayers due to an error of the taxpayer (and not of the municipality).
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports an amendment to AS
29.45.500 to require municipalities to pay interest at a reasonable, market- based rate in circumstances
where it is required to pay interest on tax refunds.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 22, 2019.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-01 A resolution in support of a legislative process that recognizes local governments
as inherent partners in the delivery of State objectives
WHEREAS, there are 165 incorporated city and borough governments in Alaska, acting as political
subdivisions of the State; and
WHEREAS, through Constitutional and statutory authority, local governments have the State's powers
and responsibility to tax and deliver services in the public interest; and
WHEREAS, there is no formal mechanism for local governments to contribute to the development of the
Governor's budget, wherein agencies, OMB, and the Governor develop budgets that directly impact local
governments but without their input; and
WHEREAS, throughout a legislative session, local government officials are directed to provide input as
part of the "public" comment process; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature has committees in the Senate and House that are dedicated to Community
and Regional Affairs, but are potentially underutilized in developing an agenda that helps the Legislature
understand the condition of communities; and
WHEREAS, the Governor's office often has a dedicated staff member acting as their lead for local
governments relations, but the equivalent does not exist within the Legislature; and
WHEREAS, local government leaders are in a good position to contribute meaningfully to policy
development and budget decisions, understanding both impact and local variation.
NOW, THEREFOR BE IT RESOLVED that AML recommends that:
• Legislative leadership name Committee members or staff that will serve as local government
liaisons, assisting in sharing local government information with legislators as appropriate; and
• A joint session of the Legislature be called to have addressed each year the Condition of
Communities; and
• In cooperation with AML, the House and Senate Community and Regional Affairs committee
chairs, and other Committee chairs as appropriate, establish a session and/or interim agenda
that provides legislators, agencies, and the public with greater awareness of local government
issues; and
• The Legislature establish a dedicated opportunity for local government contributions as part of
all committee processes, prior to and outside the public comment process, including as a more
formal component of invited testimony.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-03 A resolution in support of State policy and budget development that reflects a
sustainable draw from the Permanent Fund's Earnings Reserve
WHEREAS, the State has undergone significant and continuing fiscal challenges for at least the last five
years; and
WHEREAS, deficit spending has contributed to loss of emergency reserves once found within the
Constitutional Budget Reserve and Statutory Budget Reserve, both of which are at this point depleted;
and
WHEREAS, of general fund revenues, competing priorities result in increased potential for the State to
incur reductions to core programs that local governments and residents depend on; and
WHEREAS, those same budgetary pressures increase the likelihood the State may choose to shift costs to
local governments, hoping that they will pick up the State's obligations; and
WHEREAS, lawmakers have a range of appropriation powers and tools at their disposal to meet this fiscal
challenge; and
WHEREAS, one of the available options to lawmakers are the uncommitted funds held within the Earning
Reserve Account (ERA), estimated to be approximately $1.1 billion (October 2024); and
WHEREAS, the funds are accessible to lawmakers through a simple majority vote, though we understand
that for every $1 billion in funds drawn down today, the result is $50 million less available in future
years; and
WHEREAS, it may be tempting to utilize these funds for short-term needs, outside the current structure
of a 5% POMV draw that makes available sustainable revenue to fund the State's obligations; and
WHEREAS, an unstructured draw has the potential to destabilize future budgets, pushes challenges to
and impacts future generations, and leaves unresolved the many critical needs related to public health
and welfare, public safety and education, and infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, while conditions have continued to deteriorate such that the State's fiscal situation is
increasingly dire and additional solutions need to be presented as viable options, it remains critical that
the State identify the means by which it addresses these issues; and
WHEREAS, a sustainable draw is a component of a sustainable State fiscal policy that includes revenues
and expenditures that have been balanced, emergency reserves replenished, and a fund balance
established.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML commends to the Governor and Legislature support for
State policy and budget development that reflects a sustainable draw from the Permanent Fund's
Earnings Reserve.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-06 A resolution supporting a statewide comprehensive Alaska health initiative
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is facing a billion -dollar budget deficit and is examining ways to balance
the State's budget and reduce state spending; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska faces a public health crisis, which is requiring extensive scaling up of the
public health infrastructure in response; and
WHEREAS, there is the potential for leveraging increased public health capacity to meet additional needs
of Alaskans, which may contribute as well to addressing State and local government costs; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska currently has some of the highest per capita rates of substance abuse and
tobacco use in the nation; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has some of the highest rates of domestic violence, sexual assault, suicide,
child abuse and neglect, accidental death rates, obesity and sexually transmitted diseases in the nation;
and
WHEREAS, data from the 2023 Alaska Kids Count Report ranks Alaska 38th in the nation for children's
well- being based on 16 benchmarks related to quality of life, 27th in the nation for health, 48th in the
nation for education, and 46th in the nation for economic well-being; and
WHEREAS, children who experience abuse or neglect are approximately nine times more likely to
become involved in criminal activity, thus burdening the legal and prison systems than children who do
not experience child abuse or neglect; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's public health crisis impacts almost all state department operations and budgets,
costs the State of Alaska millions of dollars every year, and damages the state's economy by limiting
productive contributions that healthier citizens could have made; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has made attempts to combat some of these public health challenges but
success may depend on a more coordinated and intensive approach; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska should identify ways in which a comprehensive state-wide public health
initiative could be paid for, with an appropriate return on that investment; and
WHEREAS, substantially reducing the State of Alaska's public health issues will reduce the need for
programs and services and result in significant cost savings to the State.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League supports a comprehensive
statewide healthy Alaska initiative that aims to leverage current investments in the public health
infrastructure to substantially reduce our public health issues and reduce the state's operating budget as
programs and services are no longer needed to address preventable problems.
Updated December 2023.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-07 A resolution requesting renewed State support and increased funding for local
emergency planning committees and preparedness
WHEREAS, the State has a long history of providing support for local emergency preparedness; and
WHEREAS, local preparedness contributes to the ability of the State to respond effectively in the case of
a crisis; and
WHEREAS, State support has come in the form of technical resources, as well as financial aid that helps
local governments form and sustain local emergency planning committees; and
WHEREAS, the State had conducted some of this collaboration through DMVA's Local Emergency
Planning Committees; and
WHEREAS, in FY19 the State funded LEPCs at $298,500, in FY20 all of the LEPC funding of $225,000 was
vetoed from the State's budget, and in FY20 eliminated from the budget entirely; and
WHEREAS, the justification for those reductions note that "communities can apply for grants through
other sources including DCCED and the federal government" and that "the State's fiscal reality dictates a
reduction in expenditures;" and
WHEREAS, many local governments were unable to sustain LEPCs on their own, and were not able to
identify grants corresponding to this need, while others saw their preparedness reduced dramatically;
and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 public health emergency highlighted challenges related to these gaps, wherein
lack of funding resulted in a less effective response than could otherwise have been in place; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's public safety and health are dependent on strong public institutions that are able to
1) communicate local, on the ground information to state and federal decision makers, 2) engage with
and partner at the State and federal level; and 3) assist in implementing state and federal guidance; and
WHEREAS, while recognizing the State's fiscal reality, the COVID-19 public health emergency and
economic crisis, 2019 earthquakes and fire season, and future emergencies necessitate capacity at the
local level that assists in the State response; and
WHEREAS, the State investment in local planning efforts saves the State time and funding later during an
actual emergency, as systems are in place to coordinate response.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests renewed State support and increasing funding for
local emergency planning committees and preparedness.
Updated December 2023.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-08 A resolution in support of a balanced approach to addressing the State of
Alaska's deficit and continuing fiscal challenges
WHEREAS, in 2016 AML presented a Sustainability Plan as the result of a year's worth of Committee
work, and carefully evaluating the options at the time; and
WHEREAS, the Plan included creation of the POMV, changes to the PFD formula, broad based taxes, and
additional revenue measures; and since then, the POMV has been implemented and some small
reductions have been made to expenditures; and
WHEREAS, while the level of State spending on State government has remained about the same, much
of its savings have been achieved by cost -shifting to local governments; and
WHEREAS, since 2016 the State has spent down almost the entirety of its savings and there are few
options remaining that don't include broad based revenue measures, use of the remaining funds that
have been held within the Earnings Reserve account, additional cost- shifting, or dramatic reductions to
spending; and
WHEREAS, as local government officials who similarly have to make hard choices in balancing local
budgets, our members recognize the inherent challenges, fraught politics, and social and economic
impacts; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's cities and boroughs — as political subdivisions of the State — depend on a State
government that has the resources available to deliver its Constitutional and statutory obligations,
including in partnership with local governments; and
WHEREAS, the deterioration of the State's fiscal condition materially threatens the sustainability of local
governments in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's residents, businesses, and local governments expect action by the Governor and
Legislature that balance the State's budget using the myriad tools of government — right -sizing programs,
broad -based taxation, and strategic spending; and a balanced approach is crucial and will require
reexamination of current approaches.
NOW, THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML supports a balanced approach to addressing the State of
Alaska's deficit and continuing fiscal challenges, including by addressing the following:
• Broad -based taxation (personal and corporate income, sales, and property)
• Additional revenue measures tied to use (motor fuel, marijuana, tobacco, alcohol) or resource
• A stable PFD formula consistent with a sustainable draw from the Earnings Reserve.
• Potential reductions to the State budget irrespective of fund source
• Negotiating solutions to devolve responsibilities, and foster public -private partnerships
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML suggests the following criteria be used in evaluating the efficacy of
these options:
• The effective date of broad -based taxation should be consistent with economic recovery,
including to phase in over time — these programs take time to implement
• Social and economic modeling should accompany individual options and the combination of
options, with consideration given to the impact on the tax base, equity, and distribution
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
• Local governments are diverse in their ability to sustain cost -shifting or cuts, and that variability
will need to be taken into account
• Negotiated solutions are different than unfunded mandates, and must include a level of funding
that can be leveraged at the local level
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-09 A resolution in support of increased funding for community and regional jails,
and a base level of funding for Village Police Officers
WHEREAS, Alaska has a unified court system, and the criminal justice system is the obligation of the
State; and
WHEREAS, local governments have the option to adopt police powers, with more than 70 having done
so; and local law enforcement enforces State and municipal law; and
WHEREAS, the State has separated local law enforcement into two classes, one of which is Village Police
Officers (VPOs), who have different training requirements than other public safety professionals in the
state, but very similar responsibilities to other local law enforcement, and more responsibility than
Village Public Safety Officers (VPSOs) who received more training; and
WHEREAS, the State invests $14 million in the VPSO program (2023), a necessary component of the
overall public safety system in Alaska, for about the same number of officers as VPOs, which it
contributes nothing to; and
WHEREAS, increasing public attention on public safety, including recruitment and retention, hiring
practices and training, performance and outcomes, and operations, necessitates an increased level of
commitment to and investment in these systems; and
WHEREAS, at the same time, 15 local governments provide community and regional jails on behalf of the
State's criminal justice system; and these jails are an integral part of local and state law enforcement;
and
WHEREAS, State funding for community and regional jails was static for seven years is still below FY15
levels in 2023; and in many cases, State funding is only 50% of the full cost of managing the jail on the
State's behalf, and in all cases deficient; and
WHEREAS, if local governments are to effectively deliver public safety in Alaska, then the State must
better contribute to their ability to do so; and
WHEREAS, additional State investment is needed to improve and adjust to the demands of these roles,
to attract and retain qualified officers, and to expand training and preparedness.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML calls on the Governor and Legislature to fully fund
community and regional jails, requiring at least an additional $5 million more than the $14 million
currently budgeted; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that funding should be appropriated in support of Village Police Officers, to
include at least coverage of police professional liability insurance, travel for training and training
expenses, and a base level of pay, the estimated total of which will represent half of what the State
invests in the VPSO program.
Updated December 2023.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-13 A resolution in support of establishing standards and regulations for unorganized
boroughs
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League supports the idea of "maximum local self- government"; and
WHEREAS, Article 10, Section 3 of the Alaska Constitution requires the Legislature set policy for the
establishment, alteration, and nature of Boroughs; and
WHEREAS, the legislature has not yet enacted standards and procedures for the establishment of
unorganized boroughs and the lack of such standards and procedures precludes a meaningful
determination of whether an unorganized area has attained the fiscal and administrative capacity to
support areawide functions; and
WHEREAS, if such standards existed, an unorganized area could be signaled to form an organized
borough when it achieved the administrative and fiscal capacity to support areawide functions.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League supports establishing standards and
regulations for unorganized boroughs.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2021-21 A resolution requesting that the Legislature review and make optional
exemptions that are more appropriately decided at the local level
WHEREAS, increasingly, local governments are expected to fulfill State responsibilities that the State can
no longer afford; and
WHEREAS, in order to meet these obligations, local governments must have the tools at their disposal
necessary to deliver essential services and ensure that the corresponding tax burden does not fall
disproportionally on the rest of the tax base; and
WHEREAS, the State's exemptions of certain types of property affect the ability of local governments to
deliver essential services; and
WHEREAS, mandatory exemptions result in a more limited tax base, and the tax rate more heavily
burdening only certain portions of a city or borough's residents; and
WHEREAS, in particular, an exemption of household furniture and personal effects (29.45.030(a)(2)) is
better determined at the local level; and
WHEREAS, in particular, the undeveloped value of natural resources in place is reserved to taxation by
the State, even as the impact and benefit may be managed also at the local level, and local control of
taxation may increase the viability of a project; and
WHEREAS, in particular, the exemption (29.45.030(a)) of AIDEA land and the Alaska Railroad (42.40.910)
— two public corporations that maintain a business model similar to that of any private corporation — are
inconsistent with a public purpose; and
WHEREAS, broad age -based exemptions do not take into account the need or lack thereof of those
residents, which runs counter to best practices, and in the development of mandatory age- based
exemptions the State committed to reimbursement and has not since 1985, now valued at more than
$90 million.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests that the Governor and Legislature review all
mandatory exemptions affecting local governments and were found to be beneficial pass legislation that
makes optional, needs -based, and/or locally determined those accounted for above.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 20, 2020
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2022-04 A resolution encouraging the RCA and Legislature to make adjustments to the
Power Cost Equalization program for communities and utilities that are moving towards energy
independence using renewable generation
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League supports the idea of "maximum local self- government"; and
WHEREAS, the stated purpose of the PCE program is to provide benefits to rural communities by
lowering the electricity costs paid by customers, which in turn helps to ensure the sustainability of
remote economies dependent on available, reliable, and centralized power; and
WHEREAS, the PCE program subsidizes the electric rates for the first 750 monthly, residential kWhs to
levels comparable to those paid by consumers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau, as well as provides
some additional financial support to cover a portion of the electrical costs for community facilities; and
WHEREAS, the PCE program provides benefits to these rural communities based on a formula which is
heavily weighed by the cost and quantity of diesel fuel used to produce energy in the communities; and
WHEREAS, some rural communities are increasing the use of renewable energy sources to reduce and/or
replace traditional diesel power systems, and now realizing there is a disincentive to do so given the
current PCE regulations; and
WHEREAS, as an example, since 2017 the City of King Cove and its residents are not receiving any PCE
support because their two hydro facilities are producing about 85% of their annual electric demand of
approximately 5 MWhs; and
WHEREAS, decreasing the dependence on diesel -generated power while incurring new debt costs for the
development of these renewable energy production does not appear to be equitably considered in the
current PCE regulations; and
WHEREAS, PCE regulations allow for an annual depreciation value of up to 50 years on the capital
investments/ loans for these facilities and the inclusion of annual interest paid on these long term debts,
however, this ends up being only a modest annual expenditure "savings" compared to the avoided diesel
fuel costs and does not appear to get equitably considered in the current PCE regulations; and,
WHEREAS, AMUs current Policy Statement on Energy states "Support for vetting of and investing in
energy projects, processes and programs that decrease energy costs; reimburse municipal debt or
investments corresponding to and by utilizing PCE savings."
WHEREAS, under current PCE reimbursement, the revenue from sales of excess electricity from
intermittent generation, like wind, for the purposes like distributed thermal storage are disincentivized,
since these sales cannot be subtracted from non -fuel expenses for purposes PCE reimbursement; and,
WHEREAS, the equivalent revenue sale of waste heat from diesel generation can be subtracted from
non -fuel expense for purposes of PCE reimbursement; and,
WHEREAS, the additional revenue from sale of excess renewable generation for heating are also counted
against the household cap for PCE reimbursement, further decreasing PCE reimbursement; and,
WHEREAS, the current structure of PCE reimbursement for heating disincentivizes innovative approaches
to renewables integration and decreasing diesel dependence that otherwise offer the opportunity to
reduce the household energy burden of heating oil; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML supports and advocates for the reform of the PCE program
to make the necessary modifications to allow for a more equitable treatment of the annual debt costs
for these renewable energy investments vis-a-vis the tradeoff of replacing annual diesel fuel costs; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML supports and advocates for a "renewable energy debt
reimbursement factor' be added to the PCE regulations which includes: a) criteria regarding the size and
annual production of the renewable energy facility; b) establish a benchmark for a required annual
amount of community/utility electricity produced with renewable energy production; and c) establish a
factor that considers the amount of avoided annual diesel costs resulting from the renewable energy
source compared to the annual debt costs to displace these diesel costs; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML supports and advocates for PCE regulation to allow that revenue
from the sale of excess renewable generation for heating be subtracted from non -fuel expenses for
purposes of PCE reimbursement; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML supports and advocates for PCE regulation to allow the exemption of
otherwise curtailed Kwhs sold for heating from the 750 Kwh household cap for PCE.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, November 17, 2021.
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Resolution #2023-01 A resolution calling for legislation to protect public interest by lessening the
burden of commercial public records requests on Alaska's local governments
WHEREAS, the Alaska Public Records Act aims to promote government transparency by laying out
requirements for public records requests for state agencies and local governments; and
WHEREAS, commercial firms, which send blanket requests for public records nationally, have proliferated
with the development of the internet and since passage of the Act; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Public Records Act currently requires local governments to provide up to five hours
of staff time monthly for all requestors before fees can be assessed for a request — a requirement that
national, commercial data firms take advantage of at the public's expense; and
WHEREAS, these requests use up valuable staff time in local governments across the state who have few
employees, impeding the provision of key government services; and
WHEREAS, many states make provisions for the difference between individual, media, and commercial
requests, and in- and out-of-state requests, with a fee and time structure responsive thereto; and
WHEREAS, the many local governments that have not already established their own processes for
accepting requests, such as a request form, are potentially in violation of the Act if they do not respond
to the flood of generic, spam-like email public records requests being distributed by these commercial
firms and entities outside the state; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) established Fee Guidelines for the
Freedom of Information Act that establishes a distinct Commercial Use Requestor fee category for these
requests, which establishes fees for public records requests by those who seek records for "a use or
purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester"; and
WHEREAS, the OMB Fee Guidelines could be used as a framework for local governments and state
agencies to be adequately compensated for work provided to commercial data firms, if the Alaska Public
Records Act were amended to allow this.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League supports amendments to the
Alaska Public Records Act that protect public interest by lessening the burden of commercial or blanket
public records requests on Alaska's local governments; and
BE IT FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the State to consider other
actions that might help local governments manage invasive public records requests that take advantage
of current public records laws without providing public benefit.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-02 A resolution in support of reducing the number of required city council officials
from seven to three in communities under 1,000, via referendum or other mechanisms
WHEREAS, Title 29 requires that second class cities have city councils of seven members; and
WHEREAS, the intent of the statute is to ensure appropriate representation within a community and
avoid conflicts of interest in decision -making; and
WHEREAS, the number of seats on a governing body is variable, otherwise, with home rule or first class
cities able to have as few as five, and some assemblies as large as 12; these are fairly responsive to
population; and
WHEREAS, in many counties across the nation, decision -making is accomplished with just three county
commissioners while maintaining transparent and accountable governance; and
WHEREAS, seven council members may make sense in larger communities but becomes problematic in
smaller; and
WHEREAS, in a community of 1,000 with 500 adults of voting age, the council is .01% and in a
community of 40 with voting -age adults at 20, the council is 35% of the community; and
WHEREAS, community leadership in small communities is limited not just by population but by the
multiple leadership roles that may co -exist, including as tribal council members, Village Corporation
board members, utility managers, and others, including at the City; and
WHEREAS, having a one -size fits all approach of seven council members may mean that some
communities are never able to fill all seven seats, and are less likely to meet quorum; and
WHEREAS, local governments may be more effectively governed with a council that is more responsive
to the size of the community and the availability of council members; and
WHEREAS, a smaller council in small communities can be more flexible in meeting regularly, more
responsive to community needs, maintain accountability and transparency, and be in a stronger position
to complete financial and governance requirements of the State.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the amendment of Title 29
to allow for council seats that are responsive to community size and need, and which may range from
three to seven; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a formula may be established in law or provided for as an option based on
referendum by residents.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-03 A resolution urging the Governor and Legislature to exercise oversight of the
Local Boundary Commission, to meet the Constitutional obligation for maximum local self-
government
WHEREAS, Article X of the Alaska Constitution obligates the State to provide for maximum local self-
government, and Alaska's economy depends on well -supported local self- governance, which is more
effective at adaptively meeting community needs than state or federal intervention; and
WHEREAS, the status quo has left communities in the unorganized borough without the tools to consider
or pursue incorporation, the State has left communities to cede local control for State management, thus
depriving residents of maximum local self -governance and its benefits, and Alaska's communities are
required to depend on the State to establish or amend their boundaries and status, even as local
governments are providing essential services in the face of changing conditions, fiscal uncertainty, and
global instability; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Constitution created the Local Boundary Commission as the mechanism by which
municipal boundaries are confirmed, and which the Legislature and Governor set policy, composition,
and procedure for; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Constitution's framers intended the Commission to bring flexibility, adaptability,
and rationality to local government boundaries by analyzing proposed changes fairly and objectively
consistent with maximum local self-government and the Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature and Commission set the precedent of using the legislative review method as
the primary procedure for Commissioners' consideration of annexation, ensuring that the framers' vision
for the local boundary process was implemented accurately; and
WHEREAS, by veering from precedent and disregarding their obligation to a fair and objective process,
the Commission has created a process that does not result in greater local self -governance, deterring
communities from seeking boundary changes, growth, and incorporation.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Alaska Municipal League urges the Governor and Legislature
to exercise oversight and review policy of the Local Boundary Commission, including confirmation by the
Legislature of Commissioners; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League urges sitting and prospective Commissioners
to the Local Boundary Commission to consider their procedures and decision- making to ensure the
fairness and objectivity required of them; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that State policymakers revisit how they can support well- reasoned
annexation, incorporation, and borough formation to meet the obligation for maximum local self-
government, the Mandatory Borough Act, and the intent of the Constitution.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-04 A resolution supporting the sustainability of Community Assistance
WHEREAS, Community Assistance (known formerly as Community Revenue Sharing) represents a
decades -long partnership between local governments and the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, that partnership is a recognition of the State's retention of royalty and production rights on
resource development, that local tax bases would not be able otherwise to ensure operations, and the
need to deliver essential public services outside of State government; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance has seen continued degradation over the years, including in 2015 a
reduction of 50%, and if measured from FY20 to FY85 and adjusting for inflation, the value of Community
Assistance should be 984% greater than it currently is; and
WHEREAS, Community Assistance represents as much as 80% of some local government budgets, and
for 100 communities greater than 20%; and when Community Assistance was zeroed out in the early
2000s, 14 local governments ceased day-to-day operations; and
WHEREAS, the formula of the Community Assistance Fund determines the annual payment to
communities, with a payout of a third of available funds; and the availability of funds designated in
statute to recapitalize Community Assistance is based on the waterfall of earnings from the PCE
Endowment; and
WHEREAS, when earnings are less than needed, it has been the policy choice of the current
administration to fund less than what is needed for full recapitalization, which has resulted in payments
to communities that are increasingly inadequate; and
WHEREAS, when this intergovernmental transfer or resource sharing does not occur it requires local
governments to consider other revenue mechanisms, such as taxes, or diminishes their ability to provide
services; and
WHEREAS, at the same time, inflation has negatively impacted the purchasing power of this annual
transfer, thereby negating some of the benefits that local governments might otherwise expect; and
WHEREAS, it would require legislation to address the fact that the Community Assistance Fund does not
retain its earnings and payments aren't inflation adjusted; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League believes that community revenue sharing is a critical way in
which the State can contribute to local governments' ability to deliver on obligations of education, public
safety, infrastructure, and economic development.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League requests of the Legislature statutory
changes that ensure the capitalization of the Community Assistance Fund and enable it to grow through
earnings; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature include in legislation the ability to increase payments to
local governments that account for inflation and include additional transfers to compensate local
governments for their provision on behalf of the state of basic obligations (police, jails, etc.),
reimbursements (bond debt), or unfunded mandates (mandatory exemptions).
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-05 A resolution opposing any changes to PERS/TRS that increase the unfunded
liability and supporting additional State contributions that reduce the non -state employer share in
order to increase the efficacy of recruitment and retention in Alaska
WHEREAS, the State -managed pension system PERS/TRS is a critical tool for recruitment and retention in
Alaska; and
WHEREAS, not only do PIERS payments represent a significant portion of a local government's or school
district's personnel budget but it places constraints on local governments and other employers that
lessen their ability to successfully recruit and retain staff; and
WHEREAS, the State does not currently pay for termination studies or costs, and reductions in its
workforce shift costs to the additional state contribution (future costs) and onto the balance sheets of all
employers; and
WHEREAS, the current unfunded liability is more than $5 billion, and the pension plan itself is less than
70% funded, even as gains have been made in more recent years; and
WHEREAS, while currently there exists only a defined contribution pension option, there are increasingly
calls for a defined benefit option presented as a solution to hiring and retention by school districts and
public safety professionals; and
WHEREAS, there is merit to an argument that defined benefit is a preferred employee retirement plan;
and
WHEREAS, it is also true that this is not the only option, and that for employers required to fund the net
pension liability of the plan when assumptions fail, it is a risk -filled proposition; and
WHEREAS, the majority of what employers contribute to PERS/TRS (of the 22%) is for past cost,
essentially trying to pay down the unfunded liability that was created in past years; and
WHEREAS, if the 22% were reduced, either based on higher levels of fundedness or by the State taking
on an increased share as costs are reduced, then employers would have greater flexibility to fund
beyond Tier IV requirements and/or to contribute to a deferred compensation plan; and
WHEREAS, the current law reduces the additional state contribution as the fundedness of the plan
improves, without adjusting the non -state employer cap (unless the total cost falls below that cap); and
WHEREAS, a system of adjusting accordingly would ensure the State is always contributing an
appropriate level while non -state employers have the opportunity to see benefits that could accrue to
employees; and
WHEREAS, a change to current law could include a sliding scale for the non -state employer share such
that it represents the actual cost and then an amount distant from the total cost that is otherwise
contributed to by the State through its additional contribution; and
WHEREAS, this can be thought of in terms of a floor for non -State employers of the actual cost, for which
their contribution could not be adjusted below, but the floor for the State to not be limited by the non -
State employer cap of 22%; and
WHEREAS, the State's additional contribution would be maintained and increased relative to or
expressed as a larger percentage of the past service cost; and
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WHEREAS, under this formation, employers would have greater flexibility, and be in a better position to
consider new pension plans or retirement benefits; and
WHEREAS, to the extent that new plans are proposed by the State then they should be optional at the
employer level, segregated in their liability, and come with an additional state contribution to past costs
that meaningfully reduces the overall net pension liability of all employers.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports reform to PERS that
includes a complete pay -down of the unfunded liability; and
BE IT FURTHER THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports all tools possible
for recruitment and retention and expresses concern about the introduction of a defined benefit plan to
PERS/TRS, without the State addressing current net pension liability; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature should amend statute to accommodate a reduction to the
non -state employer cap, such that it reduces in relation to the total cost while the additional state
contribution is maintained at levels that advance the reduction of the unfunded liability; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League conditionally requests that the State also
conduct termination studies, small or struggling employers be allowed to opt out of the system, and that
the high interest rate on non-payment be eliminated.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-06 A resolution expressing concern about consideration of a State spending cap
WHEREAS, AML has advocated for a sustainable fiscal policy for more than a decade, and most recently
this has referenced "Eight Stars of Gold," an eight -point fiscal plan that recognizes the trade-offs
necessary to achieve such a goal; and
WHEREAS, while this includes new revenues, efficient delivery of government services, partnerships with
local governments and nonprofits, effective use of Permanent Fund earnings, and addressing our
infrastructure needs and Constitutional obligations, it recognizes that a spending cap may be part of the
negotiated solutions; and
WHEREAS, local governments are apprehensive about a cap on State spending that may result in limiting
the provision of State services, inhibiting partnerships at the local level, and which could decrease State
investments into capital needs; and
WHEREAS, local governments are also very experienced with tax, revenue, or spending caps at the local
level, which are direct expressions of local resident will that come with potential reductions in services
and unmet need, and active engagement; and
WHEREAS, AMUs fiscal policy working group identified the best spending cap as a broad- based tax,
inasmuch as it results in a stable funding stream that can be anticipated and projected out into future
years without the instability experienced with a resource tax; and
WHEREAS, research has proven that citizens are much more actively engaged in State decision- making
when they are also taxpayers, and cognizant of budget implications; and
WHEREAS, a challenging aspect of implementation of a spending cap is that determining a baseline is
difficult, and for as much as State spending in one year may look high, averaged over time it becomes
standard, or if low spending over time feels like a new standard, it may not reflect the deficiency relative
to need; and
WHEREAS, even basing a cap on economic activity may fail to recognize and account for a baseline of
need at the beginning or how to adjust in times of economic challenge; and
WHEREAS, establishing a spending cap now will need to take into account infrastructure deficits,
economic goals, and policy goals; and
WHEREAS, at the local level, a fund balance policy is an effective tool, such that when there are funds in
excess of the budget they are intentionally set aside for a variety of purposes, but also there are bounds
for a minimum and maximum; and
WHEREAS, it should be understood that a spending cap should come as part of a comprehensive policy,
may result in prescriptive spending that does not meet the needs of Alaskans, and in other states has
had unintended consequences; and
WHEREAS, a spending cap is not an effective answer to insufficient revenues, nor does it necessarily pave
the way for the establishment of sustainable revenue sources.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League would consider with caution a State
spending cap, expect to be active in any negotiated solution, and in that consideration would prioritize
the ability of the State to meet its Constitutional obligations, address years of insufficient spending on
capital and operating needs, and resolve at the same time other systemic issues of the State, including
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its unfunded pension liability, inconsistent approach to public safety and education, and infrastructure
deficit; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a broad -based tax and fund balance policy may achieve the same goals,
and AML is willing to work with the Legislature to share best practices experienced at the local level that
can apply at the State.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-07 A resolution to support full funding of State -directed presumptions of liability,
including the consideration of a Trust to support local government employers impacted thereby
WHEREAS, according to AS 23.30.121 compensation is required for disability as a result of the diseases
described in section (b) of this statute; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League members are the largest employers of these firefighters in
Alaska, who are disproportionately affected by these diseases due to the nature of their employment;
and
WHEREAS, the majority of their worker's compensation insurance is provided by pooled public insurance
entities, for whom even few claims on limited assets may result in destabilization; and
WHEREAS, the presumption of compensability by the State is an unfunded obligation for local
governments to bear, and it has been found that a state's presumption of compensability elsewhere in
the nation has risked the insurance coverage of those employees; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Municipal League is strongly supportive of mechanisms that improve and redress
the health of all employees, and while health insurance and programs are the correct way to address
health inequities and disease, may be supportive of State presumption of compensability to the extent it
is funded by the State; and
WHEREAS, the State's presumption of compensability is a clear prioritization by the State of the health of
its public safety, a prioritization that should result in appropriate levels of resourcing to match the
commitment; and
WHEREAS, the State should provide a reliable funding stream from which to compensate Alaska's public
safety professionals and volunteers, and there are models elsewhere to establish a Trust that would fulfill
this obligation; and
WHEREAS, the State — in placing a priority on the health and well-being of firefighters — may express that
priority by making contributions to a Trust that reflect the potential costs of the presumptions that have
been enacted, and
WHEREAS, the State would place funding in a designated fund, or account, for workers compensation
claims submitted under AS 23.30.121(b), from which the State would reimburse the individual, employer,
or insurance carrier.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League requests that the State entrust
funds to manage the potential risk associated with these presumptions and join municipal employers in
supporting the health and safety of our public safety professionals.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-08 A resolution supporting the establishment of public safety matching funds by the
State
WHEREAS, it is the State's constitutional obligation to provide for public health and public wellness,
which should be understood to include the provision of public safety through sufficient law enforcement,
fire and emergency response, and corrections; and
WHEREAS, as political subdivisions of the State, local governments take on the majority of these
responsibilities, with the vast majority of police occurring locally, including 40 local governments with
police departments, and many other communities with police powers that translate into the hiring of
Village Police Officers; and
WHEREAS, it is also true that many local governments have been unable to identify the resources
necessary to establish or strengthen local law enforcement; and
WHEREAS, in communities without local law enforcement, it is the responsibility of the State Troopers to
deliver public safety, and the Department of Public Safety bears the costs of delivery of law enforcement
in some of the most populated and the most remote areas of the state; and
WHEREAS, there is an inconsistent application of public safety in Alaska, which may not produce the
desirable outcomes expected by residents or envisioned in the Constitution, and that inconsistency —
where in most areas the State pays the entirety of the costs and lack of capacity may not ensure
adequate law enforcement, while in others local governments pick up the entirety of the costs, save the
State money in doing so, and are responsive to local public safety needs — is not fair to the State, nor
local governments; and
WHEREAS, one way in which to address this while maintaining local control over the decision whether to
take on police powers, or not, is for the State to establish a basic minimum resource obligation that it will
provide to cities and boroughs in Alaska for law enforcement; and
WHEREAS, essentially, the Legislature may determine in statute a mechanism by which to establish the
potential for a transfer of funds to a local government that has taken or takes on police powers and
establishes adequate policing within its jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, this incentive should be consistent with variables that include total population and standards
for officer per capita, and these can be thought of in terms of matching funds, as part of a community
dividend, or added to Community Assistance, and may be scalable by need and over time.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the Legislature to
develop a mechanism to incentivize and reimburse local governments for the implementation of police
powers and provision of public safety on behalf of the State.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-09 A resolution in support of accelerating the transfer of State lands to local
governments, completing the municipal lands program, and waiving additional survey costs
WHEREAS, local governments are responsible for more land management than the State of Alaska, with
the bulk of these lands found within borough boundaries, and
WHEREAS, boroughs have the statutory responsibility for planning and platting of not just their lands,
but State lands as well, and local planning commissions are also responsible for working with federal
land managers; and
WHEREAS, borough planning and platting authority is a power devolved from the State, and is a
responsibility, then, that the State no longer performs, thus saving the State costs involved; and
WHEREAS, increasing local control of lands within municipal boundaries has a significant impact on their
ability to promote economic development and may contribute to cost savings for the State; and
WHEREAS, the Municipal Land Entitlement Program provides Alaskans local governance by determining
municipal land entitlements and transferring lands to municipalities under the Municipal Entitlement
Act; the program is housed in the Department of Natural Resources and is governed by AS 29.65.010-
29.65.130; and
WHEREAS, about 1.35 million acres of State land will eventually be transferred to municipal ownership
through this program; and
WHEREAS, of the land transferred to date, municipalities have sold about 140,000 acres to private
owners —that means that local governments have been able to move about 22% of their lands into
private hands; and
WHEREAS, survey costs are high, requirements are onerous, and agency work slow; it is difficult to move
from land approved by the State to land available for sale and streamlining this process, reducing
barriers and costs, and increasing timeliness would facilitate development; and
WHEREAS, there remain 136,000 acres of land waiting for entitlement, which is land that local
governments are depending on to develop, and which would increase their land available to meet a
variety of needs; and
WHEREAS, there is an insufficient amount of vacant, unappropriated, unreserved (VUU) lands available
for new borough formation; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Lands Act requires some portion of this land to be available for borough formation,
and the State may not have allocated enough of this for the remaining unorganized boroughs; and
WHEREAS, the State may need to consider a set aside, now, to benefit those areas of the state that may
have an interest in borough formation but no available VUU lands; if the State has insufficient land
available for these purposes, it may need to compensate unorganized boroughs accordingly; and
WHEREAS, local governments are the most direct beneficiaries of private development, have the most at
stake and therefore the most interest in a process that works well; and
WHEREAS, political subdivisions of the State determine appropriate levels of service and infrastructure
maintenance responsibilities for residential and commercial properties, ensuring a uniform level of
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platting that corresponds to planning, zoning, and the needs of the local governments and property
owners, accomplished in cooperation with developers; and
WHEREAS, there exist numerous options for strengthening State -local cooperation on lands
development, including:
• Lease -share agreements for large tracts
• State seat on planning/platting commissions and/or Joint Lands Commission
• Streamlined planning/platting processes between local governments
• Cost -share for access improvements
• Long-term planning processes
• Remote access requirements — waiver on standards within State Statute and Code
• Include boroughs as part of Agency review
• Municipal Entitlement Lands transfers
• State to complete surveying process
• Sale/lease of state lands for disposal to private owners
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the State establishing ways
in which lands may be transferred more expeditiously to local governments and in support of future
organization; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a joint, high-level collaborative effort between local governments and the
State may facilitate this process and will require active engagement by the Legislature.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-10 A resolution supporting State provision of non-federal match for local
government infrastructure projects, and to address gaps in federal infrastructure funding
WHEREAS, recent federal infrastructure investments provide Alaska's State, local, and Tribal
governments with a once in a generation opportunity to make formative change and address incredible
need; and
WHEREAS, discretionary, competitive grants for local and Tribal governments are a significant part of the
new laws, however, many smaller governments lack the capacity or resources to compete and execute
federal funding; and
WHEREAS, the infrastructure needs of communities in Alaska extend beyond the scope of federal
programs in areas such as housing, public safety facilities, school facilities, and recreation and quality of
life infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the State is in a position to identify and coordinate those community needs.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the State to leverage
federal infrastructure investment by providing access to funds that could be used for non-federal match
by local governments; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the identification of methods to
make funding available for community facilities that might not otherwise be available through federal
infrastructure investment.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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Resolution #2023-11 A resolution supporting the ability for school districts to more efficiently deliver
education to changing school populations by consolidating facilities without penalty
WHEREAS, the Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development projects that Alaska's population
of children aged 0 to 19 will decrease by six percent by 2050; and
WHEREAS, local governments are responsible for the majority of school districts in Alaska and contribute
35 percent of education funding; and
WHEREAS, this contribution represents the largest expenditure of those local governments with school
districts; and
WHEREAS, school districts vary by size and population trend, with some growing and others declining,
which requires a State approach that funds maintenance and construction on the one hand, and
incentivizes change otherwise; and
WHEREAS, the State appropriates funds for school construction and major maintenance as available, and
school construction and major maintenance funding has diminished over the years, and generally not
fully funded the entirety of the need; and
WHEREAS, the State has on average only funded 8% of school construction and major maintenance; and
WHEREAS, school bond debt reimbursement has increasingly been unfunded, and that cost shifted to
local governments, and there is currently a moratorium; and
WHEREAS, when a school district faces declining enrollment and increased costs of maintenance, it may
be in a community's best interest to consolidate its school facilities; and
WHEREAS, there do not exist incentives for encouraging school districts to reimagine or redevelop
schools in response to population change other than growth; and
WHEREAS, the school size multiplier in the current funding formula (AS 14.17.410(b)(1)(A) and AS
14.17.450) penalizes a school district for consolidating facilities; and
WHEREAS, local governments and school districts are committed to efficient and effective delivery of
public education but thereby constrained by State statute.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports amendments to the
funding formula to reduce penalties for consolidation of school facilities within a district and to increase
incentives thereof.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2023-12 A resolution requesting that the State increase and inflation -proof the BSA and
implement a more equitable local funding mechanism than the required local contribution
WHEREAS, it is the State's constitutional obligation to establish and maintain a system of public schools;
and
WHEREAS, the State currently provides only 64% of education funding, while local government
contributions and local impact aid make up the remainder; and
WHEREAS, as part of the funding formula designed by the State, a minimum local contribution of 2.65
mils (or equivalent) is required; and
WHEREAS, federal Impact Aid is intended to be distributed directly to school districts impacted by
federal lands and activities, and to supplement local budgets; and
WHEREAS, education is by far the largest budget item for those local governments with education
powers, and is required of all boroughs, and home rule and first class cities in the Unorganized Borough;
and
WHEREAS, increasing local contributions to keep pace with rising costs means trade-offs for each local
government, including increasing taxes and decreased spending on other essential programs, such as
public safety and infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the State's fiscal challenges increase the potential for additional costs to fall on boroughs, and
home rule or first class cities in the Unorganized Borough; and
WHEREAS, instead of shifting the cost of education — and the State's responsibilities —to local
governments, the State should give greater flexibility to local governments to give as they are able, while
the State simultaneously ensures adequate levels of funding, and
WHEREAS, the State has not increased the BSA corresponding to higher costs and inflation.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests the State raise and inflation proof the BSA; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that AML encourages the State to pursue a more equitable and inclusive
means of funding education than is currently raised through the required local contribution.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2023-13 A resolution supporting the reduction of the interest rate on bulk fuel loans to
not more than 2% and increasing the cap on funding as or when fuel prices increase
WHEREAS, the State provides an important service in providing capital to local governments that have a
limited tax base, and this is especially true when considering purchases such as that of bulk fuel, which
communities depend on to ensure their residents have sufficient supply over the course of the year; and
WHEREAS, these purchases happen annually, often as part of a single barge delivery, with price set upon
delivery and fixed at that resale rate over the course of the year; and
WHEREAS, very few local governments have access to the capital needed to pay for the entirety of the
delivery at once and recouping the expense occurs over a long period of time; and
WHEREAS, fuel prices are significantly higher in much of rural Alaska than elsewhere in the state or
nation, and especially this year, with the high rate of inflation and supply chain issues, as well as high oil
prices, the cost to communities may well be beyond reach; and
WHEREAS, the State's bulk fuel revolving loan fund is limited to $750,000, which in a high price
environment may be insufficient; and
WHEREAS, as prices increase and there is greater need for the service, and the total borrowed increases,
the State's administrative fee as a percentage of loan should be considered an unnecessary burden; and
WHEREAS, the State is in a position to provide for its administration of this service out of general funds,
and should not pass costs to local governments; and
WHEREAS, aggregating purchasing will allow communities to take advantage of economies of scale; and
WHEREAS, State costs transferred to local governments result in less capacity at the local level to deliver
essential services, and/or the need for greater revenues through taxes or fees, which means higher costs
for residents that are already paying some of the highest fuel prices in the nation; and
WHEREAS, the State can consider removing and reducing fees associated with the service as of
significant public benefit at a time when Alaskans are struggling to keep up with the uncertainty of the
global and local market.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League encourages the State to remove or
significantly reduce any fees associated with the bulk fuel revolving loan fund, and increase the total
amount available to borrow, including to additionally capitalize it as needed and explore aggregated
purchasing.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2023-15 A resolution supporting statutory change to allow for the implementation of
Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs)
WHEREAS, a Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) is an organization that identifies local
transportation needs, conducts planning, assists local governments, and supports the statewide
transportation planning process in nonmetropolitan regions of a State; and
WHEREAS, RTPOs benefit rural regions (those without a Metropolitan Planning Organization, which only
exist in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and soon the Mat Su Borough) by instilling a systematic transportation
planning process, involving local officials in decision making, and providing a means to establish
regionally unique priorities; and
WHEREAS, at States' discretion, federal funding may be used to support RTPOs, and State and local
contributions ensure that sufficient resources empower effective planning; and
WHEREAS, the existence of an RTPO makes prioritized projects more competitive under many federal
funding programs; and
WHEREAS, federal surface transportation law defines RTPOs very specifically and RTPOs must be
designated by their state's governor to be considered an RTPO under the federal definition; and
WHEREAS, legislation for a statutory change may be required for the implementation of RTPOs in Alaska.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports statutory changes to allow
the implementation of RTPOs and encourages appropriate levels of funding provided by the State to
ensure necessary levels of staffing and planning resources.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 9, 2022.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-01 A resolution in support of possible legal action to determine the full extent of the
State's constitutional obligation to provide for a system of public education
WHEREAS, it is the State's constitutional obligation to establish and maintain a system of public schools;
and
WHEREAS, the value of the Base Student Allocation and Pupil Transportation Funding programs have
eroded due to inflation and have been in decline since 2009; and
WHEREAS, school districts face increasing energy, maintenance, personnel, and insurance costs; and
WHEREAS, local governments cover an increasingly larger portion of education funding; and
WHEREAS, the State has underfunded school construction and major maintenance for decades, with
fewer than 20% of identified priorities addressed on average; and
WHEREAS, local governments have insufficient resources to address capital needs of the State's schools,
especially in Regional Education Attainment Areas, which are the responsibility of the Department of
Education and Early Development; and
WHEREAS, increasing local contributions to keep pace with rising costs means trade-offs for each local
government, including increasing taxes and decreased spending on other essential programs, such as
public safety and infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the ending of the school bond debt reimbursement program has further limited the
opportunity to jointly address the needs of schools; and
WHEREAS, education is by far the largest budget item for those local governments with education
powers, and is required of all boroughs, and home rule and first class cities in the Unorganized Borough;
and
WHEREAS, the education funding formula designed by the State results in Alaska remaining one of the
few states that implements an equalization formula so that it can use federal impact aid to offset its own
obligations, and which is meant for localities; and
WHEREAS, AML has a resolution in place correctly identifying Impact Aid as local; and
WHEREAS, the local contributions plus required State funding are no longer adequate to maintain
Alaska's schools, with many districts facing school closures, growing class sizes, and the loss of valuable
educational programs due to budget cuts.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML would consider providing support to members in relation to
litigation that clarifies and/or establishes the responsibility of the State of Alaska to fund public
education adequately and equitably, including for school construction and maintenance; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the outcome of this litigation should determine the scope of local
government's ability to contribute to local educational attainment and activities beyond the obligation of
the State.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-03 A resolution in support of a strategic workforce recruitment and retention effort
by and with the State of Alaska to correct high public sector vacancy rates
WHEREAS, national employment data show that private employment has fully recovered from pre -
pandemic levels, while state and local public employment remains below pre -pandemic numbers; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is operating with an average vacancy rate of 13.9% over the past year
(October 2024) with some agencies, such as the Alaska Marine Highway System, facing vacancy rates
greater than 50% at times; and
WHEREAS, the current vacancy rates impede the ability of the State of Alaska and local governments to
provide public services to Alaskans, lower the State of Alaska's contributions to PERS, and hurt the
economy; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska and local governments play key roles in implementing the provisions of
the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act and obtaining funding for and building
once -in -a- generation infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS, the public sector faces specific barriers to hiring, like burnout, long hiring processes, and pay
competition with the private sector.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML encourages the State of Alaska to address vacancy rates
within State agencies; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the State's efforts be coordinated with local governments to implement
complementary workforce recruitment and retention strategies within cities and boroughs.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-04 A resolution in support of requiring the Legislature to include fiscal notes that
quantify costs to municipalities and school districts in legislation that impacts these entities
WHEREAS, an "unfunded mandate" is any statute, administrative regulation, or order that demands
action from a subordinate government without adequate provision for funding the cost to the
subordinate government of implementing the demanded action; and
WHEREAS, unfunded mandates are a problem because the federal and state governments have tended
to balance their budgets on the backs of subordinate governments, thereby shielding themselves from
taking the fiscal responsibility for their own policy and program decisions; and
WHEREAS, from a purely political standpoint, an unfunded mandate can ensure that the blame for
higher taxes or service cuts falls to local elected officials rather than the government that made the
decision; and
WHEREAS, unfunded mandates are a threat to municipal and school district governance and operations
in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, additional requirements of a municipality or school district, when not reimbursed, result in a
loss of capacity to deliver public services to community members and students; and
WHEREAS, AS 24.08.035 requires that bills and resolutions carry fiscal notes that contain an estimate of
the cost that would result from enactment for the current fiscal year and for five fiscal years in the
future; and
WHEREAS, this statute limits those estimates to the cost to the State of Alaska alone, excluding costs that
may fall to local governments and school districts to bear, obfuscating the true cost of enacting
legislation.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML supports legislation that requires the State of Alaska and
Alaska State Legislature to include municipal and school district fiscal notes as part of its process in
evaluating legislation that impacts local governments and public education.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-05 A resolution in support of legislation that requires prompt payment of contracted
and formula funding obligations, including the distribution of Community Assistance
WHEREAS, AS 36.90.200 requires the State of Alaska to pay contractors performing construction or
public works activities in a timely manner; and
WHEREAS, this statute introduces penalties for non-compliance, including interest on non-payment,
which reimburses the contractor for opportunity costs or additional burdens experienced; and
WHEREAS, the need for prompt payment extends well -beyond construction contracts and should be
broadly applicable to all grantees and contractors of the State; and
WHEREAS, the State disburses money in multiple ways to many entities, including to healthcare
organizations and non -profits receiving Medicaid reimbursement, and to local governments through
programs like Community Assistance; and
WHEREAS, chronic delays in government payments are a serious problem for communities across the
country, as well as in Alaska, with private, public, and nonprofit providing crucial health and human
services to their communities; and
WHEREAS, many of these entities operate with less than 90 days in cash reserves, and some with little or
none - "reimbursable" grant agreements require them to fund all the costs of services for 30 to 90 days
before they can even invoice for payment; and
WHEREAS, delayed payments create hardships for organizations' ability to operate effectively, and
extended delays jeopardize the health and well-being of those they serve on behalf of state agencies, as
well as threaten the providers' financial stability and solvency, often forcing them to exhaust reserves
and resort to lines of credit; and
WHEREAS, municipalities and other entities suffer due to delays in disbursements that may make them
unable to fulfill their own obligations and provide their own services; and
WHEREAS, local governments have reported delayed payments that have affected property insurance
renewals, payroll and project payments, delayed construction and maintenance activities, delayed bulk
fuel commitments and contracting, inability to reflect non-federal match for federal grants; and
WHEREAS, there is an opportunity cost that comes with non-payment as well, especially when reserves
have to be used that lessen investment returns, and otherwise interest and fees may compound non-
payment; and
WHEREAS, it is in the State's interest to ensure the solvency and sustainability of public, private, and
nonprofit organizations and can facilitate this by ensuring prompt payment.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that AML requests that the Alaska State Legislature pass legislation
requiring the State of Alaska to provide prompt payments in all of its contracted and formula obligations,
grants, or transfers; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that State agencies should increase their ability to meet this duty and ensure
appropriate levels of capacity to do so.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-06 A resolution in support of expanded funding for NOAA and partners to complete
mapping and bathymetry of Alaska's coastal zone
WHEREAS, Alaska's 66,000 miles of coastline are the longest of any state in the nation — and more than
the rest of the nation combined — and are important places for economic activity, community
development, transportation, and subsistence; and
WHEREAS, completed mapping and bathymetry is especially lacking for Alaska and for the Alaskan Arctic,
which lack the comprehensive shoreline and nearshore maps available to much of the rest of the nation;
and
WHEREAS, informed decisions and improved safety in the coastal zone depend heavily on accurate and
up -to- date coastal mapping data; and
WHEREAS, community resilience to coastal hazards such as flooding, erosion, and tsunami begins with
mapping data to establish baseline conditions and model change; and
WHEREAS, increased efforts to map Alaska's coastal zone will lead to improved access to and utilization
of data; and
WHEREAS, mapping will bolster the shipping and fishing economy through safer maritime navigation;
and
WHEREAS, mapping will ensure more resilient coastal economies through flood and wave impact
modeling, data -driven coastal infrastructure development, improved emergency planning, and more
effective community management plans; and
WHEREAS, the November 2019 Presidential Memorandum on Ocean Mapping of the United States
Exclusive Economic Zone and the Shoreline and Nearshore of Alaska calls for the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the State of Alaska, and the Alaska Mapping Executive Committee
(AMEC) to develop an Alaska coastal mapping strategy; and
WHEREAS, sufficient funding will lead to seamless and accurate coastal mapping data that will support
the State of Alaska, local governments, Alaska's economy, Tribes, national security, and the environment.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests that Congress allocate the resources necessary to
complete the goals and objectives outlined in Mapping the Coast of Alaska: A 10-Year Strategy in Support
of the United States Economy, Security, and Environment by 2030; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED in order to further the mission of NOAA in Alaska, we call upon the federal
government to provide housing for NOAA employees, including in Ketchikan, the homeport of the NOAA
research vessel Fairweather.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-07 A resolution in support of changes to HUD regulations to increase participation of
Alaska local governments in HUD -funded programs
WHEREAS, Alaska's existing housing stock is overcrowded, energy inefficient, and aging rapidly, while
new housing construction is unable to keep up with demand, leading to a growing housing shortage
across the state; and
WHEREAS, the shortage of housing means families struggle to find safe, stable, affordable housing,
straining their physical and mental health; and
WHEREAS, the shortage of housing affects the ability of communities to recruit and retain professionals,
including teachers, public safety officers, and healthcare workers, leading to worsening economic
outcomes; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Entitlement Program exists to create transformative impact within communities, improve
the lives of residents, especially those with low- and moderate -income levels, and develop strategies
that bring partners and resources together; and
WHEREAS, Anchorage is the only Alaska city large enough to receive money directly from this program,
receiving $1.8 million in FFY 2024, or 0.05% of the national total; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is awarded funding for the balance of the state, receiving $2.7 million in
FFY 2024, or 0.08% of the national total;
WHEREAS, HUD's 2023 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report to Congress shows that with a rate of
36 homeless individuals per 10,000 people, Alaska finds itself in the 7th position nationwide and that
Alaska has seen a notable increase, with a 12.7% growth in homelessness since 2022, the 17th highest
increase among all states; and
WHEREAS, in many communities across the state there are no emergency shelters, no vacancies of
habitable structures, and the environmental conditions are so harsh that living outdoors results in
freezing to death; and
WHEREAS, local governments continue to develop innovative solutions to the housing crisis, yet find
themselves unable to access CDBG funds.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development update the CDBG funding formulas and expand other programs to address the needs of
small and rural communities in Alaska that are otherwise excluded.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-08 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature encourage economic
development through housing investments and policymaking
WHEREAS, some estimates show the national shortage of affordable housing is 7.2 million, with an
estimated 27,500 new housing units needed in Alaska over the next ten years;
WHEREAS, Alaska's rising rent, cost of building, and remodeling makes it one of the most expensive
markets nationwide, causing a barrier to attract and retain workforce and Alaskan youth; and
WHEREAS, historically, the State of Alaska has played a role in encouraging housing development
through loans or bonding via state agencies like AHFC; and
WHEREAS, the creation of Housing Alaskans: A Public -Private Partnership (HAPPP) in 2022, Alaska was
one of the last states in the country without a statewide housing trust; and
WHEREAS, multiple committees in the Legislature address housing, including Labor and Commerce, State
Affairs, and Community and Regional Affairs, with no singular Legislative committee tackling this issue in
a systemic way; and
WHEREAS, the lack of available land, which could be alleviated by land transfers from the state and
federal governments, and expensive infrastructure such as water, sewer, and road access, causes
overcrowding and under development in communities; and
WHEREAS, Alaska's housing issues are at the intersection of workforce and economic development,
family and youth retention and homelessness, and solving our housing issues can help to alleviate these
matters.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AML encourages the Alaska Legislature to make meaningful
investments into the statewide housing trust, HAPPP; and create a time -limited Legislative Committee to
explore statewide housing solutions with actionable goals; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, AML encourages the Alaska Legislature to assist in making developable land
available to local governments to spur housing construction; and create an infrastructure revolving fund
focused on water, sewer, and roads to assist in development of the land.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-09 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature assist communities in
addressing homelessness
WHEREAS, housing is the solution to homelessness, but until our housing shortage is addressed, local
governments must look at making investments in emergency shelter and other support; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines homelessness as:
individuals or families who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence; individuals or families
who are temporarily couch surfing; unaccompanied youth under 25 years of age who are unstably
housed; and individuals or families fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence and have no other
residence; and
WHEREAS, the unduplicated statewide total count of clients within the Alaska Homeless Management
Information System from August 2022 to August 2023 is 17,796 individuals; and
WHEREAS, tens of thousands of individuals and families have received some type of rental, utility or
energy assistance that keeps them out of homelessness, but the recent growth in annual rent increases
is putting the efficacy of these efforts in jeopardy; and
WHEREAS, a recent visit by HUD Secretary Fudge highlighted the need for review of HUD funding
formulas and the negative and inequitable impact they have on Alaska; and
WHEREAS, communities, whether through local governments or through philanthropy, have made
significant investments to address homelessness across the state; and
WHEREAS, emergency shelter includes large congregate shelter, non -congregate shelter, churches, or
other smaller facilities serving many different populations; and
WHEREAS, line -item budget vetoes of the State of Alaska FY20 budget led to a reduction in shelter
capacity throughout the state, highlighting the fragility of operational funding; and
WHEREAS, there are limits on local government capacity to take on operational costs of shelter,
especially winter shelter, but are making investments across the system and need help from the State of
Alaska to make these investments sustainable long term; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Council on the Homeless is responsible for updating and reporting on activities
and goals of the 2009 Alaska Plan to End Long Term Homelessness; and
WHEREAS, HUD reports that several studies have found that, compared with the treatment first model,
Housing First approaches offer greater long-term housing stability, especially among people experiencing
chronic homelessness.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML supports the Alaska Legislature invest in regular operational
funding for emergency shelters across the state; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that AML requests that the governor task the Alaska Council on the Homeless
to update Alaska's Plan to End Long Term Homelessness and encourages the update to adopt the
housing first model and provide a continuum of services and an exit strategy with measurable, trackable
outcomes.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-10 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature approve an infrastructure
general obligation bond for the 2026 election
WHEREAS, ports, harbors, bridges, and roads are critical infrastructure for residents and businesses, and
serve important functions such as: food security, fuel delivery, transportation and logistics, resource
extraction, commercial fishing, tourism, hospitality, national security, and military preparedness; and
WHEREAS, Alaska has the most miles of coastline of any U.S. state, and communities maintain a total of
40 port and harbor facilities; and
WHEREAS, there is a critical need for coastal infrastructure repair and maintenance in Alaska, according
to the Report Card for Alaska's Infrastructure 2021 by the Alaska Section of the American Society of Civil
Engineers, awarded Alaska a grade of "D+" to its ports and harbors; and
WHEREAS, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), signed November 2021, authorizes $1.2 trillion dollars
of much -needed federal infrastructure investment, including over $17 billion in funding for ports and
maritime infrastructure over five years; and other financing such as the Transportation Infrastructure
Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan program may be available but requires a dedicated fund source;
and
WHEREAS, in August 2023, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg visited several
communities across Alaska to recognize recent investments and understand Alaska's unique geography,
environment, and logistical challenges, speaking on multiple occasions to Alaska's reliance on maritime
infrastructure and scale of investment needed; and
WHEREAS, federal infrastructure programs provide an opportunity to improve the state's aging
infrastructure, but Alaska communities have limited capacity to fund the match amounts required by
federal grants; and
WHEREAS, a 2011 study on Alaska's ports and harbors recommended the State of Alaska create a
Transportation Infrastructure Development Program to create a comprehensive baseline assessment of
coastal infrastructure and state funding of such infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has supported infrastructure projects across the state through voter -
approved general obligation bonds, with a total of 51 bond packages being approved since statehood
totaling $2.2 billion, including a 2010 bond package for education infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the State Legislature must approve a general obligation bond package during the 34tn
Legislative Session for a bond package to appear on the 2026 ballot; and;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports the legislature and
administration funding critical infrastructure throughout the state with general obligation bonds and
other or braided state and federal funding, including BIL grant funding, TIFIA financing, and other capital
sources that leverage local match funding and revenue streams.
Updated December 2024.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2024-11 A resolution requesting the Alaska State Legislature invest resources to address
the state's behavioral health needs, from crisis response to community -based services
WHEREAS, the Alaska Behavioral Health Systems Assessment (2016) estimated that approximately one in
four Alaska adults and youth live with one or more behavioral health conditions; and addressing
behavioral health needs, at a population and community level, are a form of public health, from
promoting mental health and well-being to having appropriate crisis response training and services; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Constitution requires the State of Alaska to "provide for the promotion and
protection of public health" (Article VII, Section 4), and the State has statutory responsibility for ensuring
mental health services are provided, while Title 29 provides for certain types of local governments to
adopt health powers, but only some local governments have taken on this authority, and most lack the
necessary resources to implement an effective program; and
WHEREAS, since 2018 multiple partners are working together to improve Alaska's system of care that
responds to people experiencing a behavioral health crisis following the nationally recognized Crisis Now
model, which implements a continuum of services; and
WHEREAS, some Alaska communities are leading local implementation of the Crisis Now model,
including mobile crisis response teams in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Mat -Su, and crisis stabilization
centers in Anchorage and Juneau, and other communities are exploring local services following the Crisis
Now model; and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was implemented in Alaska in July 2022, and the Alaska
Legislature has already made investments to implement Crisis Now at a local level with $8 million in
capital funding; and
WHEREAS, communities look to State leadership and investment to address system -wide behavioral
health needs, to ensure a stronger and more coordinated continuum of services that bridges the needs
and complements investments at the local level;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Alaska Municipal League requests that the Alaska Legislature
increase investments in Crisis Now, both at the statewide system level with investments such as
permanent funding to operate the 988 Crisis Lifeline, and additional targeted investments to assist local
communities in building out their own behavioral health services; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, AML requests that the Alaska Legislature address gaps in the overall
behavioral health continuum of services, including investments in workforce and housing, and removing
regulatory barriers and programmatic inefficiencies.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 8, 2023.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2025-01 A resolution supporting an analysis of the demand for and impact of charter
schools on the public education system and opposing changes to the charter school creation process
that bypass local school district approval
WHEREAS, public charter schools and Tribal compact schools meet the diverse needs of students and
their parents and guardians across the state; and
WHEREAS, charter schools are required to comply with district policies and regulations and charter
schools create a financial obligation for local tax payers; and
WHEREAS, pupil enrollment in charter schools and Tribal compact schools does not change the overall
amount of state funding available for public education but does reduce local school districts' ability to
take advantage of economies of scale.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League calls on DEED to perform an
assessment of the demand for charter schools and an assessment of the financial impacts to the public
education system of opening new charter schools and Tribal compact schools; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League opposes changes to the charter school
creation process that eliminate the control of local school districts to approve new charter schools.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 13, 2024.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2025-02 A resolution calling for State funding to subsidize water and wastewater
operations costs in high rate burden communities
WHEREAS, Alaska's rural communities experience the highest levels of water insecurity in the United
States due to the absence or deterioration of infrastructure and high operating costs, of which a
significant portion is the cost of staffing,
WHEREAS, reduced utility revenues combined with increasing inflation make it difficult for communities
to properly operate and maintain their water and wastewater systems;
WHEREAS, the Village Safe Water Act, in AS 46.07.020, instructs the Alaska Department of
Environmental Conservation to assure that there is at least one facility for safe water and hygienic
sewage disposal in each village and;
WHEREAS, the Village Safe Water Act, in AS 46.07.050(b), gives the Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation the authority to make grants to the governing bodies of water and wastewater facilities
that do not have sufficient financial resources to operate and maintain the facility; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation has developed an Affordability
Framework to assess the ability of households in Village Safe Water program communities to afford
residential water and sewer rates, and which classifies communities as Low, Medium, or High Burden.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League calls on the legislature to
appropriate $10 million for grants for the operations of village water and wastewater facilities in High
Burden communities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports legislation that will increase the
size of villages that qualify for programs under the Village Safe Water Act from a population of 1,000 and
under to 1,500 and under.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 13, 2024.
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AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
Resolution #2025-03 A resolution supporting a Statewide Electronics Product Stewardship Program
WHEREAS, waste management is an essential government service provided by local governments to
protect public health, control blight, and provide quality of life; and
WHEREAS, Alaskans generate over 15 million pounds annually of spent electronics that require
expensive and specialized waste management resources and incur a significant future municipal cost
through hastened need for capital funding of landfill closure and new site planning; and
WHEREAS, electronics contain toxic chemicals harmful to human health and subsistence resources, such
as lead, cadmium, mercury, flame retardants, and PFAS, and these chemicals leach out as the landfilled
electronics age, potentially flowing to nearby land, creeks, ponds, rivers, and bays that provide drinking
water and important subsistence resources; and
WHEREAS, Class II and III rural landfills serve a third of all Alaskans, are unique to Alaska due to
engineering and economy of scale considerations and are not designed to contain this leachate; and
WHEREAS, at least 150 communities are within one mile of their Class III landfill, where burning waste in
passive steel containers called burnboxes is a common least -cost waste management strategy through
which residents can be exposed to product chemicals; and
WHEREAS, electronics are proposed to be listed as a hazardous waste under the pending State of Alaska
Hazardous Waste Program, potentially increasing the cost of electronics disposal; and
WHEREAS, 27 states have Product Stewardship laws that result in electronics manufacturers paying for
all or part of their state's electronics recycling with residents in those states experiencing no associated
increase in the cost for their electronics; and
WHEREAS, a Statewide Electronics Product Stewardship Program can be implemented without the levy
of fees, taxes, or Alaska retail business burden; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska can develop a Product Stewardship program without administrative cost
to the State, and municipalities are not beholden to participate in, or administer, the Program.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska Municipal League supports a comprehensive
statewide Product Stewardship Program for electronic recycling to substantially reduce local and regional
government waste management costs as well as public health risks to their constituency.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 13, 2024.
m
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Resolution #2025-04 A resolution supporting an amendment to Alaska Statute 29.71.800 to allow for
web based public notice
WHEREAS, Alaska municipalities take many actions that require public notice, including public meetings,
public hearings, elections, assessment districts, property taxes, land and surplus sales, among others;
and
WHEREAS, Alaska Statute (AS) Title 29 mandates that public notices be published and section 29.71.800
(18) state that "published" means appearing at least once in a newspaper of general circulation
distributed to the municipality or, if there is no newspaper of general circulation distributed in the
municipality, posting in three public places for at least five days; and
WHEREAS, newspapers throughout Alaska are reducing their physical paper publication dates or fail to
publish public notices due to staff shortages, inhibiting municipalities' governing bodies' ability to take
action at their regularly scheduled meetings; and
WHEREAS, many newspapers now publish online and municipalities publish public notices on their
websites, a format that is becoming a common method for the public to access information; and
WHEREAS, it would be a great service to Alaska municipalities for section 29.71.800 (18) to amend
"published" to include allowance for online public notice to achieve public notice requirements.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML requests that the Alaska State Legislature amend the
definition of "published" in AS 29.71.800 (18) to include allowance for web based public notice to
achieve municipal public notice requirements.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 13, 2024.
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Resolution #2025-05 A resolution urging the Alaska Legislature to maintain funding for Public Libraries
Assistance Grant and the Statewide Library Electronic Doorway at least at FY 2024 levels
WHEREAS, for decades Public Libraries Assistance (PLA) grants have supported libraries across Alaska
with $6,000 to $7,000 in annual funding; and
WHEREAS, The Statewide Library Electronic Doorway (SLED) has provided Alaskans with access to online
resources and databases for learning that would otherwise be unaffordable to their local libraries; and
WHEREAS, the budget for the Division of Libraries, Archives and Museums reduced all PLA grants to
$1,829 in August 2024 before reversing those cuts, while SLED funding has been reduced from $500,000
to $369,514 in FY 2025; and
WHEREAS, the impacts of PLA funding cuts to libraries statewide varies from reductions in purchases of
new materials to full closure, depending on the size and funding sources of individual libraries; and
WHEREAS, loss of SLED funding means that all public libraries in the state will have to eliminate
significant online resources available to Alaska residents.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that AML urges the Alaska State Legislature to maintain funding for
PLA grants and SLED at least at FY 2024 levels.
Adopted by the majority of AML members at the Annual Business Meeting, December 13, 2024.
62
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AGENDA ITEM #2, d.
TAX LEGISLATION
Bill
Sponsors
Title
PROPOSED
POSITION
HB 1
MCCABE
An Act relating to specie as legal tender in the state; and relating to borough and city sales and use taxes on specie.
Oppose
preemption,
Underwood
This bill amends existing laws in Alaska to clarify the treatment of specie gold and silver as legal tender and to establish regulations regarding
support LB&A
borough and city sales and use taxes on such specie. Notably, it introduces a provision that prohibits borouggehs and cities from levving or
committee
Johnson
collecting sales or use taxes on the value of gold or silver contained within specie during its sale or exchan. This new language is added to both
inclusion of
AS 29.45.650 and AS 29.45.700, ensuring that municipalities cannot impose taxes on these transactions. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the
gold and
Legislative Budget and Audit Committee study the feasibility of establishing additional forms of legal tender for debts owed to the state, as well as
HB162
CRONK
consumer protections related to the sale and use of specie. The bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding specie as a medium of
silver specie
in its analysis.
exchange while ensuring that local governments cannot impose taxes that could hinder its use. Note: While AML opposes the preemption of
taxing authority, progress is being made to amend the bill to ensure that local governments aren't forced to accept gold and silver specie as
payment.
HB 13
GRAY
An Act relating to optional municipal property tax exemptions for certain long-term rental units, certain mobile home parks, real property rented
to low-income families, real property owned and occupied as a permanent place of abode, and real property owned by first-time homebuyers.
Support —
work to
Eischeid
ensure it
The proposed bill allows municipalities in Alaska to implement optional property tax exemptions for various types of residential properties.
meets needs
Fields
Specifically, it introduces provisions for the exemption or partial exemption of structures converted from short-term to long-term rental units,
of members;
mobile home parks for up to ten years post -construction or renovation, and real property rented to low-income families, provided that the rent
amend to
does not exceed 30%of the family's income. Additionally, the bill permits exemptions for properties owned and occupied as a permanent
allow more
residence by local residents and for residential properties owned by first-time homebuyers. The bill amends AS 29.45.050 by adding new
flexibility for
subsections that define key terms such as "long-term rental unit" and "low-income family," and outlines the criteria for eligibility for these
optional
exemptions. Notably, it clarifies that short-term rental units do not include certain types of accommodations like hotels or government -operated
exemptions.
temporary housing. This legislation aims to support affordable housing initiatives and encourage long-term rental options within municipalities.
HB 91
CARRICK
An Act relating to the lawful operation of retail marijuana stores; relating to marijuana cultivation; relating to the registration of marijuana
establishments; relating to marijuana taxes; relating to the duties of the Department of Revenue; and providing for an effective date.
Neutral —
ensure there
aren't
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's marijuana laws to enhance the regulation and operation of retail marijuana stores and cultivation
unintended
facilities. Key changes include the insertion of provisions that allow retail marijuana stores to deliver and sell marijuana products not only to
consequences
consumers but also to marijuana cultivation and manufacturing facilities. Additionally, the bill introduces a new requirement for marijuana
that impact
cultivation facilities to assign tracking numbers to crops once they exceed eight inches in height, while also streamlining the registration process
local
for marijuana establishments by changing the renewal period from five to six years and establishing a biennial registration system instead of an
collection.
annual one. Furthermore, the bill modifies tax regulations related to marijuana sales, reducing the excise tax from $50 to $12.50 per ounce and
imposing a six percent sales tax on marijuana products sold to consumers. It also mandates that the Department of Revenue establish facilities in
each judicial district to collect monthly statements and payments from retail marijuana stores. The bill includes provisions for the allocation of tax
revenues, ensuring that a portion is directed to the marijuana education and treatment fund as well as the public education fund.
HB 94
TOMASZEWSKI
An Act relating to the registration of marijuana establishments; relating to a tax exemption for qualified small businesses; relating to marijuana
taxes; and providing for an effective date.
Neutral —
ensure there
aren't
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's marijuana regulations, primarily focusing on the registration process for marijuana establishments
unintended
and the associated tax implications. Key changes include the transition from annual to biennial registrations for marijuana establishments, as
consequences
indicated by the insertion of "biennial" in multiple sections, including AS 17.38.200(d) and AS 17.38.210. The bill also stipulates that local
that impact
governments may establish biennial fees for operating and registration, and it allows applicants to resubmit their applications to local regulatory
local
authorities if the state board fails to act within a specified timeframe. Additionally, the bill introduces a new tax exemption for qualified small
collection.
businesses, defined as Alaska corporations meeting specific criteria under federal law. Furthermore, the bill modifies the excise tax on marijuana
cultivation, reducing the tax rate from $50 to $12 per ounce, as noted in AS 43.61.010(a). It also imposes a tax on individuals cultivating marijuana
without a valid registration, ensuring compliance with state regulations. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025, allowing time
for implementation and adjustment by affected parties. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the registration process for marijuana establishments
while providing tax relieffor qualifying small businesses.
HB
GRAY
An Act relating to increases in rent for dwelling units.
Neutral-
115
evaluate for
This bill amends Alaska's rental laws to regulate how often landlords can increase rent for dwelling units. Specifically, it establishes that landlords
municipal
may not raise rent more than once per calendar year and must provide tenants with written notice at least 90 days prior to any increase. If a
impact or
rental agreement or month -to -month tenancy is terminated, the bill stipulates that the rent for any subsequent agreement cannot exceed the
amend to
previous amount until the specified increase date, provided the tenant has been notified. If no notice has been given, the rent cannot exceed the
ensure
previous amount for 90 days following the termination. Additionally, the bill includes a provision stating that it applies only to rental agreements
municipal
entered into on or after its effective date. This ensures that the new regulations will not retroactively affect existing rental agreements, thereby
decision -
providing clarity and protection for both landlords and tenants moving forward.
making.
HB
HOUSE /
An Act relating to the fisheries product development tax credit; providing for an effective date by amending the effective date of sec. 2, ch. 31,
Support —
129
SENATE
SLA 2022; and providing for an effective date.
ensure credit
FISHERIES BY
applies only
REQUEST OF
This bill amends the fisheries product development tax credit in Alaska, primarily extending the eligibility period for claiming the credit. The
to State
TASK FORCE
amendments include changing the deadline for claiming the tax credit for property first placed into service from December 31, 2026, to
portion.
EVALALASKA
December 31, 2029. Additionally, the definition of "eligible fish" is expanded to include "any species of fish or shellfish," replacing the previous
SEAFOOD
specific exclusions of certain fish types. The bill also introduces "raw macroalgae" into the calculations for determining qualified investments
INDUSTRY
related to fish processing on vessels. Further changes include the establishment of a 60-day timeframe for the Department of Revenue to make
SB
preliminary determinations on proposed investments for tax credits, and the introduction of new definitions and criteria for what constitutes
135
"qualified investment" and "used predominantly."
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HB
NELSON
An Act authorizing mobile sports wagering; relating to the regulation of mobile sports wagering; imposing a tax on mobile sports wagering
Neutral —
145
revenue; relating to criminal history record checks for licensure to operate mobile sports wagering; and providing for an effective date.
evaluate
ability for
The bill authorizes mobile sports wagering in Alaska and establishes a regulatory framework for its operation by amending existing laws to include
local
provisions related to mobile sports wagering, specifically referencing AS 05.18, which outlines licensing requirements for operators. It requires
governments
individuals or entities wishing to offer mobile sports wagering to obtain a license from the commissioner, which involves a comprehensive
to access
application process, including background checks and proof of financial responsibility. The commissioner is responsible for regulating the industry,
similar
ensuring compliance with state laws, and maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information. Furthermore, the bill imposes a 20%tax on the
revenue
adjusted gross revenue from mobile sports wagering, detailing specific reporting and payment requirements for licensees. It defines key terms
source.
related to sports wagering, clarifies that wagering events do not include athletic events primarily involving participants under 18 years of age, and
updates the definition of "gambling" to exclude certain activities authorized by the Department of Revenue. The Department of Revenue is
empowered to adopt necessary regulations, and the bill mandates that the start of operations for licensed mobile sports wagering be announced
at least 14 days in advance, contingent upon the issuance of a minimum of three licenses.
HB
GALVIN
An Act establishing an education tax on the income of individuals, partners, shareholders in S corporations, trusts, and estates; repealing tax
Support —
152
credits applied against the tax on individuals under the Alaska Net Income Tax Act; and providing for an effective date.
consistent
Mina
with AM Us
The proposed bill establishes a new education tax in Alaska, imposing a four percent tax on taxable income exceeding $150,000 for individuals
approach to
Himschoot
filing separately and $300,000 for those filing jointly. It also introduces an annual tax of $150 for individuals with wages or net earnings from self -
fiscal policy.
employment. The bill outlines tax calculations for nonresident individuals and includes specific provisions for trusts and estates, while also
repealing existing tax credits under the Alaska Net Income Tax Act. Additionally, it amends laws regarding the electronic submission of tax returns
to ensure compliance with new requirements, aiming to generate revenue for educational purposes. Moreover, the bill clarifies the taxation of
income from various sources, including real property sales, rental income, and personal services performed in the state. It mandates employers to
withhold taxes from wages, establishes regulations for part -year residents, and addresses the filing and payment of taxes, including the
requirement for taxpayers to notify the Department of Revenue of changes to their federal tax returns. The bill also introduces amendments
related to partnerships and permanent fund dividends, ensuring that tax liabilities are covered through withholding from dividends. It
incorporates sections of the Internal Revenue Code into state law and establishes an early education fund.
SB 73
CLAMAN
An Act relating to the registration of marijuana establishments; relating to a tax exemption for qualified small businesses; relating to marijuana
Neutral —
taxes; and providing for an effective date.
evaluate
impact on
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's marijuana regulations, primarily focusing on the registration process for marijuana establishments
local
and the associated fees. Key changes include the transition from annual to biennial registrations for applicants and local governments, as
collection.
indicated by the insertion of "biennial" in multiple sections, including AS 17.38.200(d) and AS 17.38.210(e). Additionally, the bill stipulates that if
the board does not issue a registration within 90 days, applicants may resubmit their applications directly to local regulatory authorities, which
must also issue registrations within 90 days of receipt. The bill further clarifies that local governments must notify the board when a biennial
registration is issued. Moreover, the bill introduces a tax exemption for qualified small businesses, specifically Alaska corporations that meet
certain criteria outlined in the new subsections added to AS 43.20.012. It also revises the excise tax on marijuana, reducing the rate from $50 to
$12 per ounce for sales from cultivation facilities to retail stores or manufacturing facilities. Additional provisions include penalties for delinquent
tax payments and the applicability of these changes starting from the tax year beginning on or after the effective date.
SB 92
SENATE
An Act establishing an income tax on certain entities producing or transporting oil or gas in the state; and providing for an effective date.
Support —
RESOURCES
consistent
This bill establishes a new income tax for certain entities involved in the production or transportation of oil and gas in Alaska. Specifically, it
with AMUs
imposes a tax of 9.4 percent on taxable income exceeding $5,000,000 for "qualified entities," which include sole proprietorships, partnerships,
approach to
limited liability companies, and certain corporations. The bill outlines how taxable income is calculated, stipulating that it should be determined
State fiscal
as if the entity were a C corporation, and it restricts the application of federal tax credits or deductions against state tax liability. Additionally, the
policy.
bill provides provisions for aggregating taxable income among related entities and specifies that the tax does not apply to corporations already
subject to existing taxes under AS 43.20.011. The bill also includes several amendments to existing law, such as changing references from
"corporation" to "taxpayer" in various sections, allowing deductions for payments made to shareholders or partners of qualified entities.
SB
SENATE RULES
An Act relating to credits against the oil and gas production tax; and providing for an effective date.
Support —
112
consistent
This bill amends Alaska's oil and gas production tax regulations, specifically focusing on tax credits available to producers. It introduces new
with AM Us
language that allows producers to apply for a tax credit of $5 for each barrel of oil produced after December 31, 2013, that has a reduction in
approach to
gross value at the point of production. Additionally, it establishes a tiered tax credit system for barrels that do not receive a reduction, with
State fiscal
credits ranging from $1 to $5 based on the average gross value of oil produced during the month. The bill also includes a new restriction that
policy.
limits the total credits a producer can apply against their tax liability to their qualified capital expenditures for each lease or property.
Furthermore, the bill outlines that these amendments will apply to oil produced on or after January 1, 2025, and establishes a transition period
where tax adjustments must be paid by January 1, 2026, with waived interest and penalties until that date. It also allows for the retroactive
application of regulations adopted by the Department of Revenue, provided they are explicitly designated as such.
SENATE RULES
An Act relating to the sharing of tax revenue from the fisheries business tax and fishery resource landing tax with municipalities; relating to
Support —
BY REQUEST OF
municipal reports on the shared tax revenue; and providing for an effective date.
greater
TASK FORCE
transfer of
EVALALASKA
This bill aims to amend the distribution of tax revenue from the fisheries business tax and fishery resource landing tax to municipalities in Alaska.
local
SEAFOOD
It introduces new provisions that require municipalities to use a portion of the additional revenue for maintaining and improving harbor facilities
revenues to
INDUSTRY
if they operate such facilities. The bill also modifies the percentages of tax revenue allocated to various municipalities, increasing the shares for
local
unified municipalities and cities in unorganized boroughs from 50%to 60%, and for cities within boroughs from 25%to 35%. Additionally, it
governments;
establishes a requirement for municipalities receiving these funds to report on their usage and any harbor projects funded by this revenue.
consider
Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for municipalities incorporated after specific dates, adjusting the percentages of tax revenue they
benefits to
receive over the years following their incorporation. It mandates that municipalities submit reports detailing how the funds were utilized, with
maximize
exemptions for those receiving less than $10,000. The bill also specifies that a certain percentage of the funds must be used to support or
impact.
enhance commercial fishing.
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AGENDA ITEM #2, d.
PERMANENT FUND DIVIDEND;
APPROPRIATION LIMITS
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB 51
STAPP
An Act relating to an appropriation limit; relating to the budget responsibilities of the governor; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose
without
Costello
This bill amends existing laws regarding the appropriation limit in Alaska, specifically addressing the budget responsibilities of the governor. It
amendment
introduces new provisions that allow for certain appropriations to be excluded from the appropriation limit calculation, including revenue bond and
SB 36
general obligation bond proceeds, appropriations required to pay the principal and interest on revenue bonds and general obligation bonds,
appropriations to a state account or fund that requires a subsequent appropriation, and appropriations to meet a state of disaster declared by the
KAUFMAN
governor. Additionally, the bill establishes that appropriations from the treasury for a fiscal year may not exceed 12 percent of the average value of
the real gross domestic product of the state for the five calendar years preceding the previous fiscal year, while also excluding government spending
from this calculation. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the governor submit a report detailing the appropriations in the budget as they relate
to the new appropriation limit, with updates required upon submission of supplemental appropriation bills and budget amendments. It also repeals
a previous subsection related to the appropriation limit and states that the enactment of this bill is contingent upon a constitutional amendment
that aligns with the new appropriation limit criteria. T
HJR1
STAPP
Proposing amendments to the Constitution ofthe State of Alaska relating to an appropriation limit.
Oppose
without
Saddler
The resolution proposes amendments to the Constitution of the State of Alaska regarding the appropriation limit for state expenditures. It seeks to
amendment
modify Article IX, Section 16, to establish that appropriations for the fiscal year shall not exceed a percentage of the average real gross domestic
SJR 4
KAUFMAN
product (GDP) of the state for the five calendar years preceding the prior fiscal year, with the percentage to be determined by law but capped at
Yundt
fifteen percent. Certain exceptions are included, such as appropriations for Alaska permanent fund dividends, capital improvements, and disaster -
related expenditures, which can exceed the limit under specific legislative conditions. Additionally, the resolution introduces a new section to
Cronk
Article XV, stating that the new appropriation limit will apply to appropriations made for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, and thereafter.
EDUCATION BILLS
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB
ALLARD
An Act relating to funding for school construction and major maintenance; relating to school bond debt reimbursement; and providing for
Oppose —
42
an effective date.
arbitrary limits
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's school funding laws to establish new eligibility criteria and limitations for municipalities
seeking grants for school construction and major maintenance projects. Specifically, it requires school districts to submit a six -year capital
improvement plan by July 1 of the fiscal year prior to the funding request, detailing project scopes, budgets, and justifications.
Additionally, the bill introduces restrictions on the number of projects for which municipalities can apply for bond debt reimbursement,
limiting them to one school construction project and two major maintenance projects, unless the projects are among the top 20 ranked
by the department. Furthermore, the bill repeals a previous provision related to major maintenance for indebtedness authorized by
voters and clarifies that the new eligibility criteria will apply to applications for bond debt reimbursement made after July 1, 2025.
HB
HOUSE RULES BY
An Act relating to demonstration state -tribal education compacts; relating to demonstration state -tribal education compact schools; and
Work on
59
REQUEST OF THE
providing for an effective date.
amendments
GOVERNOR
that ensure
This bill establishes a framework for demonstration state -tribal education compacts in Alaska, allowing the commissioner of education
equal footing
and early development to enter into agreements with participating tribes. The compacts will have a five-year term and must include
as local
5B 66
provisions related to roles and responsibilities, legal compliance, recordkeeping, and dispute resolution, among others. The bill also
governments.
outlines the operation of demonstration state -tribal education compact schools, which will be exempt from most state statutes and
regulations applicable to school districts, while still adhering to certain operational and funding requirements. Additionally, the bill
mandates that participating tribes report student and school performance data to the Department of Education and Early Development,
which will compile this information for legislative review. The act includes provisions for funding, stating that the legislature may
appropriate funds to these schools as if they were regional educational attendance areas.
HB
EISCHEID
An Act establishing a financial literacy education program for public schools; and providing for an effective date.
Support with
90
adequate
This bill establishes a financial literacy education program for public school students in grades nine through twelve in Alaska. Each school
funding.
district is required to implement this program, which must be approved by the state department. The department will provide a curated
list of open educational resources covering various financial topics, including budgeting, money management, loans, insurance, taxes, and
SB
the financial implications of being part of a Native corporation. Importantly, students must complete this financial literacy program to
22
WIELECHOWSKI
receive a high school diploma, although exceptions are made for students who transfer after completing grade 10. The bill also defines
"open educational resource" and clarifies that the new requirements will apply to students graduating on or after January 1, 2027.
HB
EISCHEID
An Act relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in public schools; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and
Produce fiscal
92
Early Development; and providing for an effective date.
note impacting
Gray
schools and
This bill amends existing law to enhance health education in public schools by specifically incorporating cardiopulmonary resuscitation
provide
Galvin
(CPR) education. It encourages each school district in Alaska to implement a health education program for students from kindergarten
adequate
through grade 12, which now explicitly includes instruction on hands -only CPR. The previous requirement for CPR instruction has been
funding.
deleted from the existing health education curriculum, allowing for a more focused approach on this critical life-saving skill. Additionally,
the bill establishes a new section that mandates the Department of Education and Early Development to adopt curricula for teaching
hands -only CPR to public school students. The department will determine the appropriate grade levels for instruction and ensure that the
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AGENDA ITEM #2, d.
SB20
GRAY-JACKSON
curricula align with current national emergency cardiovascular care guidelines. Qualified individuals, such as certified CPR instructors and
licensed emergency medical service providers, will be authorized to teach this curriculum.
HB
GALVIN
An Act relating to mental health education.
Produce fiscal
105
note impacting
Himschoot
This bill aims to enhance mental health education in Alaska's public school system by mandating the development of guidelines for
schools and
instruction in mental health. The Board of Education and Early Development is tasked with creating these guidelines in consultation with
Foster
various health departments and mental health organizations. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that local school boards
provide
adequate
notify parents at least two weeks prior to any mental health instruction being provided to their children. Furthermore, the bill encourages
funding.
school districts to implement health education programs for students from kindergarten through grade 12, which will now explicitly
SB41
include mental health alongside other health topics. The state board is required to establish guidelines for developmentally appropriate
GRAY-JACKSON
mental health instruction and provide technical assistance to school districts. A report detailing the guidelines and the development
process must be submitted to the legislature two years afterthe bill's enactment, ensuring accountability and progress in mental health
education.
HB
PRAX
An Act relating to education; relating to local contributions of a city or borough school district; relating to school funding; and providing
Consider with
122
for an effective date.
amendment.
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's education law to enhance the funding mechanisms for local school districts, with a particular
focus on charter schools and local contributions. It specifies that local school boards must provide charter schools with an annual program
budget based on the amount generated by enrolled students, while excluding certain administrative costs. The bill removes the
requirement for local contributions to be a fixed percentage of a district's basic need, allowing for greater flexibility in determining these
contributions. Additionally, it mandates that state aid for charter school facilities be allocated directly to the charter school that generated
it. The legislation also introduces new provisions for calculating public school funding, including adjustments for special needs and
vocational education. It allows school districts to make local contributions based on either a two -mill tax levy or a percentage of the
district's basic need, whichever is greater. The bill clarifies the calculations for adjusted Average Daily Membership (ADM) and modifies
criteria for school districts to implement layoff plans in response to decreased attendance or significant drops in basic needs.
Furthermore, it outlines changes to the distribution of supplemental grants based on the adjusted ADM and repeals certain subsections of
AS 14.17.410 to streamline the funding process.
HB
GALVIN
An Act establishing an education tax on the income of individuals, partners, shareholders in S corporations, trusts, and estates; repealing
Support —
152
tax credits applied against the tax on individuals under the Alaska Net Income Tax Act; and providing for an effective date.
consistent with
Mina
AM position
The proposed bill establishes a new education tax in Alaska, imposing a four percent tax on taxable income exceeding $150,000 for
on State fiscal
Himschoot
individuals filing separately and $300,000 for those filing jointly. It also introduces an annual tax of $150 for individuals with wages or net
policy.
earnings from self-employment. The bill outlines tax calculations for nonresident individuals and includes specific provisions for trusts and
estates, while also repealing existing tax credits under the Alaska Net Income Tax Act. Additionally, it amends laws regarding the electronic
submission of tax returns to ensure compliance with new requirements, aiming to generate revenue for educational purposes.
Moreover, the bill clarifies the taxation of income from various sources, including real property sales, rental income, and personal services
performed in the state. It mandates employers to withhold taxes from wages, establishes regulations for part -year residents, and
addresses the filing and payment of taxes, including the requirement for taxpayers to notify the Department of Revenue of changes to
their federal tax returns. The bill also introduces amendments related to partnerships and permanent fund dividends, ensuring that tax
liabilities are covered through withholding from dividends. It incorporates sections of the Internal Revenue Code into state law and
establishes an early education fund.
SB 3
HUGHES
An Act requiring school districts to grant qualified persons an assigned duty to carry a concealed handgun on school grounds under
Amend to
certain conditions; relating to standards, training, and continuing education in firearms training for qualified persons granted an assigned
coordinate
duty to carry a concealed handgun on school grounds; relating to communication of school districts with state and local law enforcement;
with local
and relating to school crisis response plans.
authorities.
The proposed bill, known as the Safe Schools Act, mandates that school districts in Alaska grant qualified individuals the authority to carry
concealed handguns on school grounds under specific conditions. It establishes requirements for training, standards, and continuing
education for these individuals, referred to as "qualified persons." The bill outlines that school districts must adopt written policies
detailing the criteria for granting this assigned duty, which includes meeting physical and mental standards comparable to those for police
officers. Additionally, the bill requires school districts to cover training costs for both employees and volunteers who are granted this duty.
Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of communication between school districts and law enforcement, mandating that
districts provide annual updates on their active shooter plans and related information to local and state agencies. It also includes
provisions for liability immunity for school officials and qualified persons during crises, while ensuring that certain sensitive information in
crisis response plans, such as floor plans and the identity of qualified persons, is not made public. The bill aims to enhance school safety
by allowing trained individuals to respond effectively during emergencies.
SB 46
CLAMAN
An Act relating to education funding; relating to the public education fund; relating to the base student allocation; and providing for an
Consider
effective date.
relative to
need and
The bill amends various sections of Alaska's education funding laws, primarily focusing on the public education fund and the base student
capacity.
allocation. Key changes include the replacement of references to AS 14.17.400 with AS 14.17.410, which outlines the calculation of state
aid for school districts. The bill specifies that public school funding will consist of state aid, local contributions, and federal impact aid, with
the state aid amount determined by a formula that considers the district's adjusted Average Daily Membership (ADM) relative to the total
adjusted ADMs of all districts. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for calculating basic need and state aid distribution,
particularly in cases of school consolidation and enrollment fluctuations. Significant deletions from the current law include the removal
of specific calculations related to the base student allocation and the public education fund, which are replaced with more streamlined
language. The bill also mandates that the governor adjust public school education appropriations for inflation and report these
adjustments to the legislature.
SB
GRAY-JACKSON
An Act relating to health and personal safety education.
Produce fiscal
101
note impacting
The bill amends existing laws related to health and personal safety education in Alaska's public schools. It requires each public school to
schools and
provide an annual report that includes a summary and evaluation of the health and personal safety education curriculum, detailing
student participation, frequency of instruction, and the grades in which the program is taught. Additionally, the bill mandates that the
provide
adequate
health and personal safety education program must include comprehensive sexual health education, covering topics such as human
funding.
development, consent, and contraception, while ensuring the information is age -appropriate and scientifically accurate. Furthermore, the
bill modifies the language surrounding the health and personal safety education program, changing the phrasing from "should" to "must"
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to emphasize the requirement for schools to provide this education. It also establishes guidelines for the program, ensuring that it is
inclusive and emphasizes the importance of voluntary consent. The evaluation of these programs will be conducted by the department,
similar to other curriculum evaluations, and will also assess changes in students' health status through physical and dental examinations.
The bill repeals a previous section (AS 14.30.361) that may have been redundant or outdated.
SB
SENATE STATE AFFAIRS
An Act establishing the museum construction and major expansion matching grant program; and providing for an effective date.
Support —
110
helps to meet
The bill establishes a new matching grant program for museum construction and major expansion within the Department of Commerce,
local needs.
Community, and Economic Development. This program allows eligible museums to apply for grants to fund various projects, including the
construction of new facilities, major expansions, and improvements to existing infrastructure. The bill outlines specific criteria for
eligibility, includingthe requirement for applicants to secure matching funds from local government entities and private donors. The
department is tasked with creating regulations to govern the application process and grant distribution. Additionally, the bill amends AS
14.57 by adding anew section that details the parameters of the grant program, including the percentage of total project costs that can
be covered by the grant and the definitions of key terms such as "department" and "museum."
SB
GRAY-JACKSON BY
An Act relating to the education of visually impaired students in public schools.
Produce fiscal
127
REQUEST
note impacting
The bill amends existing laws to enhance the education of visually impaired students in public schools in Alaska. It introduces a new
schools and
requirement that when developing an individualized education program (IEP) for a visually impaired student, school districts must assume
provide
that literacy proficiency is crucial for achieving the student's educational goals. The IEP must include braille instruction unless it is
adequate
determined that other special education services are more suitable for the student's needs, although the provision of these services does
funding.
not eliminate the need for braille instruction. Additionally, the bill establishes a program of special education services for visually
impaired children aged three to less than five years, which will be administered by the agency in collaboration with the department and
school districts. This program may include special materials, services, and the employment of teachers specifically for visually impaired
students. Furthermore, the agency is tasked with providing in -person training in braille for current teachers of visually impaired students.
The bill also defines "braille" as the system of reading and writing through touch, specifically referring to Standard English Braille, Grade 2.
SB
SENATE FINANCE
An Act relating to the regional educational attendance area and small municipal school district fund; relating to Mt. Edgecumbe High
Support
146
School; and relating to teacher housing.
The bill amends existing laws related to the regional educational attendance area and small municipal school district fund, specifically
addressing funding for school construction and maintenance projects. It allows the department to make disbursements from the fund to
HB
BURKE VETOED
provide grant funding to school districts classified as regional educational attendance areas or small municipal school districts.
174
—
Additionally, the bill specifies that funds can be allocated for construction and major maintenance projects at Mt. Edgecumbe High School,
as well as for major maintenance projects for teacher housing that is owned by the state or the school districts and provided to teachers
working in these areas. Furthermore, the bill establishes the regional educational attendance area and small municipal school district
school fund as an account in the general fund, which will be used to finance approved projects for school construction and major
maintenance in the specified areas, including Mt. Edgecumbe High School and teacher housing. The amendments also remove the
previous limitation on the unobligated and unexpended cash balance of the fund, which was capped at $70,000,000. Overall, the bill aims
to enhance funding mechanisms for educational infrastructure and support for teachers in Alaska's regional and small municipal school
districts.
SB
WORKMAN
An Act relating to head lice in public schools.
Support
151
Tobin
This bill mandates that each school district in Alaska adopt specific policies regarding the management of head lice and bacterial
conjunctivitis in public schools. Under the new provisions, if a student is found with live head lice, they may remain in the classroom until
the end of the school day, but must be inspected by a school nurse or designated health care provider before returning to class. The
school is required to provide the student's parent or guardian with treatment information and notify other parents in the classroom while
ensuring student privacy. Additionally, if a student is diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis, they must leave the classroom immediately
and cannot return until they have started medical treatment for a specified duration. The school must also inform the parents of other
students in the classroom about the situation, again maintaining privacy. The bill emphasizes the importance of health policies in schools
and outlines the responsibilities of school districts in managing these health issues.
ELECTIONS
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB
SCHRAGE
An Act requiring a group supporting or opposing a candidate or ballot proposition in a state or local election to maintain an address in the state;
Ensure
16
amending campaign contribution limits for state and local office; directing the Alaska Public Offices Commission to adjust campaign contribution limits
consistency
Galvin
for state and local office once each decade beginning in 2031; relating to campaign contribution reporting requirements; relating to administrative
with local
Himschoot
complaints filed with the Alaska Public Offices Commission; relating to state election expenditures and contributions made by a foreign -influenced
needs and
corporation or foreign national; and providing for an effective date.
clerks'
This bill aims to enhance the integrity of elections in Alaska by imposing new requirements on groups that support or oppose candidates or ballot
review.
propositions. It mandates that these groups maintain a physical address within the state and register with the Alaska Public Offices Commission.
Additionally, the bill amends campaign contribution limits for individuals, groups, and nongroup entities, increasing the maximum contributions
allowed per election cycle. For instance, individuals can now contribute up to $2,000 to candidates and $5,000 to political parties each election cycle,
SENATE STATE
while groups can contribute up to $4,000 to candidates and $5,000 to other groups or political parties. Furthermore, the bill establishes a
AFFAIRS
framework for adjusting contribution limits every decade based on the Consumer Price Index, ensuring that these limits remain relevant over time. It
SB
also introduces stricter timelines for the investigation of administrative complaints filed with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, requiring
116
investigations to be completed within 90 days and regular updates to complainants. The bill clarifies the definition of "election cycle" and repeals
certain outdated provisions, while explicitly stating that it does not apply to contributions made for elections prior to its effective date.
HB
SCHRAGE
An Act relating to elections; relating to voters; relating to the crime of unlawful interference with voting; and providing for an effective date.
Ensure
43
consistency
Edamon
This bill amends Alaska's election laws to enhance voter registration, residency requirements, and election administration. Notably, it removes the
with local
requirement for voters to register before the election, allowing for more flexible registration timelines. The bill clarifies residency rules, ensuring that
needs and
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Burke
individuals do not lose their residence status when temporarily leaving for reasons such as military service or education. It also introduces provisions
clerks'
for voters registering within 30 days of an election to vote using absentee in -person, special needs, or questioned ballots, even if they are not on the
review.
official registration list. Additionally, the Alaska Division of Elections is mandated to provide ballots and election materials in applicants' preferred
languages, and a process for electronic cancellation of voter registration is established. Further amendments focus on absentee voting and ballot
counting procedures, including the establishment of a single commission office in municipalities with multiple house districts and the requirement for
polling places to provide language assistance. The bill adjusts deadlines for absentee ballot requests, introduces a postage -paid return envelope for
absentee ballots, and clarifies the counting process, allowing absentee ballots to be reviewed starting ten days before the election. It also mandates
that ballots received after election day must have a tracking barcode to be counted.
HB
HOUSE RULES
An Act relating to regional educational attendance area elections; relating to terms for members of regional school boards; relating to voter residence;
Ensure
63
BY REQUEST
relating to voter registration; relating to the inclusion of voter registration forms in permanent fund dividend applications; relating to election
consistency
OF THE
administration; relating to ballot counting; relating to absentee voting; relating to early voting; relating to voting by mail; relating to publication of
with local
GOVERNOR
election pamphlets; and relating to confidential information in voter registration records.
needs and
clerks'
SB
The bill amends Alaska's election laws with a focus on regional educational attendance area elections and the terms for regional school board
review.
70
members. It establishes staggered four-year terms for board members, replacing the previous three-year terms, and allows for biennial elections in
odd -numbered years instead of annual elections. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for adjusting the number of board members through
ballot questions during regular elections. In terms of voter registration, the bill facilitates electronic registration and includes voter registration
forms in permanent fund dividend applications. It also revises rules for determining voter residence and maintaining the voter registration list,
including inactivating registrations for non -responses to address confirmation notices. The legislation allows mail -in elections for smaller communities
and mandates that election pamphlets be published regionally by the lieutenant governor. It also ensures the confidentiality of information related to
permanent fund dividend applications, with specific exceptions for government agencies and court orders. The bill repeals certain existing provisions
and includes a transition clause to protect the terms of current regional school board members. Overall, the bill aims to streamline election processes
and enhance the protection of personal information.
HB
MOORE
An Act relating to the terms of office of municipal school board members; and providing for an effective date.
Ensure
160
consistency
This bill amends existing laws regarding the terms of office for municipal school board members in Alaska. It introduces a new subsection to AS
with local
14.12.050, allowing the governing body of a municipality to alter the terms of office through an ordinance. Additionally, it modifies AS 29.20.300(a) to
needs and
YUNDT
include a reference to a new subsection (c), which similarly permits the governing body to change the terms of office for school board members as
clerks'
SB
outlined in subsection (a). The bill specifies that school board members are typically elected for three-year terms at regular elections, unless a
review.
143
different election method has been approved by voters. The changes aim to provide municipalities with greater flexibility in determining the structure
and duration of school board member terms. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
HB
UNDERWOOD
An Act relating to municipal and school board elections; declaring Election Day a holiday; relating to terms of office for municipal mayors, municipal
Ensure
163
governing bodies, elected utility boards, and school boards; and providing for an effective date.
consistency
with local
This bill proposes several amendments to the laws governing municipal and school board elections in Alaska. Key changes include establishing
needs and
Election Day as a legal holiday, changing the terms of office for various elected positions to four years instead of three, and scheduling elections for
clerks'
regional school board members to occur on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even -numbered year, rather than annually in
review.
October. The bill also outlines specific term assignments for members of newly created school boards and provides a transition plan for the upcoming
elections, ensuring that the terms of office for newly elected officials are determined in a manner consistent with the new regulations. Additionally,
the bill includes provisions for the election of advisory school boards and clarifies the election process for municipal governing bodies and utility
boards. It mandates that the terms of office for officials elected in the November 3, 2026, election will be determined according to the new guidelines
established in the bill.
SB
SENATE RULES
An Act relating to elections; relating to voters; relating to voting; relating to voter registration; relating to election administration; relating to the
Ensure
64
Alaska Public Offices Commission; relating to campaign contributions; relating to the crimes of unlawful interference with voting in the first degree,
consistency
unlawful interference with an election, and election official misconduct; relating to synthetic media in electioneering communications; relating to
with local
campaign signs; relating to voter registration on permanent fund dividend applications; relating to the Redistricting Board; relating to the duties of the
needs and
commissioner of revenue; and providing for an effective date.
clerks'
review.
This bill seeks to amend Alaska's election laws with a focus on enhancing voter registration, residency determination, and election integrity. Key
provisions include clarifying residency rules, emphasizing that individuals do not lose residency while temporarily away for specific reasons, and
introducing a requirement for an "articulable and reasonable plan" to return to one's physical habitation. The bill also establishes that voters may lose
residency if they vote in another state's election. Additionally, it mandates collaboration between the Alaska Public Offices Commission and the
Department of Revenue on voter registration, ensuring the confidentiality of personally identifiable information. Voters will be required to periodically
confirm their addresses, and the bill outlines a process for electronic or in -person registration cancellation, along with annual audits of the master
voter register to identify discrepancies. Further amendments aim to improve access to voting, particularly in rural areas, and enhance election
transparency. A new subsection mandates the employment of a rural community liaison to facilitate early and absentee voting in these regions. The
bill also modifies voter identification requirements, allowing federally recognized tribal identification cards, and establishes secure ballot drop boxes
that must be open 24/7 leading up to elections. It introduces new criminal offenses related to election official misconduct.
PUBLIC LANDS; FACILITIES; UTILITIES; ENERGY
Bill
Sponsors
Title
Position
HB
MCCABE
An Act relating to the Port of Southcentral Alaska; establishing the Port of Southcentral Alaska Authority to manage and operate the Port of
Oppose—
?
Southcentral Alaska; and providing for an effective date.
should
Underwood
happen
The bill establishes the Port of Southcentral Alaska Authority as a public corporation responsible for the management and operation of the Port
locally.
Rauscher
of Southcentral Alaska in Anchorage. It outlines the authority's governance structure, which includes a board of directors made up of state
commissioners and appointed public members with specific qualifications. The board is tasked with overseeing the port's financial and legal
obligations, ensuring self-sustaining management, and maintaining safe transportation services. The authority is granted the power to issue
revenue bonds, manage property, and enter into necessary contracts, while also being mandated to obtain a fidelity bond for board members
and executive officers. Additionally, the bill requires the Municipality of Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough to transfer property and
funds to the authority within 180 days of the act's effective date. It includes provisions for the authority to exercise eminent domain, adopt land
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use rules, and manage its financial affairs, including annual audits and legislative reporting. The authority's employees will retain their collective
bargaining agreements from the Port of Alaska, and existing rules will remain in effect until amended.
HB
MINA
An Act relating to the duties of the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities; and relating to a statewide public and community transit
Support
26
plan.
Burke
The bill amends AS 44.42.020(a) to enhance the responsibilities of the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities in Alaska. Key additions
Bynum
include a focus on public, tribal, and community transit programs, which are now explicitly mentioned in the department's duties to study
existing transportation modes and develop a comprehensive intermodal transportation plan. The bill also emphasizes the need to study
alternative transportation methods in urban, rural, and remote areas, and to improve transportation systems through collaboration with various
stakeholders, including local governments and transit operators. Additionally, the bill introduces a new requirement for the department to
develop a statewide public and community transit plan. This plan must be created in coordination with metropolitan planning organizations,
local governments, communities, tribal entities, and public and community transit operators, including ferry operators and the Alaska Railroad
Corporation.
HB
HOUSE RULES BY
An Act relating to timber on state lands; relating to timber management leases; and providing for an effective date.
Support
72
REQUESTOF THE
GOVERNOR
The bill establishes provisions for timber management leases on state forest land in Alaska, allowing the commissioner to issue leases for timber
harvest and management. It sets forth guidelines for lessees to promote sustainable practices, including the harvest and sale of merchantable
timber, afforestation, fire prevention, and necessary infrastructure construction. The bill outlines the nomination process for land, the
preparation of requests for proposals, and the criteria for selecting applicants. Leases can be granted for up to 55 years with one renewal option,
and it includes compliance and oversight measures. Key amendments include the insertion of timber management leases under AS 38.05.124
and the delegation of management responsibilities for timber in the Haines State Forest Resource Management Area. Additionally, the bill
amends existing law to incorporate provisions for carbon offset projects alongside timber management leases, ensuring that these initiatives
align with applicable management plans. It allows the commissioner to delegate timber management through leases and amend management
plans to accommodate both carbon offset projects and timber management. The legislation emphasizes that forest management plans must
consider various uses while ensuring compatibility with the primary purposes of state forests. Key changes include the explicit mention of timber
management leases under AS 38.05.124 and the requirement for management plans.
HB
HOUSE LABOR &
An Act relating to minimum standards for residential buildings; relating to construction contractors and residential contractor endorsements;
Oppose
80
COMMERCE
establishing the Alaska State Residential Building Safety Council; and providing for an effective date.
This bill establishes new minimum standards for residential buildings in Alaska and introduces the Alaska State Residential Building Safety
Council. It amends existing laws regarding residential contractors, specifically requiring that general contractors obtain a residential contractor
endorsement to undertake construction or alteration of residential structures covered by the state residential building code. The bill outlines the
qualifications necessary for obtaining and maintaining this endorsement, including passing an examination that tests knowledge of the state
residential building code and completing relevant training programs. Additionally, it mandates compliance with the state residential building
code for contractors providing services to residential buildings, with certain exceptions for municipalities that adopt their own codes. The bill
also introduces the state residential building code, which will be based on the 2018 International Residential Code, and establishes the Alaska
State Residential Building Safety Council to provide recommendations for the code's formulation and updates. The council will consist of
appointed members with relevant experience in construction and building codes.
HB
HOUSE RULES BY
An AM relating to the lease and sale of state land for recreational cabin sites; and providing for an effective date.
Support
109
REQUEST OF THE
GOVERNOR
This bill amends Alaska's state land laws to create a structured program for the leasing and sale of state land specifically designated for
recreational cabin sites. Under the new framework established in AS 38.05.600, the commissioner will oversee the program, which includes an
annual schedule of land offerings and allows eligible applicants to nominate land for recreational use. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria,
SB
such as residency requirements and restrictions on land classified as mineral or oil and gas land. It also modifies existing legal language by
75
removing references to "remote" recreational cabin site leases and introduces provisions for leases of up to 10 years, public notice processes,
and management of improvements on leased land. Additionally, the bill amends AS 38.05.035 to permit the commissioner to approve
nominations for recreational cabin sites from current and former permit holders, despite previous regulations that did not allow personal use
cabin permits to convey any interest instate land. This change enables the sale or lease of land to individuals who have continuously maintained
their personal use cabins.
HB
KOPP
An Act relating to use of railroad easements.
Support
136
McCabe
The bill amends existing laws regarding railroad utility corridors in Alaska, specifically AS 42.40.350. It establishes that railroad utility corridors
must be at least 100 feet wide on both sides of the centerline of the main or branch line, unless the corporation lacks sufficient land. The
Costello
corporation is prohibited from conveying its entire interest in land within a utility corridor, but it may lease, grant easements, or authorize other
uses of portions of the corridor for various purposes, provided these do not restrict parallel uses. Notably, the bill introduces new language that
allows for these actions except as provided in AS 42.40.415. Additionally, the bill adds anew section, AS 42.40.415, which stipulates that the
corporation cannot charge fees or require permits for property owners using their land subject to an easement, as long as their use does not
unreasonably interfere with the corporation's operations. However, if a property owner wishes to construct a railroad crossing within the
easement, they must obtain a permit and may be charged a revenue -neutral fee for the permit and associated maintenance.
HB
HOUSE LABOR &
An Act establishing the Department of Agriculture; relating to the establishment of the Department of Agriculture; transferring functions of the
Oppose —the
140
COMMERCE
Department of Natural Resources related to agriculture to the Department of Agriculture; and providing for an effective date.
State cannot
afford
The bill establishes a new Department of Agriculture in Alaska, transferring agricultural responsibilities from the Department of Natural
current
Resources. It includes significant amendments, such as changing references from the "Department of Natural Resources" to the "Department of
obligations.
SB
Agriculture" throughout various sections of the law. The new department will oversee agricultural projects, pest management, and the
128
SENATE RULES
regulation of industrial hemp, while the commissioner of agriculture will have the authority to issue licenses for elk farming and manage bee
importation. Additionally, the bill introduces a forgivable loan program to enhance agricultural resilience and mandates the creation of a plant
materials center in collaboration with the University of Alaska. Furthermore, the bill amends Alaska's land management laws to enhance the
role of the commissioner of agriculture in decisions regarding agricultural land. It replaces references to the "Board of Agriculture and
Conservation" with the "commissioner of agriculture," allowing for greater involvement inland disposals and agricultural use rights. The
commissioner will also conduct land capability surveys and provide technical guidance to settlers, ensuring that land development aligns with its
capabilities. Overall, the bill aims to streamline agricultural governance and improve land management practices in Alaska, with a focus on
promoting effective agricultural use and conservation.
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HB
CARRICK
An Act relating to universal changing facilities in public buildings.
Support with
141
adequate
Hannan
The proposed bill amends Alaska's laws to require public buildings that construct new bathrooms or undergo significant renovations costing
funding.
$30,000 or more to include universal changing facilities. Specifically, it mandates that such buildings must either have at least one publicly
available bathroom equipped with a universal changing facility or, if the bathrooms are gender -segregated, at least one men's and one women's
bathroom with these facilities. There are exemptions for buildings where the installation of such facilities is impractical or would violate
accessibility standards for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the bill requires building owners or lessees to report the location of any
installed universal changing tables to the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, which will maintain a publicly accessible list of
these facilities on its website. The department is also tasked with establishing regulations for the standards of universal changing facilities. In
cases of non-compliance, the bill allows for civil actions where a court may grant various forms of relief, including damages and attorney fees.
Definitions for key terms such as "department," "public building," and "universal changing facility" are also provided within the bill.
HB
KOPP
An Act relating to use of railroad land for public purposes.
Oppose with
142
amendments.
This bill amends Alaska's existing laws regarding the use of railroad land for public purposes, specifically under AS 42.40.420. It allows
municipalities or the state to request authorization from the corporation to use railroad land, with a focus on walkways or trails, provided that
these do not create safety hazards or interfere with railroad operations. The bill introduces new requirements for municipalities or the state,
including the need to execute an agreement that outlines restrictions and conditions to mitigate risks, obtain consent from property owners with
easements, and allows the corporation to halt any use that poses safety risks or operational interference. Additionally, the bill clarifies the
indemnification responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources when delegating management authority over state land to the
corporation. It specifies that the department must ensure that any crossings or construction across the transportation corridor meet safety
standards and do not adversely affect railroad efficiency. The corporation and the state are not liable for claims arising from public use of the
railroad land, except in cases of gross negligence.
HB
HOLLAND
An Act relating to generation of electricity from renewable energy resources; relating to a renewable portfolio standard; relating to power cost
Consider
153
equalization; and providing for an effective date.
component
Carrick
pieces,
This bill establishes a renewable portfolio standard for electricity generation in Alaska, mandating that load -serving entities include a specified
especially
percentage of electricity generated from renewable energy resources in their portfolios. Specifically, the bill requires that 40%of electricity must
PCE.
SB
come from renewable sources by December 31, 2030, and 55%by December 31, 2035. To support compliance, the bill introduces various
149
WIELECHOWSKI
incentives, including multipliers for wind energy projects and provisions for distributed energy systems. Additionally, it outlines penalties for
noncompliance, allowing for fines and potential waivers under certain circumstances, such as natural disasters or contractual failures. The bill
also amends existing regulations regarding the construction of large energy facilities, ensuring that new projects do not hinder a load -serving
entity's ability to meet the renewable portfolio standard. It introduces definitions for key terms, such as "large energy facility" and "renewable
energy resource," and specifies that costs associated with power cost equalization will exclude revenues from renewable electricity credits.
HB
HOUSE RULES BY
An Act relating to a net metering program; relating to reduced rates in the form of credits for consumer -generators; establishing a net metering
Consider for
164
REQUEST OF THE
reimbursement fund; and providing for an effective date.
purposes of
GOVERNOR
public
The proposed bill establishes a net metering program in Alaska, which allows consumer -generators individuals who produce their own electricity
utilities.
using renewable sources to receive credits for excess energy they generate. Specifically, it amends existing law to include provisions that require
SB
load -serving entities with significant retail sales to provide net metering services. These services will credit consumer -generators based on their
150
excess energy production and allow them to use these credits for their own consumption on an annual cycle. Additionally, the bill stipulates that
consumer -generators can choose to opt into this new service or continue under previous tariff terms. It also includes provisions to ensure that
participation in the net metering service is not limited unless necessary for system reliability. Furthermore, the bill establishes a net metering
reimbursement fund, which will be administered by the Alaska Energy Authority. This fund will consist of legislative appropriations,
contributions, and interest earned, and it will be used to reimburse load -serving entities for revenue losses incurred due to the net metering
program. The bill mandates the Regulatory Commission of Alaska to adopt regulations for implementing these provisions, including standards for
calculating revenue losses.
SB
TOBIN
An Act relating to an electronic product stewardship program; relating to collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic equipment; establishing
Support
61
the electronics recycling advisory council; and providing for an effective date.
The bill establishes an electronic product stewardship program in Alaska aimed at improving the collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic
equipment. It requires manufacturers of covered electronic devices to register annually with the Department of Environmental Conservation and
submit a detailed a -scrap program plan that outlines their recycling strategies and community engagement efforts. The legislation also creates
the Electronics Recycling Advisory Council to oversee compliance with these plans, mandates the provision of collection sites based on
community population, and requires manufacturers to report their recycling activities and associated costs. In addition to these provisions, the
bill amends existing laws to grant immunity from federal antitrust laws for participating manufacturers and updates definitions and enforcement
authority related to littering and recycling. It outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Conservation in implementing the
program, including the review of manufacturer plans and public outreach efforts. The bill introduces penalties for non-compliance, establishes
the advisory council with diverse stakeholder representation, and clarifies exclusions from the a -scrap program. Key definitions related to
electronics recycling are also introduced, ensuring a comprehensive framework for managing electronic waste in the state.
SB
CRONK
An Act relating to the Local Boundary Commission; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose.
63
Kiehl
This bill amends the existing law regarding the Local Boundary Commission in Alaska, specifically changing the composition and terms of its
members. The number of members is increased from five to six, with appointments made by the governor for overlapping six -year terms instead
of five-year terms. The bill specifies that one member must be appointed from each of the fourjudicial districts, one from the unorganized
borough, and one from the state at large. Additionally, it requires that members from the judicial districts and the unorganized borough maintain
a principal place of abode and be registered to vote in their respective areas. The commission will now select a chair from among its members
rather than having the member from the state at large serve as the chair. Furthermore, the bill includes a transition provision stating that any
member appointed to the Local Boundary Commission after the effective date of the Act will serve a six -year term as outlined in the amended
law, while the terms of members appointed before this date will remain unaffected.
SB
SENATE RULES BY
An Act relating to municipal and state procurement preferences for agricultural products harvested in the state and fisheries products harvested
Oppose
67
REQUEST OF THE
or processed in the state; and providing for an effective date.
GOVERNOR
This bill amends existing laws regarding procurement preferences for agricultural and fisheries products harvested or processed in Alaska. It
establishes that municipalities receiving state funds must prioritize purchasing local agricultural products if they are priced no more than 10%
HB
above similar products from outside the state, an increase from the previous threshold of 7%. Additionally, municipalities may purchase local
60
products priced up to 25% higher than their out-of-state counterparts, up from the previous limit of 15%. Similar provisions are made for
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fisheries products, ensuring that local products are favored under the same pricing conditions. Furthermore, the bill sets a preference for state
and school district purchases of agricultural and fisheries products, mandating a price preference of no less than 10%and no more than 25%for
products harvested or processed in -state. This change aims to support local agriculture and fisheries by making it more financially viable for
municipalities and state entities to choose local products over those sourced from outside Alaska.
SB
SENATE RESOURCES
An Act relating to clean energy project development licenses and leases of state land for clean energy projects.
Support with
91
appropriate
The bill amends Alaska's laws regarding the development and leasing of state land for clean energy projects. It introduces new requirements for
taxing
an official cadastral survey before issuing long-term leases, unless a comparable survey is already available, while clarifying that these survey
authority.
requirements do not apply to land designated for clean energy project development licenses. The bill also emphasizes compliance with local
subdivision ordinances for short-term leases and grants the director of the division the authority to expedite lease application processing.
Additionally, the director is empowered to approve contracts for the sale or lease of state land with a single written finding that serves the
state's interests, and must prioritize applications for clean energy projects while adhering to public notice requirements for land disposals. Key
amendments include the introduction of provisions for clean energy project development licenses, allowing the commissioner to issue licenses
for feasibility studies and development plans covering up to 3,000,000 acres, with extensions possible under certain conditions. The bill also
enhances lease terms to protect public interests and ensure environmental safeguards, mandates compensation terms that maximize economic
benefits to the state, and allows for the closure of leased land to mineral exploration if it conflicts with clean energy projects. New requirements
for applicants include posting a performance bond.
SB
SENATE RULES BY
An AM relating to the lease and sale of state land for recreational cabin sites; and providing for an effective date.
Support.
105
REQUEST OF THE
GOVERNOR
The bill amends Alaska's state land laws to enhance the leasing and sale of state land specifically for recreational cabin sites. It introduces a new
section, AS 38.05.600, which establishes a program for eligible applicants to apply for leases or sales of designated land for recreational
purposes. The commissioner is responsible for publishing an annual schedule of land offerings and managing a nomination process for
HB
applicants seeking land not included in the schedule. The bill sets conditions for land eligibility, including restrictions on land classified as mineral
109
or oil and gas land, and outlines the public notice and approval process for applications. Furthermore, the bill modifies existing legal language
by removing references to "remote" recreational cabin site leases and extending the maximum installment period for land sales from 20 to 30
years. It clarifies that the commissioner may sell land at fair market value and allows lessees to apply lease payments toward the purchase price.
The bill also enables current and former permit holders to lease or purchase land surrounding their cabins, regardless of the original permit's
terms.
SB
STEDMAN
An Act relating to a matching grant program for fire station construction and renovation; and providing for an effective date.
Support.
140
The bill establishes a matching grant program within the Alaska Department for funding the construction and renovation of fire stations. It
introduces new sections to AS 29.60, specifically creating a framework for eligible applicants to apply for grants under regulations set by the
department. The program aims to provide financial assistance for fire station projects, with the department responsible for awarding grants
HB
based on appropriated funds. Additionally, the bill creates afire station grant fund, which will consist of appropriations and any income earned
207
SCHRAGE
on the fund's money. The department is authorized to expend these funds for matching grants without needing further appropriation, and the
funds will not lapse, remaining available for future fiscal years. Each year, a specified percentage of the fund's balance will be allocated for
matching grants.
SB
GIESSEL
An Act relating to automated external defibrillators in buildings open to the public; relating to opioid overdose response kits in buildings open to
Support with
141
the public; relating to civil liability for providing opioid overdose drugs; and providing for an effective date.
adequate
funding
This bill aims to enhance public safety in buildings open to the public by mandating the provision and maintenance of automated external
defibrillators (AEDs) and opioid overdose response kits. It amends existing law to clarify that individuals who administer opioid overdose drugs
or maintain these drugs in public places are not liable for civil damages resulting from their actions during an emergency. Specifically, the bill
inserts provisions that protect those who provide and maintain opioid overdose drugs in public areas, ensuring they are readily available for
emergency situations. Additionally, the bill establishes anew section requiring the state to provide and maintain AEDs and opioid overdose
response kits in state-owned or controlled buildings, with a kit available on each floor. It also mandates that the state make these kits available
free of charge to owners or lessees of public buildings. The Department of Health is tasked with applying for federal assistance to help cover
costs and is required to adopt regulations for the implementation and enforcement of these provisions.
GRANT PAYMENT; PROCUREMENT; LOCAL OPTION;
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE SALARY DISCLOSURE
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB 60
HOUSE RULES BY REQUEST OF
An Act relating to municipal and state procurement preferences for agricultural products harvested in the state and fisheries products
Oppose
THE GOVERNOR
harvested or processed in the state; and providing for an effective date.
This bill amends existing laws regarding procurement preferences for agricultural and fisheries products harvested or processed within
SIB 67
the state of Alaska. It establishes that municipalities receiving state funds must prioritize purchasing local agricultural products if they
are priced no more than 10%above similar products from outside the state, with the option to purchase them if they are priced no
more than 25%above. Similar provisions apply to fisheries products, ensuring that municipalities must also prioritize local options
under the same pricing conditions. Additionally, the bill sets a preference for state and school district purchases of agricultural and
fisheries products, mandating a price preference of at least 10%and no more than 25%for products harvested or processed within the
state. The amendments replace previous percentages of seven and fifteen with the new thresholds.
HB 133
HIMSCHOOT
An Act establishing a 30-day deadline for the payment of contracts under the State Procurement Code; establishing deadlines for the
payment of grants, contracts, and reimbursement agreements to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native
Support
Fields
organizations; relating to payment of grants to named recipients that are not municipalities; and providing for an effective date.
Kopp
This bill establishes a 30-day deadline for state agencies to pay contractors for satisfactory performance on contracts, as well as for
grants and reimbursement agreements to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and Alaska Native organizations. It mandates that
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agencies must pay contractors within 30 calendar days after receiving a compliant payment request. If payment is not made within this
timeframe, agencies are required to pay interest on the unpaid amount starting from the 31st calendar day. Additionally, if payment is
KAWASAKI
withheld due to unsatisfactory performance or non-compliance with contract requirements, agencies must notify the contractor within
eight working days, detailing the reasons for withholding payment and the necessary remedial actions. The bill also amends existing
Tobin
laws regarding interest payments for prime contractors, changing the timeline for interest accrual from the 21st calendar day to the
SB129
30th calendar day after payment is due. It includes provisions for interest payments on withheld amounts if the agency fails to provide
Giessel
proper notification. The definitions of "grant" and "nonprofit organization" are clarified, and the bill specifies that it does not apply to
public construction or public works contracts.
HB 146
HALL
An Act prohibiting public employers from disclosing certain public employee personal information; making disclosure of certain public
employee personal information an unfair labor practice; and creating an exception to the Public Records Actfor certain public
Support
employee personal information.
HB 156
MINA
This bill aims to enhance the privacy of public employees by prohibiting public employers from disclosing certain personal information.
It amends AS 23.40.110(a) to include a new provision that makes it an unfair labor practice for public employers to disclose an
employee's personal information in violation of the newly added AS 23.40.115. The bill specifies that public employers cannot disclose
an employee's home address, date of birth, personal phone numbers, email addresses, labor organization membership details, or
SIB 78
DUNBAR
charitable payroll deductions, among other personal information. However, exceptions are made for disclosures required by law,
authorized by the employee, or made to the employee's exclusive representative. Additionally, the bill amends AS 40.25.120(a) to
include anew provision that prohibits the disclosure of records under AS 23.40.115, thereby creating an exception to the Public
Records Act for the specified employee personal information. The bill also mandates that public employers provide written notification
to the exclusive representative of any requests for information that fall under the prohibited disclosures, ensuring transparency in the
handling of such requests. The provisions of this bill will apply to actions taken by public employers and collective bargaining
agreements entered into after the bill's effective date.
HB 155
FOSTER
An Act relating to alcohol; relating to local option elections; relating to the statewide database of alcohol purchases; relating to alcohol
licenses, endorsements, and permits; relating to municipal regulation and taxation of alcoholic beverages; and providing for an
Support
effective date.
This bill amends various sections of Alaska's alcohol regulations, primarily focusing on local option elections and the management of
alcohol sales and shipments in municipalities that have restricted alcohol sales. Key changes include the expansion of local options to
include the sale of alcoholic beverages by specific types of licensees, such as restaurants and package stores, under newly added
provisions. The bill also establishes a statewide database to track alcohol purchases and shipments to residents in restricted areas,
ensuring that endorsement holders can only ship alcohol to designated addresses and within specified limits. Additionally, the bill
modifies the criteria for denying applications for new licenses and permits, emphasizing public interest and compliance with local
option regulations. It introduces new provisions for municipalities to designate delivery sites for alcohol and allows them to set lower
limits on the amounts of alcohol that can be imported. Overall, the bill aims to enhance local control over alcohol sales while ensuring
responsible management and tracking of alcohol distribution in restricted areas.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB
SCHRAGE
An Act relating to emergency medical services for operational canines; relating to the powers, duties, and liability of emergency medical
Support
70
technicians and mobile intensive care paramedics, relating to the practice of veterinary medicine; relating to civil liability of veterinarians; and
Galvin
providing for an effective date.
This bill establishes provisions for emergency medical services specifically for operational canines, which are defined as dogs used by law
enforcement or in search and rescue operations. It amends existing laws to allow emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and mobile intensive care
VETOED
paramedics to provide emergency medical services to these canines under certain conditions, such as when a veterinarian is unavailable and there
is an immediate danger to the canine's health. The bill also outlines the necessary qualifications for EMTs and paramedics to administer these
services and mandates that they transfer the canine to a licensed veterinarian as soon as possible. Additionally, the bill includes amendments to
civil liability protections for veterinarians and EMTs. It specifies that veterinarians who receive operational canines in good faith are not liable for
civil damages resulting from the actions of the EMTs or paramedics who transferred the canines. The bill also clarifies the authority of EMTs and
paramedics at emergency scenes, including their ability to provide care to both humans and operational canines.
HB
FIELDS
An Act relating to theft; relating to organized retail theft; relating to property crimes; relating to aggravating factors at sentencing; establishing a
Express
97
statewide marketplace facilitator sales tax; and establishing the organized retail theft fund in the general fund.
concern —
marketplace
This bill aims to strengthen Alaska's legal framework regarding human trafficking and wage theft by introducing new definitions and classifications
facilitator
for these offenses. It establishes wage theft as the intentional failure to pay employees or independent contractors their due wages and
tax.
reclassifies human trafficking offenses into first, second, and third degrees, with first -degree human trafficking designated as an unclassified
felony and second-degree as a class A felony. Additionally, the bill introduces organized theft as a class A felony and includes provisions for the
forfeiture of property used in violations of the new human trafficking laws, directing funds from such forfeitures to victim assistance programs.
The legislation also mandates that courts order restitution for victims of specific theft -related offenses, ensuring they are fully compensated for
unpaid wages. It adds "human trafficking in the first degree" to the list of serious offenses with a minimum prison sentence of five years and
requires employers found to owe unpaid wages to pay double the amount owed along with any legal costs incurred by the employee. The bill
repeals certain provisions related to liquidated damages and attorney fees in wage -related cases, streamlining the compensation process for
employees.
SB
GRAY-JACKSON
An Act relating to the duties of the Alaska Police Standards Council; relating to municipal correctional officers and municipal correctional
Oppose
42
employees; making municipal police officers subject to police standards; relating to the duties of the Department of Public Safety; relating to
reports of incidents of use of force by state and municipal police, probation, parole, pretrial services, and correctional officers and municipal
correctional facility employees; and providing for an effective date.
The bill amends various sections of Alaska law to enhance the accountability and reporting requirements for police and correctional officers
regarding incidents of use of force. It establishes that the Alaska Police Standards Council will require officers to report such incidents to a
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supervisor promptly and maintain a central registry of officers whose certifications have been denied or revoked. Additionally, the bill mandates
that municipalities employing police or correctional officers report incidents of use of force to the Department of Public Safety, which will also
maintain a central repository of these incidents and report them to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Key changes include the requirement for
municipalities to ensure that municipal correctional employees meet specific standards, as well as the introduction of definitions for terms such
as "pretrial services officer" and "use of force." The bill also repeals a previous section that allowed for exemptions from these requirements and
sets a timeline for existing employees to comply with new standards.
SB
GRAY-JACKSON
An Act relating to accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies.
Oppose
53
This bill amends various sections of Alaska law to establish accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies. It introduces new provisions
that require law enforcement agencies, including municipal police departments and Alaska state trooper posts, to obtain and maintain
accreditation based on minimum standards and practices set by the council. The bill outlines the creation of three tiers of accreditation, with the
first tier designed to protect agencies from liability and enhance public confidence in policing. Additionally, it specifies that the council will base
these standards on guidelines from recognized organizations such as the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The bill also modifies
existing legal language regarding actionable claims against the state and municipalities, specifically addressing claims related to law enforcement
agencies' adherence to accreditation standards. It includes provisions that prevent lawsuits against municipalities and state agencies for failures
related to accreditation, thereby limiting liability in these contexts.
SB
SENATE RULES BY
An Act relating to pretrial services supervision agreements.
Support
71
REQUEST OF THE
GOVERNOR
The bill amends existing laws related to pretrial services supervision agreements in Alaska. It establishes a pretrial services program that includes
a risk assessment for defendants detained in custody and those for whom the prosecution requests an assessment. The program will now
specifically provide supervision for defendants charged with a violation of state law and released while awaiting trial. Additionally, the
HB
commissioner is granted the authority to enter into agreements with municipalities to provide pretrial supervision services for defendants
66
charged solely with municipal law violations and to establish reasonable fees for these services. Further amendments include the requirement
for the commissioner to adopt regulations in consultation with various stakeholders, ensuring that pretrial services officers can make
recommendations to the court regarding pretrial release decisions. The bill also clarifies the duties of pretrial services officers, allowing them to
recommend pretrial diversion, file complaints for violations, and coordinate with community organizations for treatment options. The bill includes
provisions for the financial aspects of pretrial supervision services, indicating that receipts from these services will be accounted for under the
Department of Corrections. Lastly, it ensures that pretrial services officers will continue to supervise defendants according to existing orders prior
to the bill's effective date.
RETIREMENT; INSURANCE BILLS
Bill
Sponsors
Title
POSITION
HB 29
VANCE
An Act relating to group insurance coverage and self-insurance coverage for school district employees, employees of the University of Alaska,
Support
and employees of other governmental units in the state; and providing for an effective date.
Underwood
This bill amends various sections of Alaska law to establish and enhance group insurance coverage and self-insurance options for school district
Costello
employees, employees of the University of Alaska, and other governmental units. Key provisions include the ability for regional school boards to
establish and maintain participation in a policy of insurance for employee health coverage, as authorized by a new chapter, AS 14.27.010.
Additionally, school boards are required to determine the total compensation for employees, which includes the amount necessary to pay for
the district's participation in a policy of insurance. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Administration in managing
these insurance policies and the financial contributions required from participating school employers. Furthermore, the bill introduces a
SB 5
transition provision requiring governmental units that previously maintained self -funded insurance reserves to transfer their closing balances to
HUGHES
the group health and life benefits fund upon enrolling in a state -administered health care plan. This transfer will help offset reimbursement
obligations under the new insurance provisions.
HB 38
SADDLER
An Act relating to supplemental employee benefits; and providing for an effective date.
Support
This bill amends existing laws regarding supplemental employee benefits for employers in the teachers' retirement system and the Public
Employees' Retirement System of Alaska. It allows employers who do not participate in the federal social security system to become
participating employers in the employee benefits program. Notably, it provides that employees who are members of the teachers' retirement
system can opt out of participating in this benefits program. The previous conditions for participation, which included specific eligibility criteria
related to federal social security membership, have been removed. Additionally, the definition of "participating employer" is updated to include
employers defined under specific sections of the law and clarifies that they must not participate in the federal social security system. The bill
also specifies that the participation of these employers in the supplemental employee benefit program must be approved by the commissioner.
HB 44
JOSEPHSON
An Act relating to workers' compensation death benefits; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose
This bill amends the existing workers' compensation law in Alaska regarding death benefits. It specifies the amounts payable to beneficiaries in
the event of a worker's death due to injury. Key changes include the introduction of a new provision that allows for a lump sum payment of
$120,000 to be distributed to surviving parents or the estate of the deceased if there are no dependent family members such as a widow,
widower, or children. The bill also maintains existing provisions for funeral expenses and benefits for surviving spouses and children, with
specific percentages of the deceased's weekly wages outlined for different family situations. Additionally, the bill clarifies the conditions under
which these benefits are distributed, ensuring that if there are no dependents, the specified lump sum is allocated appropriately.
HB 78
HOUSE FINANCE
An Act relating to the public employees' retirement system and the teachers' retirement system; and providing certain employees an
opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution plans of the public employees' retirement system and the
Oppose
without
teachers' retirement system.
amendment
The proposed bill seeks to amend Alaska's public employees' retirement system and teachers' retirement system, allowing certain employees
GIESSEL
the option to choose between defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Key changes include the repeal and reenactment of AS 14.25.009,
which clarifies retirement provisions for teachers eligible for the defined benefit plan. The bill introduces provisions for active members to elect
SB 28
Gray -Jackson
participation solely in the defined benefit plan if employed underthe public employees' retirement plan and establishes criteria for teachers
who became members after June 30, 2006, to make a one-time election to switch to the defined benefit plan upon reemployment after July 1,
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Kiehl
2026. Additionally, it modifies contribution rates for members who joined after June 30, 2006, and introduces a mechanism for employers to
adjust contributions based on actuarial assessments. Further amendments focus on eligibility and contribution structures, particularly for
members who joined after June 30, 2006, requiring them to have at least 30 years of service or reach Medicare eligibility age with a minimum of
10 years of service to qualify for retirement benefits. The bill clarifies the calculation of retirement benefits based on years of service and adjusts
the cost -of -living allowance for eligible members. It also establishes new definitions for "average base salary" and "base salary," differentiating
between teachers based on their membership start date.
HB
SADDLER
An Act relating to coverage for disability from diseases for certain firefighters; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose
103
This bill amends AS 23.30.121(b) to enhance coverage for firefighters suffering from disabilities due to specific diseases. It establishes a
presumption that claims for compensation related to respiratory diseases, certain cardiovascular events occurring within 72 hours of exposure
to harmful substances, and various cancers including primary brain cancer, malignant melanoma, leukemia, and others are valid under the law.
The presumption extends for three months for each year of service, up to a maximum of 60 months after employment ends. Key changes
include reducing the requisite years of service from seven to six, and modifying the medical examination requirements. Firefighters must now
have undergone a qualifying medical examination upon first employment that showed no evidence of disease, and at least one examination
every two years during the first six years of service. Additionally, for cancer claims, firefighters must demonstrate exposure to a known
carcinogen during their employment.
HB
TOMASZEWSKI
An Act relating to supplemental employee benefits; relating to retirement benefits of peace officers and firefighters hired after June 30, 2006;
Oppose
107
and providing for an effective date.
Costello
This bill amends existing laws regarding supplemental employee benefits, specifically focusing on retirement benefits for peace officers and
firefighters hired after June 30, 2006. Key changes include the introduction of the term "participating employee" to replace "an employee" in
various sections, which clarifies eligibility for benefits. The bill mandates that employers contribute 6.13 percent of the wages of participating
employees into individual annuity accounts, instead of contributions to the federal social security system. Additionally, it allows participating
employees to voluntarily elect additional wage reductions for special individual employee benefit accounts, which can be used to purchase
various supplemental benefits such as health, death, disability, and dependent care benefits. Furthermore, the bill establishes that active
members of the teachers' retirement system or those employed as peace officers or firefighters can elect to become participating employees if
they work for non -participating employers. It also specifies that employers must contribute 9.74 percent of the compensation for peace officers
and firefighters to their individual accounts, compared to 5 percent for other members.
HB
RAUSCHER
An Act relating to participation of certain peace officers in the defined benefit and defined contribution plans of the Public Employees'
Oppose
108
Retirement System of Alaska; and providing for an effective date.
This bill amends the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska to clarify the participation of certain peace officers, specifically state
troopers, in defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans. It establishes that members first hired before July 1, 2006, and those
hired after that date who are state troopers, can participate in the defined benefit plan under specific conditions. The bill also introduces a
provision allowing state troopers or former state troopers hired after June 30, 2006, to make a one-time election to switch from the defined
contribution plan to the defined benefit plan within 90 days of the bill's effective date. Additionally, the bill outlines the eligibility criteria for
retirement benefits based on the member's service duration and age, and it defines "state trooper" within the context of the law. It includes
detailed procedures for the election process, including the requirement for written notice and the irrevocability of the election. The bill also
stipulates how contributions will be transferred and credited to the defined benefit plan, ensuring compliance with the Internal Revenue Code
and other relevant regulations.
HB
HOUSE LABOR &
An Act relating to pharmacy benefits managers; relating to third -party administrators; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose
149
COMMERCE
The bill amends Alaska's insurance regulations to bring pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) and third -party administrators (TPAs) under the
oversight of the state's insurance director. It grants the director the authority to examine the affairs and transactions of these entities and
requires them to be licensed rather than merely registered. Key provisions include the director's ability to conduct examinations as necessary,
SB134
GIESSEL
the financial responsibilities of those being examined, and the introduction of compliance measures such as annual certifications for exempt
individuals. The bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure that PBMs and TPAs operate within established legal frameworks.
Additionally, the bill modifies licensing requirements, replacing "registered" with "licensed" throughout relevant sections, and outlines specific
contract requirements between insurers and TPAs, including fiduciary responsibilities and record -keeping. It establishes the director's authority
to suspend licenses without prior notice under certain conditions, such as insolvency. New sections detail the qualifications and application
process for PBMs, including the necessity for a compliance officer and disclosure of ownership.
SB 11
STEDMAN
An Act relating to flood insurance; relating to property insurance; establishing the Alaska Flood Authority and the Alaska flood insurance fund;
Support
and providing for an effective date.
Biorkman
This bill establishes the Alaska Flood Authority and the Alaska flood insurance fund to improve access to Flood insurance in the state. It amends
Dunbar
current laws regarding property insurance rates, allowing for greater flexibility in determining rates, particularly for Flood insurance. The bill
mandates that rates must not be excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory, and emphasizes the use of actual historical flood and damage
data in rate -setting. It introduces definitions for "dwelling" and "flood," and outlines the authority's powers and responsibilities, including the
requirement for insurers to maintain membership and provide necessary information. Additionally, the bill details the governance structure of
the Alaska Flood Authority, which will include representatives from the insurance industry, consumers, and relevant state agencies. It requires
the authority to create an operational plan, establish premium rates, and manage claims, while also outlining funding mechanisms through
member dues and assessments. The state will not be liable for the authority's actions, and board members will have civil and criminal immunity
for their duties performed in good faith. The bill also includes provisions for the appropriation of funds for the authority's operation, specifies
that claims payments are subject to appropriation, and establishes a transition plan for the authority's operational plan submission.
SB 27
KIEHL
An Act relating to restoration of tenure for certain disabled individuals; relating to the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska and the
Oppose.
teachers' retirement system; providing certain employees an opportunity to choose between the defined benefit and defined contribution plans
of the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska and the teachers' retirement system; and providing for an effective date.
This bill seeks to amend Alaska's laws regarding the restoration of tenure rights for disabled teachers and the retirement systems for public
employees. It allows teachers who were retired due to disability to regain their tenure rights if their disability is resolved or compensated
through rehabilitation, contingent upon certification from the commissioner of administration. The bill also modifies the Public Employees'
Retirement System and the teachers' retirement system, giving employees the option to choose between defined benefit and defined
contribution plans. Key amendments include the repeal and reenactment of sections related to retirement plan applicability, the introduction of
a one-time election forteachers to switch to a defined contribution plan, and new requirements for disabled employees to apply for vocational
rehabilitation programs. Furthermore, the bill establishes new conditions for disabled employees, such as the necessity to provide proof of
application for Social Security disability payments within 30 days, with benefits ceasing if they do not comply. It also outlines changes to major
12
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medical insurance coverage for retirees, specifying premium payment conditions based on years of service. Additionally, it allows public
employees hired after June 30, 2006, to switch from a defined contribution to a defined benefit retirement plan, with specific procedures for
transferring contributions.
SB 55
STEDMAN
An Act relating to employer contributions in the teachers' retirement system; relating to supplemental employee benefits; and providing for an
Oppose
effective date.
Myers
This bill amends existing laws regarding supplemental employee benefits in Alaska, specifically focusing on contributions to employee annuity
Shower
accounts for those in the public employees' retirement system and the teachers' retirement system. It establishes that participating employers
in these systems must contribute an amount equal to 6.13 percent of employee wages up to the taxable wage base in the social security system.
The bill introduces new subsections detailing the contribution structure for both employers and employees in the teachers' retirement system,
specifying a phased reduction in the department's contribution from 100 percent to 33 and one-third percent over several fiscal years.
Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "participating employer" to include those in either the teachers' or public employees' retirement
systems that do not participate in the federal social security system. It also clarifies the conditions under which an employer can become a
participating employer in the employee benefits program.
SB 81
STEDMAN
An Act relating to employer contribution rates in the teachers' retirement system and the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska; and
Oppose
providing for an effective date.
This bill amends the employer contribution rates for the teachers' retirement system and the Public Employees' Retirement System of Alaska.
Specifically, it establishes that the annual employer contribution rate must be sufficient to cover three key components: (1) the employer's
normal cost, (2) an amount calculated at the rate certified under AS 37.10.220(a)(8) for liquidating past service liability of the plan, and (3) the
employer contributions required under AS 14.25.350 and AS 39.30.370 for the teachers' retirement system, as well as AS 39.30.370 and AS
39.35.750 for the Public Employees' Retirement System. The bill aims to ensure that employer contributions are adequate to meet the
financial obligations of the retirement systems, thereby enhancing their sustainability. It is set to take effect immediately upon enactment,
reflecting the urgency of addressing the funding requirements for these retirement systems.
SB 83
CLAMAN
An Act relating to health care insurance; relating to insurance reimbursement for health care services provided through telehealth; relating to
Oppose.
telehealth; providing for an effective date by repealing the effective date of secs. 9 and 10, ch. 38, SLA 2022; and providing for an effective date.
This bill amends existing laws related to health care insurance and reimbursement for telehealth services in Alaska. It introduces a new
definition of "health care provider" and mandates that health care insurers reimburse providers for telehealth services, including behavioral
health, at the same rate as in -person services. Additionally, it establishes that municipal health care insurance plans covering employees must
comply with these reimbursement requirements. The bill also clarifies that self -insured group health insurance plans for state employees must
adhere to the same reimbursement standards. Furthermore, the bill repeals certain sections of previous legislation, specifically sections 9, 10,
and 13 of ch. 38, SLA 2022, as well as section 14 of the same chapter. The effective date for the provisions of this bill is set for January 1, 2026.
Overall, the legislation aims to enhance access to telehealth services by ensuring equitable reimbursement practices across various health care
insurance plans in the state.
SB
GIESSEL BY
An Act relating to insurance; establishing standards for health insurance provider networks; and providing for an effective date.
Consider.
122
REQUEST
This bill establishes new minimum standards for health insurance provider networks in Alaska, mandating that health care insurers consider
these standards when calculating benefits for policies that require or incentivize the use of limited networks of providers. The bill specifies that
a health care insurer's network must include all licensed hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and mental health or substance abuse facilities in the
state, as well as all licensed physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses associated with these facilities.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the number of providers that must be included in each of the six designated contracting
regions in Alaska, with varying percentages based on the region. Furthermore, the bill allows health care insurers to request exceptions to the
minimum standards, which the director may grant for a limited time, and requires insurers to annually attest to their compliance with these
standards. The bill also repeals a previous provision in AS 21.07.020(3) and grants the director the authority to adopt regulations necessary for
implementation, including the ability to set higher standards than those specified in the bill.
SB
GIESSEL BY
An Act relating to municipal and state group health insurance plans and policies, including self -insured plans and policies, and the administration
Oppose.
142
RE UEST
and management of pharmacy benefits; and providing for an effective date.
This bill amends existing laws regarding municipal and state group health insurance plans, including self -insured plans and the management of
pharmacy benefits. It introduces a new section, AS 29.20.420, which mandates that municipalities offering group health care insurance plans for
employees, including self-insurance, and their pharmacy benefits managers must comply with specific provisions outlined in AS 21.27.901-
21.27.975 and AS 21.36.520. The bill clarifies that this requirement applies to both home rule and general law municipalities, while exempting
plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. Additionally, the bill modifies AS 39.30.090 to include a new provision
that group health insurance policies covering employees of participating governmental units must also adhere to the same regulations
concerning pharmacy benefits management. It specifies that self -insured group health insurance plans for active state employees are subject to
these regulations, with the same exemption for plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.
SB
YUNDT
An Act relating to occupational disability benefits for peace officers and firefighters; and providing for an effective date.
Oppose
144
This bill amends existing laws regarding occupational disability benefits for peace officers and firefighters in Alaska. Specifically, it modifies AS
39.35.410(d) and AS 39.35.890(d) to increase the monthly benefit amount for these employees. Currently, the benefit is set at 40 percent of the
disabled employee's gross monthly compensation at the time of termination due to disability. The new language stipulates that for each month
HB
of eligibility after the first 12 months, the benefit amount will increase to 75 percent of the employee's gross monthly compensation at the time
210
of termination. Additionally, the bill ensures that members appointed to disability become fully vested in employer contributions made to their
KOPP
-
accounts, and it outlines that while receiving disability benefits, the employer must continue to make contributions to the employee's individual
account without deductions from the disability payments.
Page 137 of 165
Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position Stat...
AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
2026 Resolution Guidelines
ALASKA
MUNICIPAL
•�'. LEAGUE
.. y
A resolution is a statement of the Alaska Municipal League's intent to support a specific action on a
significant issue or legislation affecting municipalities. Resolutions are introduced, debated, and adopted
by AML members each year during the Business Meeting at the Annual Local Government Conference.
To be considered during the conference, resolutions must conform to the following policy, procedural
and format guidelines that have been adopted by the AML Board of Directors.
RESOLUTION GUIDELINES
1. Resolutions shall concern shared policy and program needs, state or federal legislation, issues, or
problems of Alaska municipalities and shall state the problem and action sought.
a. Resolutions may not conflict with any adopted AML positions.
b. Resolutions that allow conflict between one community against another will be eliminated.
c. Resolutions will be revised to make a general application instead of one seeking to benefit a
single member only or that comes at the expense of another member.
d. Resolutions with the same topic will be combined.
2. Resolutions shall be restricted to action -specific issues and issues of some immediacy and shall be
directed to the Governor, Legislature, State agency, President and/or the Congress.
3. Resolutions differ from policies in that:
a. Resolutions shall address specific issues rather than general policy.
b. Resolutions may address regional issues as well as statewide concerns.
c. Resolutions are intended to address timely issues such as current legislative proposals.
HOW TO SUBMIT
1. Only councils and assemblies of member municipalities, affiliated municipal associations, affiliated
regional municipal organizations (comprised of municipal officials), the AML Board and the Alaska
Conference of Mayors are eligible to submit resolutions for consideration. Each resolution
submitted must have been approved by a formal action of the sponsoring body and by at least one
member municipality, if not a local government.
2. Resolutions should be mailed, faxed or emailed to the AML office by October 24tn
3. A final Resolutions packet will be distributed to members by November 7th
4. The First Vice -President shall serve as Chair of the Resolutions Committee and shall appoint eight (8)
additional elected and appointed municipal officials.
5. The Resolutions Committee will meet on Wednesday, December 10 — the membership is invited to
attend.
6. Resolutions not submitted by October 24 may be offered to the Resolution Committee on December
10, for consideration during the Resolution Committee meeting. However, the sponsor of any
resolution presented directly to the Resolution Committee must have the support of representatives
of five (5) member municipalities.
7. The Resolutions Committee shall review and adopt prior year resolutions to develop as part of a
consent agenda for the Business Meeting.
Page 138 of 165
Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position Stat...
AGENDA ITEM #2.d.
ALASKA
MUNICIPAL
LEAGUE
a. Members may request by resolution pulling items from the ... • y
consent agenda for floor debate and reconsideration. The format for this follows that above,
with resolutions due by October 24, or if directly to the Committee on December 10 with
support of five other members. Consent agenda items may not be considered otherwise during
the Business Meeting.
8. The Resolutions Committee shall, based on the above guidelines, review and act upon each
resolution for final recommendation to the membership. The Resolutions Committee shall approve,
amend, or reject each resolution submitted, note its action, and, if the resolution is approved, send
it to the Business Meeting for consideration. If a resolution is rejected, the Committee shall prepare
a brief written justification of its action and forward that information to the Business Meeting.
9. Resolutions will be reviewed, debated and acted upon by the AML Membership at the Annual
Business Meeting. Sponsors of properly submitted resolutions will be given an opportunity to
discuss and support their resolutions at the meeting.
10. A resolution rejected by the Resolution Committee may be brought to the floor of the Business
Meeting on December 12 only if it is signed by representatives from twenty (20) member
municipalities. No new resolutions may be submitted to the Business Meeting without first going to
the Resolution Committee.
11. Members will vote on resolutions at the Annual Business Meeting on Friday, December 12.
RESOLUTIONS FORMAT
The resolution must be in the proper format. The name of the sponsoring member municipality or
association and the date of submission must be indicated on the bottom of the resolution. Each
resolution submitted must indicate that it is a "Resolution of the Alaska Municipal League, Resolution
#2026-xx and have a title, beginning, "A Resolution ..." that describes the issue and intent of the
resolution. Throughout the text, the resolution should indicate that AML is taking the position
advocated, not a given municipality or organization. At least one "Whereas" clause should identify the
policies in the AML Position Statement that the resolution addresses (i.e., expands or supplements), if
applicable.
Page 139 of 165
Assembly Review Of Alaska Municipal League Resolutions And Position Stat...
AGENDA ITEM #2. e.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
STAFF REPORT
NOVEMBER 13, 2025
ASSEMBLY WORK SESSION
SUBJECT: Review Of The Proposed Revisions To The Liquor License Code
ORIGINATOR: Nova M. Javier, MMC, Borough Clerk
RECOMMENDATION:
The Clerk will present the changes to Chapter 5.01 of the Borough code and answer any
questions that the Assembly may have.
DISCUSSION:
In 2022, the Alaska Legislature enacted a bill revising and modernizing Alaska's alcoholic
beverage laws as well as integrating new statutory changes into the Alaska Administrative
Code. The new regulations became effective January 1, 2024. For your convenience, the
linked documents in the other information section outline the changes made to the
regulations.
As a result of these new regulations, the Borough Clerk collaborated with the Borough
Attorney to draft an ordinance that modernizes the existing Liquor License Code. The
attached draft presents a revision of the current sections related to renewal, transfer, and new
license procedures, along with a new section addressing the protest of a license's continued
operation (biennial review). This is the initial draft submitted to the Assembly for discussion.
ALTERNATIVES:
FISCAL IMPACT:
OTHER INFORMATION:
Changes to Title 4 with Tracking
Existing KIB Liquor License Code, Chapter 5.01
3 Alaska Administrative Code 305 - Alcohol Regulations Changes
Kodiak Island Borough Page 140 of 165
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DRAFT 1
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
ORDINANCE NO. FY2024-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH AMENDING
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH CODE CHAPTER 5.01 REGARDING LIQUOR LICENSES TO
CLARIFY THE METHODS AND BASIS FOR BOROUGH PROTESTS FOR ISSUANCE OF A
NEW LICENSE, RENEWAL OF AN EXISTING LICENSE, TRANSFER OF AN EXISTING
LICENSE, AND REVIEW OF THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF A LICENSE
WHEREAS, the current language in Alaska Statutes Title 4 and 3 AAC 305 regarding notice of
pending liquor license applications and the reasons a local governing body may protest a license
action differs from the terms used in Borough Code provisions for procedures concerning alcohol
licenses issued by the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the Assembly desires to clarify the procedure and better identify the reasons that
may cause the local governing body to protest a liquor license issuance, renewal, transfer of
location or transfer of ownership; and
WHEREAS, the Assembly finds that the borough's interest may also be protected by
incorporating provisions in the code that address the evaluation of the continued operation of
ongoing licenses or endorsements during the second year of the biennial license period; and
WHEREAS, this new code proposes inclusion of a necessary step to allow an applicant or
licensee a reasonable opportunity to defend an application before a meeting of the local governing
body per the Alaska Administrative Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND
BOROUGH that:
Section 1: This ordinance is of a general and permanent nature and shall become a part of
the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances.
Section 2: That Section 5.01.010 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances,
Cooperation with State of Alaska Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board, is
amended as follows:
5.01.010 Cooperation with State of Alaska ABC Board
It is declared the policy of the borough to cooperate with and aid the ABC Board in determining
the fitness of applicants requesting a transfer, renewal, or issuance of a new liquor license. This
includes evaluatina the onaoina operation of licenses or endorsements durina the second vear of
their biennial licensing period
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
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Section 3: That Section 5.01.020 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, License
Renewal Procedure, is repealed and replaced to read as follows:
5.01.020 License Renewal Procedure.
A. When the clerk receives notice from the Alcohol Marijuana Control Office (AMCO) of a license
renewal application, the assembly shall determine whether to protest the application on the
grounds that it is not in the public's best interest based on the following factors:
1. Whether the business has or is operating with a valid zoning permit;
2. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
on the application are, delinquent in the payment of any of the following:
a. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
or personal property applied to the business operated under the license or
endorsement;
b. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
under the license or endorsement;
3. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
4. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
surrounding area;
5. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
which alcohol is a contributing factor;
6. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
stations and patrols; and
7. The history of convictions of persons named on the application for any felony or any
criminal violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol
or a controlled substance.
8. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
B. If the review of the criteria in subsection A shows no basis for protest, the clerk shall advise
the ABC Board of the borough's nonobiection to the license renewal.
C. If the review shows any evidence which could support a protest, with or without conditions,
the procedure below shall be followed:
1. The clerk shall promptly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on a
meeting agenda in order to comply with the 60-day protest period. Following the close of
the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by adopting a motion whether a protest
is to be lodged with the ABC Board, and it shall state the assembly's reasons for the
protest.
2. The applicant shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable
opportunity to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
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3. The assembly's decision to protest the application shall stand unless a malority of the
assembly votes to withdraw the protest.
4. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the
ABC Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received by the ABC Board
within 60 days of the borough having received notice of the application.
D. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
the ABC Board.
Section 4: That Section 5.01.030 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, New License
and Transfer Procedure, is repealed and replaced to read as follows.
5.01.030 New license and transfer procedure
A. When the clerk receives notice from the AMCO of a new license or transfer application, the
assembly shall determine whether to protest the application on the grounds that it is not in the
public's best interest based on the following factors:
1. Whether the business or endorsement has, or is eligible for a zoning permit;
2. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
on the application are, delinquent in the payment of any of the following:
c. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
or personal property applied to the business operated under the license or
endorsement;
d. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
under the license or endorsement;
3. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
Page 3 of 5
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4. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
surrounding area;
5. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
which alcohol is a contributing factor;
6. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
stations and patrols; and
7. The history of convictions of persons named on the application for any felony or any
criminal violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol
or a controlled substance.
8. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
B. The clerk shall promptly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on a meeting
agenda in order to comply with the 60-day protest period, allowing citizens to express their
desires as to whether or not the assembly should voice non -protest or lodge a protest for the
issuance or transfer of the liquor license or endorsement; and
C. The notice of intent to establish a new liquor license or endorsement, or transfer of location or
transfer of ownership of an existing license or endorsement, shall be mailed to each landowner
within 1,500 feet of the proposed new location by the clerk. The applicant shall pay a fee based
upon the cost of the notice and application processing costs to the borough.
D. Following the close of the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by adopting a motion
whether a protest is to be lodged with the ABC Board, and it shall state the assembly's reasons
for the protest.
E. The applicant shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable opportunity
to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
F. The assembly's decision to protest the application shall stand unless a majority of the assembly
votes to withdraw the protest.
G. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the ABC
Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received bV the ABC Board within 60
days of the borough having received notice of the application.
E. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
the ABC Board.
Section 5: That Section 5.01.040 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, New License
and Transfer Procedure, is hereby incorporated as follows.
5.01.050 Protests of continued operation of a license.
A. The assemblv may protest the continued operation of a license or endorsement durina the
second year of the biennial license period. The assembly shall determine bV adopting a motion
whether to protest a license on the grounds that it is not in the public's best interest based on
the following factors:
1. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement has, or is operating
with a valid zoning permit;
2. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
on the license are, delinquent in the payment of any of the following:
a. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
or personal property applied to the business operated under the license or
endorsement;
b. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
under the license or endorsement:
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
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3. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
4. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
surrounding area;
5. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
which alcohol is a contributing factor;
6. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
stations and patrols; and
7. The history of convictions of persons named on the license for any felony or any criminal
violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol or a
controlled substance.
8. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
B. If the review of the criteria in subsection A shows any evidence which could support a protest,
with or without conditions, the procedure below shall be followed:
1. The clerk shall duly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on the agenda.
Following the close of the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by motion whether
a protest is to be lodged with the ABC Board and it shall state the basis of the protest.
2. The licensee shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable
opportunity to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
3. The assembly's decision to protest the license shall stand unless a majority of the
assembly votes to withdraw the protest.
4. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the
ABC Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received by the ABC Board by
January 31 of the second year of the license.
C. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
the ABC Board.
Effective Date: This ordinance takes effect upon adoption.
ADOPTED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
THIS
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
Jared Griffin, Borough Mayor
Introduced by: KIB Assembly
First reading:
Second reading/public hearing:
VOTES:
Ayes:
Noes:
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
DAY OF , 2024
ATTEST:
Nova M. Javier, MMC, Borough Clerk
Page 5 of 5
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AGENDA ITEM #2.e.
Ch. 5.01 Liquor Licenses I Kodiak Island Borough Code
Chapter 5.01
LIQUOR LICENSES
Sections:
5.01.010 Cooperation with State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
5.01.020 License renewal procedure.
5.01.030 New license and transfer procedure.
5.01.010 Cooperation with State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
1 of 2
It is declared the policy of the borough to cooperate with and aid the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board for the
state of Alaska in determining the fitness of applicants requesting a transfer, renewal, or issuance of a new liquor
license. [Ord. 86-07-0 §2, 1986].
5.01.020 License renewal procedure.
A. Upon receipt of notice from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board of the board's receipt of intent to approve
the renewal of a new liquor license:
1. The clerk shall investigate to determine if the borough has an interest which can be protected by
protesting the approval of the application for renewal; and
2. The clerk shall check with the state troopers on the number of trouble reports at the place of business.
B. If the clerk determines that the borough has no interest in protesting the renewal, the clerk shall advise the
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board of continued nonobjection to renewal in writing. If it is determined that the
renewal could be protested based on unpaid taxes or trouble reports, it shall be scheduled for review by the
borough assembly. [Ord. 86-07-0 §2, 1986].
5.01.030 New license and transfer procedure.
A. Upon receipt of notice from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board of the board's receipt of an application or
intent to approve the transfer or issuance of a new liquor license:
1. The clerk shall investigate to determine if the borough has an interest which can be protected by
protesting the approval of the application for transfer or issuance of a new liquor license;
2. The clerk shall check with the state troopers on the number of trouble reports at the place of business;
The Kodiak Island Borough Code is current through Ordinance FY2026-06, and legislation passed through September 18,
2025.
Page 146 of 165
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AGENDA ITEM #2.e.
Ch. 5.01 Liquor Licenses I Kodiak Island Borough Code
2of2
3. The clerk shall duly advertise and place the matter of the application upon the agenda for the next
meeting of the assembly in order that citizens may express their desires as to whether or not the assembly
should approve or protest the transfer or issuance of the liquor license; and
4. The notice of intent to establish a new liquor license or transfer of location of an existing license shall be
mailed to each landowner within 1,500 feet of the proposed location by the clerk. A transfer from one person
to another of a liquor license, even if the location stays the same, shall be considered a request for a new
liquor license by the Kodiak Island Borough. The applicant shall pay a fee based upon the cost of the notice
and application processing costs to the borough.
B. The assembly, after public hearing, shall determine by motion if a protest to the application is to be lodged
with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use
any document or evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before the
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. [Ord. FY2008-16 §2, 2008; Ord. 98-09 §2, 1998; Ord. 86-07-0 §2, 1986].
The Kodiak Island Borough Code is current through Ordinance FY2026-06, and legislation passed through
September 18, 2025.
Disclaimer: The borough clerk's office has the official version of the Kodiak Island Borough Code. Users should
contact the borough clerk's office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.
Borough Website: www.kodiakak.us
Borough Telephone: (907) 486-9300
Hosted by General Code.
The Kodiak Island Borough Code is current through Ordinance FY2026-06, and legislation passed through September 18,
2025.
Page 147 of 165
Review Of The Proposed Revisions To The Liquor License Code
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
til
Kodiak Island Borough
OFFICE of the MANAGER
710 Mill Bay Road
Kodiak, Alaska 99615
Phone (907) 486-9301
TO: Kodiak Island Borough Assembly
FROM: Aimee Williams, Borough Manager
RE: Manager's Report, November 13, 2025
Manager's Department
Rural Leadership Forum
The Kodiak Area Leadership Institute is holding a Rural Leadership Forum this week.
Our Community Development Director, Assessor, and I will be presented a Kodiak
Island Borough update yesterday at the forum. We shared information about rural
school maintenance and our plans for the next two summers, Plan 2025, and the joint
KIB/KANA trips to the villages to assist with senior and disabled veteran exemption
applications.
E&F Director
We were able to interview two people for the E&F Director this week and are in the
process of making the decision on whether or not we want to make an offer to either of
them.
Hospital Projects
Met with the PKIMC Interim Senior Facilities Manager, Tyler Steele, to go over the
discrepancies that were found in the project documentation from last week's regular
meeting. He was able to provide the fee proposals that were mentioned in the
documentation. We are now going to compare those proposals to the documentation
that was received.
RentalScape
Deckard Technolgies has set us up with a Client Success Manager and we have
successfully filled out their questionaires that will assist them with getting our account
set up. We will be able to look at KIB as a whole and with the City of Kodiak STRs
taken out. We are also working on access for both KIB and the City of Kodiak.
Page 148 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
Current Recruitments
• E/F — Director, Environmental Specialist /Landfill Manager, Leachate Treatment
Plant Operator (all three levels) and General Laborer
o Offer out for Environmental Specialist/Landfill Manager
o Offer ready for Laborer
• CDD - Code Enforcement Officer
Finance Department
2025 Property Taxes
For those who paid their first half payment by August 15th, the second a half payment is
due Monday, November 17tn
Property Assessment and Taxation Implementation Project
Staff is entering information in both the new and legacy tax collection systems and will
continue this dual entry through at least February. This is necessary to ensure payment
postings, penalty and interest calculations, and account balances are correct.
Finance, IT and assessing have reviewed the Property Access module and are waiting
for several programing items to be finished before it can go -live.
Community Development
Planning and Zoning Commission — November 13 Work Session
The Planning & Zoning Commission held a work session on November 13 at 6:30 PM in
the Assembly Chambers. The Commission received training on zoning codes and on
Title 17 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances. The Commission also
reviewed a new staff report template and provided feedback to staff to use the new
format at the next regular meeting in December for a trial run. The Commission
conducted a packet review that reviewed a street name change request for Old Harbor
related to the Tsunami Subdivision, reviewed a variance request for a front yard
variance for a property on Mission Road, and reviewed the draft ordinance and
resolution related to short-term rental uses with specific emphasis on changes to the
definition and related amendments to zoning compliance permits, zoning districts, and
parking requirements.
PLAN 2045 - Economic Development Element
The webpage for PLAN 2045 located at https://www.kodiakak.us/759/Plan-2045. This
update provided a link to results of the trails survey and new information on the
development of the economic development element of the plan. This information
provided a link to a resident survey and the scheduling of two workshops: December 9
from 10 AM to 2 PM and December 11 from 6 PM to 8 PM in the Assembly Chambers.
The resident survey will remain open until December 31.
2
Page 149 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
Information Technology
Hardware Upgrades
IT has successfully deployed a server at the landfill and is currently working to optimize
that configuration and upgraded some monitoring PCs. They are also currently working
on the ease of monitoring the landfill.
Workflow Simplification
IT is hosting a training on Friday with the Clerks to roll out the new contract submission
form that will make it easier to add documents into Laserfiche.
GIS
GIS has addressed multiple Coast Guard properties and is continuing to audit data and
rectify missing items — particularly PIDs (Property Identifiers).
Assessing
Senior Citizen (SC) / Disabled Veteran (DV) Exemptions (2025)
• Outstanding applications: 6 (4 SC and 2 DV) remain undetermined. Assessing
has begun processing supplements in the new software and continues double
entry into Harris and Tyler software until the Finance side is working.
Senior Citizen (SC) / Disabled Veteran (DV) Exemptions (2026)
• SC/DV Village trips with KANA for application filings have been scheduled for the
week of Nov. 17th, with backup dates for the week of Dec. 1 st
• In -town SC/DV application at the Senior Center Nov. 19th, Dec. 19th and Jan. 13tn
Field Work
Assessing is working in villages and remote areas.
Akhiok, Karluk, Old Harbor and Larsen Bay, Ugak, as well as 40% of remote "fly
to only" areas have been completed
Staff needs one '/2 more day in Port Lions and '/z day in Larsen Bay for cleanup.
Exemption Appeals
• The Alutiiq Heritage Foundation - Trial scheduled for July 27-29, 2026.
Business Personal Property Filing Forms as well as Senior Citizens and Disabled
Veterans applications will be mailed out Friday Nov. 14. Anyone that doesn't want to
wait for those forms to come in the mail can stop by our office, fill out, sign and receive
a time stamped copy of their paperwork beginning Nov. 17, 2025. (We will print the
forms if you don't have them.) ALL FORMS AND APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY
JANUARY 15, 2027. Business forms received after that date will be subject to late fees,
penalties, and loss of the exemption. Applications received after that date will be subject
to exemption denial.
Page 150 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
R
Engineering and Facilities
KFRC Touch Tank Holiday Hours
During the holiday season the Touch Tank and Aquarium at KFRC will be open for extra
hours.
Regular hours are Tuesdays, 12-4 p.m.
Holiday hours -open 12-4 p.m. on Nov. 24-26 and Dec. 22, 23, 29 & 30.
Holiday Food Drive
The Borough is hosting a food drive to assist filling the pantry for the Salvation
Army/Kodiak Food Bank this holiday season. There are boxes in the upstairs Borough
side hallway for donations, and they will be picked up November 19th. If you would like
to donate, please bring in -non -expired, shelf stable food items. (Flyer attached)
ADF&G Bears at Landfill
Throughout the landfill fence repair
project, the Borough has worked closely
with ADF&G to monitor bear activity and
actively haze bears away from the landfill
area. As part of these efforts, ADF&G
deployed a culvert trap near the active
face of the landfill in an attempt to safely
capture and relocate bears. On Monday,
November 10, the trap successfully
captured two subadult bears. The
Borough then assisted ADF&G in
coordinating with the City and State
Troopers to facilitate the bears' safe
release near the Monashka Bay
Reservoir.
Solid Waste Code & Contract Updates
Staff are preparing for the upcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) for the new Solid
Waste Contract. As part of this preparation, updates are being made to the Solid Waste
Code. Staff have been working closely with the Borough Attorney to draft an ordinance
that will enact these code changes, which will serve as a guide for the new contract and
provide support for the code enforcement. The draft ordinance is scheduled to be
presented to the Solid Waste Contract Committee at their next meeting regular meeting
on November 19th at 3:OOpm.
Landfill
• Regional Solid Waste Management Plan Update is due February 28, 2026
• Landfill Fence Repairs: On November 7, Project staff were notified that the front
gate had become electrified when closed and locked, resulting in staff receiving
shocks while opening or closing it. Over the weekend, staff coordinated with the
Fence Contractor to investigate and resolve the issue. It was suspected that
4
Page 151 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
bears attempting to re-enter the site had disturbed parts of the electric fence
wiring, causing electrical backflow. On Monday, Maintenance Staff continued
working with the Contractor to inspect the entire fence system and address any
additional concerns.
Community Pool
On October 29th, staff received the final pool condition survey report. The report has
been emailed out to the Architectural Review Board (ARB) and will be discussed at their
next regular meeting in early December. After ARB review, it will be presented to the
Assembly for direction.
Fuel Spill Assistance
Lonq Term Care
Comprehensive gap analysis and site investigation work plan to advance towards the
closure of the spill at the long-term care center is under contract with NWFF. NWFF and
E&F staff have been working with ADEC to ensure that the closeout plan meets all
necessary requirements. The final report was received on October 28th. Staff will be
submitting this to ADEC for approval. Based on the preliminary findings, KIB will need to
hire a third party to conduct more sampling and install a new monitoring well.
Karluk
Projects office staff are working with 3-Tier Alaska to conduct similar work for the
closure of the Karluk fuel spill. That report is due on November 28, 2025. Based on the
preliminary findings, KIB will need to hire a third party to conduct more sampling and/or
install a new monitoring well.
KFRC
• Industrial Pump Alaska order is moving forward. The delivery schedule was
updated to include a contractor site visit to the manufacturing facility to conduct
the QA/QC of the pump test prior to shipment. The new shipment date is
December 18th.
KFRC Ozonator (Decontamination) project has been on pause awaiting
directional response from ADEC to see if this system is still needed based on the
sampling KIB has conducted since the discharge permit was issued. Manager
spoke with DEC this week and due to the fact that our historical samples are not
showing the chlorine is over the allowable limits, especially once you take into
consideration the size of our mixing zone in the channel, DEC is going to open a
thirty -day comment period that would allow public comment on removing this
schedule from our compliance requirements. If our permit is updated, this will
save the KFRC Enterprise Fund approximately $750,000.00.
Page 152 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
Multi -Facility Elevator Modernization
Both elevator systems have shipped to Washington State and are being stored until the
installation teams are ready to mobilize. It is estimated to take a minimum of three
weeks to arrive in Kodiak. So, we are anticipating parts to begin arriving mid -
December.
Small Projects
• Mill Bay Stairs Replacement: Staff received one bid, and that contract will be
presented on the November 13th & 20th meeting cycle.
• Landfill Scale Shack Platform: Staff received two bids and a Notice of Intent to
Award was issued to the lowest bidder. However, there was a protest submitted,
and the Manager decided in favor of the protest that will categorize the assumed
lowest bidder as an unresponsive bidder. Anticipating this contract will be
presented to the Assembly on the December 16th & 18th meeting cycle.
• Borough Park Table Replacement: Staff will be posting the invitation to bid soon,
for construction season 2026 spring/summer.
• Port Lions School Painting Project: Staff received a design fee proposal from
Jensen Yorba Wall and are anticipating work in summer 2026.
Other Contracts that will be coming up for renewal/rebid:
• Analytical Laboratory Services (LTP Sample Testing)
• Janitorial Services
• Solid Waste Management Contract
Upcoming Meetings
• Health Facilities Advisory Board (HFAB) — Nov 18th, Assembly Chambers
Conference Room
• Solid Waste Contract Committee (SWCC) — Nov 19th, KIB Conference Room
• Architectural Review Board (ARB) — Early December
FY2027 Budget Items - Al Cameras / Facial Recognition
Procurement / Contracting Officer addition
Ll
Page 153 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #4.a.
BOROUGH & CITY
Drop-off NON-PERISHABLE and
IN -DATE food items
inside the Borough Side
Hallway Upstairs.
There will be designated boxes.
PICKLES
3 -19TH
SOULFUL
•
QR.._ •
'HOCO
BAR I
1,
4 SWEET IMP -
"ET 'IT 2250
54 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #5.a.
BOROUGH CLERK'S
REPORT
November 13, 2025
1. Assembly Appointment to the Different Boards and Committees
With your recent appointments to different boards and committees, I highly suggest
subscribing to e-updates on the Kodiak Island Borough website. This will ensure you
receive notifications regarding meeting schedules and the release of agenda packets.
For the Kodiak College Council, School District Boards, and Hospital Advisory Board,
staff members from these organizations will contact you directly.
2. Coffee with the Clerks
On November 5, we conducted our third peer -to -peer training session. This training
emphasized the importance of taking meeting minutes based on Robert's Rules and
highlighted the responsibilities of clerks and secretaries during board meetings. Our
next meeting is scheduled for January, following the Holidays, where we will further
explore the roles of clerks and secretaries in board meetings. Cross -training is
essential for the long-term sustainability of KIB staff.
3. Automated Archiving of Contracts Using Electronic Forms
In May, while attending a Laserfiche training, one of the sessions I participated in was
centered around the creation of electronic forms that could be developed internally to
enhance our archiving efficiency. Thanks to Mitchell in the IT Department, who helped
us designing a form, and was able to develop it for us. We are now prepared to launch
the form and will conduct a training session for the staff tomorrow, enabling us to begin
electronic archiving instead of relying on paper. This transition will lead to a
significantly more efficient process, reducing both manpower and the need for physical
copies.
4. Liquor and Marijuana Licenses
We are excited that we are able to present you the revision to the Liquor License code.
My team and I have gained valuable insights while drafting the ordinance. I hope that
the Assembly will consider introducing it fairly soon.
Page 155 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #5.a.
We have completed our assessment of the ongoing operations of liquor licenses that are
entering their second year of operation. The two that particularly caught our attention are
as follows:
Southern Glazers of Alaska — The KIB Assembly objected to the renewal of License
#4860 for the following reasons:
• The business has no active business personal property or real property
accounts on record.
• The Assessor's Office confirmed with both Southern Glazer's and Odom that
the listed address, "Bay 2," does not exist.
• Southern Glazers does not appear to have employees or a physical storefront
in Kodiak and is reportedly billed by Odom for local sales.
• It remains unclear whether Southern Glazer's is actively wholesaling in Kodiak.
• The business license details show that the physical address for this specific
business license is located in Anchorage, Alaska.
• The actual license states that it "must be posted in a conspicuous place at the
business location. It is not transferable or assignable."
We have a protest in place already with the ABC Board. The hearing is scheduled
on November 25.
• El Chicano Mexican Restaurant — Address needed to be corrected from Marine
Way to Rezanof Drive. On October 2, 2025, regular meeting, the Assembly voiced
non -protest to this license.
Please let me know if you wish to protest the continued operations of these licenses
as they are about to enter their second year of operations.
We are currently investigating one marijuana license which is for Three Sisters LLC
DBA Wildflower.
KIBC 2.25.070
No member of the Assembly may absent himself from any regular or special meetings
of the assembly except for good cause. An assembly member who is unable to attend
a meeting SHALL ADVISE THE CLERK OR THE MAYOR of the contemplated
absence.
KIBC 2.30.025 (G)(1)
Notification to the borough clerk shall occur 24 hours prior to the meeting of the
request to participate electronically. If notice is not provided 24 hours prior to the
Page 156 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #5.a.
meeting, electronic participation shall not be allowed, unless approved by the mayor
prior to 5 p.m. the day of the meeting.
The Alaska Municipal League Conference will be held in Anchorage on December 10-
12. Please advise as soon as possible if you would like to go so, we can make
arrangements for you.
6. Annual Boards and Committees Appointments
In October, we began the recruitment process for the open positions on various
boards, committees, and commissions. We advertised in the Kodiak Daily Mirror, sent
letters to the incumbents, and followed up with emails.
The following are the open seats and the number of applicants as of today. The
deadline for application is tomorrow at 5 p.m.
IMPENDING
NUMBER OF
NOT
APPLICATIONS
VACANCIES
SEATS
REAPPL
RECEIVED
YING
Architectural
2 Seats
1
None
Review Board
Board of
1 seat
1
None
Equalization
1 alternate
Mission Lake
2 Seats
Tidegate
Parks and
2 Seats
Recreation
Solid Waste
3 at -large seats
2
Advisory Board
7. Records
• We are currently processing a pending records request.
• Developing a disposal report.
• Performing inventory of electronic files such as contracts, resolutions, and
ordinances
• Working on archival of boxes from various departments
Page 157 of 165
AGENDA ITEM #5.a.
8. Staff Training
The Clerk's Office staff members will be attending the Alaska Association of Municipal
Clerk's Training December 7-10. The Clerk's Office will be closed December 8-10 and
will reopen on December 11.
9. Future Projects
• Develop a better workflow process for the Board applications.
• Updates to outdated sections of Title 2.
• Revise and update sections of the election code.
Page 158 of 165
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KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
ORDINANCE NO. FY2024-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH AMENDING
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH CODE CHAPTER 5.01 REGARDING LIQUOR LICENSES TO
CLARIFY THE METHODS AND BASIS FOR BOROUGH PROTESTS FOR ISSUANCE OF A
NEW LICENSE, RENEWAL OF AN EXISTING LICENSE, TRANSFER OF AN EXISTING
LICENSE, AND REVIEW OF THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF A LICENSE
WHEREAS, the current language in Alaska Statutes Title 4 and 3 AAC 305 regarding notice of
pending liquor license applications and the reasons a local governing body may protest a license
action differs from the terms used in Borough Code provisions for procedures concerning alcohol
licenses issued by the State of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the Assembly desires to clarify the procedure and better identify the reasons that
may cause the local governing body to protest a liquor license issuance, renewal, transfer of
location or transfer of ownership; and
WHEREAS, the Assembly finds that the borough's interest may also be protected by
incorporating provisions in the code that address the evaluation of the continued operation of
ongoing licenses or endorsements during the second year of the biennial license period; and
WHEREAS, this new code proposes inclusion of a necessary step to allow an applicant or
licensee a reasonable opportunity to defend an application before a meeting of the local governing
body per the Alaska Administrative Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND
BOROUGH that:
Section 1: This ordinance is of a general and permanent nature and shall become a part of
the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances.
Section 2: That Section 5.01.010 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances,
Cooperation with State of Alaska Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board, is
amended as follows:
5.01.010 Cooperation with State of Alaska ABC Board.
It is declared the policy of the borough to cooperate with and aid the ABC Board in determining
the fitness of applicants requesting a transfer, renewal, or issuance of a new liquor license. This
includes evaluatina the onaoina operation of licenses or endorsements durina the second vear of
their biennial licensing period
Section 3: That Section 5.01.020 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, License
Renewal Procedure, is repealed and replaced to read as follows:
Revised Draf
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN
OfalfhV&. giunr2_icense Code Amendment
Page 154:t9g651 of 5
AGENDA ITEM #8.a.
45 F 01 020 I ioence renewal nrooed ire
46 A. UpeR reGeipt ef Ret'Ge from the A'Gehe!'G Beverage GGRtrel Beard ef the board's reGeipt 0
47 intent to approve the renewal of a new line for IlneRSe:
48 1. The Glerk shall investigate to determine if the borough has an iRterest whiGh GaR be pr0teGted
49 by pretesting the approval of the onnliootien for renewal; and
50 2. The Glerk shall GheGk with the state treepers OR the Rumber ef treuble reports at the plaGe e
51 business.
52 B. if the Glerk determ'Res that the bereugh has Re pretesting the reRewal, the Glerk
53
54 if Ot is determined that the reRewal GeUld be pretested based en Unpaid taxes or trouble reperts,
55 shell he cashed sled for review by the herei igh assembly.
56
57 5.01.020 License Renewal Procedure.
58 A. When the clerk receives notice from the Alcohol Marijuana Control Office (AMCO) of a license
59 renewal application, the clerk shall review the application and identify any basis for potential
60 protest for one or more of the reasons listed in this subsection A. If a basis for protest is
61 apparent, the clerk shall forward the application to the assembly and the assembly shall
62 determine whether to protest the application on the grounds that it is not in the public's best
63 interest based on the following factors:
64 1. Whether the business has or is operating with a valid zoning permit;
65 2. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
66 on the application are, delinquent in an amount totaling $1,000 or more in the payment of
67 any or all of the following_
68 a. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
69 or personal property related to conduct of the business operated under the license or
70 endorsement; and
71 b. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
72 under the license or endorsement;
73 3. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
74 4. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
75 surrounding area;
76 5. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
77 which alcohol is a contributing factor;
78 6. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
79 the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
80 stations and patrols;
81 7. The history of convictions of persons named on the application for any felony or any
82 criminal violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol
83 or a controlled substance; and
84 8. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
85 B. If the review of the criteria in subsection A shows no basis for protest, the clerk shall advise
86 the assembly that there is no apparent basis for protest and advise the ABC Board of the
87 borough's nonoblection to the license renewal.
88 C. If the review shows any evidence which could support a protest, with or without conditions,
89 the procedure below shall be followed:
90 1. The clerk shall promptly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on a
91 meeting agenda in order to comply with the 60-day protest period. Following the close of
92 the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by adopting a motion whether a protest
93 is to be lodged with the ABC Board, and it shall state the assembly's reasons for the
94 protest.
Ordinance No, FY202N-NN Page 16(RWg&2 of 5
Revised Draf OfalfhV&. giunrlicense Code Amendment
AGENDA ITEM #8.a.
95 2. The applicant shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable
96 opportunity to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
97 3. The assembly's decision to protest the application shall stand unless a majority of the
98 assembly votes to withdraw the protest.
99 4. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the
100 ABC Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received by the ABC Board
101 within 60 days of the borough having received notice of the application.
102 D. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
103 evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
104 the ABC Board.
105 Section 4: That Section 5.01.030 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, New License
106 and Transfer Procedure, is repealed and replaced to read as follows.
107 5.01.030 New licence and transfer nroredure
108
109 ef an appliGatiGR OF iRteRt te approve the traRsfer er issuaRGe ef a Rew liquer IiGeRse:
110 1 . The Glerk shall investigate to determiRe if the berough has an interest whiGh Gan
111
112 lioi ier lioence•
113 2. The Glerk shall GheGk with the state troopers on the number of treuble reports at the
114 plane of b iciness•
115
116 for the next rneetiRg of the assembly On eFder that Gitizens may express their de i
117 as to whether OF ROt the assembly should approve or pretest the transfer er issuaRGe
118 of the lam; iceRse; a„d
119
120 IiGence shall he mailer) to eanh lanldewner within 'I 500 foot of the proposed Ionatlon
�r�un-vc�-r-rarrca��ca , �rcccvr-mc�rvp�.rca�vca cror-r
121 h�iyy the ers. A�cJfrer from nno ne-SonR t aRether of o liq er "GeRseeFen if
122 IGGatiGR stays the same, shall be GGRsidered a request for a Rew liquer IiGeRse by the
123 Kodiak island Borough. The appliGant shall pay a fee based upon the G06t of the R
124 anrd application nroGessino nods to the bore ioh
125 B. The assembly, after publiG heaFiR9, shall determine by motion Of a protest te the appliGatieR
126 +s to be-ledgedwith the A'Gehe"n Beverage Ge trel Board If a protest is legged, the
127
128
129 Beverage Centre! Beard
130
131 5.01.030 New license and transfer procedure
132 A. When the clerk receives notice from the AMCO of a new license or transfer application, the
133 assembly shall determine whether to protest the application on the grounds that it is not in the
134 public's best interest based on the following factors:
135 1. Whether the business or endorsement has, or is eligible for a zoning permit;
136 2. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
137 on the application are, delinquent in an amount totaling $1,000 or more in the payment of
138 any or all of the followinq:
139 c. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
140 or personal property related to conduct of the business operated under the license or
141 endorsement; and
142 d. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
143 under the license or endorsement;
144 3. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
Ordinance No, FY202N-NN Page 16RWg653 of 5
Revised Draf Ofalft V&' isliunrlicense Code Amendment
AGENDA ITEM #8.a.
145 4. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
146 surrounding area;
147 5. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
148 which alcohol is a contributing factor;
149 6. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
150 the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
151 stations and patrols;
152 7. The history of convictions of persons named on the application for any felony or any
153 criminal violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol
154 or a controlled substance; and
155 8. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
156 B. The clerk shall promptly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on a meeting
157 agenda in order to comply with the 60-day protest period, allowing citizens to express their
158 desires as to whether or not the assembly should voice non -protest or lodge a protest for the
159 issuance or transfer of the liquor license or endorsement.
160 C. The notice of intent to establish a new liquor license or endorsement, or transfer of location or
161 transfer of ownership of an existing license or endorsement, shall be mailed to each landowner
162 within 1,500 feet of the proposed new location by the clerk. The applicant shall pay a fee based
163 upon the cost of the notice and application processing costs to the borough.
164 D. Following the close of the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by adopting a motion
165 whether a protest is to be lodged with the ABC Board, and it shall state the assembly's reasons
166 for the protest.
167 E. The applicant shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable opportunity
168 to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
169 F. The assembly's decision to protest the application shall stand unless a majority of the assembly
170 votes to withdraw the protest.
171 G. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the ABC
172 Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received by the ABC Board within 60
173 days of the borough having received notice of the application.
174 E. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
175 evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
176 the ABC Board.
177 Section 5: That Section 5.01.040 of the Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances, New License
178 and Transfer Procedure, is hereby incorporated as follows.
179 1 5.01.040 Protests of continued operation of a license.
180 I A. The clerk shall initiate an investiaation reaardina the onaoina operation of licenses that are
181 entering the second year of their biennial licensing period. If the clerk's investigation identifies
182 any basis for potential protest for one or more of the reasons listed in this subsection, the clerk
183 shall forward the license to the assembly for review and the assembly shall determine whether
184 to protest the license on the grounds that it is not in the public's best interest based on the
185 following factors:
186 1. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement has, or is operating
187 with a valid zoning permit;
188 9. Whether the business operated under the license or endorsement is, or persons named
189 on the license are, delinquent in an amount totaling $1,000 or more in the payment of any
190 or all of the following:
191 a. Property taxes or local improvement district assessments; penalties or interest on real
192 or personal property related to conduct of the business operated under the license or
193 endorsement;
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN Page 16Ft99e54 of 5
Revised Draf 0falfhV&gkDvr2-icense Code Amendment
AGENDA ITEM #8.a.
194 b. Charges for a borough service provided for the benefit of the business conducted
195 under the license or endorsement;
196 2. The character and public interests of the surrounding neighborhood;
197 3. The comments and objections, if any, of the residents and property owners of the
198 surrounding area;
199 4. Whether the surrounding area experiences an unacceptable rate of crime or accidents in
200 which alcohol is a contributing factor;
201 5. The actual and potential law enforcement problems of the business conducted under
202 the license or endorsement, including the proximity of the premises to law enforcement
203 stations and patrols;
204 6. The history of convictions of persons named on the license for any felony or any criminal
205 violation of State or local statute or regulation involving use or abuse of alcohol or a
206 controlled substance; and
207 7. Any other factors determined to be relevant to the public interest.
208 B. If the review of the criteria in subsection A shows any evidence which could support a protest,
209 with or without conditions, the procedure below shall be followed:
210 1. The clerk shall duly advertise and place the matter as a public hearing item on the agenda.
211 Following the close of the public hearing, the assembly shall determine by motion whether
212 a protest is to be lodged with the ABC Board and it shall state the basis of the protest.
213 2. The licensee shall be notified of such decision and shall be allowed a reasonable
214 opportunity to defend their application before a meeting of the assembly.
215 3. The assembly's decision to protest the license shall stand unless a majority of the
216 assembly votes to withdraw the protest.
217 4. Any protest must state the assembly's reasons for the protest and must be filed with the
218 ABC Board and copied to the applicant. A protest must be received by the ABC Board by
219 January 31 of the second year of the license.
220 C. If a protest is lodged, the manager and attorney are authorized to use any document or
221 evidence necessary to effectively advance the position of the borough at any hearing before
222 the ABC Board.
223
224 Effective Date: This ordinance takes effect upon adoption.
225
226 ADOPTED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
227 THIS DAY OF , 2024
228
229 KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
230
231 ATTEST:
232
233 Jared Griffin, Borough Mayor
234 Nova M. Javier, MMC, Borough Clerk
235
236 Introduced by: KIB Assembly
237 First reading:
238 Second reading/public hearing:
239
240 VOTES:
241 Ayes:
242 Noes:
Ordinance No. FY202N-NN Page 163�tgge55 of 5
Revised Draf 0fJlfhW&gkDvr2_icense Code Amendment
AGENDA ITEM #8.b.
Space Requested
Room Square Feet
144
2000
146
285
150
832
153
849
154
838
156
428
159
866
161
864
162
888
165
824
Hallway
1342
F77Resource Room
437
Total 10453
approximate
Red Cross Lease
Square Feet Cost
936.75 $ 1,124.10
$ / sq ft
$ 1.20
Similar North Star Lease Rate w/ hallway
Square Feet
10453
Cost
$12,543.60
$ / sq ft
$ 1.20
Annual
$150,523.20
Similar North Star Lease w/o hallway
Square Feet
9111
Cost
1 $10,933.20
$ / sq ft
1 $ 1.20
Annual
$131,198.40
North Star Average Annual Costs
Average Annual Utility Cost (no maintnance included)
$128,078.33
Insurance
$ 27,256.70 Current Rate
Snow/ Ice Control
$ 11,123.60 FY24
Internet
TBD
Street Lighf
$ 5,000.00
Total $171,458.63
Page 164 of 165
Agenda Item 2.0 North Star School Facility Update
AGENDA ITEM #8. c.
Y Go
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
0
ALASKA
Meeting Type: Assembly Work Session Date:
November 13, 2025
Please PRINT your name legibly Phone number
Page 165 of 165