February 4, 2015

Dear Neighbors,

Significant Development For Fairbanks Natural Gas

Last week, Governor Walker announced that our state-owned corporation, The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA), will purchase Fairbanks Natural Gas (FNG). This is an important development in the immediate goal to bring affordable energy to the Interior. I applaud the Governor to keeping with his commitment to help our delegation solve the energy issue in Fairbanks.

In a meeting between the Interior Delegation and the Governor, he vowed to bring natural gas to consumers at an equivalent of under $2 per gallon while also meeting the needs of those that are outside of the city. Under SB23 which passed, but needed more work, the Governor is making it clear that a rapid build out to homes is in the best interest for affordable energy and improving our air quality. While details need to be discussed, it is important to take all opportunities to facilitate the delivery of natural gas and finally bring a clean, stable and affordable energy solution for Fairbanks.

Spend Valentine’s Day With your Favorite Representative

Who: Fairbanks Constituents (You!)
What: Join me and the rest of the Interior Delegation for a meeting to discuss the 29th Alaska State Legislature. We will cover some difficult and interesting topics this session and your input is vital in making sure Fairbanks continues to be a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family.
When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday February 14
Where: Fairbanks Legislative Information Office 1292 Sadler Way (The Alaska USA Federal Credit Union Building)

Expanding Creamer’s Field

Rep. Adam Wool and I introduced legislation to expand the popular Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. House Bill 70 would add four state owned parcels to the popular recreation area.

The four parcels proposed for inclusion into the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge are already managed for public use under the Refuge’s management plan, which balances many uses including dog mushing, hiking, hunting, trapping and bird watching.

Every Fairbanksan has their own story about Creamer’s Field. I grew up near Creamer’s Field and would often walk and bike there with my family. This is a pristine and peaceful area for birdwatchers, mushers, skier and walkers alike. It should be preserved and enhanced for future generations.

Protecting Your Health

I am working with Rep. Geran Tarr on House Bill 92 which supports your right to know what is in your food. HB 92 will require products consisting of, or made with, genetically modified food or organisms (GMOs) to be labeled.

Alaskans have the right to know whether or not the food they are eating and feeding their families is genetically modified. I support locally sourced, locally grown food. I have helped enhance local agriculture, supported food research funds, helped bring farm to school opportunities and fought back efforts to permit GMO salmon. This bill is a continuation of those efforts. GMO labeling already exists in many other countries and several states have passed similar legislation to protect their citizens.

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Representative Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative
City of Fairbanks