Representative Chris Tuck

Representative
Chris Tuck

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March 28, 2015

Action Alert

Dear Neighbors,

As we approach the final days of the first session of the 29th Alaska Legislature major decisions are being made at a rapid pace and I want to make sure you are kept informed about your right to be heard.

Final Chance to Testify on the Operating Budget

Next week the Senate Finance Committee will take public testimony on the operating budget, which as I have relayed in previous emails, will affect everything from public safety to senior services. Anchorage residents can testify Tuesday, March 31st starting at 9am. Call 844-586-9085 or go to the Legislative Information Office at 716 West 4th Avenue downtown.

School Debt Reimbursement on the Line

Another fast moving proposal is to eliminate the long standing school debt reimbursement program. This provides a state match to municipal funds for school construction and repairs when, and if, they have been approved by your vote in the municipal election.

This is one way the state has been investing in local government to protect our investments in school facilities, to make necessary improvements, and to keep our property taxes from going up.

This bill only affects school facilities while keeping state reimbursement for other public facilities and infrastructure projects. The Anchorage School District owns more land than any other entity in the state. It is important that we don’t let our assets deteriorate.

The Republican Majority is fast tracking this bill and your chances to weigh in will likely be severely limited.

We don’t know exactly when public testimony will be allowed, but it appears it will likely occur with little public notice. The bill has been scheduled to have a hearing in the House Finance Committee this Monday at 1:30 PM on the same day as it is scheduled for a hearing by the full legislature, which is highly unusual.

If you are concerned about this issue I encourage you to watch the hearing on television on Gavel to Gavel or on the internet at http://w3.legis.state.ak.us/.

Please stay tuned for further updates!

Warm regards,

      Chris Tuck
      Alaska State Representative
      District 23 - Anchorage

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