May 7, 2013

Back to Work in Fairbanks

Dear Neighbors,

It’s hard to believe the first session of the 28th Legislature is already over, having wrapped up on the evening of April 14th. This session was unique – and while there were positive moments of collaboration between legislators, political parties and the public, there were also troubling trends regarding a lack of public participation and due process. Shortened public testimony, rushed bills through committees, and not taking the time to seriously consider some of the most historic issues we as legislators will ever see is a trend that must be reversed. I will continue to work hard as your Representative to ensure you have a voice in our legislative process. Anything less is unacceptable.

Historic Oil Tax Giveaway

“I cannot support a massive giveaway of our resource with no commitments for more production or more investment in Alaska. The facts do not support this no-strings-attached approach, and neither can I.” These were my comments on the House floor as we debated a historic, multi-billion dollar giveaway of our state revenues to the oil industry. The bill will have monumental negative ramifications for Alaska, which is why I voted against it. I believe in the simple and fair concept of the House and Senate Democrats proposal, “More Production Before Reduction.”

Don’t let the industry fool you – this tax policy (SB21) is a giveaway to some of the wealthiest corporations in the world. Over countless hearings in both the Senate and House, the oil companies never once promised (or even hinted) that a cut in oil taxes would lead to an increase in production and investment. This is a dangerously poor piece of legislation that will give away at least $ 1.5 billion per year to the oil companies with no strings attached. Alaska is an owner-state and it is irresponsible of us to give away our resources with no guarantee of anything in return.

If you are wondering “ok, but how will this directly impact my life?” I urge you to consider what a multi-billion dollar cut in state revenues due to the tax giveaway means. It means less revenue available for our schools, for our roads, for infrastructure needs, for growing our economy, for our Permanent Fund Dividend account. Those who voted for SB21 voted directly to cut revenue to our state – cuts to you.

If you are shocked and disappointed with this blatant giveaway, I urge you to contact your senators and representatives and tell them what you think about giving away billions of our wealth with nothing in return.

Funding for Local Projects

But for all the disappointment with public process and the passage of the oil wealth giveaway, we were able to secure some key needs for Fairbanks in the 2014 capital budget. As always, I was pleased to see the outpouring of thoughtful requests submitted for worthy causes and wish each project could have been funded. Unfortunately, the capital budget took a significant cut from the last two years, with a reduction of about $600 million, meaning it was more challenging than in the past to get projects funded. Some noteworthy Fairbanks projects that did receive funding include:

- $625,000 for an ambulance upgrade to service Fairbanks

- $821,100 for Weller Elementary parking lot safety upgrade

- $428,000 for Boy Scouts Lost Lake Camp improvements

- $338,000 for Tanana Valley State Fair infrastructure improvements

- $983,250 for Pioneer Park sewer and water improvements

- $650,000 for Army Guard new readiness shelter

The Governor has yet to formally approve this budget and may still veto projects. I will give you the official capital budget update as soon as it is available.

Celebrating Senior Citizen’s Recognition Day, May 9th

I am excited to participate in the annual event honoring our senior citizens’ and their contributions to our communities. Starting at 10am on May 9th at the Carlson Center, seniors are welcome to come and learn more about service providers available, enjoy a catered lunch, door prizes, and hear speakers discuss the importance of Senior Citizen’s Recognition Day.

Office Hours

As always, my office is open for you. I will be holding regular summer office hours where you are welcome to drop by, call or email. Office hours will be Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm and on other times by request.

Location: 1292 Sadler Way, Ste. 306

Phone: 907-456-7423

Email: representative. scott.kawasaki@akleg.gov

I am excited to be home in Fairbanks and hearing from you. As always, it is my pleasure to work hard on behalf of the needs of District 4.

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,