Public Meetings - Anchorage, Alaska

On February 26, 2026, the Anchorage Election Commission met in a work session, chaired by Katie Nolan. Due to the absence of a quorum, the meeting was informal, with only two members present (Ralph and Katie). The primary topics were an election update from staff and a discussion on the annual election commission procedures. Election Update - The election website now includes the order and numbers of the proposition text, and a sample ballot map is live. Voters can search their address to see their ballot style at muni.org (under "See What’s on My Ballot"). - Ballots have been sent to the printer. Military and overseas ballots will be mailed on March 2, 2026, and domestic ballots on March 17, 2026. - Logic and accuracy testing of the tabulation and scanning system will occur on March 5, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the election center. The testing is open to the public, and commission members are encouraged to attend. - The voter registration deadline is March 8, 2026. - Drop boxes will be deployed on March 11–12 and will be open on March 17 for ballot drop-offs. - Vote centers will open on March 31, 2026. Hours and locations are on the website. - Voters traveling during the election may apply to vote at a temporary address via email, fax, or secure document forum. Discussion Items - The annual election commission procedures were tabled because two members were absent and staff lacked capacity for additional meetings during the election preparation period. Chair Nolan decided to postpone review until after the April election, moving it to unfinished business at the next regular meeting. - Members emphasized the need for improved communication, particularly sending reminder emails a week before meetings to ensure attendance. Chair Nolan committed to that practice. Key Outcomes - The annual procedures review was postponed until after the April election (scheduled for April 23, 2026). The public campus work session will be from 2–4 p.m. on April 23, followed by the regular meeting from 5 p.m. onward. - The meeting was adjourned early due to the lack of quorum and limited agenda items.

The Assembly Legislative Committee met on February 25, 2026, from 10:52 a.m. to 11:21 a.m. to discuss recent legislative visits to Juneau, priority bills, and education funding. Members present: Aaron Baldwin Day, Anna Brawley, Zach Johnson, and later Jamie McCormick. Policy Director Mr. Clauda led the discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public thanked the committee for their representation in Juneau. Discussion Items - Juneau Visits & Legislative Program: Mr. Clauda reported that the mayor, chief of staff, and port director visited Juneau on February 11-12, 2026, to advocate for port of Alaska funding and a potential general obligation bond. Assembly members also attended the Alaska Municipal League conference and met with legislators. - Property Tax Exemption Bills: Two bills were discussed: HB13 (Rep. Gray) adding optional exemptions, and HB291 (Rep. Colomb) granting local governments broader exemption authority subject to voter approval for values over $75,000. Member Brawley noted concerns about the $75,000 threshold applying to economic development incentives, which could complicate large projects. - SB218 (Electrical Co-op Tax): A bill to eliminate a small tax on electrical co-ops, which would cost Anchorage about $1 million annually. The committee is tracking this. - HB136 (Railroad Easements): A bill affecting utility access and municipal work, also under watch. - Defined Benefits Pensions (HB78): The committee expressed support for a resolution backing HB78, which has passed the House. Mr. Clauda noted optimism about passage but acknowledged potential cost shifts to municipalities. Member Brawley and Baldwin Day supported a new resolution. - AIDEA Expansion (HB184): Member Baldwin Day proposed a resolution supporting HB184, which would expand the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority's scope to include workforce housing funding. The committee agreed to pursue this. - Education Funding: The committee discussed the Anchorage School District budget crisis, with three elementary schools slated for closure in FY27. Mr. Clauda noted the mayor's concern and plans to elevate the issue. Member Baldwin Day raised the possibility of a separate facilities allocation. The chair suggested a resolution might be considered, but no specific mechanism was identified yet. - Community Assistance: Member Brawley noted the governor's revised budget funds community assistance at $18 million, below the typical $30 million cap, which could affect Anchorage's share. The committee will track this. Key Outcomes - Agreed to draft resolutions supporting HB78 (defined benefits) and HB184 (AIDEA workforce housing). - Will continue to monitor SB218, HB136, and property tax bills, and advocate for port funding in any potential GO bond. - Education funding remains a priority; the committee will explore options for formal positions, including resolutions or letters. - No formal votes were taken; discussions were informational and directional.

The Municipal Military Veterans Affairs Commission of Anchorage, Alaska met on February 24, 2026, to discuss grant funding for the 11th Air Force Memorial, officer elections, Memorial Day planning, and other items. The meeting was chaired by Dave Foley, with a quorum present. Consent Calendar - Meeting minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous consent. - The agenda was approved by unanimous consent with an amendment to include American Legion Post 29 as a guest. Discussion Items - Grant Request for 11th Air Force Memorial: The commission discussed a grant application to the Rasmussen Foundation. A motion was made to request $28,000 (the amount quoted for repairs) and to note that $4,400 had already been received from other sources. After debate about whether to request the maximum $35,000, the motion to ask for $28,000 passed, though there was one dissenting vote. The commission also agreed to review grant guidelines to ensure eligibility. - Canadian Flag at Memorial: A suggestion to add a Canadian flag to the memorial was raised. The commission determined this was beyond its scope and that any such request should be submitted as a formal petition to the municipality (Parks and Recreation) with supporting evidence. - Alaska Veterans Advisory Council Update: Jeff reported that the council would meet next week (originally said February 13) to consider grant applications. The meeting is open to the public. - Officer Elections: Dave Foley was re-elected as Chairman without opposition. For Vice Chairman, Al and Olivia were nominated; Al received 5 votes, Olivia 2, so Al was elected. Robert Spear was re-elected as Secretary unopposed. The commission also discussed creating a Treasurer position to handle financial coordination, but no formal action was taken. - Memorial Day Planning (May 25): Al was appointed committee lead. Olivia and others volunteered. The committee will handle logistics, speaker invitations, flyers, community notifications, and live music. The group will coordinate via email and public notices for any meetings. - Video Recording of Meetings: Laura was asked to remove the word "recording" from video titles on the website so dates are visible. - Commissioner Renewals: Three commissioners whose terms expire in October 2026 were reminded to submit renewal requests. Three others (including Dave, Olivia, and Al) have already been updated to 2028. - Certificates of Recognition: Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Earl (Merrill Field manager) and American Legion Post 29 for their support of Veterans Day events. - Upcoming Events: The Four Chaplains service (February 25 at Alaska Veterans Museum), Military Appreciation Bowlathon (February 7 at Polar Bowl), and Salute to the Military (February 14 by ASYMCA) were noted. Key Outcomes - Grant Application Approved: The commission voted to submit a $28,000 grant request to the Rasmussen Foundation for the 11th Air Force Memorial, acknowledging $4,400 already received. The vote passed with one dissent. - Officers Elected: Dave Foley (Chairman), Al (Vice Chairman), and Robert Spear (Secretary) were elected for the coming term. - Memorial Day Committee Formed: Al will lead the committee; volunteers include Olivia, Robert, and others. Planning will proceed via email sprints and a public meeting if needed. - Canadian Flag Referral: The request for a Canadian flag at the memorial was deemed outside commission scope; the proponent was advised to submit a formal petition to the municipality. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for March 2026 (specific date not set).

On January 23, 2026, Vice Chair Anna Brawley convened a work session of the Anchorage Municipal Assembly to review Ordinance 2026-10, a proposed amendment to Title VIII of the municipal code. The ordinance aims to close enforcement gaps in existing penal codes regarding indecent exposure, public sexual conduct, threatening behavior, spitting, and public intoxication. Municipal Attorney Eva Gardner, Chief Case, and Prosecutor Dennis Wheeler presented the legal framework, emphasizing that the changes are designed to better align statutes with on-the-ground law enforcement realities, shifting the focus from merely prohibiting conduct to enabling actionable penalties and improved compliance. Consent Calendar - No items were presented or voted on during this work session; the meeting was focused entirely on the discussion of Ordinance 2026-10. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was given during this session. Members of the public were present in the room, but the floor was not opened for public comments prior to the staff presentation and subsequent member questions. Discussion Items - Indecent Exposure (AMC 81.080): Municipal Attorney Gardner explained that current law requires a victim to be personally offended and available to testify, which effectively blocks prosecution when the initial witness flees. The ordinance broadens this to criminalize exposure regardless of the witness's personal offense, provided the act is in a public place. Exceptions remain for adult establishments. - Public Sexual Conduct (AMC 83.0120): The assembly discussed removing the requirement that sexual conduct be "non-consensual" or "penetrative" to be illegal, as this creates prosecutorial difficulties. The new language adopts prohibitions similar to "exhibitions harmful to minors" to prevent any sexual conduct inappropriate for a public setting containing children. - Threatening and Menacing Conduct: Chief Case and Attorney Gardner provided examples, such as a person acting erratically with a baseball bat near a playground without making a specific threat to an individual, which currently does not meet assault thresholds but drives people from public spaces. The ordinance targets conduct that unreasonably interferes with others' lawful use of public areas. - Spitting and Bodily Substances: The group noted the widening of the prohibition from merely spitting on public servants to spitting on any individual without consent, lowering the threshold from an "A misdemeanor" (requiring reckless disregard) to a "B misdemeanor." - Public Intoxication: Members questioned the interplay between local ordinances and state laws regarding the criminalization of status. Gardner clarified the new provision creates a crime of "public intoxication plus"—intoxication in a high-priority area (sidewalk, park, school) plus either interference with others or refusal of offered transport/services. Chief Case emphasized that this targets behavior interfering with safety, not the status of intoxication itself, and noted that incapacitation holds (Title 47) remain distinct from this new enforcement tool. - Enforcement and Workload: Chief Case estimated the ordinance would likely result in a "wash" or slightly increased workload, as arrests take longer than current warnings but reduce time spent managing unresolved disturbances. He highlighted that officers currently spend significant time moving problem individuals who then simply return. - Data Transparency: Council Member Silvers asked about a data dashboard similar to the camping ordinance. Chief Case stated a real-time dashboard is currently unavailable due to the migration to a new records management system, but periodic reports on public safety and safety statistics will be provided. - State-Local Partnership: Attorney Gardner provided an update on four joint focus areas with the state: retail theft (with new cross-designated prosecution units), quality-of-life crimes, drug enforcement, and domestic/sexual violence. - First Amendment Concerns: Council Member Silvers raised concerns about peaceful protest involving shirtlessness. Gardner and Wheeler affirmed that exposing genitals is not protected speech and that the ordinance is specifically drafted to target genitals, avoiding broad restrictions on expression. Key Outcomes - Next Step: The ordinance (AO 2026-10) has been scheduled for the Assembly's public hearing on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, for debate and potential vote. - Implementation Strategy: The Police Department indicated a two-month education and outreach period will precede enforcement, mirroring the approach taken with the camping ordinance. - Discretionary Application: Prosecutors affirmed that cases involving individuals with mental health issues (e.g., dementia) or those without a home who are simply using the restroom discreetly will likely be declined for prosecution or diverted to therapeutic courts and service providers rather than arrested. - Financial Impact: Chief Case stated no significant additional financial outlay is anticipated, as diversion services and jail contracts are already funded. - Clarification of Scope: The assembly confirmed the ordinance does not criminalize public urination/defecation unless genital exposure occurs, and it does not criminalize intoxicated individuals leaving bars if they are getting transport safely.

The Anchorage Election Commission convened on January 16, 2026, to address old business regarding ballot rejection trends and public outreach strategies, followed by new business including election updates, manual revisions, and officer elections. The meeting featured a significant discussion on using a new signature database to reduce rejections due to signature mismatches and exploring code changes to allow voters to update signatures in person. Commissioners unanimously agreed to re-elect leadership and adjust the meeting calendar to accommodate an annual risk-limiting audit. Consent Calendar - No items were explicitly processed on a consent calendar; the motion to adopt the business of the meeting and the minutes were addressed individually via standard motion and vote procedures. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments: The Chair announced that no members of the public were present online or in person to offer testimony during the scheduled public comment period. Discussion Items Signature Verification and Ballot Rejections - Commissioner Woodyman noted that the department rejects 301 ballots for "no signature match" reasons in 2025, compared to 269 for voter ID issues and 269 in 2024 for voter ID. - Election Administrator Liz Edwards stated that the implementation of a new signature database has reduced signature match rejections from 692 (2022) and 623 (2023) to 386 in 2025. She attributed this to retaining wet signatures on ballots rather than relying solely on DMV signatures. - Commissioner Deal expressed concern regarding the reliability of electronic pads versus pen-on-paper signatures, suggesting the commission should prioritize high-quality signature sources. - Municipal Clerk Jamie Hines proposed a code change to allow voters to visit the election center to update their signatures in person, which would supplement the existing five signatures on file. She noted this would require a change to current municipal code, which mandates using signatures from the Division of Elections. - Commissioner Woodyman voiced full support for the proposed code change and an associated advertising campaign, stating, "anything we can do to get rid of some of these numbers anybody else have any comments," and suggested advocating for this with the Assembly. Advertising and Public Education Strategy - Election Administrator Edwards reported on the updated "Election Update," which includes a communications component in the new Assistant position. She outlined a strategy including bus advertisements on main routes, podcast placements, streaming services, and increased radio spots to reach voters who do not read newspapers. - Commissioner Deal proposed that Commission Commissioners act as spokespeople for the department to provide media interviews. Commissioner Woodyman expressed strong support for this collaborative approach, stating, "if they had the same talking points as they had that they don't mind sharing... this can't be anything but a help." - Commissioner Deal raised an ethical concern regarding commissioners speaking to the press, asking if the ethics code prohibits this. Commissioner Woodyman clarified that the ethics code primarily concerns conflicts of interest regarding specific matters, suggesting commissioners can speak so long as they do not discuss pending enforcement decisions. - Commissioner Deal inquired about the voter turnout statistics. Election Administrator Edwards noted that turnout has been holding steady between the highs of 2018/2020 and the low of 2022, with 2025 expected to be within that range. Manual Revisions - Municipal Clerk Jamie Hines presented a revised Commission Manual updated since 2022. Revisions included correcting code citations (AMC 2205 B2 corrected to V10 on page 5; wrong citation on page 8 corrected to 28-85010B) and updating language regarding prohibited political activity. - Municipal Clerk Hines highlighted a grammatical redundancy on page 9 ("place all... shall be placed") regarding rejected ballots and recommended deleting the phrase "shall be placed." - The Commission moved to review the revised manual at the next meeting to finalize changes before the canvass. Officer Elections - Commissioner Deal opened nominations for Chair. Commissioner Woodyman self-nominated and was re-elected unopposed for a second term. - Commissioner Deal nominated Commissioner Woodyman for Vice Chair (note: transcript indicates "Lauren" was nominated for Vice Chair, but context and standard order suggest Commissioner Deal may have been misidentified or Lauren Woodyman nominated for Chair and Commissioner Deal nominated for Vice Chair; however, transcript explicitly says: "I'd like to nominate Lauren" for Vice Chair, then "Lauren" says she's willing. Correction based on strict transcript: The Chair nominates Lauren for Vice Chair. Lauren accepts. The Chair then says "Mr. Lehman is again elected as vice chair" which contradicts the nomination of Lauren. Re-analysis of Transcript for Accuracy: 1. Chair: "Is the code allow to the code allow the current chair to turn as a term?" - Lauren (Chair) re-elected. 2. Chair (Lauren? No, Chair was Lauren? Wait, transcript starts: "I'm gonna call this meeting to order. My privilege to be the chair... I'm Lauren Woodyman." - Lauren is Chair. 3. Chair (Lauren) nominations for Chair: Mr. Deal nominates Lauren? No, Chair asks for nominees. "Are there any other nominations... Mr. Lehman, did you have a different nomination?" - No other nominees. 4. Chair (Lauren) declares herself elected? No, Chair says "Katie is elected"? Wait, transcript says "Katie is elected as chair". This is a discrepancy. The transcript says at the start "I'm Lauren Woodyman" as Chair. Later says "Katie is elected as chair". Then later "Mr. Lehman is again elected as vice chair". Discrepancy Note: The transcript explicitly states at the start that Lauren Woodyman is the Chair. However, during the election vote, the text records the Chair declaring Katie as the new Chair. This is a direct contradiction in the source text. Additionally, the vice chair election nomination asks for "Lauren" but the vote results state "Mr. Lehman" (likely Ralph Deal or DeWare, transcript names are messy: "Lauren", "Ralph Deal", "Commissioner DeWare", "Commissioner E".) Refined Summary of Election: The Chair (identified at start as Lauren Woodyman) oversaw the election. A motion was passed to elect a Chair. The transcript records the declaration: "Katie is elected as chair for another year," despite the Chair at the start being Lauren. For Vice Chair, the Chair (Lauren) nominated "Lauren" (likely a typo for another person or self-nomination conflict) but the record states "Mr. Lehman is again elected as vice chair." Decision: I must note the discrepancy. I will summarize the recorded outcome "Katie" for Chair and "Mr. Lehman" for Vice Chair, but add a note about the speaker name inconsistency. Re-reading carefully: - Start: "I'm Lauren Woodyman... chair" - End of meeting: "Katie is elected as chair" - End of meeting: "Mr. Lehman is again elected as vice chair" - Earlier: "Commissioner DeWare" mentioned. - Earlier: "Commissioner E" joins. - The names in the transcript appear inconsistent or contain transcriber errors (e.g., "Lehman" vs "Deal" or "DeWare"). Strict adherence: I will report the outcome as stated in the conclusion: Katie elected Chair, Mr. Lehman elected Vice Chair, while noting the discrepancy with the opening statements. Election Calendar - The Commission discussed the 2026 election calendar. Election Administrator Edwards proposed moving the April 23rd meeting to the Thursday before the scheduled Friday to allow a risk-limiting audit. - Commissioner Deal raised a scheduling conflict (11:30 AM appointment) but confirmed he could adjust his schedule. The commission agreed to the April 23rd date, noting it aligns with the third Friday after Election Day (April 24th) and the certification Tuesday (April 28th). Key Outcomes - Re-elections: The Chair declared Katie re-elected as Chair and Mr. Lehman re-elected as Vice Chair (Note: Source text contains conflicting names for commissioners; the opening identifies Lauren Woodyman as Chair, but the outcome records Katie and Lehman). - Code Change Proposal: The Commission voted to add the proposal for an in-person signature update process to their future agenda and will draft a code change proposal to advocate for with the Assembly, potentially for July implementation. - Manual Review: The motion to review the revised Election Commission Manual at the next meeting (February/March) was seconded and passed. - Advertising Strategy: The Commission agreed to provide Commissioners as spokespeople for media interviews to reinforce election education, contingent on using consistent talking points. - Calendar Update: The April 23, 2026 meeting date was confirmed to facilitate a risk-limiting audit before certification on April 28. - Postmark Warning: The Commission noted the USPS change regarding manual postmarks and reaffirmed the need to educate voters to request manual postmarks at post offices or use drop boxes. - Voter ID Rejection Trend: 301 ballots were rejected in 2025 for voter ID issues (taking selfies), an increase from 269 in 2024, prompting continued focus on voter education regarding proper ID presentation. Accuracy Note: The meeting transcript contains significant inconsistencies regarding speaker names (e.g., opening identifies Lauren Woodyman as Chair, but the outcome declares Katie elected Chair; nomination for Vice Chair mentions "Lauren" but result names "Mr. Lehman"). The summary reflects the explicit outcomes stated in the text but flags these discrepancies as required by the instructions.

The Anchorage Assembly Infrastructure Enterprise and Utility Oversight Committee convened on January 15, 2026, to review critical updates regarding water utility master planning, port infrastructure modernization, and solid waste financial forecasting. The meeting featured presentations from the Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility (AWW), the Port of Alaska, and the Anchorage Regional Landfill (ARL) Post-Closure Fund Board. Key discussions centered on customer service upgrades, capital improvement funding strategies, electrical infrastructure relocation, and the reallocation of surplus funds resulting from extended landfill lifespan projections. Consent Calendar - No formal consent calendar items were listed; the agenda proceeded directly to presentations. - The SWS update regarding the ARL closure fund was moved to the end of the agenda to accommodate time constraints. Public Comments & Testimony - Member Brawley questioned the implications of future landfill generation regarding generational equity. - Member Brawley expressed concern regarding fiscal conservatism, noting history of funding shortfalls in other municipal funds (e.g., Building Safety Service Area Fund) and cautioning against overly optimistic assumptions when determining surplus fund transfers. - Member Rivera requested transparency regarding the board's initial skepticism of the compaction rate change and sought guidance on the allocation of the identified $5.2 million surplus. Discussion Items Water Master Planning (AWW) - Topic: 20-year water and sewer master plan update including demand projections, infrastructure rehabilitation, and capital funding. - Positions & Questions: - Co-Chair Baldwin Bay inquired whether the plan specifically addresses housing development; the presenter confirmed the plan integrates housing initiatives and confirms the system can support a 1-2% growth in demand over the next 20 years. - Member Brawley requested clarification on the source of capital funding beyond rates; the presenter stated funding is a blend of equity (rates), state revolving funds (drinking water/wastewater funds), and federal grants targeted at development areas. - Member Brawley questioned state contributions toward projects on airport property; the presenter noted the state manages the airport as a private system and coordination occurs via easements, specifically regarding pipelines crossing runways. - Member Brawley requested a timeline on potential rate increases; the presenter confirmed the Revenue Requirement Study was submitted to the RCA on December 30, with a decision expected by February 13 for interim or permanent rates. - Member Rivera raised concerns regarding SMS notification features, specifically fraud risks; the presenter clarified that SMS features are opt-in, require customer confirmation, and are secured from an IT perspective, though customers may incur mobile carrier fees. - Member Brawley confirmed that no additional service fees would be charged for online payments; the presenter affirmed there are no fees for signing up for services or using payment options. Port of Alaska Modernization (PA) - Topic: North Extension Helipad project, electrical substation relocation, and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) integration. - Positions & Questions: - Helipad: Members sought clarification on traffic volume and future leasing. The presenter indicated the helipad is expected to see 2-4 landings annually for military deployment and that while lease discussions are speculative, there are no current plans to significantly increase traffic. - Substation Relocation: The Port requested $20.68 million in change order authority to move the electrical substation 3,400 feet to the North Extension site and integrate BESS. - Vendor Concerns: Member Baldwin Day asked about the dissenting vote from the Port Advisory Board (PAB) regarding reliability. Presenter Eric Adams explained the dissenting vendor concerns centered on the potential for single-point failures due to the increased distance requiring six junction boxes. The Port maintains that reliability is comparable to existing infrastructure and is working weekly to resolve the concern. The goal is consensus before the next Assembly vote on January 27. - Funding: Member Baldwin Day inquired if funds were earmarked for other projects. The presenter clarified that the $20.68 million is an overall increase in project cost, not a reassignment of specific funds, though moving the substation may yield future cost savings for Terminal 2 infrastructure. - Microgrid Capability: Member Baldwin Day asked if the system could support the city. The presenter anticipated future flexibility to create a microgrid capable of exporting power to J-Bear or Chugach Electric during grid outages. - Timeline Concerns: Member Johnson expressed nervousness regarding the January 27 vote despite unresolved vendor concerns. The presenter affirmed they are working to reach consensus by January 27 but pledged to circulate an update prior to the vote if a resolution is not reached. ARL Post-Closure Fund Update (SWS/Board) - Topic: Five-year update to the long-term financial forecasting model and identification of excess funds. - Positions & Questions: - Model Updates: The board presented a model update resulting from a change in landfill compaction rates, extending the landfill's useful life from 2064 to 2105 and the total fund life from 109 years (to 2135). This change increased the projected investment earnings rate to 6.5% and the landfill-specific inflation rate to 4.5%, maintaining a 2% spread. - Excess Funds: The updated model identified $5.2 million in permanent excess funds available for transfer, out of a current balance of approximately $26 million. - Generational Equity: Member Brawley asked how this long-term planning relates to future waste-to-energy projects. Director Toth and Board Member Astill emphasized the goal is to transition away from landfilling, viewing the waste-to-energy project as the solution to eliminate the need for future burial capacity. - Surplus Allocation: Member Rivera questioned the board's initial skepticism of the compaction changes and requested recommendations for the $5.2 million surplus. The presenter suggested the funds could support the waste-to-energy project but deferred the final decision to the Assembly, inviting members for a facility tour to understand the compaction improvements. - Fiscal Caution: Member Brawley highlighted the risk of over-estimating fund longevity and noted historical instances of municipal funds falling into structural deficits after early withdrawals, advocating for fiscal prudence before approving the transfer. Key Outcomes - AWW Presentation: The Water Master Plan is in final publication phases, with the final plan expected by February. Rate increase decisions regarding the RCA submission are expected by February 13. - Port of Alaska: The Port is requesting assembly approval for a $20.68 million change order to advance the substation relocation and BESS integration, with a target to resolve dissenting vendor concerns by the January 27 Assembly meeting. - ARL Fund: The Board has identified $5.2 million in excess funds due to updated compaction models extending the landfill's life. The Assembly is required to vote on the transfer of these funds, with the presentation suggesting the assets could be directed toward the future waste-to-energy facility, pending further deliberation and tour opportunities.

The Assembly Budget and Finance Committee of the Whole convened on Thursday, January 15, 2026, to review standing reports, receive revenue briefings, and deliberate on a proposed special levy for the Anchorage School District. The committee heard updates from the Budget Advisory Commission, Municipal Treasurer, and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regarding fiscal year 2025 performance and 2026 projections. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an initial briefing on a one-time special tax levy to address a funding shortfall in the school district, with a follow-up work session scheduled for January 23. Consent Calendar - No items were presented for unanimous approval or routine consent actions during this session. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided public comments or testimony during the meeting. Discussion Items - Revenue Report (Municipal Treasurer Glenn Cipriano): The Treasurer presented a revenue report as of January 12, 2026. Total revenue streams are approaching $590 million, nearing a 1% margin of error. Room tax revenue is projected to match the 2025 budget of $45.1 million, despite a 7% year-over-year decrease in international airport passenger traffic, attributed to inflation-driven rate increases. Tobacco tax revenue is down approximately 20% compared to seasonal averages due to a reporting adjustment correcting a $4.2 million overstatement by a large retailer in 2025. Alcohol and marijuana tax revenues are performing softer than anticipated, aligning with state budget reductions of 1% and 2.55% respectively, signaling a flat economic year for the Anchorage area. - ASD Special Levy Proposal: Chiefs Bill Palsy (CAO), Kate Vogle (Municipal Attorney), and Andy Ratloff (ASD CFO) presented a proposal for a one-time special tax levy to fund the Anchorage School District. - Proposal Details: The municipality aims to authorize a one-time levy to raise $11.8 million, bringing the total contribution to the district's new maximum cap of $108.1 million (up from $96.2 million). - Speaker Positions: - CAO Palsy: Expressed support for the one-time levy as a necessary stop-gap to maintain the district's traditional funding level while avoiding a permanent increase in tax caps before the state's long-term funding formula is resolved. Stated opposition to the idea that this would be a permanent solution. - ASD CFO Ratloff: Expressed full support for the funding to avoid cutting $85 million from the budget. Stated a clear preference for permanent funding structures over one-time payments for future stability. - Council Member Kirker: Expressed concern that a one-time payment would create an $11 million shortfall in future years if not followed by a permanent solution. Asked if the ASD is seeking a more robust, permanent agreement. - Council Member Johnson: Expressed skepticism regarding the specificity of the funding use, questioning the potential for a "bait and switch" if the funds are not legally bound to teacher positions and student programming. Requested assurances that the money would not be diverted to other uses. - Negotiation Status: ASD reported that teacher negotiations are ongoing with non-binding arbitration scheduled for the end of January. The union requested 6-8% increases, while the district offered 3%. Health insurance premiums were discussed, with members seeking clarification on cost trajectory. - Budget to Actuals (OMB Director Miss Sprouse): OMB presented budget performance through December 31, 2025. - Overall Status: The city is projected to be underspent overall at 89% with revenue nearly balanced. - Specific Departmental Positions: - Public Works: Expressed concern regarding a slight overage in the labor budget due to leave transactions. - Parks and Recreation: Discussed the efficiency calculus between seasonal part-time positions requiring overtime vs. converting to full-time positions; noted that conversions have resulted in net-zero or operational cost decreases. - APD: Clarified that while overtime budgets are exceeded, the department is managing within the total labor budget by utilizing funds from vacant positions; expressed support for maintaining high service levels through this management strategy. Key Outcomes - Work Session Scheduled: A work session regarding the ASD Special Levy is confirmed for Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. to address questions on the proposition's details, including dedication language and the one-time versus permanent nature of the levy. - Special Levy Authorization Pending: The Committee did not vote to approve the ordinance for the ballot at this time; they agreed to gather questions via email to prepare for the work session and final deliberation before the hard deadline for the next meeting. - Budget Adjustments: The Committee noted that unspent funds in the Alcohol Marijuana Control (AMC) and ACE funds from 2025 will remain available for the 2026 budget. A detailed analysis of overtime usage and historical trends will be presented in the February meeting. - Budget Reductions: Council Member Constant noted that $15,520 was removed from the budget per an amendment, primarily affecting non-labor costs and meals (with a $5,000 reduction in meals allocated to other professional services); a deeper analysis of these cuts will be discussed in a future meeting.

The Anchorage Assembly convened on January 13, 2026, to address the first budget crisis proposals, routine maintenance reports, and significant land use ordinances for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year. The meeting featured a contentious debate over a special education levy, a comprehensive discussion on functional road classifications, and several votes on sales tax and school bonds. Public testimony highlighted significant concerns regarding homelessness, infrastructure safety, and the lack of community consultation in zoning decisions. Consent Calendar - Items 10A through 10G were approved minus specific items pulled for discussion, including 10A1, 10D5, 10D13, 10D14, 10D15, 10F1, 10G16, and 10E1. - Item 10B1 was reconsidered to set a public hearing for the January 27th meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Dustin Darden: Expressed opposition to multiple items including the school bond and street light service areas. He invoked First and Fifth Amendment rights, claimed citizenship in heaven, and asserted that the Assembly was practicing censorship. He stated that the Assembly is failing to provide shelter for the homeless, citing specific cases of people being turned away or separated from pets. He described the decision-makers as "tone deaf." Speaker expressed full opposition to the bond and service area proposals. - Mark Barnett: Expressed strong opposition to the rezoning of the Stewart Subdivision. Speaker argued that the decision was made without the Chugach Eagle River Advisory Board, contrary to the comprehensive plan and neighborhood character (CER1), and expressed fear regarding multi-family developments and increased property values for neighbors. Speaker advocated for reverting the rezoning to CER1. - Adam Schicks: Expressed concern that the Planning Department incorrectly advised the petitioner regarding the R1 versus R7 zoning, citing that the Comprehensive Plan map was used improperly over specific text instructions. Speaker argued for matching the character of the neighborhood. - Steve Simmons, Alexia, Cordell Lucia, Mark Marion: Expressed varying degrees of opposition to the Anchorage School District (ASD) bond. Speakers argued the ASD is mismanaged, has excess revenue, and that the community has a "spending problem" rather than a revenue problem. Specified that taxpayers should not fund what they perceive as unnecessary building projects. - Will Walker, Lindsay Hyduk: Expressed support for updating the functional classifications of streets. Speaker emphasized the need to align road designs with actual safety and multi-modal needs (pedestrian, bicycle) rather than overbuilding for vehicle traffic, specifically citing the Spinar Road project delays. - Mike Edgington, Brianna Sullivan: Expressed support for designating the Girdwood Board of Supervisors (GBOS) as a Title 21 review body and increasing Girdwood representation on the Heritage Land Bank Advisory Commission. Speaker argued Girdwood is uniquely dependent on Land Bank holdings for future development and housing. - Donna Robinson, Adam Klein, Michael Schwartz: Expressed mixed concern and support regarding the Speedway Express liquor license. Residents raised concerns about trash, needles, and pedestrian safety near the Northern Lights and Barrow intersection. The applicant expressed a position of commitment to cleanliness and security through roving patrols. Discussion Items - Special Education Levy: Mayor LaFrance proposed a one-time $12 million levy to address an $83 Million funding gap in the Anchorage School District. Speaker stated property taxpayers would pay an estimated $27.40 per $100,000 of assessed value. Speaker noted the levy requires a vote by the April 7th election and was introduced on an addendum. - Sales Tax Proposals: Mayor LaFrance moved to postpone indefinitely AO 2025-133 (3% sales tax proposal) and Vice Chair Brawley moved to postpone indefinitely AO 2025-117 (2% sales tax proposal). Speakers argued that while the proposals address fiscal shortfalls and infrastructure needs, the community needs more consensus and time for a robust conversation before risking the April ballot. - School Capital Bond (AO 2025-136): Discussion focused on the $79.467M bond for school building safety improvements. Speaker argued the Municipality acts as a landlord for the School District and must maintain safe facilities (roofs, access control). Speaker clarified the bond does not fund operating costs but addresses deferred maintenance. Vote passed despite opposition regarding district mismanagement. - Zoning Changes (AO 2025-123): Discussion regarding rezoning 2.5 acres from CER10 to CER7 for Stewart Subdivision. Speaker debated the material difference between lot sizes, the role of the Comprehensive Plan, and the procedural error of not routing the application to the Chugach Eagle River Advisory Board. Speaker noted the Planning Department admitted the routing mistake but argued the process was corrected via notification. - Functional Road Classifications (AO 2025-141): Discussion centered on downgrading parts of Spinar Road from a minor arterial to a neighborhood collector. Speaker expressed concern that current Design Criteria Manual (DCM) standards and right-of-way constraints prevent the community vision of a two-lane, pedestrian-friendly "main street." Speaker noted a potential 3-5 year delay if the project were redesigned to meet lower classification standards. - Girdwood Board of Supervisors Authority (AO 2025-143): Discussion on designating GBOS as a Title 21 review body. Speaker argued Girdwood needs self-determination due to its unique geography and history. Speaker debated whether this added a redundant layer of process or ensured necessary local input. Speaker supported the measure to align Girdwood with the Chugach Eagle River Advisory Board model. - Heritage Land Bank Commission (AO 2025-144): Discussion on codifying two seats for Girdwood residents on the Heritage Land Bank Advisory Commission. Speaker argued representation should match the proportion of developable land in Girdwood (approx. 50% of land holdings). Speaker argued the Land Bank's mission is for the benefit of the entire municipality, not just specific regions. Key Outcomes - AO 2025-139 (Title 7 Procurement): Passed (12-0). The ordinance was amended to lower the threshold for assembly approval of option periods in contracts from $1 million to $500,000 to increase fiscal oversight. - AO 2025-119 (Community Council Boundaries): Passed (12-0) as amended. Amendments approved to rename the merged University-Tudor area to "UMed-Tudor," move Valley of the Moon Park to the North Star boundary, and assign the Small Boat Harbor to the Government Hill boundary. - AO 2025-123 (Stewart Subdivision Rezoning): Passed (12-0). Rezoning approved from CER10 to CER7. - AO 2025-133 (Sales Tax Proposal): Postponed indefinitely (12-0). The proposal to authorize a 3% sales tax was removed from the April ballot. - AO 2025-117 (Sales Tax Proposal): Postponed indefinitely (12-0). The proposal to authorize a 2% sales tax was removed from the April ballot. - AO 2025-136 (School Capital Bond): Passed (9-3). The bond proposition to fund school building improvements will go to the April 7th election. - AO 2025-140 (Eagle Bluff Estates SLSA): Passed (12-0) to approve the creation of a new street light service area and consolidation with the Eagle River SLSA. - AO 2025-143 (GBOS Title 21 Review): Passed (6-6 after the motion to refer failed). Designated the Girdwood Board of Supervisors as an advisory commission on land use matters affecting Girdwood. - AO 2025-144 (Heritage Land Bank Representation): Postponed indefinitely (8-4). Consideration of codifying Girdwood representation was postponed to March 3rd pending further analysis of developable land. - AR 2025-382 (Public Transportation Safety Plan): Passed (12-0). Adopted the Anchorage Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan. - AR 2026-4 (Speedway Express License): Postponed (8-4). The motion to postpone the alcohol special land use permit to January 27th to discuss incorporating community council agreement terms into the official permit passed. The item will be revisited to potentially amend the permit conditions regarding security and trash management.

The Anchorage Childcare Equity (ACE) Board convened on January 13, 2026, to address the 2026 proposed budget, review implementation updates on subsidy and capital programs, and initiate the strategic planning process. The meeting was characterized by significant public commentary urging a shift from capital funding to operational grants to stabilize a sector facing declining state support. After extensive debate regarding the efficacy of retention bonuses and the need for flexible operational funding, the board approved a revised budget and initiated a two-day strategic planning retreat for January 2026. Consent Calendar - The board approved the agenda with the addition of an announcement regarding children in out-of-home placements. - The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Nate Root (President & CEO, YMCA of Alaska): Expressed full support for shifting funding from pilot projects and capital initiatives to operational grants. Root proposed reducing the pilot project allocation from $2 million to $500,000 and reallocating the $1.5 million difference to operational grants to increase flexibility for providers. - Melanie (President & CEO, Campfire Alaska): Urged the board to strategically increase child care operating grants, citing that declining state and federal support threatens program viability. Melanie noted that her organization is evaluating the future viability of half their programs and expressed concern that without increased operating funds, more closures will occur. She specifically opposed reducing operating support. - Christina Ebanks (Locrest Children's Center): Supported the call for increased stabilization funding. Ebanks highlighted that the state no longer pays above-market rates for children in out-of-home placements, placing families who care for these children at risk of losing them due to unaffordable costs. She argued that focus must remain on stabilizing current operations amidst inflation. Discussion Items - Budget Reform & Survey Results: The Executive Director presented survey data showing 97% support for operational funding and concerns regarding the reimbursement requirement for capital projects. Public testimony reiterated these concerns. - Retention Bonuses Debate: Chair Trevor proposed eliminating the $1 million sector worker retention bonus to increase operational flexibility. Member Chuck opposed the elimination, arguing that wage supports are essential for worker retention and that the program had broad public support. - Compromise and Research Motion: The board discussed reducing the retention bonus rather than eliminating it. Trevor proposed a motion to reduce the bonus from $1 million to $500,000 and move the remaining $500,000 to flexible operational funding. This motion also included a directive to conduct an in-depth assessment of the bonus program's impact before final implementation. - Implementation Updates: Desiree Shepler (Alaska Family Services) reported that 75 family applications and 55 facility applications have been received for the child care subsidy program, representing 118 children. Austin provided updates on pilot projects, noting that 11 of 20 awarded entities have finalized contracts, while others face insurance or responsiveness issues. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: Reduced the sector worker retention bonuses to $500,000 and moved the remaining $500,000 to flexible operational funding, raising the operational budget to $2.4 million (corrected from an initial estimate of $2.5 million). - Research Directive: Adopted a motion to conduct an in-depth assessment of the retention bonus impact, with results to be reviewed by April 2026 before final implementation. - Budget Approval: The revised 2026 budget was approved unanimously by the board. - Strategic Planning: Two board members volunteered to join a planning subcommittee to process data from the upcoming September 4-5 strategic planning retreat. The final strategic plan is scheduled for launch on January 1, 2026. - Personnel: The board was notified that a hiring committee will re-form to search for a new contractor to replace the current term-expiring position with an overlap period.