Assembly Regular - December 2, 2025 - 2025-12-02 17:00:00
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No call to order regular meeting of the anchor. Somebody tonight is. December second 2025. Madam Clerk, would you please call roll? >> my understanding that member Myers is excused. His excuse member McCormick. Member, Martinez. Member Baldwin Day present member Johnson chair concept here, Vice Chair Bradley member Poland. Mr. Holland. Member, Silvers. Member Rivera present here. It's my understanding that member pressed Perdue's excuses, excuses. Youth representative bows are. Chair. You have a quorum. >> Mr. On. Can you hear us? I think I heard you say something on a trade time. >> here and happy to be here. Alright area and now we have you marked as president. Thank you very much. Glad you're here. >> So next up on the agenda, we have the Pledge of which includes latest the pledge. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag. The United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Mr. Where would you please lead language meant? Yes, Mister Chair. A land acknowledgment as a formal statement recognizing the indigenous people of a place. It is a public gesture of appreciation for the past and present indigenous stewardship of the lands that we now occupy. It is an actual statement that marks our collective movement towards decolonization inequity. The Anchorage Assembly would like to acknowledge that we gather today on the traditional lands, the deny NAFTA baskin's for thousands of to design a have been and continue to be the stewards of this land. It is with great fondness and respect recognize the contributions. Innovations and contemporary perspectives. The Upper Cook Inlet thank you, Mr. Rivera. Next, we have minutes of previous meetings tonight. There are no minutes a previous. Meetings for the agenda. So the next have the mayor support Madam Mayor. Madam Mayor, I know you're there. >> We'll be on the phone there. You're getting that report and we can hear you now. Can you? Yes, you have the floor. Oh, I'm sorry. Did you hear? I already gave part of the report. Did you hear any of that? >> No, we just heard you. And I said now you can hear you. now you have the floor. >> Okay. Well, thank you, Mister Chair and good evening, everyone. I'm Can join you all in-person tonight. I am out of town attending the funeral of a family member. So I will be on the phone. But think of the debate and the public testimony on key topics this evening. First off, congratulations. To the 20 to recreate who graduated from the Anchorage Police Department Academy class of 2025. 0, one on Wednesday. And I thank them all for being willing to serve. Another academy. Start next week with 27 recreate. And happy 10 she can to graduation. Vice Chair Bradley and members. So there's an Johnson. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and weekend. I know I did on Saturday. I during the Anchorage downtown partnership, Santa and many, many town Square Park for the annual holiday tree lighting. And really it was just so incredible to see the park filled with so many folks out celebrating. And it was great to see our downtown bustling with shoppers and activities during small business Saturday, I was able to take a tour of several downtown businesses and it was really inspiring to meet so many entrepreneurs who our dedicated to our community and revitalizing downtown. We're helping many businesses who want to make their store fronts. careful, streamline the permitting process to allow businesses to hang more holiday lights this season. So many good things happening downtown right now from Sold-out Nutcracker performances at the pack to first Friday this weekend to the lighting of the new mushing arch and the many public and private investments that are being made, including a new hotel, new restaurants in a downtown library branch. More improvements are in the work, including repairs to sidewalks improvements at Town Square Park and correct for part, the Ship Creek Trail, Connector, Wayfinding signs a new mural. A long time. The narrative around our downtown has focused on our challenges. But this past weekend was a really great reminder that the heart of our community feel vibrant, strong. And so the culture, commerce and lots of the holiday spirit. Tonight on the agenda is our proposed ordinance require registration for short-term rentals in the municipality. And thank you to assembly members. Baldwin Day. Johnson is bowling for joining me as sponsors of this measure, registration will be simple, free and online. This is a common-sense proposals that will help gather essential information on the number of short-term rentals operating across the municipality. We need good data to make informed policy decisions. And to really understand how short-term rentals our housing market, especially in girdwood and with our housing shortage, it is absolutely critical that we have a way to measure the true impact. Short-term rentals across our neighborhood. That's 3%. The sales tax proposal bring forward is also on the agenda for public hearing. And I understand that the body may continue the public hearing to another meeting to allow for more public participation. Again, I'll be on the phone tonight. Listening in. Thank you all so much for your service to our community. Back to you. Mister Chair. >> Thank you, Madam Mayor. Next up on the agenda, then it's the chair's report. Keep it brief. Good evening, everybody. Welcome to our regular business meeting will come back after the Thanksgiving break. First thing to note is not of members of the been communicating. We do have a number of tax and revenue proposals that are circulating the ballot at this time. Nothing has been passed by this body. But what that signals as we're coming to the end of the year, the beginning of the New Year. What that means is we are. On the verge of the 2026 municipal election opening, which means on January 13th at our regular meeting the last day to introduce ordinances containing propositions and that generate 27 meeting's final deadline for the something to hold public hearings and approve propositions for the ballot on April. 8th. The assembly administration are currently working through several different revenue proposals on the slate of the annual bond propositions to put forward. The next few meetings will have a lot of activity on these various topics right through the second meeting in January. If you have thoughts and comments, want to testify in these items. Please send your comments to us and Assembly and Anchorage AK Gov. Also this Thursday evening as the new edition of sitting or night event will take place at King Street Brewing from 68 PM with the theme of quote, Getting down to business. The event will feature 7 speakers giving 7 minute presentations on their perspectives. Takeaways and ideas of doing business in Anchorage sitting or nights are fun, informal way to learn more about our local government. And I encourage you to attend event. Information can be found at many dot org slash assembly. Also, Alaska Municipal League's conference is next week here in Anchorage where leaders from local governments across the state convened a share knowledge and connections to help run our local communities more effectively. Philly at organizations like the Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks. We'll also be meeting next week. I highly recommend and encourage members to participate in the public to come down and check out what's happening. It and all the agenda has some highly relevant topics like housing, fiscal planning and disaster preparedness. I also like to note a few weeks ago we launched and introduced an ordinance in the survey to consider updating the municipal seal. Through the process of our 50th anniversary celebrations and also through the downtown Wayfinding project that's happened over the last couple of years. There's been some interest and excitement in looking closely at our seal and asking ourselves, do we want to evolve that see on our 50th anniversary for the next 50 years or for the future? So this question is going to be properly before us are December 16th meeting. But right now there is, in fact, a survey where you can provide comments on the various options they've been presented. There are 5, 1, is in is actually maintaining the seal as it is today and 4 other alternative options. The survey will run through the December 16th meeting in advance. The ordinance coming back before the assembly evening's meeting. You can find the proposals are linked to the survey need to work session Assembly in the news section. But also you can see some great coverage, Anchorage daily News. With that. just we'll notice our regular business meeting. We have a lot to get through. And for members of the public who are noticing there, some empty seats up here, just sometimes members of the body, either half personal engagement outside were sick or conferences. So tonight we have the barest minimum of in-person parts. But we do also have several members online so we can conduct our business effectively tonight with that, I'll do my best to move us to the meeting's agenda. So we concluded the most reasonable hour possible, but no later than midnight, this is a business are here to do the work of the people. Please help create a climate of respect in our chambers, refrain from personal attacks speaking out of turn or shouting and clapping except from clapping is in order. Keep science to it in half by 11 inches or smaller. Please keep the house clearance upon lined up to testify. Please don't approach the dice. But if you have items for the assembly, please come to the clerk up the front. If a point of order is called, please stop speaking to the chairman role in a point of order in the record is clear if the rules aren't followed. The chairman interrupt speakers too. Call for compliance. Compliance with rules doesn't occur. Chairman paused the meeting. If there's an actual destruction the charitable morning and if the destruction persist or happens again, the person will be a sleeve. Hopefully that doesn't happen. So with that, then we'll go ahead and get started with our committee reports that on that ICE, Mr. Reporter, thank you. Thank Martinez. Thank you. Chair. Just a quick update next. The EDC meeting. >> Is rescheduled for December. 11th. At 09:00AM. At one. 55 City hall. It also be hybrid. Once again that December 11th for the next CDC meeting and courage. Look at the website for the agenda. Thank you. >> Thank Martinez. ball today. >> Thank you, chair. I was really fortunate to attend an organization's conference of which encourages the parts COVID National League of Cities. and that national organization that represents local government officials and our respective towns, cities and villages. It was really interesting to be very, very large room with other elected officials from around the country who are struggling with the exact same issues that we're facing here in Anchorage, things like aging infrastructure and uncertainty of federal funding housing supply just the quality of civic dialogue and how we engage with each other and a really productive way as as neighbors and as citizens of of of of Anchorage. And it was really it was encouraging also to see how and how many ways Anchorage is actually leading the way. some of these areas and how the work that we're doing on the assembly have work at the mayor's office is doing in the work that we're doing in community is actually on the leading edge of a lot of solving many of these issues that are not unique to Anchorage at also, there's a privilege to get to 10 came home with a lot of really interesting ideas and I'm excited to see how encourage can continue to be a leader and that organization is as we can move forward. Thank you. >> I think given spot Mister Jones. Mister chair of to report. So the quick first November 19th was last meeting of the Legislative committee during that time meeting we reviewed changes to the legislative program based on feedback we got from members during the work session the week before. So the amended legislative program is up for consideration by the body here tonight. Source bit more when we get to that in the agenda on November, 20th, we had the meeting of the infrastructure, enterprising utility oversight Committee of the whole several briefings there, one from Alaska, water and wastewater utility and proposed rate increases for 2026. That's on the agenda for approval tonight, which if it is by the by then we'll go to the RCA for consideration next. We also got an update from a Wuhan, the project management office. This also is relevant to an item on our agenda that would extend the pmo contract for another year. This be year to year. One was about setting up the and your to expect to see more deliverables. And this is really about targeting a managing federal grant programs for infrastructure in Anchorage. For the Dawn Young put Alaska Modernization project a few items we had a briefing on the terminal to designer of record. There is a contract that is again on the agenda for tonight would be a 3.2 million dollar contract with Cali which would deliver a 35% design and evaluation of the reduced seismic performance for terminal, For consideration. We also got an update on a 50 million Dollar grant from Mayor Ed federal grants for the Port of Alaska, which will be appropriated through resolution on agenda tonight. If the body up Russo significant win for the port. Also for the terminal, one electrical substation. This powers large cranes that moved the cargo off the ships were considering an alternate location that would free up some useful space but would come with some additional costs. So that's being considered by the Port Advisory board. And we'll see the recommendation and everything in January or February. We also closing at work on the North Extension stabilization. This has been going on since 2022, so 3 years. But work is done. The contract is being closed out as we speak for terminal one construction wrapping up permitting and we anticipated knows proceed in March of 2026. And then just note that for the North Extension helipad constructing a new safer military helicopters that use for their mobilization efforts when they go through the port and this would be paid for with a surplus. Grant funding left over from the North Extension, stabilization. And that's all I have. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, the spread. >> Yeah. Thank Couple reports first from the Budget and Finance Committee. The next meeting will be Thursday, December 18th 10:00AM to 11:00AM in City Hall room. One. 55, our budget work is done for fy. 26 for now. But there's certainly still a lot of work to be done. So we haven't met for as a committee for a couple months. So we're going to hear a briefing on our budget to actuals and the revenue report for 2025 since our fiscal year is almost done. And this is when we have some of the most robust reporting on on how things are going and then we'll also have a couple brief education moments, especially for new members. What happens when the budget is approved and what happens between then and the end of the year. And then also talking about the re appropriation processor rollover of certain funds So it's just a few educational topics. 4 members and the public. And then for the Alaska Municipal League on the charity gave a preview of the conference happening next week. So looking forward to attending that as one of our members and I'm connecting with elected officials and other city governor government enthusiasts from across the states. They're also celebrating their 75th anniversary. Earlier this year, we passed a resolution celebrating that. So as we did last year, we anticipate the mayor and assembly members going to present that recognize that big milestone for that organization and for local governments across the United Alaska, Leslie, thank you to a member of Al Monday for reporting on the National League of Cities Conference trip. One of the things that we did is exercise our voting rights as members of that league and were able to weigh in on various policy resolutions which really inform federal advocacy for the members and for LC staff for the next year. So that was exciting opportunity. I've also submitted my application to continue on the energy environment and Natural Resources Committee, which is one of the federal advocacy committees. And those are my reports. Thank think it's probably a moment. >> Report. Thank you. Mister Chair. Thank you, Mr. summer's. Nothing to report. Thank you. Thank you. just for folks knowledge, resources asked folks peak closely into the microphone. I don't think we can really turn up the volume. >> On the mikes and so to speak close to the mikes, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair a couple of updates. First, the quality Municipal Services and Ethics and Elections Committee met last week. We got an update on the Downtown Library project. Things seem to be going well well that project we had a presentation on recruitment and retention that I think led to some really good discussion. And I'm sure we'll follow up on that in future meetings. And then we heard about the change of hands from Dominion to Liberty vote. On a second update on the Alaska Municipal League to reiterate what the chair and vice chair have already stated next week is the annual conference. And I am very excited. It's a very robust agenda. And I hope folks can stop by and participate week, both from the Assembly and administration. Thank you. Marker. Thank chair. Nothing report. All right. Thank you very much. Now that brings us to our addendum to the agenda. But before we get to the denim to the general deal with, >> laid on the table items, we have a handful mostly supplemental. First, I'll read the supplemental items into the record. We have to be to a resolution or 2025 dash 3.63 s a resolution at the Anchorage municipal, somebody sitting its wave of protests. The rule, the state of Alaska, marijuana license for cultivation facilities. Alaska, Cannabis Exchange number 1, 0, 6, 7, 1, Delhi, fire. Number 1, 4, 0, 7, 3, retail establishments, Alaska, Cannabis Exchange for 1, 2, 4, 3, 7, Can it get happy? Number 2 0 1 5 1 catalyst cannabis company. Number 2, 3, 8, to one catalysts cannabis company. Number 3, 1, 4, 1, 8, light, Alaska, number 3 for 403, green market. Number 3, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, relief. Number 2, 4, 5, 4, 1, the Frost Farms, number 1, 0, 1, 6, 2, the tree house AK number 1, 5, 0, 1, 9, true North cannabis. Number 1, 0, 8, 9, 0, manufacturing facilities, Denali Fire extract, some are 1, 4, 6, 1, 9, Sleeping lady extracts number 2, 3, 5, 0, 3, super number 3, 6, 9, 5, 7, the Frost Frontier. Number 2, 9, 0, 5, for unauthorized purchase. Take certain actions. Next, we have item 10 B, 3, a resolution or 2025 dash 3.64 S resolution of the Anchorage Municipal Assembly approving 2025. 2027 municipal marijuana license, renewals for cultivation facilities and light 2, 1, 5, 5, 1, doctor goals of Alaska and 2, 6, 6, 0, 9, King Street called 2, 0, 9, 8, 4, the frustrated year and 1, 0, 1, 6, 1, Alaska, 1, 0, 0, 9, 4, Gonzaga's of Alaska in 2, 4, 2, 3, 8, Alaska grown cannabis and 3, 0, 4, 5, 9, And light Alaska and won 0, 0, 2, one manufacturing facilities and light trucks. Number 2, 1, 5, 5, 2, stating the some of these wave of protests, renewal of state of Alaska, Marijuana or 2, 1, 5, 5, 1, 2, 6, 6, or 9, 2, Tuesday, 9, a 4 1 1 6 1 1 0 0 9 4 2 4 2 3 8 3 0 4 5 9 1, 2, 3, 6, one. Jurors are 212-1552, 2, 5, 2, 0, 5, for the same steps respectively authorize a municipal clerk to take certain actions. 10 B, 3, a. Next. We have 5 information memorandum a number of public testimony from November 18th of December. 2nd, 2025 meetings. Also 10 f 6 and information memorandum. I am a numbered answers to some of the questions. Then we have item 15 see one our 2025 dash 3.61 s resolution of the action possibly regarding the renewal of nacewa marijuana cultivation license and 1, 0, 2, 3, 7 for Alaskasense LLC, EPA alaskasense after temporary license expiration. And then the last item is will require votes to land on the table, which is 10 iif. I've resolution air 2025 a numbered. Resolution to miss of Anchorage for putting $150,000. A convention center Capital Reserve Fund 2, 0, 2, 0, 3, 0 fund balance within the Convention Center Capital Reserve Fund teaser. 2, 0, 3, 0, as a transfer and appropriating said transfer to the area what General Capital Improvement projects fund 4, 0, 1, 8, 0, 0, all within the office. The chief administrative officer for the Egan Center. You can come veteran center solar Ray addition project and amending the Egan Convention Center 2025 Capital Improvement. Budget Cip. The 2025 to 2030 Capital Improvement program. This item will require a super-majority but slam the table. That's Is that Mister Chair Point of information, Mr. Thank you, Mr. >> Would now be the appropriate time for anyone had any ex parte communication to disclose on items 10 B to attend 3.15 see which are on that list. I do that. I don't think so. I think that the better time to do that is when we get to the item in the sense that those items welcome up there will be pulled. We will have them up individually and they will be discussed. And the concurrent record to the item. Thank you, chair. Yeah. So I think that with we need to on this item But is there a motion to limit it will move to land table. Second motion to lay on the table as broadly seconded by Baldwin Day. probably. >> Yeah. Thank you. I'd like to ask the administration to speak to the timeliness of this item. As far as >> Thank you, Mr. Chair that we appreciate the assembly's consideration of this item. There are expiring federal tax credits that will pay for up to 40% of a solar projects, presuming that we can spend up to 5% of the total project cost by the end of the calendar year. We think we can just make that if the assembly takes this item up today, we're going to do a design for the solar project and then hopefully we would install it soon in 2026. >> Any questions on that motion to limit? It bright. >> Yeah, I think you just a quick follow-up. If you can explain why we would take this up tonight versus waiting until the 16th, which is last regular meeting of the year. >> Yes, thanks for the clarification. We have this project designed by one of our existing term contractors. contractor said they're available to do the work will take them 2 to 3 weeks. We typically pay invoices after work is performed. So that gives us just enough time to squeak. And under the December 31st deadline. Any further discussion on the motion land, the table? >> Seen here in and I'd like to ask unanimous consent or any objection to the motion. I'm not seeing or hearing objections will consider the motion adopted. This item has been laid on the table. All right. So if there are no more items, I'd like to ask for a motion of corporate the agenda as printed and distributed in the land on the table some of second moved by miserably. Seconded by Fulton Day. Any discussion. I'd also like to ask unanimous consent on this item. there any objection to the motion? Seeing hearing? No objection. The items have incorporated into Dunham excuse. We have incorporated and laid the table into the agenda. Okay. Next on the agenda, we have appearance request we tonight. So after that, we have the consent agenda. So the consent agenda items or items through 10 G and are typically routine. A non-controversial items such as words. New business information reports, ordinances resolutions resolutions for instruction items on the consent agenda may be approved except adopted by the Sunday by single vote on motion to approve the consent agenda prior to approval items may be pulled by some members for discussion and separate vote on each or any of the items under rules, all ordinances and some resolutions will have an opportunity public hearing. So I will start down on the left side of the diocese Kercher, any items you'd like to pull. Thank March Air, 10 Delta. 31. 10 D 31 risk any other items. All right, Mister Mayor, no items is Thank Somers. And have supple. >> No items. Thank Thank you, Mr. No, I didn't. Thank you. All right. As >> I have 10 a one for reading and then 10 be Bravo. 1, 2, 3, >> 10, a one, 10 B, one to 3. That's probably Mr. Johnson know Mister Chair, thank you as well. Today. >> 10 Delta. 36, please chair. >> That's 10 D 36. All right. Mister Martinez. No items chair. Thank you, Mr. Mccormick 10, the 16. D or E. 16. Mr. Mccormick. Okay. So go to the list again. Make sure miss anything. 1 probably 10, be one through 3 minutes. Probably. >> 10, D, 16, Mr. Mccormick, 10 D 31 Kercher, 10 D 36 misspelled that it and the same thing. none. I'd like to ask unanimous consent for excuse like to ask for a motion to prevent the consent agenda. Minus the pullout of us. >> So moved second. >> So the motion to approve a spot and a seconded by probably I would like to ask unanimous consent. Attorney Jack adoption. The motion. Seeing and hearing no objection, the consent agenda minus the pulled items has been approved. So if you're here for business on any of the items other than the items that were just pulled in Iran, I was through 10 G on the agenda than those items are now dispatched. So that brings us to item 10, a one. 1 is resolution. Our 2025 dash 3.67 resolution of the Anchorage Municipal Assembly, recognizing and honoring the 70th anniversary. The lucky Wishbone and iconic Anchorage institution you pull this item is probably. Yes. Move to approve. Second second movements. Probably second by Miss Bowman I would like to ask unanimous consent an injection. Hearing and seeing no objection, the motion is adopted. Please come forward. And I have you reading and myself presenting. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair a resolution of the Anchorage Municipal Assembly recognizing and honoring the 70th anniversary of the lucky Wishbone and iconic encourage institution, whereas in 1955, George Brown and his business partners, Faneuil, spend Johansson purchase, 3, lots on East 5th Avenue where they built by hand. The Lucky Wishbone restaurant which opened its doors for business on November. 30th 1955. and whereas George and Peggy Brown made everyone feel welcome in special when they dined at the restaurant, adding a family touch that his bat fast becoming a rarity in our society today. And whereas following Georgia's passing in 2018, the lucky Wishbone was purchased by an ownership group led by longtime Heidi Heinrich Live OG and Carolina. Stacey. And whereas while maintaining the restaurant's focus on serving quality food and being a welcoming family family friendly place, Heidi and Carolina have been continuously reinventing themselves to meet the moment, adding new menu items and launching their green machine mobile food wagon in 2025. Which takes the bone to where it is most needed. And whereas for 7 decades, the lucky wishbone has been the proverbial place where everyone knows your name, a place where customers are family and where multiple generations of families have celebrated milestone occasions, including birthdays graduations weddings anniversaries celebrations of and elections. And whereas in February 2025, during their 70 70th anniversary year, the James Beard Foundation recognize the history quality and traditions of the lucky wishbone by selecting them as one of 6 recipients for their 2025. America's Classics Award, which is given locally to use are given to locally owned restaurants with timeless appeal that served quality food and our beloved by their communities. Now, therefore, the Anchorage Assembly results to recognize and honor the 70th anniversary of the lucky Wishbone and iconic institution in Anchorage pass an approved by the Anchorage Assembly. The second day of December 2025. Thank you so much. We appreciate you. And we appreciate everyone's. >> Follow and keeping up with us. And I'd like to acknowledge our partner Patricia Brown Heller without her, right? Not sure we'd still be here. Thank you so much. We appreciate you all. So Thanks to you as well. On behalf of my mom and dad who unfortunately. >> since passed, but would be so proud to be here tonight. Thank you. I want to say just a brief comment that have been friends with the wishbone. As long as I've been in the Fairview neighborhood a long time. >> And the downtown and somebody said to me last week when we were putting this on the agenda. Didn't we just do a resolution for them? And it's like the funny thing is memory is long and you have been here from time to time and 70 years shows that people remember. And thank you very much. Next up on the agenda, the administration has asked us not to move item 10 D once a little die for lack of action. Next. She have 10 B, 2. 10 B, 2 is Air 2025 dash 3 63 S a resolution to encourage municipal. Somebody sings wave of protests. 2 new of state, Alaska marijuana license for cultivation facilities. Retail establishments, manufacturing facilities. thank you so what is the will of the body? 2 previous version? Second moved from a surprisingly most all, the national just you this. So yeah, so it won't hurt right now. Although. So these aren't really needed to do X party disclosures because these are state licenses. And so but you can if you want, really, it's the it's municipal license that requires the disclosure, in my opinion. But attorneys have a different opinion may be Mister. too. Mr. Hurt. >> was just going to raise for the chair if that's versions been moved. The subject of the communication may not be before the body right now. Yeah, as just also, out there because this version doesn't include those items. So thank you, Keep us on track. And it's the local. It's the state license for just provide comment. Were not making it. Judy. Could Horry decision? just I will say for members information. Some of you were around when we went through a conversation about the licensee that was removed from this list and there have been a number of concerns and considerations, potential protests and issues so. The assembly gave a six-month up. Opportunity for them to continue operating in that period is closing and that the plot thickens, I think is the best way I could put it. And so we will come to those items later. But so, you know, the s version was to remove those licenses from this and we'll take them on separately because they don't have a time sensitivity in the same manner as these other licenses to and the other item at the end of the agenda. think it's 15 C we'll be up for discussion at some point probably tonight. I think it's a must pass item. So for that as the base of this for this and the next item, the difference of the man in the version as we just remove this question ISIS. Anyone else? And so on this one because their marijuana license, we won't have the youth member participate, seeing is there any further discussion on 10 B, 2? It's just 2025, dash 3.63 s. none. I members may see the vote. >> Member Martinez. Member, Silvers. Member of Oland. >> On a vote of 10 to our 2025 dash 3.63 S has passed a body next in 10 B, 3. A resolution or 2025. 3.64 S resolution insurance. Will somebody proving 2025 2027 units marijuana license tunnels for cultivation facilities, manufacturing facilities. Thank you. is probably put aside. Yeah, it moved to a previous version. The motion of previous version Mr. Price second by Miss Bald any discussion. >> Yes, I'll just note that this removes that same license that we just discussed and the other item. Thank you. Any further discussion, same know youth member. But on this item, senior in and members proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. member Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0 or 2025 dash 3.64 S has passed the body. So that takes us now to item 10 D 16. Item 10 D 16 Assembly Memorandum Emmett. 74 Dash 2025 Valley View Estates. Limited Road Service Area Board of Supervisors appointment Timothy James Miller. Mister. >> There's your proof. >> So there's a motion to approve by the stomach or mix seconded by Mr. Johnson's, Care for. >> This issue I want to pull because it's been ongoing for quite sometime in the Valley View area. I mean, long back. I think May is when I was first contacted so quickly after elections from members in this community of ongoing flooding issues and that their lure so wasn't being responsive. Theirs questions of their alerts to not have for him to address issues. There is a homeowner that was very active in getting. Getting things going had letters of support to be appointed to the lure, sir. And I know member Johnson was in on many of these e-mails along with me and work with the mayor's office to try and identify the deficiency here, get somebody appointed things to get moving. And that was in may. And that's not the individual that's being appointed here and as we get closer, this meeting and the appointment, there's been a lot more emails going to all and all the members and a lot of questions swirling that I've been able to address because of the Open Meetings Act that this appointment is not being backed seemingly by much of the neighborhood. There's letters in H.O.A. stating that this this is not the member are the neighbor that they would like appointed to the lure. my questions marks the administration of why this this member wide point him. >> Why Love to hear? >> Krispy Kreme. Welcome. >> Thank To the chair to Mister McCormick yeah, I think this has been swirling your correct for a while. The process with the lure, sir. For me, at least started coming around July when one of the current where some members resign from the seat and recommendations we're made for filling of that. The first go-around for the lure, sir. Did not have a public meeting. And so the department went back to the and said that they did need to have a public meeting. They made arrangements to do that in the meantime, there was an individual who was seeking the seat. Who I believe all those family members have heard from. He was not nominated by the lure, sir dollars to have the public meeting. And in that meeting nominated someone else who is now before you. According to when the seats become open, we do generally the protocol is to follow the nomination of the lure set. And in this case, that is what has occurred. So extra time was added because there had to be a another meeting. Schedule. >> And we did. That meeting When did the second I want to say early Tobar. Maybe late September. They don't have the exact date in front of October. 28. Okay. >> All right. That's all my questions for administration is just there's been a long, ongoing issue. And now with so much pushback from the neighborhood and multiple people coming to us saying that this isn't who they like to see it. And I've not heard much much about this They've been recommended by the lure sub or it just seems like we're >> were locking in the community into some of that. Maybe they, you know, when a voter love to see pope go to a public vote, understand that. And the also needs to be filled because there's, as we've said, a lot of ongoing issues and the neighbor with the road. So. >> Yeah, and just to clarify, there are 4 out of 5 seats filled. This is not an issue of at this point. They do have Corum. But again. The protocol is that we follow the recommendation of the lure, sir, and the person for you tonight is that person and there are other opportunities. I believe the next election is. A seat in April of 26. Ok? Thank you. Mr. Johnson. >> Yeah, thank you. I appreciate That explanation from missed the Like Mr. Mccormick. There's been a lot of contention around this, which is highly unusual for alerts a board seat. And we have had conflicting nominees put forward. But I think the process that the administration has followed is one that seems logical to me. I just wanted to point out for the record, I believe there are actually 2 seats on the value Larsa board that will be up for election in April. So for community who want to serve on that board. Great for being interest in stepping up, there will be 2 seats that you can run for coming up here in just a few months. I hope that the engage folks in the community take advantage of that opportunity. >> Mr. That Mr. Johnson, thank you. Miss >> Yeah, thanks. And I appreciate the context and know have a similar conversation with the administration around who recommended, I guess just. >> I don't I don't have any. >> Other knowledge of this individual or or any reflection on whether this is the right purse or not. Sounds like there are 2 other opportunities on the record, but just a general observation. I'm looking at a map of us of all of all of the letter says that mostly down in hillside area. And a lot of them are very small. they're in fact, you know, one neighborhood or or even smaller than what somebody would consider a neighborhood. It's a few streets. I imagine it's tough. Want to find folks and 2, when you have such localized conflicts. I do remember prior issues with this particular it's hard to regulate your neighbors and to and to really come up with that. So I think, lot larger policy discussion for another time is, you know, what do we do with these very smaller says reminds me of the community Council discussion that we're having as well that perhaps having larger boundaries, having fewer of them, but but encompassing more areas will solve the governance issues as well as solving some of the practical maintenance issues. So again, larger question than what we're talking about now. But something too contemplate. Thank you. Isaf McHugh, Mr. Constance Banks. >> For me it for me to know the inner workings of the grocers I will suggest, one thing no matter what happens on this item tonight that if there are items of contention between various organizations, the Muni recognize the lure, Sizzler says have elections and I believe are open meeting. So my advice to folks who are not feeling heard and their H.O.A. through this process. Please attend your lair some meetings and express yourself their vote there, participate there because those meetings are open. Those meetings are recorded. Those meetings have I do not record per se but have minutes. They have votes. And so at least they're supposed to. And so that's the place where I strongly recommend you go. And if you have two-thirds of a neighborhood in your H.O.A., then you have controlling interest of where sir, so use that tool don't default to other tools is my advice. And that's not withstanding what happens on this side. Anyone else? none members may proceed to vote on in the Q sorry. Thank >> Okay. So first of all, all would like to say that I sent. The administration series of questions on this. And when we received the list of assembly member questions, the questions that I had asked were not listed. But I think the answers to those questions would be important for the members. Cano. >> when >> considering the vote. And so I don't know if the administration could get those questions than answers out to the members. One of the though, does include this. The mayor is required by code to consider both nominees from the lure, the board Community Council or Property Owners Association. And so what I kind of went down to when I was considering the is this is an elected position that is being filled by appointment because of a vacancy I do think that it is important to consider experience. And I think it is important to consider prior public support. And so if we look at the experience and I do, I really don't want to come off from. I do appreciate anybody stepping forward to be on one of boards. And so trying really hard not to come up from, but I think when we just look purely at experience. One person was nominated for the position has lived in the neighborhood for 8 years and has served as an elected member of the H.O.A. for 5 years. That is not the person that the administration put forward. The other person has lived in the neighborhood for 4 years. has no experience on H.O.A. board, although he did run for a seat on it in October 2024, and was not successful in that bid. And so I think just looking purely at experience. Public will based on past election. I don't believe that I can support the nomination. The current nominee. Visible support, less experience. The other question that I asked. administration didn't actually this one. So I will ask it to you now. If the mayor did not appoint this position, I assume that residence and just reading it to you from my email that residents could elect a board member of their choice in April Twenty-twenty 6, which is less than 6 months away. It appears that the position has already been vacant for over 6 months. What would be the impact on the lures that this point of waiting for this position to be filled by the upcoming election in 2026. They could file for election in just over a month. To ensure that the residents of this area are able to elect the voice of their choosing. And I'll wait for answer to that question. >> Suzanne, Fleet Green, again, chief of staff to Mayor LaFrance through the chair. To answer those questions. I I do believe that we answered them and we laid on the table. We did not okay. We do have the answers and I think we're ready to distribute them to all members. But to that second question, the answer is because they do currently have Corum and even if they lost a member, they still would have Corum that there would be no impact. Does that answer your question? Member Silvers? >> That answer is part. One of my question, part 2 of my question is why not just wait until January and the people that would like this position can file for election and they could actually win an election. And be heated by election by the choice of their neighbors. In twenty-twenty instead of having somebody appointed that will stay in the Intel 2027. >> Mr. Fozzie is raising his hand to answer that question for you and to the chair to member silvers on that question. All say that the code actually tells the mayor she must make an appointment. Our coaches, if a vacancy occurs in office of the board established on the chapter, it shall be filled by appointment by the mayor subject confirmation by the assembly upon nomination from the supervisory board. So the default is we look at what the lure, sir, has nominated. Then you're right, that additional sentences. The mayor also consider individuals nominated by community councils and associations of property owners. The impacted area. So I suppose it is practically true that if the assembly were to not allow the appointment to be confirmed, that little support would continue with one member short through the April Twenty-twenty 6 election. But we didn't read coat and don't understand code to let us just sit on it. I think what the mayor had to put a nominee's port also say apologize for the confusion on the elected member cut questions, process, as you for the public. We have asked that if there are questions that relevant, any items that we try to field them in real time, just got left. was a little bit confusion over email so we can forward that e-mail change around to all of numbers. If you're in should do nothing. >> I would add a coda to that. numbers are requested to send their questions through the chief Administrative Officer Bill Falls because if they get to other members of the administration, they may not know that your intent is to have them included in the question and answer packets as well. Questions answered sent on Monday. It can be difficult to get those answers back in time for the meeting. And so it's not practical for the administration to tell us, give them to us by Friday. But from our end, if the questions exist by Friday, there's a much better opportunity that they get answered in the packet by Tuesday, but also make sure if you are sending questions that you want answered for members to see their sponsors to through this process. They're going to Mister Fawzi as well, at least CCM. So as you saw before. >> Okay. Thank My Bill Oppor. >> Still have the floor >> Okay. Thank so I guess what I'm just going to say here is I believe that the person that's been put forward has less experience has the last public support. And I think that there's an election coming up. so for my part, I'm gonna vote no. I believe that the public should be able to could put in this seat and it's already they have a quorum. It's already been empty for over 6 months. And so I don't be that another 5 months or 4 and a half months or whatever it at this point, it's gonna. Be a big When you compare. And the fact that we would be appointing somebody that has less experience less demonstrated public report last longevity and the neighborhood and they would sit in the seat and took 2027 and not be elected to that seat. So I will be I don't want thank you. >> It's exactly 100 or 7 days as part of day. >> Thank you. I would like to direct my colleagues to our agenda packet and this item. There's actually an e-mail exchange between as Courtney Petersen, who helps public works oversee larsa operations and that states that the the meeting on Friday, October 24th with C and with the Valleyview she a pens? e-mail from the lure, Sir chair, who indicates that that Tillerson board voted to continue with the nomination of TJ Miller to the Open Sea and all present voted in favor of nominating TJ and in the subsequent subsequent paragraph. The other. Nominee as mentioned as being present at that meeting. So I just want to point out that there was. There was an opportunity with both of these nominees and the room where would appear based on communication from the lure, Sir Board chair that the H.O.A. nominee. Voted in favor of the letter sent on Monday and now we have a kerfuffle to follow. So I I just want to point out that there were answers in the agenda packet to some of these questions that might be germane to our decision-making process. Thank you. >> All right. So any further comments on this item? Yes, Sorry. Thank you, Mr. Martinez, you have before. >> Thank you. Chair. I just wanted to express appreciation to the folks from the community that I don't represent. But who reached out? To share their opinions and their thoughts on this matter. I for one have generally followed. A rubric that. >> The first to the administration's less. I am sure mainly aware of a reason. opposition. I think the package is Explanatory. I think the vote. Pretty clear. and I don't know enough about the individuals or second. Guess those choices at this point. So again, just generally speaking to the administration. just for the past administration as well. I will generally. Get out of the way of people's appointments unless there's. From my vantage Jermaine. Reason why to be opposition. So today I'll be supporting it. Appointment. But I do want to express appreciation to the folks from the community who did reach out like Mister McCormick said robustly. Thank you, chair. >> Mr. Mccormick. I appreciate everybody having such a robust conversation topic that is purely. >> On the hillside, I think member euro brings up a good point that there's an election coming up soon. And I remember not too long ago when we didn't have. >> Are for 9, 9 months. We waited because they're such an election coming so soon. >> That I think made this a good time to we could repeat history. There. Thanks. further none members may proceed to vote. This item has protested by a number of folks who is able enjoy required. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. >> I'm sorry. I'm misstated. The rezone. storm was protested. Not this item. So. This is just a simple majority. >> Member Silvers. Vote of 7 to 3 in threat votes. Yes, yes. And its 74 dash 2025. U.S. pass the body. next, we have item 10 D 31 Am 8.90, dash 2025 Sister Cities Commission Sheboygan Bar. You pull the side of a Just Chair move to approve. Motion to approve by Oscar curse second by miss Balding, Dame's Kercher. Thank you, Mr. Chair is the mayor available for comment? I know that this is an issue is not here right now, but is she able to? >> have a dialogue over the phone. >> Mister Chair, I am here. we can have a good dialogue. >> Awesome. Thank you, Madam Mayor Madam Mayor, you aware of reporting that your nominee publicly stated that she was for a plane carrying the president of United States to crash. >> Member Kercher, I am aware of them. Remarked that you referred to. Moved Air Gumbert remark are very unfortunate. And I strongly disagree with those specific remark remarks of that nature. However, she has stated she regrets those remarks and that she wants to contribute your community and volunteer And I would point out that. She's highly qualified for the sister City commission. She 4 languages. She's a Fulbright scholar, you know, graduated and a graduate Chugiak high school. She worked for an international business development organization. I strongly disagree with that remark. However, I don't believe when the state for which regret has been expressed. Should prevent someone from serving in this capacity. >> Yeah, that thank you, Madam Mayor, appreciate that. At the time that you use selected Dunbar. Were you aware of the comments? >> I believe that I had heard about social media post. Earlier in the year. When I went to list, I was looking at resumes and that was not something that was top of mind. >> Okay. So but generally you are aware that she said she hoped that President United States would die. >> At the time it happened. I was aware and I understand she expressed regret for those remarks. >> Yeah, and thank you, Madam. I really appreciate that. But do you believe that is acceptable and you kind of indicated you hadn't. But it's one follow this thought through. Do you believe that it's acceptable for someone seeking a public role a public office? In this city. To express hope for the death of an elected official. Any elected official. >> Member Kercher clearly is not acceptable for anyone to express that kind of ill will towards anyone. >> Thank Allan. Appreciate that. But if it's not acceptable wire, you appoint her. At what I would guess at what point a volunteer capacity. It is not an elected public official rule. It's not a paid role. >> If someone makes mistake and takes responsibility and expresses regret for that, I believe this is. An okay capacity here. So the difference, Madam Mayor, just for clarification, then. >> And somebody being allowed to make a make a statement wishing for the death of the president states. It's not OK but since she's not getting paid, it's a little bit OK, zoning hearing. >> Member is not a productive conversation. If you have other questions that you have excluded, we will come order in the that is available as well. >> If you have questions about process, perhaps. >> know it sounds like you've answered it sounds like you're aware of your nominee, which for the death of the President states. And it doesn't seem like that's a deal breaker, which is concerning to me about a mayor. But I agree this is not been a productive dialogue. Here's here's the deal. Members of the body my colleagues, this was not a that's a 90 lead to group chat. You know, maybe you say something you don't mean to say. This was not a overheard a conversation at a coffee shop or there's maybe an expectation of privacy this nominee made the statement. >> To a news reporter, Who's-who purpose and hearing those comments was to report the d***** comments. This is so far beyond the pale of what is acceptable and look at what is going on in our country. Look at what's going on. The political tension in this country right now is a point. Just a couple months ago we had a prominent conservative member. Of the conservative movement who was assassinated in cold blood. Over his political views. Now, I remember at that time many members of this body. Publicly stated that it was wrong and know that nobody should be her. There should be no political violence. There's no place for that in our political discourse. In fact, the chair and I went into the podcast together and we said the same thing that there's no place for violence in our political process. There's no place for calling for violence. Our political process. I do not care about whatever qualification she might have as far as academics when you call for the death, the president for the United States, you do not belong on a city boards and commissions period. Full stop. I will be I urge my colleagues about now. We'll come to order. Come to order. There's no clapping in the chambers. No acting unruly. >> The room is put on notice. Baldwin Day. Thank you. Chair. >> I find it. I find it a little. Troubling. That. We're having a conversation about. Political discourse. And disrespect and calling for people to death. Which let's be very clear. I do not condone. When that variable put that very same political tension. Has been engineered and abetted and perpetuated by elected leadership. Virtually every level. Of our country. This is this is not this is not an isolated incident. And if you were to comb the social media of other individuals who have sat on this diet or who have served on boards and commissions and the city. You would find equally egregious comments made. The double standard is astonishing. I I do not condone wishing harm or death or ill or evil on anyone. My faith does not permit that of me. But what my face does require. Is grace and accountability. opportunity for people to own their wrongdoing. And to do better. Every single one of us is a human being who makes mistakes? I would. I would venture to guess that every single person on this diet and in this room has made flippant comments. That they wish they hadn't made. And the only difference is some of us have made those behind closed doors and some of us. Made a flippant comment to a reporter. The woman that we are considering for appointment this evening. Is eminently qualified to hold this role? She is volunteering her time at her skills. She has been raked over the coals by this community has received awful comments. People who have wished her unborn child dead. People who have wish that her husband dies in combat as a result of the comments that she made. I think she's paid her dues. And in conversations with us athlete with this appointee, potential appointee, she has expressed her very sincere regret. And has stated that that does not represent the kind of person that she is. Or the kind of representative she would be for Anchorage on this particular commission and given her resume, I tend to agree. And support her nomination because I believe that people can be can have their poor choices brought to like brought to bear. And they can move on. I will absolutely be supporting this nominee and I find it disingenuous that we are holding a volunteer to a higher standard than our own elected officials. If we're going to do better than let's all do better. >> Q is a next to have a stir Morant. >> Thank you, Mister Chair. Can you hear me OK? Thank you. So. I want to acknowledge. That. The Appleton, we're the appointees. Comments that were with dribble. But I think it is important. To point out. That. This is an appointment to district of these commission. I was the sponsor. Of the spending. Our district to the relationship. With my on Russia. Because of the action. The Russian government. And their invasion of Ukraine. Are working port. Do they have power? Yes, they do. But so action. And a member of the public. Expressing frustration. action. The Russian government. Invading. A Democratic nation. Killing civilians. She expressed that frustration and the best way. But to fail the comparison. To the actual actions that have been taken. The foreign leader. We've in our country. And I just think we need to keep that. And contacts. one thing to make a flippant remark. Another thing. To use power and in such a way. That being said, I'm going to be supporting. Disappointment and I hope my colleagues will too. Thank you. >> The number of folks to make you have next in the This problem. Yeah, thank you. Just making as brief observation. It is interesting how attention some things on our agenda get and how much attention other things don't get. There's often not a big correlation between the magnitude or the cost or the implications of an item versus the amount of testifiers, the amount of e-mails and cetera. That's just how it is. It's also true that we are open to the public. So it looks like we have a very good and robust audience tonight. I appreciate you all showing up for that. And it's also true that we often have proxy fights on our agenda things. Where is the thing that's being talked about and the real thing that actually at issue is not actually the thing on the agenda unless we all observed that often. People compare politics to theater or they'll use phrases like political theater. So again, I will think everyone the audience for coming to tonight's performance and I will note this this meeting is being recorded and it is on YouTube. It can be live stream. So I appreciate folks who are making additional recordings of their own. But just to know that there is a public recording a record of this meeting. Thank you. >> Yeah, thank you, Mr. So few quick comments from me. By in large. I think that consistency is important and how we address these types of appointments this is probably the point of the meeting where some of my colleagues it is great is over because still have heard me say this so many times. Over the years. There are 2 criteria which I consider for every board and commission appointment, regardless of administration. One of them is qualifications. Does this individual have the qualifications to do the job, which they're being appointed for? The second is would appointment of this individual do harm to the specific board or commission for which this individual is being appointed? you know, member both Monday brought up >> great comments regarding other nominees to boards and commissions. >> I think one needs only go back a few years, too and see other nominees from the prior administration that were brought forward. And if were to do digging, you would found all kinds of salacious comments that probably folks here would not want to read on to the record because it would be quite inappropriate to do so. But looking at the 2 consultations, which I hold myself to where they qualified for the position and would appoint him and do harm to the specific board or commission for which they're being appointed. You have to put aside some of that noise sometimes and I know that I up. Even though we got lots of people who said no, don't appointed this person to a board or commission because of this thing that they said. Still decided to move forward with the appointment because of those 2 qualifications. I think. As others have said, that stated. Boyer Dunbar has been Drax through the mud. Has expressed remorse and just based my to COVID patients she is eminently qualified for this position. And I do not believe that she will do harm to the Sister Cities Commission. Thank you. Thank Summers. >> Yeah, for Just like as a multicultural, multilingual. Caring, connected member of our community. I believe the nominee is well qualified for this position and I do want to try and put a the comments kind of different perspective, possibly so I just like to read a couple comments sedition behavior punishable by death. Hang them. George Washington would. These are trust Henry troops from our President. Trump and they're directed towards elected officials that he perceives that his political opponent. And so I believe that we are in an era of kind of radical and sometimes uncomfortable free speech like we maybe haven't experience before. And I think led the way by our own president and who is not shy about threatening his perceived political enemies with retribution and even that. And so I think, you taking a that in 2 kind of contact. I just I really can't get all that excited about comment. I think that we have a well-qualified nominee here and I'm going support her. Thank you. >> Thank you. Mister McCormick. >> We just say I'm a taken aback at how how quickly people are excuse calls for political violence a time like this. It seems. Seems everyone has an excuse for for why it's OK at this point, though. And I want but if Kate on that, I think member Kercher's done a great job of expressing that. >> I have heard a few times, though, that >> appointee has made comments that they regret what they've said and they said to Tour Porter was broadcast far and wide. I didn't see in the >> pack into the issue. Any such statement or I don't know if the administration. I think the mayor commented on that. That appointee has expressed or remorse for for those. >> Is that in print anywhere? >> Suzanne Green Chiefs of staff to Mayor LaFrance to the chair I am not aware that that is in print anywhere. >> Like a mist Baldwin Day has said when we spoke with the candidate, she did express that. I think she's expressed that. >> least verbally to many, many people and I think one way to show that she wants to give back to this community and demonstrate. That she does have are great for this is frankly, by sticking her neck out and entering the fray yet again to take a volunteer appointment is that that is one way that each of us, if we're willing can demonstrate that we understand maybe we. Said something. As the mayor said, she does not agree with and recognizes is inappropriate. But are willing to make up for it by. Through volunteer service. >> For sure. I believe member ball and a set of forgiveness and grace. I I moved. >> It is the pointy here to step into the fray and apologize for the comments. I don't see any so. All right. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Martinez. >> Thank you. Chair. With the previous. Appointment. To the aboard. I Express. The way I approach. >> Differing 2 administrations. In the face of even. voices from the community. And here we are again. With situation from my vantage point. That just from candidates perspective, the mayor is advancing a candidate. Aside from Jermaine issue. People sensibilities of comments political discourse. The resume. Here's what I think. From my vantage point of looking at with respect to appointments. So that the appointment essentially. It was based on. Qualifications at the resume level and having said that. I'll just put on the record. That's a very dumb thing to say. And I hope that the candidate is listening. At a certain point in in in the maturity of of being in the public. requires a certain discipline and a certain ability to. Be a part of the bigger picture, even if your emotions are so raw that it would be due to say some dumb things, ignorant thing, foolish thing. April, thanks. Their lives that opportunity again from my vantage point following a rubric. I will not try to over analyze every single less. Where up to the point that is detrimental to the appointment itself. don't see that here. With respect to why this person is being appointed. Want to just recognize. From administration's perspective. You at Vance thing candidate. And the due diligence around the. Opposition around. The justification, I think is. Lee wired. And the sooner fashion. What I'm saying fundamentally the first time I've heard from the administration. As to why this candidate continues to persist. It's the first time I've heard from administration. Any comments around the Parsons. Subsequent dispositions, which I quite frankly. I don't really care about you know, stupid is stupid does, but that's what it is. Yeah, I'm not. I'm not. I don't think this person is being appointed to be a spokesperson of. Good information at this point out. So I don't. But that's not And they appear to have express. Remorse. I haven't heard it directly to miss the McComas point. But there appears to be some consensus that that has been said. My rubric again, how far down the we do members go what every appointment and how consistent all we to Mister. Rivera's point. My consistency will be to defer to. Candidates, but I don't necessarily. If I don't think they've taken any action that has been. Criminal or out of bounds of of any public service, volunteer service. Having said that, I just wanted to reiterate. In our community. From a maturity level. What I hope is that. We don't have. I'm here tonight is a lot of people. From one side or the other having justification central. Well, besides sent this So the political bars move a little further this way in people talk this way. Now a days Inn. What I would hope is that and old-school sense of community would take hold where Grace lives, which would give us the ability to say. Somebody. things. Fans. Some things is a little different doing some things in. We can find a way back. We can find a way back to each other. We could find a way back to. Rolling our sleeves up and working with each other. Even though I know you you you may have hope my claim to not Ryan I, you know, hope if anyone in audience hope for a plan that I want to not land, I bad news for you. I'm anointed. And I believe in less things in great. So we're not going have that. And so sticks and stones. Words. Let's get down to business. Mayor, you have an appointment. I will defer to the apartment. Don't let down. Processes that have exposing these raw. Emotions. Without having good. Context for. And so to my colleagues. To your own adventure, I think it's a very dumb thing to have said. It was absolutely stupid to have said disqualify you from different things in the community? I'm sure it does. Is this one of them? So some people will disqualify them for it. For me, I just referred to the mayor's appointment on the record. Thank you, chair. >> Mr. Johnson. Thank you, Mr. Chair. try to keep a I will say that I am glad that we're having this debate and wind 10 to support this nominee. I think it is well and good that we are drawing attention to the comments that were made because I do not agree with them. And while there's obviously been considerable disagreement on this body about which way to proceed. I think it is fair to say that everyone here is made clear we do not support political violence. We do not support comments that endorse political violence. I know I cannot formally speak colleagues, but I think it is safe to say that that is something we all agree with strongly. And so it is clear to me, you know, even if this nominee moves forward is approved, that we take this seriously and that we do do not agree with the appropriateness of what was said. But I'm weighing that against. Another thing that seemed relevant to this cultural moment. We're living in. More and more. We're seeing one inappropriate comment. One dumps of social media post. Can have consequences that live with somebody for the rest of their lives can derail entire careers. And we see it across the political spectrum and it is a trend that I find worrisome and concerning as because if we want to have a free society, if we want to be comfortable engaging with the put other to discovery to do so in ways that are vocals and occasionally. May become passionate. I think we do need to have that measure grace to realize that we can say something we can regret it. We can apologize for and it does not necessarily need to impact the rest of our lives moving forward. I mean, it's clear from this call candidates resume that you worked very hard in a career, distinguish yourself to build up sort of background qualifications that I we would want to see serving on a commission like this and so for that, I think that I would not be inclined to say that 1, 1, ill advise for Marquez as detest wasn't might have been is enough to undo all of that hard work in my mind. And I think that is a measure of grace that extended this candidate as well as others. I've been on the spotty across 2 administrations now and lax of my colleagues. I've generally looked at when assemblies qualified, unethical. And if they are, I tend to respect the role of the executive branch approve them. And that has been true for 2 mayors. Now. And it is not to say that is always somebody I agree with or somebody I even like necessarily. But I do think that is the better process. So that is where I stand. Thank you. Miss Kercher. And Mr. Chair. I won't belabor the point, but it does seem listen in the conversation right now does seem we are engaging in a little bit of revisionist history to some degree. I happen remember the previous administration. I remember the previous administration having a difficult time getting appointments through. >> And I happen remember a specific when it comes to mind is nominee for the Women's Commission. Was eminently qualified who was voted down for her abortion positions. So this is not a word. So this argument we've always just tougher to the mayor, that's simply not true. simply lot abide by that. Secondly. My standard. All my colleagues here as I will generally defer to the mayor on these issues on these nominees for these boards and commissions because she won the election. She gets to decide who gets the man the city. Calling for violence against elected official. No matter the party, no matter the the official is a is a red line for me. I will not support any nominee and you can hold me to this Mr. Chair Baldwin Day, hold me to I will not support a single nominee that calls for political violence against political rivals. This is such an easy test for me. I don't understand why the seams. We're going wrapped around the axle little bit. As to whether as to the comments made by the president less. If the mayor wants to point Donald Trump today city, the anchored says Sister Cities Commission, we can have a conversation about some of his comments. We want, but he's not before us right now. It's Miss Dunbar. She's one is made the comments as recently August that she hopes of the president states would die in plane crash. Thank you, Mister Chair. So thank you, Mr. Dawson. >> So I have number of kind of plans to roll around get to the point us directly as I can. I Margaret Kerr also like. Mr. Johnson did for bringing this forward because I do think there's room for conversations about disagreements and civility in all of these things. In fact, it's an important exercise for us to do. I do take a little umbrage with the framing of the previous administration revisionist history because I voted to confirm a pathological liar into a position that great harm to this municipality based on trust. And after that, I stopped trusting because I. Took what I think was the worst vote of my entire life. That because it harmed people. And so say that my process changed became more scrutiny after. Also say thank you for finding Grace because I think that is what is in order and this conversation. I can tell might surprise some people that I have said some pretty stupid things. Really stupid. And I have. I concede and have managed to survive and get through it and continue to serve my community. Some may think not. Well, some think well, so I am an example of why there is room for us to proceed. Now it's been asserted that this was said latest in August. was one time the 10, some of pattern of behavior that we've seen a number of times. And so and I want it back onto the the, you know, punishable by death, suspicious because I think you make a good point. That person not here before us, although I think the spirit of that person is right here with us. Mark, I also appreciate that. You kind of brought in the conversation about the leaked chats because he said this is early check. This was a conversation with reporter, but I will say it is also like the leaked chats. And I will say that there were 2900 pages of Telegram messages from one set of our population that make jokes about the Holocaust and Anti-Semitism and racism, homophobia called for violence. Rape pro-Nazi references to gas chambers, demeaning racial stereotypes. Massaging all it was all there right? So that was what I think you're referring What was amazing was we were on the radio just finishing that effort, which I still owe you one going in show to do the counter to that. On the right wing radio. But the idea there we were talking about and then this 2900 texting happen, right? Quite surprising. I'm going to quote, JD Vance. From his appearance on the Charlie Kirk Show after that happened. I guess it was just wasn't on track. It was after that. Here's what he said in relationship to that kids who are 24 to 35 years old, but we call them kids much. This appointee is right square in the middle of that age range. The reality is that kids do stupid things. Jd they tell edgy, offensive jokes. That's what kids do. Jd Vance. I really don't want us to grow up in a country where a kid telling a stupid joke telling a very offensive stupid joke is cause to ruin their lives. Jd Vance. Regarding a comparison of controversial messages. Vance wrote. Skip that one. He added he refused to join the Pearl, clutching one powerful people call for political violence. Jd Vance. He urged critics not to let what a bunch of young people lunch kits and a group chat, however, offensive dominate the public conversation. And he reflected on how things have changed since he was young. Most of what I the stupid things that I did as a teenager. Thankfully they're not on the Internet. And he also said, and this is a caution to everybody. If you put it in a group chat, if you read it, if you put it in an email, assume someone's gonna week. I think that what the vice president is calling for as grace. And I think those are quotes from a conversation that's very contemporaneous to this one. In fact, right around the same time, we're on the radio. And so for my part, I'm happy to support the show. And again don't love what she said. Now. She said and have talked with her. And again, I will. And where I start, I have said many stupid things. Some to the scale probably. And I'm grateful for my voters and supporters to continue supporting me and for that, I will ask to extend that same grace. This appointee. There's no one else. Members may proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. Member Silvers. >> I vote of 8 to 2 in the youth number of votes. Yes, yes. And 8.90, dash 2025 passed the body. That's we have item 10 36. Item. 10 D 36 is an 8.99 dash 2025 amendment number one for Ending Inc target Ulta Services for municipality Anchorage Department succeed $56,921 Sunday. >> Thank you, chair. And with apologies to the administration for not submitting this question in advance. Let's do that. First prove second. Thank you. Pushing to prove Imus ball and a second. I think Johnson. The second. Mr. Responding forgive Me, Chair. was hoping to ask a couple of questions. If there's a number of the administration would like to answer. To member evolve and director. Ashley, health department is coming down and can certainly answer questions. Outstanding. Fresh Director. Ashley for being here. I'm curious how things are looking in terms of of capacity. Both. Both with that having operated shelter and also at Linda's Place. Are we are we anticipating that we are going to from Maine at that at the capacity to search capacity of one 50 in 2 2026. Threw the chair. Yes. is Linda's place operating at 100 beds are are they also are operating with surge capacity. They have searched capacity as well. We are almost up to the 150 mark. They were waiting on receiving more beds and they are believe they put the last 8 in place. >> And as of >> the day after Thanksgiving for that night. So we'll be at 150 Linda's place and 150, at least 56. Yes, okay. Do we anticipate that we might need more capacity at some point in early 2026, of temperatures fall and What are your thoughts on how we might accommodate additional demand? So were continuously monitoring the situation, obviously with the weather and making sure that we are moving individuals through the shelter, moving them through the Alex Hotel as well, which is non congregate location. >> Working with our partners, we rely heavily in working with so Kathleen McLaughlin and Lee Robinson and in that assistance in moving individuals through. But at this time, it is just contemplated with 150 at both locations. >> At what point would a determination be made that we might require more than 300 non congregate? Our excuse me, congregate beds. >> We would have to probably really look at the situation. Look at are we using all of our beds within the shelter system at capacity? And at their most efficient processes that we have in place and then make a determination from there. We would communicate that to the body through the Housing and homelessness committee meeting which meets. >> The 3rd 3rd, 3rd, 3003th Wednesday of the month. Great. Thank you I think that I think that in my questions. Thank you. >> Was that the floor that's been done? It? You know. All right, Mister Johnson to get quick question from his resisting years to trying to Matthew myself. So we just ask you for these additional business surge capacity. Is this essentially the same >> rate per night prevent what we paid in the original contractor. What is yes, the same for both windows and for hunting. Ok, thank you. Further questions. none members may proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member Holland. Member, Silvers. >> So on a vote of temperatures are in the youth member votes. Yes, and 8.99, dash 2025. U.S. pass the bodies that concludes our consent agenda for the night. Gonna take a regularly scheduled dinner break. We'll be back to tackle a very extensive agenda. About 20 to 30 minutes. Thank you all. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ and >> How does >> And ♪ ♪ ♪ >> And, ♪ ♪ >> have. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ >> Okay. Good evening. Welcome back. welcome back on the record. So just so folks know there are a number of items that will be opened and then postponed that are public hearings later, too. Future meetings. Some of them will take some testimony on that. We probably will only take time certain amount of testimony on any of the larger items because we don't intend most of them to go tonight. There's still work to be done so just that's setting of expectations and baseline. So folks know that that part of what's coming tonight on certain items. We have also certain items that are must-pass items relating to business licenses and other items will have to move up in the agenda. If the night goes long to make sure that they're done tonight because certain actions have to be taken by tonight. Leslie Lewis R Opportunity to speak on those licenses with the state. And so not yet. Joined by our friends with demonstrations on csu's and yet. And so if there's no objection, I'd like to go ahead and change the order just to take up 11, be for the purpose of postponing item. 2, our next meeting work to to win. Mister Vaughn wants to postpone it, too. So next, Harry unseen objection will be on 11. The first you know 2025 dash 97 in Oregon. Stanford, some basements qualified voters encourage proposition amending the home rule charter to authorize tax on short-term rentals. Public hearing was held in closed action was postponed from 9. 23 10. 21 11, 18 Mr. Holland. >> Thank you. Like to move postponed a meeting of 12, 16. >> So there's a motion to postpone the 12, 16 0nd. fact seconded by Cervera was trying speak to that. >> you know, I'll just say that. think that's what we intend to discuss of the some of the other revenue proposals that will be before us. And so. And may just give us the opportunity to have a more holistic conversation. Thank you. >> Anyone else to speak on the motion postpone. Mr. Mccormack. >> Thanks. Are slated get in the queue this has been postponed a numerous amount of times. >> And but it's been posted immediate and posted that we have public comment. I would like. I would like to move forward with this and get to a conclusion rather continuing to kick this can down the road. Thank you. >> Thanks. Yeah. I appreciate that. And I it can be frustrating when we do move things on multiple meetings. But also in the context of this particular proposal, I think it is valuable to consider them all together. for my part, I'm not ready to vote on this item until we have had some more time to consider the other proposals on the table. So I would support this motion. Thanks. >> And I'll just add the original all intent was to haven't voted on, but there was strong pressure by members to consolidate the conversations about revenue. I think Mr. Hollande and opportunity words in his mouth. But a month ago. Absolutely agree with you. And here we are. And so that's not being done for convenience. It's being done because it's just not quite ready. seen here in a member state project, Mister A couple Go ahead. >> Thank Yeah, I just I think maybe final point on it. I think ready. But, you know, and I partially share member McCormack frustration. I will say when I started the public process or at least public outreach on this item, I didn't know that they're going to Many other revenue proposal. And so I guess one thing I'm trying to what I'm looking for in there. Significant public support. Any of the other revenue proposal that may impact my calculus on this. And I think it will also likely impact potentially the calculus of my colleagues help. Out of deference really wanting. The public be able to weigh in on. The other proposal. That is why. going to give it just a little bit of extra time. >> non-members may proceed to vote. The motion postpone did meet 12, 16. >> Member Martinez. Member of Poland. Member Silvers. >> Vote of Texas are in the youth member votes. >> yes. This item >> Postponing would be a path before us on 12, 16. Now we're going to roll back to item 11, a Our 25 dash 3.55, a resolution of assembly adopting 2026 state legislative program for the municipality of Anchorage. There's also they are 2025, dash 3.55 That's version. At this point. I don't see that there's a motion pending. As Mr. Chair any again make a disclosure. I was free previously found of a conflict on this item. So I believe that is still the case. >> Yes, it's this item is still before us. previous ruling is in effect, a rescue step down while we have this discussion. Thank you. So we have the version. It's there in motion. >> Move to approve the S. >> Motion to approve Johnson's second virus ball of the day. You want to speak to Mr. Johnson. >> Yeah. Just first off, I want to thank People want to thank the administration for the work they put into presenting the original draft of the legislative program and the collaboration to where we are. Thank you. My colleagues who participate in the process for the work Sessions and committee meetings to offer feedback that has led to the BS that incorporate some of the changes that were requested. And then also just a big thank you to legislative branch staff for all the work they did for shepherd the process as well as actually. >> Crafting the final formatted version you see here today just very quickly, you know, rider for the public or or or that this the legislative program approved by the assembly is the it outlines the municipality's budget and statutory request to the state of Alaska for the 2026 what session just briefly, I'll say that doesn't actually pretty reflect the will one party involved in this. This is a body of 12 members and it is something that is subject to approval and when and if it is, then that is therefore the the the position, the municipality. But again, we are also individuals with individual feelings and opinions on these matters as well. So just want to clarify that with that. I'll just say I would encourage my colleagues to approve again, thank you to those that took part in this process to a draft document. further discussion. Seeing hearing members proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member Boland. Member Silvers. Yes. >> On a vote of 9 to 0 and the youth member votes. Yes, Our 2025 dash 3.55 S has passed the body. That takes us to our public hearing items. Next item on the agenda is 13, a which is 2025 dash, one, 19, an ordinance amending Wilco title, too, Section 2 and up $40.03, 5 recognition of community councils to about 40, establishment of community councils and tune-up for community Council maps order carry out the tenure review an adjustment of community Council district boundaries. Before I open the public hearing, I just want to let folks know that its intent of the body or leadership too request to members post on the to actually January this project has been underway for 3 years and came to the assembly 2 weeks ago. We haven't or a month ago haven't had meaningful time to sit down, have conversations with our district partners and make proposed any amendments or have those conversations. And so open the public hearing, but is the intent asked members to postpone this item for several meetings to give us time to put a cap on a three-year effort. So public hearings now open. And if so super version or a future meeting comes, you will have an opportunity testify that some public hearings now open. So we'll go ahead and ask for a motion to postpone a star continue the public hearing skews me. Move It's okay. Please come forward. If talked to turn the microphone on, please state your name. A part of town from you have 3 minutes. >> Good afternoon. Thank you for taking the time to listen to me. My name is migrants. Time here representing the current University area Community Council, which we will hope soon be they you Mad Tutor Community Council. not going to present to you any entirely new information act. You already have the resolution from our community council opposing the removal of the area generally located between northern lights into as well as between bond facing Baxter. Voting to remove this area place within the boundaries of the scenic Park Community Council. Will immediately cause a loss of one and possibly even 2 vital members saved the second one because he's negotiating as lease. For more active University area board. Our board has voted on this matter several times every time with the same result, unanimous opposition. The zoning Commission made this exact proposal 10 years ago to time the council again, actually 13 years ago. I think it was the council again passed a resolution opposing the loss in the community and the Assembly concurred with the will of the community Council. There you are. Voting on provides a very large block of diverse residences. You ACC is uniquely made up of 2 of the 3 hospitals and both large universities. We spent a significant portion in area of the city while our institutional president's, he's strong, her residential base is what is critical. Many of our residents have been here since before the city in the borough merged. Actually even back in 1975, which was I believe the last time 42nd Avenue was maintained. Removing my area causes our community cancel to lose thousands of residents leading our representation and impact. Now, as this matter is critical as it Sister Cities, Commission appointment. Does a bear dozens of hours of debate. I perhaps What I'm sure of is that is fundamentally important to our community and our council. We've sent this assembly resolution twice and has spoken about this with you. Many times are regular meetings and find them in to make this really, really hard for you. However, you vote on this. I will not change. It will not change my view of you. And it's not going to change my participation our community. I'm simply asking you to respect the voice of the universe here. Community Council vote no on moving me off my island and thank you for your time. >> All right. Thank you again, this item, if the motion passed will be continue to meeting in January. Speak now, if you want, please come forward. You won't be able to speak again, though, when it comes back. Mike from got turned off. So there's green. But there. There's a green button on the microphone. on the front. Thanks. Welcome, please. State your name will partner from first time 3 minutes. Welcome. >> One in 4 in a row. You're representing the Portage Valley Community Council. >> Need 5 minutes. >> And got bylaws altogether or boating held a meeting last night. to 2 let you know, see if we can continue operating on a community, a neighborhood basis. >> But you have 5 minutes, if you want to say more but much, anything. Thank Perfect. I do recommend if you're council has passed resolution, make sure it gets emailed forward to the somebody threw the clerk. >> Anyone All right. We're going ask motion now. >> Move to continue the public hearing to than regular meeting of January 13, 2026. >> So there's a motion to continue January 16th, 13th 30. Moved by us probably second by Miss Baugh Monday. Any discussion on the motion? Like to ask unanimous consent, an injection of motion. Seeing hearing no objection. This item back for us to continue public hearing the meaning of January 13th. Next. And we have item 13 B, that's also another item that would be postponed tonight are continued excuse into a future meeting. I am 13 be as 2025 dash 59 or saying something many person this chapter 3.90, access to public records. Nancy Section 3.30, 1, 6, to update public records response procedures. Public hearings continue for a 12 million, 907. 11, 18. 0, here we are. Public hearings open this process. >> Move to continue the public hearing to the meeting of December 16th. >> So it's a motion second content public hearing to December 16th by most probably Second Amendment ball today. I speak to that. >> My understanding from the sponsors the intent to bring this back at the next meeting with some additional changes, things. >> Yeah, I'll just briefly say that been working with administration to get this done. It's just a dive, Mr. Johnson. >> I'm fine with a delay and I respect the complexities of this and it's around for quite some time. I guess I will just respectfully, what is our confidence level that this will be ready for action on December 16th and if the confidence levels not hive, perhaps we should just push a little bit further out. >> So I'll just speak to that briefly. We tried that approach and then it fell into the memory hole and improved despite efforts and communications. And so we believe that the best strategy to and sure the work gets done is to keep it hot. >> All right. Well, I will respectful differential, but I will say as a member of this body and that the package and as we have it, the uncertainty around whether or not something is coming up for action does make the job more complicated. It's embarrassing and off. Thank you. So they're saying OK, anyone further on motion? Seen here and proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. member Silvers. >> vote of 10 to 0 and number of votes. Yes, yes, 2025 dash. 59 will be back for us on a meeting of. item, 13 CL 2025 Dash, one, 15 ordinance amending Anchorage Municipal Code title 10 to add a new chapter requiring owners register short-term rentals many times, 12 requirements related to tax reporting for hosting platforms and amending 21 to explicitly allow short-term rentals in our residential zoning districts. Some commercial districts. There's also an S and an S one. And believe the sponsors also have an intent to postpone or continue. open the public hearing again and ask for a motion to continue. >> Are we going to open public now OK moved to continue the public hearing to the meeting of 12, 16 second. >> So there's a community 12, 16 by must fall. And a second by Mister Johnson speak to that spot today. >> Yes, we've just ended up in a situation where we had thing 4 floor amendments who decided that in St version would be kinder to everyone as opposed to trying to make sausage on the dias. So we'll be we'll be back with something a little more coherent and a couple weeks. >> Do you know if the amendments are present before us tonight? for members of the public just saying no items that would be incorporated into a nest version. Our on the table tonight, you can get them over here. So just make sure the record is sufficient. Mr. Johnson. No, okay. Thank you. And then if there's someone else, I'd like to ask unanimous consent. An objection. The motion to continue the public hearing to the meaning of 12, 16. Connections consider that. Motion adopted. Which brings us to the new public hearings item 14, a 0 2025 dash one. 23, an ordinance amending the zoning map and approving the rezoning of approximately 2 point. 5 acres from see er 10 low density residential Alpine, South C E R 7 medium density, some a family residential District for Stewart Subdivision unit number 2 track to de Pere plats. 76 DeShawn 79 generally looking at North and Stewart drive east of sort of circle and west of Mount Highway. Public hearing on item is now open. come forward. Welcome. Please take them apart. from 3 minutes. >> Yeah, thank you, chair. My name is Craig Bennett with us for a group serving and the petitioners representative tonight for this. And I'll just brief. first. I want to thank staff. They've done excellent job and we truly appreciate their effort with this. This project property is located up Eagle River Valley in totals approximately about 2.8 acres. requesting to rezone from see ER tend to see our 7, which is the to you a river, medium density single family residential district. As shown in the packet, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the rezone with the public hearing. The Planning Department recommends approval and finds that approval criteria for the rezone are met. That to get River Comprehensive plan land use designation for the property is residential. Want it to do and the implementing zoning district as shown in the packet to CR 7. In summary planning staff are viewing departments. Pnc. All support this request. It aligns with the comp plan. And with that, I'll see if there's any questions that the board has. probably has a question. Yeah, thank >> My question is in reading the pack it Can you just describe the lot sizes of what's >> being proposed? >> Sure, And through the chair. Lot sizes are about 40,000 square feet. But that's a little bit separate from the rezone. But the rezone will approve. Once it's approved, we can then submit the plant for 3 lots and each lot. There's 2 lots that are about 40,001 law proposed just under. And the reason is septic on site needs 40,000 square feet for a septic tank. >> So essentially, these are almost one acre lots that are being proposed. Correct? Thank You're welcome. All right. I think that's Thank you. Anyone else wish to be heard on this item. >> Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> Hi, my name's Tom Harrison. >> I on the lot. That's adjacent to the subject. Property taking a look at as they Stewart property Homestead. And passed away about 10 years ago or so. This. >> What it's like an island in the middle of Highland Crest. >> Subdivision area there's all. Zoned it differently. And so I just like to express my objection to changing the zoning because it's a different from everybody else. And I don't think that people should have to. You know. What's the way to put this in simple terms? Things change. That lot could change. So you're going from low density to city and then the future. That that's owning description can change. And I don't think it's fair to the neighborhood that's been there for 40 years. put up with that change. I guess that's all. If you have any questions. >> It's a question, sir. Thank you very much. Down to state them, a part of town from have 3 minutes. >> Good evening. My name is Adam Shick's. I'm here on behalf of the Highland Crest Homeowners Association. As a vice presidents are speaking on behalf of them request 5 minutes. vice president for the Highland Crest Homeowners Association encompasses Cerium requesting 5 minutes to do it, sir. Unity councils are set up for 5 minutes, OK, that will make this quick straight forward. My name is Adam Shick's. I live the millet to the east of this. Here's what I'm going to ask of the community council tonight with some of that tonight. One of 2 options either amend the current request from in our 7 to an R one alpha to be in conjunction with surrounding area and in conjunction with the comprehensive plan or too return this to the planning Department. For a review and to answer why it is distinctly different and the surrounding area and to justify why they incorrectly used the comprehensive plan. I believe the 3 things that you need to focus on for this pay attention to the conversations going up here. Number one, I believe that the planning Department made errors 2 specific areas, Aaron. Number one, they use the comprehensive plan incorrectly and I'll try and quickly make that justification. And 2, they did address and request the input from the your river, a review board, which gives them the advice on how to do zoning decisions. And since then, that board has passed a resolution non concurring with what the zoning department agreed to with the planning Department agreed to. I think it's an equal to the neighborhoods and I'll give a justification of I have I'm out of time. And I believe that the of that impact of the cohesion in the neighborhood is significant. So since I've only got one minute left, we're going to go real fast. The comprehensive plan specifically says for for that, that area do not use the map. To make zoning decisions. It is explicit in written out in there and it's in your packet and they're explaining what verbiage is as do not use them out in discussions with the planning department. That is precisely what they did. They use the map in just 20 years old and he's not clear on how to do this. Number 2, they didn't address this with that You review board and you should have in there the resolution 2025, 0, 3, from the chair of for the River Chugiak. What specifically says chair of was not timely, notified to provide review and make recommendations. And now they're for resolve that that she's yet you River advisory board strongly urges the municipality of Anchorage. Planning and Zoning Commission to acknowledge responsibility and respect the distinct characteristics to the planning mechanisms. Everything around it is a This should be a one-off as well. And we're asking you to send this back to the planning Department. 4 for the vote. feat in the future. >> Thank you, sir. Stand by for questions. don't see anyone with questions. Just just because I think you for coming out, good to Thank you enough. Good enough. Thank you. Anyone else speak on this item? Okay. So I want to go close the public hearing. probably. >> Move to reopen and continue the public hearing to the meeting of January 13, 2026. I can speak to them. >> So there's a motion to continues or second. Seconded by Mister. Some advice pricing Kercher. >> Yeah, thanks. After conferring with the chair, we decided one that it would be more appropriate for both of our Eagle River members to district representative to be president. Because you guys know the area the best and also clearly there is some kind of outstanding questions that we can dig into. And of course, we only received the she got River Advisory Board resolution tonight. So it's not been formally introduced in the record. >> would just add that if that should get Eagle Port didn't have time to review it. Hopefully a month gives them time to do whatever they need to do to put together. Position that they suggest wasn't. Available because it wasn't timely. So hopefully if this passes there is now timely notice to do whatever needs to be done. Any further discussion on the motion to reopen to the public hearing too many generator. none. I'd like to ask unanimous consent. An objection. no objection. Consider that adopted. Continued. Next. We have item 14 P 14 be is El 2025, Dash one. 24 ordinance to misspell the bank the Anchorage. 2040 land use plan designation of one lot containing approximately 0.3 acres from compact makes presidential medium to Main Street corridor for t 13 N our 4 W section. 25. And if you for view for before any for PT be generally located at Southwestern Second Avenue west of Door Grant Street north of us 30rd Avenue and east of Spenard Road in encourage the public hearing on the side of the snow open. Anyone wish to heard on this item. Welcome. Please stand him up our time from 3 minutes, Craig Bennett with us for petitioners representative on this one and >> 14 see its map change and rezone. And I'm just here, if any questions, it's fairly simple. One. All right. Thank you. Anyone else wish to be heard on this item. Public hair on the side of a snow closed. What will the body move to approve? second? famous probably seconded by all Mr. Constance, thank Maybe for you, Craig. Or maybe the planning department. This document says one lot. Does this create a spot on? This does not create a split on what we were trying to do is take 3 parcels, put it into one and this will make it a one zoning. Kaye said, OK to reducing 3 to Ultimately, 3, lots sharing the same. But being so this make it Knotts. Puts on we can so we can combine. Anything to Chair. Thank you for the question. Your question about spot sending, is that correct? >> It says one law and the title which always raise a red flag. >> Yes, and that is a red flag and less the rezone. Is aligned with the comp plan? And by passing the comp plan will be in line with the comp plan. >> And I think the answer there are 3, lots and so camp spots on Trump. One lot. >> Yeah. Just briefly, I am excited to any any new development in this area. I lived on the street next to this. Not not reason enough to make a disclosure about it, but I'm very familiar with this. I do know there's a mix of commercial uses kind of in there. There's that they will headquarters. Alaska Sausage. So it's actually interesting kind of mixed neighborhood right next to Spenard Road. So so while the main street corridor might seem like designation for a residential area, I would encourage folks to walk around there because it's actually extremely mixed. So again, happy to see anything new happening in this area. Thank >> None members may proceed to vote. Member Martin S. Member of Oland. Member Silvers. On a vote. >> On a vote of 9 to Sheryl and the youth member votes. Yes. Yes. 2025 dash one. 24 us best buddy. Okay. Thank you. So next we have item 14 CL 2025 dash one. 26 an ordinance amending the zoning map and approving the rezone approximately 0.3 acres from our mixed residential district, to B 3 general business district. 4. 2.13, R. 4 section. 25 northwest for northwest for south east, for northeast for aptn. Him be generally located at Southwest 32nd Avenue west of Fort Door, Brent north of West 23rd Avenue and east of Road in Anchorage. Public hearing on this item is now open. Anyone wish to be heard. Anyone at all. none public hearing this it's not close. That's what love to Perth. Second moved by most probably second by Miss Paul any discussion. none members may proceed to vote. >> Martinez. Memorable and >> yeah. Member Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0 and the youth member votes. Yes, 2025 dash one. 26 has passed the body. That's a lot 14 pl 2025 2025. an ordinance amending Anchorage Municipal Code chapter. 21 708. For installation of landscaping to permit a second inspection by municipal code enforcement officers are required landscaping when you're after insulation. Pc can start 2025, or 0, 9, 5 public hearing on this item is now open. Anyone wish to be heard on this item. Seeing hearing none public hearing is now close with some of the body. >> Most to prove second. >> Moved by probably second by Miss Bowman today. Any discussion? >> Yeah, do actually have a couple questions. I appreciate the intent of this ordinance. But I was wondering, I think be a question for the planning director just wanting to understand kind of how this would be implemented in practice and probably describing a little bit how landscaping the inspections go and again, kind of what the what the actual enforcement mechanisms are. Thank you. Threw the chair to number probably. >> This is this change. First of all, that's predicated by a change to our standard specifications, which recently updated. that's process is described in the standard specifications. But basically this would come down to inspection by land use enforcement approximately a year after the installation just to ensure that the plants survived the year and do need to be replaced. Okay. Thank you. Yeah, I know that's an ongoing issue. >> I guess that's that's all my questions then. And for my part, I'll say I also appreciate the attention to what's best for the plants. We do know there are living things we are often not talking about what is best for plants because we're focused on what's best for people. But I really appreciate the points about making sure that we don't hamper growth of our trees are we don't inadvertently undermine our goal to keep these plants alive. Thank you. >> If there's no one members makes it a vote. Member. Martinez. Member of Al member Silvers. You're in the queue or in the stores. And a vote of 8 to 2 in the youth member votes. >> 2025 dash one. 25 past the body. All right. Next, we have item 14 E which 2025 dash one. 27 in order save somebody amending actress Dakota after 24 to 18 section 14 16. 0, 3, open losing property owners for public access rights aware of the public land adjacent to our budding their private property. There's also a for public hearings. The open. Welcome. Please them a part owner from you'll have 3 minutes. Sorry. The microphone is off. >> name is Roger Marks. I'm vice president of the nonprofit Friends of Historic Public Trail and I support the proposed ordinance. The mission of the nonprofit is Protect the historic public use historic Homestead Road and subs, every trail system in the upper part Valley. Has about 250 members between 2018 to 2022, it's successfully the to get the creation of a public prescriptive easement under Stuart Traill after the trail up and used for nearly 60 years and block off in 2015. It's the only entrance of the upper part value of to get state park just as packs past summer, grant and trust purchased 2 parcels account of the road and donated them to the park. Now along with another pre existing easement at the end of the road is a clear straight access to the park. These are public easements over private property Moos. Landowners in the area are fine with the arrangement. However, subsequent to litigation, some landowners place signs with misleading and correct and and intimidating information regarding where the public easement is and where it's OK to hike. Or have been signs directly referring to the easement. That's 8, no trespassing and private property. No ego access. Turn back. Here's a sign that says no public access to to get state park. There are no trespassing signs placed near the easement such as air. Unclear as to where they are referring. There are signs that make representations about properties owned by someone else, even though there have been implied consent to high time for 60 years. There are signs of post threats at the police will be called and you'll be prosecuted if you violate these directives. In addition, there are intimidating surveillance cameras along the route in recent months. Some of the signs have been removed, but some are still there. It's disturbing how little used to trail is getting. I've heard from many people that they are not using it because they're confused or fearful or timid about what they see. The net result to see signs and cameras have 4 10 deep river to the public access to a public resource. And summary notwithstanding, then a landowner rice to put signs on their property in the same way we have freedom of speech. You still can not yell fire in a crowded here and I would suggest it's also not appropriate to use false or misleading information and intimidation to restrain the access to a public resource. Thank you for considering this. >> just wish to be heard. Please come forward. We also have some folks on the phone will mix because in a minute. Welcome placing am a part owner have 3 minutes. >> When Mr. Word for us. And what I would like to say is, yes, these are public right of ways and the public should have access private property owner should not be penalized if there's a public interest. We have a enforcement. Agency here with the city and they should post. What is public access and what isn't that takes away all of questions that then is a sign that is posted with authority by the municipality. So don't penalize property owners go ahead and open it up for the public and let them know a sign on Thank you very much. >> Thank When we go out make that call. >> Hello to the family. >> restaurants and this is the image of somebody calling 2025 dash one, 27 public access. You signed up to testify. Public hearing, please state your name. A part of town from left 3 minutes. >> Yeah, thanks for having My name. Really Johnston on the hardwood president. Also the executive director left a trail for a 501, C 3 nonprofit that builds and maintains trail palatka. We do a lot of in from trail realignment were country that state Park and that's an organization we're interested in increasing legal access to that state park and maintaining existing access. I'm grateful to the assembly for taking that issue, a public access to public lands. I think most of us are pretty grateful to live to spectacular piece of public lands and in spirit were in support of the ordinance setting up back into prevent property owners hitting public access to Parkland easements right away or other public lands. I'll leave it to the assembly to determine if and how property owners should or can be penalized. But I the assembly where that you got park the Cinemark getting an ongoing issue in lieu of proactive planning decades ago that could have protected public access recreational events, insufficient access points. you got a park and become a landlocked by private property. There several long-standing pedestrian at that point that you got a park that are vulnerable to obstruction adjacent landowners. And as we've seen recently with the preservation efforts of that Stewart, real access that required motivated private, the defense to seek legal recourse to preserve their access. So ordinance one tool in the tool box to further public access. But I'm offered a 9 encourage the assembly to not just look at mechanism penalize landowners but work proactively to make a plan landowners to stay part of the mayor's administration to identify existing public at this point and existing prescriptive easements that could be legally protected. So these are documented, I think sometimes obstruction happened by private landowners through ignorance, not always wealth structure so he could get on the record. That would be great and could help preserve existing at point entry that State Park. So thank you for taking up the issue of public access, defending access through the mechanism great. But proactive work is very thanks to care. >> We have another person for the phone. >> This call from Ms Monaghan the 2025. >> Dash one. 27 relating to public access. Do you yet? >> that's me. Yeah. And I'm Rick, thanks to Meeting alive. >> Please state your name. A part of town or from have 3 minutes. >> Hi, my name Erika Monaghan and I and then encourage residents. Bruce driving valley and I'm calling to support ordinance. Basically publicly everyone should get out in the and it can be just because you live on the rim of that you get access to trail and in a world where there's so little institutions, it really matters that good to live in a place where people can truck that could find that they read that look, official, our official and if they're put up legally why say untrue things, for example, someone not even on their property and recent under stirs drive put up a sign that says private driveway about a quarter mile away from where their driveway begin. And that just isn't right. And people shouldn't be allowed to get away with it. So I support this ordinance to hold people accountable for lying to the public to prevent them from using public trails. Thank you. >> All right. Thank Please come forward. If you're to testify. Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town you're from. have 3 minutes. listen from the Dome. >> Just as an example where this might. Matter is. I have 2 friends. was talking to the summer and suggested to them to go hike the sewer trail. Very excited for the new opportunity to do so after great land. Trust past acreage on to the state open that easement. Those 2 friends went to the trailhead, tried to hike it and then the next day when talk to them. so they turned around and they said they turned around because there are cameras and there are other things on the trails. They didn't feel comfortable. And so that it's just an example of. The issue of we have with access she gets a park. I don't know the correct solution. We're way to manage that. But want to provide that example. Think. >> Also to be heard on this. Please state your name, a part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> Good evening. My name Samuel Schilling and president of the Alaska Outdoor Access Alliance. this initiative pushing forward has been long overdue with access across Alaska and the city of Anchorage. And I think this needs to be pushed into place because it's gone on far too long. Too many people have gone to trailheads all across the state all across the city, whether it's Campbell Creek, Campbell Lake, or even a pin that you get national forest and people are constantly getting turned around. This isn't mistaken and ending about whose properties who this is an issue. didn't do it. This is purposely done. And I think this is something that needs to be enforced in the municipality. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anyone else wish to be heard. Public side of now closed. Once the well, the money move to prove. Moved by probably seconded by Mr. information, we move in the resort of the version. As for and thank you and the S Thank you. So move members. Second Amendment one that likes to it, Mr. Johnson, thank Much has been said in the testimony about Stuart Traill. grateful individual just spoke about Campbell Lake and other areas where there has been contention and also in that plan that we just passed for legislative ask, we actually were seeking resources to do what the first speaker had suggested, which is come up with a coordinated plan for access into these areas because that is the gold standard. Have a plan and then implement the plan. But barring that, we have found ourselves in a position where us gentleman's just just put it. Many signs there are actually private property owners putting up signs that look very much like many signs, but they aren't actually many signs that say. Don't park here. This is not your property private property. No parking. And so this whole project is an effort to. Bring into conformity and compliance. Those folks who would participate in that kind of grassroots way of avoiding participation in the public use of the Lance that they're a budding now. I do want to speak to the notion again at first speaker talked about how we do have to have enforcement, but that's not the best thing. Proud to say that our code enforcement teams are a very effective at working with people. Their first mission is not to enforce. Their first mission is not to find their first mission is not to. Abuse in any way. Never do they do that. They just try to bring compliance and so the hope and the plan and the way this is drafted is to allow process and time when a complaint arrives at the code Enforcement team go out and seek compliance. Find the facts if the signs have been put up on Muni land illegally, then it would be our position to have to take them down. And so if they're on private land, that is public access them, it's on the persons whose property is the idea is to make it just a little more effective at gaining access. I think that Campbell Lake example is the best one. If you try to access Campbell Lake, the individual whose house is exactly in the section line easement, which is a public access point has, in fact, put metal into the water and made it impossible for you to actually enter the water at that place. That's hostile. And that is been found to be public land. And so this is a modest step in achieving compliance. And again, the basis of our code enforcement process is collaboration with the public. It never starts with a bow. And in fact, only gets to a battle after all other means have broken down. And so this is one tool to achieve that without your support. ball Monday. Oh, no, sorry, Mr. Mccormack their first time. >> I've long been a supporter of >> maintaining public access to 2 public resources since being elected. Not think take a pretty strong stance on supporting public land, making it available for everyone. I store trail with my family this summer and I couldn't agree more that the blockades, Gaetz signage is is all there to deter. People from trying to access our public lands. I'm a strong proponent of private property rights and I do not lose that resolve when it comes to public lands and that this is all of our lands and we need to protect that and make sure it stays available for all to use. And I'm glad that we CASA been money too. Putin signs at store trail. And I know there's been a lot of talk about Stewart Trail, but I think this is this is a ploy couple, 2 other areas around needs to be codify. so that. People to not continue this type of behavior and were able to access the resources of why many of us choose to live here because the beautiful landscaping, beautiful act, outdoor recreation, so be in support of this. Thank you. >> Thank you. Respond to that. >> Thank you, chair. I think I just have some questions about. >> About how this will be, how the the penalties and fines are going to be interpreted. And was wondering if the sponsors would speak to how obstruction or impediment is going to be calculated. I can and I can envision a variety of different ways that that could be interpreted. doesn't seem clear to me from the language going to consider impediment like the entirety of Chugach State Park or the square footage of a trail some other metric. So I'd like I'd like some clarity on that, but not yet ready to see the flap. just love some insight from the sponsor. Yeah. And I think the street 40 on serve that is the land that they actually have possession of. >> That's the boundaries of their property. They wouldn't be responsible for tour and that is not in their possession. But if the impediments are put on their property, that is a public easement access right away. Then the section of their property. That is that. And so if there are 5 properties that are participating in the process, all 5 of them could be subject. But no, it wouldn't extend to the full breadth of that. Yes, the park or anything unreasonable. is intended again to use our code base process, which Mr. I will say it until I'm no longer here. Our code enforcement team is eminently reasonable has always been. >> Yeah, I agree to our code enforcement folks do outstanding work. I I think that I am. It does not do. is does not appear to me that that that intent is key. We're in the way that fence and then penalty or fine assessment to reads. so. I that that feels that feels like. That perhaps. We could address and in some fashion, I will. Thank through whether whether the whether I can come up with an amendment on the fly >> I would just offer that this record could, in fact, suffice to achieve that because in Alaska jurisprudence, the actual record is applicable to the question. Tough, okay. >> And then I think the other thing I'm curious about is particularly with respect to the Stewart Trail. I understand that that the lawsuit in 2022 resulted in a public prescriptive easement, but I have not been able to find on any maps that are publicly accessible. Precisely how far that easement extends. And I understand that there is a there are several private property owners along the Stuart Trail. And curious if that if if that easement has been codified in or is this an easement that we anticipate will be subject to future legal action? >> Where where could? >> Where could someone who wanted to understand the true extent of an easement go to discover that information. >> So this is intriguing and beer. It's awful question has been gone over and over again by the various legal team. So whether it's municipal attorney or the municipal manager who wishes to take this one, I think between them they have the answer. >> I'll take their first crack at it. Mister Chair. It's a really good question. And it's one of the reasons that we are supportive of that. Casa Bond dollars for signage because this in particular, this particular trial, that's the subject has prompted. I think so much of this discussion is actually a few different types of land rights that flow together to provide for this trail. So it is I mean, I think the short answer, the question is there is no easy source. But for clear signage provided are clear maps provided by a public body by a nonprofit supporting a specific trail. Again, that's part of the reason that we've been supportive specifically for this trail of some signage. Because here it's there's not a very land lawyer by training and it's not a tremendously easy thing to piece together the portion of the trail that has natural platted easement on it with the portion of the trail that has prescriptive easement on it. That was settled by court judgment, court against those properties. So it's it's good to not an easy answer complex. I'll defer to them as well. Turn if you'd like to add anything Orton Mr. Falls who is intimately involved in this particular trial. >> think my my last question. I appreciate this is a really complex issue. And it's it's interesting, right when we when we have questions of public access running up against questions of private land ownership and that that's always going to be a sticky wicket, especially in a state like Alaska, which is the genesis of these questions for me. And I think the last thing I'm curious about is with respect to liability. And I asked this question in advance of this meeting. love of art of council, but I think it bears repeating on the record. I am aware that there are property owners who are concerned about legal liability for public access on their land and they are worried that allowing people to traverse their land. What that might result in a situation where they were sued if someone was injured or if if, if they were somehow. If there was an accident that occurred, would they be legally liable for injury sustained and such. So is that a question? It that >> I'm happy to address that. Republic Day. So in general just because someone gets injured on someone else's property doesn't mean that the property owner is automatically liable liability instead turns on negligence. Alaska landowners have a duty to use due care to guard against unreasonable risks created by dangerous conditions existing on their property. Alas, courts have not yet addressed how that general duty there may not apply to injuries on prescriptive public use easements with the landowner has no power to exclude certain public use of the property and with a landowner may or may not be responsible for the conditions on the easement. And now it's that outside the context of a prescriptive easement a landowner who voluntarily grandson easement for certain public recreational activities and are in Alaska statutes. That's 34 1, 7, 1, 100 is entitled to some protections from liability and another Alaska statute. 9, 6, 5, 202. >> Thank you. And my my last question which I think is is perhaps tangential to this but bears. Asking or at least surfacing here is that the public is not always respectful of the lands, that it, too, says to traverse. And for property owners who are concerned about the public leaving behind garbage or in some cases defecating on the trail, which I am aware has been the case in some places along the Stuart. What remedy is there for private landowners to grant a public easement and then. That easement is disrespected by members of the public to they have recourse or is that too bad? So sad sort of situation. check I can offer a non-legal answer. let my colleague sweet anything that specifically leave about liability. >> Trail management is another specifically challenging issue. This part of day. This specific trail is not in the parks and Recs service area. The easy answer is where there is a trail where the municipalities provided signage. If they're if homeowner surrounding the trail paying into the park's Max service area and that offers an option for the municipality to step in and provide some kind of degree of trail maintenance. That's not the case with this particular trail. The state park system has some interesting that so there is again, not an easy simple remedy for a trail. That traverse private land, but for management authority who's able to exercise management authority on the trail and also use public funds through it. means possible. So for this particular trial was problem solving and the easy answer would be at this part of the municipality was in the Parks Max Service area. It's not. So again trying to troubleshoot and figure out what to do here. There is not a specific I would say. guess should defer to Mister be set out for in his role tournament for the specifically targeting liability. Thank you. >> I was just conferring with Assembly Council and we were thinking that in the case of a prescriptive public use easement the public has a right hand turn to that property for certain activities. Not for all activities and certainly not to face property, right? So the remedy would be the remedy of any private property owner. I would think this one came on to your private property engaged in the same activities. Same remedies would be available. >> Thank you. I've price the yield the floor. All right. Next us problem. >> Thanks. Yeah. I also have a couple questions just and far as far as how this will be implement. Obviously, this is as has been stated would be not the first move, but presumably later move if there is not compliance or or agreement from the owner to remove signage or or obstructions. But I'm wondering and maybe this is getting in the nitty-gritty. But how is the square footage calculated? Is it looking at a place? Is it someone going out and measuring it just wanting to understand kind of making sure that when we're talking about, you know, per square footage, fines, those can get large. And I understand that's part of the incentive is to if it is a large obstruction to make it a a financial disincentive. But I'm just wondering, generally and I don't think we have could enforcement folks here, but just wondering how that would be measured and mainly would be measured on the ground are going to be measured a plat map or something like >> I think we might get into the different, perhaps the sponsor for how the and with the intent was for first initial clarity because I think a guide how we as interpreting would interpret, right? That's great. have I think that the answer to the question is it's very site specific, just simply to Pence the >> property down at. At Kemper Lakes, actually pretty small footprint. And you can easily determined that it's a little bit more complicated when you're talking about massive tracks and a but. >> National or state parks. So the intent is just to have the teams of code enforcement doing reasonable appraisal of what is taken and then Bay said from there. So it isn't intended to be prescriptive just some of the previous comments since these are not granted public easements. These are public easements that exist, not somebody granting this thing. really I think it just cite specific and depends on that But the code enforcement teams measure things all the time. >> Thanks. Yeah. Definitely. I support the intent of this ordinance and I support the ordinance. I just wanted to register some concerns similar to separate discussion. But we've talked about buffers are saying, you know, that has to be certain number of feet from something. And then those can get complicated in real life so that I don't want to draw too many parallels to other kind of, I guess, using geometry to do policy. But do want to just register that concerned that this could want to say misused because that would imply a motive from staff, but it could be it could be interpreted in a way that that makes those very large, which could make this challenging. So just wanted to put that on the record. Thank you. >> Misbah Monday again. >> Thank you. sorry. I'm one final question is is a is a temporary roadway. Easements. With that would want that specific variety of easement be subject to this change in code. >> As written, I would say that it is a man. Obviously, it's it's temporary easement. The likeability would be to borrow. But yes, a temporary roadways met would. Fall within the language of the proposed ordinance. >> Can you clarify what a temporary roadway easement is? >> It's it's a variety of of plotted easement that is actually that exists on one of the properties that would be affected by this It it is that it's a temporary road may easement that's been in place since 1988. and the designation says centered on existing road to be vacated. One future access is provided and their son. That's those are the that the comments on the plat. And so I was curious to understand a fat particular easement would be subject to ordinances. that that property owner would be interested to know that as well. >> Yes, Mister thank you, Mr. Yeah, thank you know, I I appreciate the conversation and testimony. >> Really did appreciate the comments. From Haley left in Johnson. about the need to be proactive. And I want to highlight the fact that the assembly has passed a resolution a specifically. I recall a resolution on the 10th. It puts Patient improvement program. 2 out of project that would do an inventory with RTS mapping of right of way. And even and I think it's really important for the public to have that information. And that is something that we should probably at the body. How upon? I also I think for a moment, want zoom out of the sewer trail. Because I think that has been one of the biggest example of and the most egregious example from one of extent that have garnered the most attention in the media. However, that is not an isolated. An isolated case. There are several examples. Private property owners. Intentionally. Blocking how right of way. Chair you mentioned. Campbell Lake. He's meant to example. I personally have witnessed that myself you. The metal fencing that was installed at the end of the easement to prevent people from getting in and out of the water. However, there another example that I'm aware where an Anchorage resident emailed To report large boulder that was on a on a tree called Mountain Way Large Boulder being put in public right of way so that people couldn't park on the side of the ruck. Another in front of preventing people access to trail. They're also documented cases of no parking that are not created by county. Put up by private citizens without any authority to do so. Public access while main thing often something I strongly support not the only issue. There's also issues of. Emergency vehicles being able to get a clean it out. If you have boulder on the side of the road where emergency vehicle May park. That's a problem. In the case that I mentioned. Code enforcement was able 2 bring those folks into compliance. If the voters removed and also will to remove him. Improper. No parking sign it. Again, speaking compliance with the goal, but also. Private property owners. They don't have the right. Taking From the public when it comes to bridal, right, right of way. And even And we have to have, I believe, in making it place to say, OK, if you don't comply. It's going to be enforcement. I hope that we can pass But I certainly appreciate the many who want to that have been discussed here tonight. Thank you. Mister Chair. >> I don't see anyone else in the queue. Members may proceed to vote. >> Remember, Martinez? Member of Oland. Member Silvers. >> A vote of 10 to 0 and the youth member votes. Yes, yes. 2025 dash one. 27 S s past the body. Next. We have item 14 F they are 2025, dash 3.29 resolution, the municipality Anchorage, Alaska confirming in living assessments for the sewer special improvements. But then levy upon connection roll 2025. Dash s tough one setting date of payment provided penalties and interest in the event of delinquency. The public hearing on this item is now open. Here is now closed. Its will E move to prove it. >> Second probably seconded by the spot day. discussion. members may proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member, Poland. Member, Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0 era 2025 Dash 3.29 has passed the body you from or voted? Yes, next. We 14 G there's a share of 2025, dash 3.30, resolution. And that's not banks. Last confirming living assessments, the water special improvements within Levy Park connection 2025 Dash W Dash one setting a payment providing for penalties next event Lincoln C the public hearing on item is now open shared. Public hearings. How close will the body motion approve? Second movement probably second members ball any discussion. none members may see the vote. >> Member Martinez. Member, Poland. member Silvers. >> Part of 10 to 0 and number of votes. Yes, yes, they are 2025, dash 3.30 This past the body next item, 14 H which is 2025 dash, one, 30 an ordinance authorizing a five-year lease training as part of Anchorage. vertical Branch S 3 S L C tenant for premises looking at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Campbell Street for the continued operation of the telecommunication station and equipment. The public Harris items no open. Public hearings item close with of the body. >> To prove. Members from second second, my any discussion. Members may proceed to vote. >> Member Martine U.S. Member, Poland. Member Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0 and number of votes. Yes, yes, know, 2025 one, 30 has passed the body. Now we have before us 14 2025 dash one. 31 Orton Stanford. Somebody amending interest will coach after 15, not 19 basis. >> He that's like species has to prove but their sale or distribution and see chapter 21. 0, 7, 0, landscaping. Private use listed invasive species report mass camping for new develops projects. Waving planning and zoning public hearing on this item is now open. Well, can have part of town from you'll have 3 minutes. You just turn it off. >> I'm Emily Becker and I'm the district manager at the Anchorage soil and Water Conservation District. I live airport heights. I really appreciate your leadership on this issue. All of the species on this list. I do want to say or were brought here by someone else. They're often considered very beautiful plants. But they do have very well-known ecological impacts. I know as a very young gardener, I can remember telling someone on I love that per a flower. It was the companion popular 80's. I did not pull it out of my garden. And now 20 years later, it's everywhere. And it's very difficult to deal with. So and Anchorage Assembly band Bird Cherry in 2017, which has, you know, it's taken a long time. But in the past 7 years, we've really, you know, educated the public on that. Of course, the state just followed our example. And I think that us providing leadership on this issue is really great. All of these species have been vetted by scientists in the Anchorage co-operative face a species management area. And I think it's a good way to start and help educate people about the plants and the ecological impacts they can have. Thank you. >> You first to be heard. Public hearings now close to what's the will of the body. >> Move to approve second. >> Obama sprawling seconded by following day. >> Thanks Continuing the theme of discussing enforcement of a question for the administration. So I understand that some of these are already on the list. And again, I support this. This idea and as much as I love plants, I don't believe that they all should necessarily takeover ecosystem. So my question is, I understand the how somebody would find, for example, some of these plants in the landscaping or things like that. But in terms of prohibiting sale, guess how is that in force now? And is that proactive enforcement or would it be in response to a complaint? See, somebody says I saw some species being sold at the store. To the chairman rally. >> I don't have all some time and can inquire by general. We complaint based in freshman system across essentially everywhere except for the police department. we really basically everything the municipality and forces we enforce on that on a complaint can tell you that much at least in terms of the free market. Happy to circle back with more details. If discussion was ongoing. Thanks. Just briefly comment as well. Again, I support this ordinance and I think that we should. >> You know, Alaska is is very distant from many other ecosystems. And so there's a reason to keep our try to keep a limit on these. I will note, though, that I would encourage administration to have a robust estimated this passes have a robust communication plan and letting sellers know and I would also flag I know in the spring, many individual sell items at farmers markets. And so they may not be selling that item, but perhaps they dug it out of their yard. And there's a little bit of it sticking out of the plant. You know, there's there's I think a good education effort to be done. And then similarly, I know people buy plants online. And so I know we can't chase down every online retailer, but I would also encourage looking at some of the major ones. I can't name them myself because I don't buy plans online. But just knowing that there's there's multiple avenues to get these things in the city. So just wanting again to make sure that we communicate robustly up front and just let everybody know. Thank >> So Mr. Turner, click on this Bill. Nunn. ♪ >> This is >> Hi, good evening. This on sandwich or something calling were discussing 2025 dash one. 31. S or on 31 may be 21. Questions and I think you might be well positioned to answer. Thank you for your help and drafting this and the work that helped to make it as quality of a product as it is. So the first question that I was asked was how did we pick plants to go on the list? Like what was our protocol and methodology, the why? And then the second piece is a question about enforcement and I don't need you to tell us how many code enforcement works. But how generally speaking the previous list worked to help institute the band that is in place now. I know you guys have been working on the forefront of that. >> first of first one was used. invasiveness 20's lost center for conservation and just. >> I not just from 100 down to 0 and we just want to share shoes one by one group of about 5. experts patients should for you. If you recognize her phone. >> skews and are you want a speaker phone by chance? >> And on my own. >> Your It's very hard to understand you and the chamber here. >> And a against Zealand. a spreadsheet lists all the invasive species or by according to the invasion that, the state of Alaska has some. And we trucks are already prohibited from sale some way. then went down to the to the list discuss our personal experiences with species and whether saw that they were continuing to spread and they actually are a threat. We discussed whether people actually might sell them. We discussed by that they are present acreage or see them arriving Anchorage and and just made a decision not each of the species like have that on a spreadsheet. I'd be happy to share. >> And the second part of the question Mister was around, how over the last 7 years since implementing the initial ban of the truck. Cherry, have you seen enforce? Well as the mechanisms that you saw, the many out there doing. >> I actually there's been a lot people working on invasive species and encourage over time and another group and group become and a more robust 2 years. And start to get more reports of invasive species at nurseries. We haven't Those reports are too anybody enforced. That, of course, meant to try to get taken out. In fact, we have a shotgun parts Prohibited nations species. We've gotten reports say the British Virgin Iana being sold in a crouch and it wasn't prohibited until well until the state created recently. >> So its evolving. Thank you. Miss Bowman it. You're Thank you very much. And members proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. Member Silvers. >> I vote of 10 to 0 and number of votes. Yes, 2025 dash one. 31 is past the body next. We have. Item for 2025 dash one. 32 Norton spread proposed rate increase by the increased water wastewater utility for submission to the regulatory Commission of Alaska. The county's items now open. And our speaker. Public hearings now close. What's on the body move to approve? Second move by Mr. Johnson's second by Miss Balding day, Mr. Johnson. >> Yeah, just real briefly here. So the proposed rate increases around 4.5% for for water. And 2.7% for sewer. It's always unfortunate. See rates going up. I will say that having regular engage with it I do feel confident they're being reasonable responsible in their efforts to manage the cost of doing business. However, unfortunately, there are factors lead us to this place. They do include. Things such as the aging infrastructure we have in place inflation, energy costs doing business and then also some of the chemicals that are essential to the work they do around water and watch what just seen. Substantial cost increases associated with them. So I think this is just the reality that we're faced with in the cost doing business. Finally note that board has reviewed and approved this proposed rate change. And then if approved by assembly here today will go to the regulatory Commission of Alaska for final consideration. That's all I have. Thank you. >> Any further discussion? Non-members proceed to vote? >> Amber Martinez. Member bullet. Member Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0 youth member votes. Yes, 2025 dash one. 32 U.S. pass the body. So we have one more must-pass item on the agenda before we enter into the public hearing on the so tax which I think take the rest of our evening if we open the public hearing. So I want to ask the members support changing or just take up the final item on the agenda, which is item 15 C so that we can dispense with that. I am Don't dispense with that item. fall out of alignment of the state. The licensed is off tonight at midnight and Ask if someone make a motion change or they just to take up item 15, see next. So moved. Okay. So that. The vice chair is asking a question. And that's relating to the 2 other alcohol license. Questions that are there. And I think that the first who will take like 2 minutes total, not even 2 minutes. Each. The race question. So if the members are OK with just quickly take up 15 AB and C. I think 15 see will take us a few minutes. So there was a motion a second, but ask if that's okay that U.S. Take that up. The Mister Mayor. And that's Monday. I got it backwards. Sorry. Rivera seconds. Any discussion on the motions? I'd like to ask unanimous consent are going get through it. And seeing no objection. So that's what we'll do now for youth member. We don't have our youth members participate, marijuana, alcohol, licensing issues. But I do suggest if you have some time stick around to get to the main event center. so next up, we have item which 2025, dash, 3.56 resolution. somebody standings conditional protest regarding new restaurant eating place 1, 5, 9, 7, 6, Dragon Chen Corp dba tracking polished look 5, 6 us to the road and courage. Not enough of a 3 public and the site now open and speak to this item. All right. All. Senior A public hearing, the site is now closed until the body. >> second, famous bald and a second. I was probably in discussion. none members may proceed to vote. >> Member of genus. Member of Poland. Member Silvers. ♪ >> On a vote of 10 to 0 our 2025 dash 3.56 Past the body now have item 15 be aired 2025 3.60, to a resolution France will simply proving an elk all special in its permit. Remember, Spencer license number 3, 6, or 7 for an rl cdpa King Crab Bar and Grill the B to C central business district periphery located at 5, a 9 was 3rd avenue within Anchorage Townsite original to outside of Anchorage Subdivision Block 17. Lot 11 be generally look at itself what Second Avenue west to east street north of Western Avenue in east street and encourage the public hearing on this item is now open. And we should be heard on this item. Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town from you'll have 3 minutes. >> My name is wreck. the one that going to transfer on Can't grab bar and grill. the place come here help Thank you. Thank you. >> Public hearings close its well. The body to prove second. probably seconded by most polling day. Any discussion. Members proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member, Poland. member Silvers. >> Vote of 10 to 0 or 2025 3.62 passed the body. Item 15 cierres a share of 2025 dash 3.61 resolution extra smooth. Somebody running renewal of and this will marijuana cultivation ones are 2, 3, 7 for Alaskasense LLC dba Alaskasense after temporary license expiration. There's also an U.S. version. Public side of now open and your spirit on this item. We do have one person on the call U.S. call that person right now. ♪ >> Though, >> must honor and courage Assembly calling relating to I'm sorry. >> says. >> This is the Anchorage Assembly calling our 2025 dash 3.61 Yes, the marijuana license for alaskasense. Are your on your >> I don't have anything to say. Things turned out a little differently than what we expected, that we're going to leave it alone for right now. >> Thank you. And intent is to continue the item. I believe so. There'll be another opportunity. Thank you. >> Thank you for calling me. >> All right. So anyone else wish to be heard on this item? Mister Hurt. Would you kind of walk us through where the public hearing still open for now before we take any action up year. >> Thank you. Mister Chair the chair should have just laid on the table and they I am with legal memorandum. To the members. >> so we've going read the memorandum title. It's from the Assembly chair 2025 Dash 3.61 resolution acreage bill, something Ole Miss for marijuana cultivation ones or 2 to 7 Alaska Sense all Cdb Alaskasense after temporary license expiration authorize the municipal clerk to take certain action. >> The nacho version of that memorandum is that the believe every member of the assembly received an ex parte communication basically discussing the status of ownership of the applicant business. it raised some legitimate questions about property interests of that applicant business. The clerk's office prior to this meeting reached out both to well to the applicants tourney inquiring us whether or not they would be present for tonight's public hearing. You can turn conveyed that the applicant was out of the country and that the attorney would not be able to attend the meeting for logistical reasons. So given that the assembly has. Received this parte communication. It's being. Attached to the record. And will be included as an exhibit as part of this item. But the applicant themself has to have the opportunity to respond and address the issues that were raised by that communication. So this s version was created to essentially temporarily. The extension the license to get us through. 2 more regularly scheduled meetings of the assembly. Just to provide the one the applicant, the opportunity to appear before the body at the next regular meeting. 2, if he simply needs an extra meeting, we've got that will govern Bill. 10. There's a floor amendment sponsored by the chair. Before you that will essentially make the finding of fact. >> the applicant has not had an opportunity to meaningfully respond to this ex parte communication and then makes the >> decision to temporarily approved through January 14th of 2026. >> So the recommendation is to pass the amendment passed underlying item and then we'll come back with another item in the new Year. Are the next meeting pretty quickly? >> Yes, that is correct for that. To include the follow on. Yes, there will be a new item that will allow the assembly to take up extending the license back on its regular schedule In addition to that, there were the 2 items that the applicants business was deleted from in the 10 B's. They are 3, 6, 3, 3, 6, 4, Those licenses that were deleted from that version will be introduced. A are at the next meeting as well. That's the intent. >> would say that the public hearing is now closed. That's the will of the body. That he has motion. Baldwin Day. Moves version. Second by miss. Probably not the as for Jean before us. Yeah. cost an amendment one. 2 men as probably for second second second and of Speak to it >> No, it it adds another finding to the to the version. he said. >> All right. Any other have a couple folks in the queue. Mr. Rivera. >> Thank you, Mister Chair. yeah, I think that would be the proper time to declare ex parte communications. I think council or hurt did a great job. Speaking to some of the ex parte communications. But by and large, the individual was going to testify, but didn't miss Krista owner, the speaking in her capacity as president of the Mid Town Community Council. did reach out to me in a variety of capacities, the phone, text and email regarding these items not necessarily one specific license but the licenses as a whole. And some of those communications were process oriented. Some of the more substance oriented one would think I would remember this. But for whatever reason I did forget about the expert tape, prohibition when it comes to marijuana. And so once the sun, the council reminded me of the rules at no longer engage in any of the substantive conversations with Ms Stoner. And that is my question. Thank you. >> Some announcement on Monday. >> alert. A member of ERA. I I was also engaged by a stone or via email. those communications. I forwarded to the clerk Mr. Know that I was unable to comment due to nature of these proceedings. >> Thank Did you have an ex parte communication right. I would just note that I did receive the email from the Community Council. I think everyone did, though, and I think it was 40 Dawn's petitioners. I think that was the only. Inaction I had with any of the parties. That's out of the way. We have a motion before us have an amendment. vote on the amendment. Just to be clear of us, speak to the amendment, OK? So on the amendment members proceed to vote. Or is there any objection for Any objection? Amendment. Traction? We will count the amendment. Which brings us back to the main motion as amended in this fraud. >> Sorry, if I was in the queues mistake. Okay. No problem. So now we're back in the main motion as amended. The intent of this document is too continue this license through January 14th. We will see back first 2 resolutions and another ordinance addressing another resolution addressing ongoing continuation of the business or not and what the body to science. This was a pretty long and intense conversation. According to the records that we have received, it appears controlling interest transfer has occurred. We need to be notified of with a ownership transfer on the rise. And so these are the facts that we will start to sort as we come through the process that then I would ask members to vote. >> Member Martinez. Member of Oland. Member Silvers. >> On a vote of 10 to 0, they are 2025. 3.61 S as amended has passed the body. So I think that before we dive into that next item, just a very quick 5 minute break for folks going him. Good second, a drink to do so we can just power through the rest the night. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ >> looking good how scientist he's to work. On more. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ >> is you made ♪ ♪ ♪ they can thank God. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ >> It's so fresh from from. She's ready make staff turn into backyards that sent Please second for movies. cheating. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ no times And me. things following the >> Inside. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ It's come back to work. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ Everyone. Welcome back. ♪ So next, we will take up. ♪ >> An and cause some this morning to the qualified voters, a municipality of Anchorage about Proposition amending the home rule charter authorize 3% cells and use tax one percent for property tax relief. One percent for public safety infrastructure and one percent for childcare and housing and authorizing barring for the Muni Trust Corpus to finance start-up costs. The public hearing going open in just a second. But so folks know the intent of the sponsors is to continue the public hearing. I believe to the meeting of 13 January. So the first meeting in January to allow more time for public process and conversation. And so that's not to dissuade anybody from participating tonight. But it's too make clear to folks that there's no intended action tonight, other than taking testimony at which point continue the public hearing. So with that, then no further ado, now open the public hearing. Please line up. Well, take testimony on. This ordinance. Welcome, please. State your name a part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. think you meant it was Jerry will answer longtime Alaska, an Anchorage resident. >> Private property owner and town. Small business owner small business property owner Father, grandfather. I strongly support this ordinance. I strongly support the things we do for the city to run it in the right way. 24 years in law enforcement. I totally and completely support morning money being used for public safety in the city. Thank you so much. Thank you. Welcome. Please. them a part of town or from have 3 minutes. >> I Troy Giersdorf of Born in mostly raised in Anchorage but just got back 4 years ago after spending half my life in Reno, Nevada. In northern Nevada, northern California, the sales tax rate is 8%. That's just everybody's used to it. If the purpose of ordinance is simply too. ballot measure on the upcoming election. And November on November. Next year. Oh, is that what this is all about? Anyway? That's it. That's just it looks like. A ballot proposition. I definitely believe everybody from all the voters need to be able to get access to enough information and to make that decision. Now, I hope a decision like that wouldn't be made in a room like this access to more. Best things. I like about Anchorage being a pedestrian is the city of a service. The fact that anchorage piles not just the streets for the sidewalks. And cleans up things like abandoned. Homeless camps like one near my home that was cleaned up over during the last month. I don't know what those things cost. I think the public would love to know. exactly why this 1, 1, 1, is needed and have good information about that so they can make a decision on kind of about proposition. Thanks so much. >> Welcome, please. State your part of town you're from. have 3 minutes. >> Hi, my name is filled. The from Midtown. And I'm I'm strongly oppose this new tax government spending is notoriously inefficient. And if you wanted to provide property tax, really, she could simply lower the property taxes. But once you get in, you law on the books, a new tax. It's only gonna go up from there. Inflation will happen, which is caused by government spending. By the way. And then you say, oh, we're not make enough money. We need to raise the rate so the taxpayers get it twice once by inflation and once by be intact skin. And I seen all kinds of new taxes. We got alcohol tax that we were told would be fighting addiction. And then the. Homelessness problem is exploded in those intervening years. We've had a bag tax had a gas tax cuts really never enough for government government is always hungry for more money. We are not obligated to provide what you guys want to spend. We're just not. So I'm strongly opposed. Thank you. Pierce has estimated gently remind folks that we don't answer questions during >> public testimony portion of this process. But if you do have questions for us. You can send them to us at WWL Mask and encouraging K dot Gov. One e-mail gets all members so and you can get there by going to a dark slash assembly for that information. So just say no, that's not question answer, but it's an opportunity to hear from the public. So welcome, please him part of from left 3 minutes. >> Josh Flowers, I'm here representing coming House Alaska. Here to spirits here to speak in support of the proposed sales tax. This measure will give anchors the tools it needs to address our housing crisis and strengthen essential community services, investments in housing, childcare and core public services strengthen our communities, social safety net. They help prevent young people and families forever becoming almost homeless and help those have experienced homelessness regain stability. More quickly coming House, Alaska. We see this every day. Many young people leaving our services work multiple jobs and still struggle to afford basic housing and childcare. We've alongside young people who did everything right, secured employment, save money, built up and built a plan only to fall back into homelessness because housing was unaffordable or childcare. Unavailable. That encourages lost. 25 1% of his child care providers in the last 5 years. Young parents cannot enter or stay in the workforce without childcare. Our local county cannot grow when potential workers are forced to stay home, stabilize and child care providers and expanding access will help. Young parents remain employed, support their families and avoid future homelessness. This proposal is also carefully designed essential items such as groceries utilities fuel childcare, medicine are exempt. The revenue generated is transparently dedicated areas that benefit the entire community. Housing people can afford safe neighborhoods and services families rely on. We want to increase to grow and thrive in this. Invest in our people and our future. Tonight, we are just to support this measure allow voters to choose a stronger, stable path for our city. Thank you. >> Thank Welcome state him a part-owner from you'll have 3 minutes. >> And the opportunity to testify on the sales tax proposal offered by Mayor LaFrance. You have seen some of you have seen me before on this issue. My name is Lori Wolfe, president and CEO of the 4 Acre group. I'm a lifelong Anchorage resident for those who are new to 4 acre. We are the leading capacity builder for Alaska's nonprofits. We serve as a last. The state nonprofit association which provides nonpartisan public policy research and advocacy. And that's what brings me here today. We've worked on tax issues impacting Alaska's nonprofits for decades. And we have a deep understanding of how they work or don't work in various communities. Alaska's nonprofits are significant economic driver in the municipality. We represent 11% of the meanest bulls missed municipality's employment base and 10% unemployment on average across Alaska. And in some communities we make up 40% of the workforce. also important to note the 75% of Alaska's nonprofits, including those and encourage have no staff and all nonprofits are governed by van to reports. Alaska's nonprofits provide essential and quality of life services to communities often supplied often supplied are supported by government. parts of the country. Among these in Anchorage, our housing and homelessness services, child care, domestic pounds protection education economic development, animal rescue arts and culture and so much more in essence, every Alaskan depends on the services of nonprofits every day. And so does this municipality Alaska's not profit off of the municipality, a cost effective way to deliver necessary services like any business. We need a stable environment to plan and deliver this work. While the current language in this ordinance suggest that the assembly will figure out how to exempt nonprofit purchases after voter approval. The language is too vague and does not go far enough has written an exemption on sales to non profits without an exemption for what they sell amounts to grant an exemption on one hand and expecting not profits to pay on the other. The vast majority of nonprofits earned revenue from mission related fee for service and or raising from chaired raising revenue from charitable sources. Every dollar you tax means fewer services. The municipality depends on every day. Fewer employees on the payroll and less incentive for charitable giving and every nonprofit, including the 75% with no staff. We'll have to develop processes to collect and pay this tax further, eliminating their ability to spend the money in ways Alaskans of the people of Anchorage count on. Instead of the current circular logic, we request the same for components from the previous sales tax proposal be included in this ordinance before it goes to voters. One exempt all nonprofits, not just charitable 5, 1, C 3 entities to exempt all mission related sales for all nonprofits, doing business in the municipality 3 exempt all purchases by Al Alaska, nonprofits, both online and in person for businesses located in the municipality and for and sure the exemption process is a simple online registration at no cost to non profits. Alaska's nonprofits are doing work every day that relieves the burden of government together. >> We'd like do like to work with. >> Welcome saying part of Turner from you'll have 3 minutes. >> I mean, this brand also and I live in Chugiak Eagle River. I'm here to speak against the proposal for 3% sales tax with revenue permanently dedicated into specific categories. The concern is not with the goals of supporting childcare, housing, public safety or property tax reduction. These are very real needs. My concern is with the structure of the tax and the long-term damage that reject your marks, inflict on Anchorage's fiscal resilience. We live in a community where priorities shift quickly. In the past few years, we've dealt with major natural disasters, unprecedented public safety demands homelessness crisis, aging infrastructure and growing workforce challenges. We know that the next major strain on the city may not fall neatly into categories. This measure elevates yet this ordinance freezes revenue into permit categories without regard for how needs of all it creates protected winners in the budget by guaranteeing certain programs dedicated revenue, including some that already receive special tax funding such as through the marijuana and alcohol tax, critical obligations when no dedicated funding such as unfunded pension liabilities, emergency management and public economic development continue to absorb the risk, not obligations are created equal. Some are optional policy choices. Other ours are basic municipal operations. The implants, the imbalance becomes even more dangerous when paired with a highly volatile revenue source sales tax collections when dramatically with economic cycles, frigid air marks to not allow for this flexibility when the economy contracts or unexpected crises arrive, protected categories. Keep their guarantee chairs. Every other essential service absorbs the full impact. It's not stability. Its fragility, this measure does not include school. Key safeguards such as sunset clause required performance or views but to evaluate spending success. Once these formulas are passed the charter they operate indefinitely. Regardless whether the programs are working with community needs shift or whether fiscal conditions change. By locking revenue into parents islands without periodic annihilation. We undermine one of the most important responsibilities of a new government, budgetary body to adapt and evaluate the needs of the community and in a responsible manner. A city that counted just at spending is a city that will fall behind in its challenges rather than meet them. I want to emphasize the issues this tax seeks to address a real but dedicating a volatile revenue stream to permit inflexible use live during major long-term obligations are already on the books is not responsible. Fiscal management and there is our ability to respond effectively roads, budgetary balance forces, future leaders to govern with fewer tools that we have today. It encouraged ever adopt a sales tax strengthen our fiscal future, not reduce it. does not do that. I urge you to reject this ordinance or substantially revise it before placing on the ballot. Thank you. >> Attorney General Taylor was asked tell are a little roughly to bring in Falcon. Welcome. Tried to please state your name apart from you'll have 3 minutes. Trent Taylor, South Anchorage. >> This tax proposal is bad for Anchorage. It's bad for acreage families. He represents a continuation of a downward spiral that encourage residents have witnessed for years. You don't stimulate economy by taxing it. You don't encourage families to stay in in Anchorage by taxing them. The new fiscal tax reflects unwillingness by increased to tighten its own fiscal belt. Despite incurs families have to make hard decisions on their budgets every day due increased costs for goods services, housing. And energy. The municipality has carefully crafted. What the sales tax will go to in order to trick the public into voting for the new tax. I mean, who wouldn't want to support public safety in childcare? What the public should ask is how is the rest of the city's budget being spent? This is very reminiscent about how the media goes about for bonding cherry picking bonds based upon what they think the public is most likely to vote for while reserving the rest of the budget for items the public would never vote for. What the public needs to know is that this tax is additional tax on Anchorage residents, that two-thirds of this tax falls outside the tax cap, the very instrument designed to protect Anchorage residents from excessive taxation and runaway spending. Once the still taxes in place, it will be very easy for the municipality increased attacks. It's the proverbial letting the camel's nose in the tent. This tax will hit working families as all taxes due and seniors, the hardest the tax will result acceleration of an already existing problem. Families leaving Anchorage for the Valley or simply leaving Alaska altogether. Anchorage has an affordability issue. And this tax would only exacerbate the problem. Anchors has a spending problem, not a revenue problem. I urge the assembly do the right thing for anchors, families and both this tax down. Face no clapping. Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name apart. Attended from. You'll have 3 minutes. No way impacts room from Fairview. >> This is called a fair tax. There's people that come on come valley. They spend money here. There's people and they come and take our good jobs and they go out and valley. And, you know, people come to Creech and they spend money here and they would they use our services and stuff like this. We take care most. The homeless in Alaska. I see that all time. And I think I think that this is a very good tax. I'm a single person. I rant. I feel guilty. I think this is a one way to do. >> Take the burden people in Anchorage. Thank you. >> Welcome, please. State your name part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> My name is and to hot ski. I'm a senior at service high school. This is my first time testifying my qualifications or that I have successfully taken AP economics and have the credentials to get into some of the best colleges in America today. I would like to address the issue of the proposed sales tax implementing a significant new tax for the municipality of Anchorage. Is the wrong move at this time? This is because we face great national uncertainty, significant fiscal pressure on the state level and a municipal population depleting greatly. Our focus for Anchorage should not be on taxation, but it should be growing the economy and the private sector for revenue. One way to do this is to look at the opportunity to privatizing municipal operations. For example, the landfill is run by the Department of Solid Waste Services. If we would return the municipal landfill into a private organization. municipality would be able to focus on generating present and leave the operations of the landfill to privatization. The municipality has already successfully privatized what formerly was known as municipal Light and power as of 2020 than we can take the proceeds of these privatization and put it towards a permanent fund for Anchorage. We can then use this permanent fund to fund our government. This is one model that we have proved on the state level. We are good at if it's inevitable that estate tax must be implemented, the ordinance and economic analysis posted about the proposed tax to be Assembly's website was very well made and the tax is over. crafted with one major exception. The tax being split into 3 obligatory buckets makes it difficult and expensive to implement. It's clear buckets were chosen to buy off certain voters, adding new tax and needs a whole new management system. While our population is imploding seems irrational. If you don't think the system is complex already thin. Explain to me why alcohol and marijuana are exempt. Well, other harmful commodities or not. Thank you for listening to my testimony. >> We do our best to be respectful of everyone in the room. Cheers and tears are just not in order. In public testimony. I see you shaking your head to get mad at me for talking. It's going to take more time for me stop us and say, please follow the rules of order. Then if we just proceed in our. Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name. What part of town you're from? You have 3 minutes and don't run from Anchorage. >> The problem I see is the state hasn't the PDP FDA's which is oil money, which is taxed by the oil companies. They can't even manage that properly. And what is bad about this taxes? You get started. Where does it end? It's not going to and it's just going to current keep go, keep rising and rising and rising. You've got. There's 3 Costco is and 3 Townsend, Alaska Juno Anchorage Fairbanks. You have people that come in from the villages and they're on the property. They live with that. They don't have the money. They come into the to do their bulk shopping. They come in to do shopping just for banks doesn't have all the stores. Anchorage has. You're just creating hassell, just not for city of encouraged students to quality of Anchorage. But the whole state. You haven't had a sales tax. Yet. Why don't you do what President Trump then when he came into office with Elon Musk? And cleanup clean up the wasteful spending there's but there's stuff that can be cut from any municipality that is not needed. Like the last speaker said. So landfill. To one of the companies. Get front of the wasteful spending before you're going to start charging On taxes. ridiculous. Once you start, you're not going to end. You're just going to keep raising it and raising it and raising it. Manager budget. You don't have to do. You don't have to follow what what the U.S. government knows because they can't manage anything. Especially the budget. Clean up your wasteful spending and once you've done that. Then maybe if you need tax revenue come. Come back with that. Put it out for a general vote. You do not want it on a general vote because, you know, it's going to vote it down. That's all I have. >> Thank you. Welcome. Please stand him. A part of Turner from you'll have 3 minutes. >> Good evening, assembly members. My name is Micaela ends Weiler and I'm here to oppose that 3% sales tax. This tax may sound small on paper, but every day at encourage families like mine. It's real money coming straight out of our pockets. We're already dealing with higher costs across the board housing, groceries, utilities. And now we're being asked to give even more. When you add this tax on top of. When you add this tax on top of the budget increases that we've seen over and over again. We're talking about millions being pulled from encourage residents and that is a massive burden. We keep hearing that encourage needs more revenue to address ongoing issues. But the reality is we don't have a revenue problem. We have a spending problem. We need fiscal responsibility, not another tax layered on to working families and small businesses. Before asking residents for more money. We should be looking hard at where current funds are going. What's working and what's not. I would like to see measurable results strong accountability and responsible budgeting. A set sales tax will hit the very people who are already stretched. The thinnest. It's regress if it's unnecessary and it's the wrong it's the wrong direction for Anchorage. So I urge you please reject this proposal. Let's focus instead on prioritizing spending, eliminating waste and demanding real results for the money we already and Bess encourage families deserve better. Not another financial burden. Thank you. >> Thank you. Welcome. Please. Take them a part of town. You're from you about 3 minutes. >> ransom South Anchorage chair and members of the Assembly. Thank you for the opportunity to speak. When you implement a sales tax in Anchorage, you are not just implementing taxes for Anchorage. You are implementing taxes for villages and families across Alaska who spent who depend on this city to survive in rural Alaska prices are already overwhelming a gallon of milk can cost $10 or more a single trip for medical care can wipe out a family's savings. School clothes, winter boots, food, medicine, almost everything passes through Anchorage. So when you add a news tax here, it doesn't disappear at the city line. It travels to the Bush and it lands hardest on people who already struggle just to get by. For many villages are for many village residents. Anchorage is not a place of of convenience. It is a lifeline and a sales tax makes that lifeline more expensive. This is also a deeply regressive tax. The wealthiest will barely notice it. But seniors on fixed incomes, young families and rural Alaskans absolutely will. So encourage. Is the heart of Alaska's economy. And when the heart weekends and or higher costs the whole body feels it. I urge you to think about the real human impact of this decision. Not just spreadsheets and projections but people. Thank you. Thank you. Welcome. Please stand part-time from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> Even Jason or South Anchorage for 30 years. But grew up in Saint Mary Parish, Louisiana. Certainly no bastion of tax and spend policies where there's a 6% sales tax. And I urge your support. We're just coming out a budget season. So this is really timely. And I follow those discussions pretty closely. And I believe our recalls it was set on the day is that some 97% of the budget was noncontroversial, that there was broad agreement that those were necessary and items and the real discussion took place around 3%. So I would encourage folks who are saying there's a ton of wasteful spending to be had here to identify those items because I believe that there was a lot of diligence that went into our budgeting process. And so I'm not aware of those items, but challenge folks and would love to hear what they have to say that what they've identified. It's always we always come to spending issuers a revenue issue. I'd like to think members brawl in Baldwin Day for putting together a presentation on the budget. The state used to give us 30% of our budget. Now they give us one percent. So. It's got to come from somewhere, right? If we're going to maintain our infrastructure, much less, expand it. And if we're going to maintain services, the money has to come from somewhere. And it's certainly not coming from the state. And that doesn't look to be changing anytime soon. The buckets are good. Moving on to the proposal itself. The buckets are good, but it does set up things to compete with each other within those pockets. what I would ask for is more fidelity on what exactly things are intended for. If infrastructure means roads. And I would like to see our investments followed the longer long-range transportation strategy. If it's more general in nature for all municipal assets, I would ask that we have a plan to address the backlog of maintenance first. So let's catch up on occasions before we start writing checks. Additionally, the public safety side, a big, strong supporter of public safety. But would like a little more about what it is. If this is intended to close the gap that would have been filled by the special levy that was on the Pryor ballot. That would be good to know our what exactly were intending to address here. And while I obviously a highly supportive of housing and all housing, that's good. I would like to see target the housing that isn't being built right now. If we're going to subsidize, that's not subsidize and stuff that is already viable being built. These are policy statements that we're going to make. And so a little more information on childcare gets 90% versus housing 10 over the long term. would be nice. And we may not encourage families to stay here with new taxes, but you sure don't keep them here with failing infrastructure and 0 services. So I just ask your support, but with some additional information or consideration, thank you. Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> Hi, I'm Roger Chapman. I live in valley of the moon area. I'm opposed to the sales tax. I'm a retired CPA. So I spent a career dealing with tax law issues and their impacts individuals and businesses. One thing I learned is that sales taxes are pretty regressive in nature. They impact the lowest income people of our community. More than the impact higher income people. And that is because a lot of us know lower-income people spend more of their paycheck on the goods and services that a sales tax is going to tax. So that's one reason. The other reason is the ordinances. I've are proposed ordinances. I've read it seems to indicate that while there is property tax relief, that property tax relief seems to also apply to. Corporate or non resident landlords meaning that people who own lots of apartment buildings or don't even live in Anchorage. We're going to get property tax relief from this to the tune of, I think $105 per. 100 K have assessed value. There's no requirement that that relief gets passed on to their tenants. And I'm sure it's very unlikely that that will happen. So their tenants are going to get. Closed and more than one way they're going to be paying sales tax on just about everything they buy unless it's one of the 7 or 8 exempted things and their landlord is going to not incur are going to incur property tax relief without any requirement to pass it along to the tenants. So what we're really doing here is we're hurting the porous members of our community. And I just I don't think that's the way we should be going as a city. If the council needs to raise cash. And I would first suggested they may be take a look at better budgeting on their existing incomes. But if they really do need to raise cash, I think there's ways to do it without hurting the porous members of our community. Thanks. >> Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town. You're from 3 minutes. >> Lauren Baxter, I'm on the Eastside District. 5. Yeah. My one of my concerns is I think we have a spending problem more than a revenue problem. It would be nice to see maybe a comprehensive audit and understanding where all of our money goes to. And start looking at where that where they can be caught. You know, one of the options we heard before it was maybe prior prior privatizing some items. One of my concerns as a taxpayer. And we pay an awful lot of tax here I don't I'm not I don't have enough confidence that demand the assembly is actually going to cut down taxes. I think what it is just another revenue source where they can increase as we heard before, kind of the camel nose under the tent. I've never heard of the city anywhere that actually the average tax ever went down. There's always going to go up and we've heard before from a number of people about the impact on people that can least afford to pay it. They're going to end you know, basically driving them out of the city. Also just the tax burden on every business. You know, the challenges they have now they've got somebody, something else to be managing for everything. Every dollar that they take in. So again, just a draft me, reiterate, I'm strongly opposed to the tax. Thank you. >> Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town. You're 3 minutes. >> My name is Carolyn Overstreet, a longtime resident of Alaska. And mostly here in Anchorage. I am opposed to this tax. I'm a senior and I'm not only speaking for myself as a senior. I'm talking about all the seniors and how they will be affected by this. County tax. And it is basically a penalty. If a tax should be imposed. Who's going administer? That? Is that going to be free? I don't think so. That means part of that tax is going to go to it to the administration right? So I'm definitely opposed to the tax. And and I know that it will hurt the businesses in town because they have to. Europe for sales tax in there. All of the Register's saw. Probably all I have to say for now, because I think most of it is already been said. >> Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name have 3 minutes. >> Good evening. And just 70 members, my name is Sky Nevada, managing partner of the Bridge Lifetime resident Rest, but encourage and a very involved community member. I'm here to express my strong support. The proposed 3% sales tax. Some of you both lives and does business in the city. I see every day how the long-term viability of Anchorage is being strained. The state used to fund nearly a 3rd of our municipal budget today. The support has dwindled to practically nothing and it's not because we don't need it. It's because the state doesn't have it. The state has its own. It long-term deficit problem to work on one of the few communities in Alaska without a local sales tax. More than 90 cities and boroughs across the state already have one and many rely on it to maintain roads, support public safety and fun community needs. We're trying to do all of that with fewer tools and almost anyone else in the state. And I think doesn't take steps now to stabilize our revenue. The state will eventually step in with a statewide sales or income tax of their own. When that happens, Anchorage residents will pay into it, but the revenue won't necessarily come back to us. And welcome back to support our roads, our public safety for our community. And once a statewide tax is in place, it will be significantly harder politically and practically Frank rush to pass its own vocal measure that directly benefits the city. This proposal gets control of our own future. It protects essential purchases like groceries, housing, feel utilities and medicine and ensures that the tax British air does fairly as possible. More than one 3rd of the estimated revenue will be paid by non residents, visitors, commuters and out of state workers who use our infrastructure every day, but contribute very little to maintaining it. And so I don't see Mike, I'm blind Lee supporting mess. I will add if I were going to change anything about this proposal would add a tax cap to provide an extra layer of assurance that this revenue told is not grow out control, unchecked. But even as written this measure is responsible, transparent and a necessary step for our future. Without a new revenue source, the city will be forced to take cuts and make encourage less safe and less attractive for workers and families in currencies, the stable way to maintain the basic services and infrastructure. The keeper study livable and we make this isn't ourselves be for the state. Makes it for us. I strongly urge you to move this proposal forward and that Anchorage voters decide whether they want to read. The 2 of us supports our city. Thank you for your time. >> Welcome, please. State your name. But part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> members of the Anchorage Assembly of My name is Joshua Coast and I live in east Anchorage. I'm a life-long Alaskan, a father and entrepreneur you a political science, economics and economics graduate and recently served in the Juneau as a legislative and enter study to my studies and internship. I learned how local tech policy becomes. Statewide economic. Ripple through sorry. Become statewide economic pressure. Anchorage is the economic hub, Alaska. costs rise here, the rise everywhere from groceries, enroll Anchorage to freight housing in transportation, statewide, the street that 3% sales tax is regressive. By definition. But the structure of this proposal makes it even worse. It's taxes at Texas student expenses, private vehicle sales, home repairs and every construction material purchased. That's been our Villar supply home. People age and similar suppliers, contractors aren't manufacturer. So every screw board, tool and plumbing part is taxed directly raising housing and repair costs and a city that is already can't golding up homes. And here's the worst part in his apartment. People don't realize. The tech property tax relief temporary. The ordinance automatically fall to the new health tax and revenue increases tax cap. And you're too. That means once stack start, it becomes built into the city's permits, taxing authority and will only grow from there as all dedicated appropriate. appropriate. Has actually encouraged is not have it. of says spending and priorities and spending problem. Passing. The new tax will kicks management and just raises the baseline cost of living for everyone who keeps this city and state running. If it's wrong for private citizens to take what they want the public and it's also wrong for the public to take what God wants to private citizens a taking is is a taking. Coercion doesn't belong. And a place where end it. question is not moral just because you guys Hi behind voters. Energy from the project. proposal. >> Thank you. Welcome. Police taking them apart 100 from have 3 minutes. >> Good evening. Thank you for the opportunity to address the assembly. I agree with everything that has been said in the opposition to the sales tax before. Anchorage does not have a revenue problem. We have a spending problem. Shame on the assembly for violating at least the way I understand it. Our founding charter, which requires a 60% vote to change the this ballot measure. In my understanding, if it passes with a simple majority, we'll change our charter. That is disrespectful to the citizens of Anchorage. And I am. Ashamed of the assembly that you guys can't follow the rules that the voters laid out for you. It's nothing new because let's see we have a gas tax. We have a liquor tax we in this poll, marijuana tax. We have a hotel tax. We have rental cars, taxes and fees. They're all sales taxes already done it. You in past assemblies? And I think it's a huge slap in the face to the citizens of Anchorage for not following our founding documents. And where did all money go? We passed all that with good reason. A good intent. We're going to get rid of the alcohol problem. We're going to get rid We're going fund housing. We're going to do all kinds of stuff that money to go, what we do, it's gone and you need for. >> So I don't trust the assembly for the proposed uses and I don't. Trust the Assembly church in run around our charter. We need real leaders. Leave it real leadership. You guys all signed up and invested a lot of your time and money for this job. Do your job, do your job and serve the citizens of and courage. As you said, you what? Just do your job do the hard work, follow the rules like were expected to do the hard work balance. The budget. And thank you very much. >> Welcome place. Taking them apart. Attire from you have 3 minutes. My name's chance 3rd a property owner and airport Heights. >> The main thing that all say is this. I wish I could trust you guys with my money or excuse me, not not my Our money. I truly do. Last month, a sign here Assembly meeting for my very first time, I learned that we don't you do in our city hall. You guys have spent. This part of 16 million, I believe leasing that building and maintaining it and you want to spend another 30 Million. I believe leaves roughly 30 million to finally. But by the time he owned that building going to be torn down tool. Written with further damage, earthquakes. General staff, who knows what? proposal, one set money aside for child care. We've already done that with our Cole tax. And what have you guys done with that money? It's been spent in other ways. We trust you guys. As a city we trusted you. Voters approved that tax and it's not going where it needs to. Their department heads who are running and going to trim the fat by $500, $10,000. Because it's not going to give them a percentage point and their budget. We don't have a money problem. We have management problem. We have trust issue within the city. And its historical some members in here on this board for. Or sit in these chairs for a few years. Some of your fairly new your predecessors did not pave the way for you to be successful here. The city historically has failed. And it's a shame. It's embarrassing. I wish we had had that trust in you that we should. I am proud to say that in perpetuity, I will vote no on the sales tax and the city. cannot trust that it will not increase that the money will be used. What is intended for. And I wish we could all wish we weren't firing teachers. I was the fire department have to do specific proposals. Just been a fire truck or an ambulance. I wish we weren't subsidizing people's commute from the valley so they can save money. And not do anything to contribute to the city. Sales tax yet people from the Valley and Kenai. Around the rest of the state. My bill contribute. We'll get more money from people visiting here from out of state. Already taxed those people. When they buy their liquor when they rent a car because their cars in the shop, whether you're on vacation. Visit their family. Its its ridiculous. And it's insulting until you guys collectively and your department heads. To actually balance your current budgets and stick to the simple things that we truly need. I'll never vote. Yes. >> Welcome place. Taking them a part of town. You're from have 3 minutes. >> My name is Steve Simmons. And embarrassed to say I'm a resident of the city. I think that's that's more than just a spending problem. This accountability problem. And if you want some examples of the mismanagement, I would point directly to the new idea about changing the seal. How much? many thousands of dollars a second Acosta change the city seal. So I would be opposed to this tax and I'm in agreement most of opposition. Commentary here tonight, attacks hurts the people to can't afford. The most. I spent years in Pennsylvania, they are being named that state tax will be You can't swing a dead cat without hitting and the tax revenue I'm trying keep it short. I'm opposed to this measure opposed to the tactics used. implement this. And like to remind everybody that just is very evening on the past 4 years, we've gone through most massive inflation increase. I've experienced since Jimmy Carter days. very evening voted to increase our cost of living again by passing on the costs Anchorage, water and wastewater utilities on to the customer. Are. So she's going to be a matter of time until you on the other utilities coming here asking for more money. So are already facing those increases the cost of food cost of shipping goods up here is astronomical. And nobody's looking at it. This is bad time to be asking for. People to come up and cough up tax money for whatever reason you want to spend it on. >> Welcome, please. State your name apartheid from have 3 minutes. >> My name is Maria Ballard. I'm from South Anchorage. Please bear with me as I read my thoughts from today. So I'm speaking to you today in opposition of the proposed tax as a multiple business owner in Anchorage, including and handmade leather brand that I personally in craft myself and through so throughout the state. As someone who creates every product by hand, I feel the impact of proposals like this immediately costs for materials shipping and everything else has already gone up in every extra expense forces me to rethink pricing and whether customers can still afford my work. This was never more clear to me my show this past weekend where people were hesitant to shop and several had visible reactions when they learned that Palmer has their own sales tax. You could literally see the mental math. Half and and and that absolutely affected their willingness to spend a 3% sales tax here in Anchorage will only intensify the same hesitation hitting both the customers and the small businesses. At the same time when everyone already stretched on top of that as everyone is already mentioned, the city hasn't provided clear and transparent details about how are existing budget is being used. Before asking residents and small businesses to shoulder yet another financial burden needs to lay out exactly where the money is going. And we need an independent 3rd party audit of the current budget to ensure accountability and to identify inefficiencies. We deserve to know that the city is managing what it already has responsibly before approving any new tax. And finally, I strongly urge the assembly to please break out the public safety and it's infrastructure into its own clearly defined category instead of lumping it into a broad catch-all spending bucket public safety is too vital to be treated as a big line item. And residents deserve clarity about how those funds are allocated and protected. Thank you. >> Thank you. Welcome. Please stand. what part of town you're from? You'll have 3 minutes. Please put a microphone down to I want my time. I want 3 minutes of time. Ma'am. Please state your name. A part of town from you have 3 minutes. >> I want my 3 minutes of time. Members the Assembly. My name is Tristan piece and increase homeowner, taxpayer and voter. I'm here tonight to urge you to reject placing this proposed 3% sales tax on the April 2026. Pellet, especially its current form. Mayor LaFrance as late as first would permanently dedicate one 3rd revenue roughly 50 to 60 Million. A year to childcare and housing solutions. Let's be very clear what that means. 10 Millie, tens of millions of dollars to subsidize for affordable housing developers. >> And government run child care system. That every family will never use. And paid by. We the people. These are not car municipal services, people. They are social programs that the one that, you know, Washington, D.C., not in the city sales tax, raises the price of groceries, diapers, school, clothing for every working family. If these programs are truly buy to let the assembly. Debate and fund them separately, not hide them. A massive tax bundle that the voters cannot on bundle at that ballot box. People. The second program problem is just a series. Another 3rd of the Texas supposedly for public safety to social distance yet for the last 25 years in prison, voters have approved over. >> 900 million in bonds for roads and transit and 125 million specifically for public safety. We just passed 130 million dollar package to 2024 for exactly these things. Roads, drainage police fire deferred maintenance us to ponder ready handles of the capital improvement budget at voter approved bonds. We do not need a brand new permanent regressive tax sales tax to do it. Bonds and responsible budgeting have always done if the roads truly falling apart, the you know what? Let's to what we always do. Do targeted bond. The ballot like we've always done. Don't lock us into a consumption tax that hits the poorest of the poor hardest and can never be repealed without a super majority. this proposal is being sold as a one size fits all one-third of the housing for children and infrastructure. One is infrastructure. The reality is one-third property tax that disappears the moment the assembly decides it needs money elsewhere, one-third brand new social Most of us never asked for. And one-third duplicating put Kate duplicating funding mechanisms. We already have. Please do not put this tax on the ballot. Respect U.S. voters enough to let us decide that these issues, one of tide is still to forcing all aspire tax, take it or leave it. It's permanent tax thank you. >> For your time. >> Clapping not allow, sir, I'm putting on notice. You're creating a disturbance. But just know that you have been warned. Welcome, please, state your name. What part of town you're from? You'll have 3 minutes. >> Hi, my name is evil in debt. I'm from San Lake area. I'm coming to talk to you about the sales tax and I am an opposition. a single mom with a large family. And I part of the shrinking middle class. I feel that this tax we'll just widen that gap even more. This tax is not going to help integrate our city. I've a long public servant and encourage for over 20 years. Everything I've done waitressing. I've done bartending. I've done. I've been a social worker, those yes, I've worked for a dusty. I've done a lot of things. And I'm still helping my community because it's about people helping people and not the government. The things that you're putting in this tax proposal are to tie in sweet talk people into a starter sales tax. That's not going end here. That one percent property tax relief. I'm sorry. But that's not gonna make up for the 3%. I'm gonna have to pay in the grocery store for 7 children. And it's it's doesn't there's promises here. I'm just worried that it's going to drive more and more people out and it's not going to help us read bigger our city. You guys have put taxes on marijuana non-tobacco on alcohol. attacks is just keeps going up and up and up. I mean, people will come to Anchorage to visit and stay anymore. It's just turn and burn. And that's a sad place for us to be. All these promises. You guys have made these other taxes. And unfortunately we're not seeing the results. And I know that you guys are in a tough spot. But you know what? I'm a tough spot, too. I have a limited budget. limited time multiple jobs, even helping taking care of another child who spends not mine because her mom abandoned her. She won't be a covenant House. It's people stepping up to take care of people. And when the government further. Weighs you down, that's even less that you can do to help your neighbor. So I just implore you guys to really think this more critically and not about your travel budget. Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name. A part of town you're from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> My name is Diane Bagley. Collins on from South Side, a life-long Alaskan. I'm also a small business owner. I'm opposed to the sales tax with us dedicated, but buckets. Anchorage does not have a revenue problem, but we have a spending problem and governmental authority is not to fix all problems of its citizens. Are e. Usually government takes a problem, creates more of a disaster. What I'd like to see is have an open audit transparent on it of the current taxes that we have on hand. We are taxing gas, alcohol hotels, marijuana, and yet we don't know where that money's going. Why should we trust you with taking more money? If you're worried about where to find the much money in your budget. Ask a single mother because I guarantee you every single mother can help cut your budget and make it stronger and better. All I can say is do better. Encourage. Thank you. >> Thank you. Welcome. Please. Stand them up our time from you'll have 3 minutes. >> Kercher going south Anchorage here for 60 years. Opposed to the sales tax. For all the points we've seen tonight. Regressive a T one says in that will stay in. Overspending. Just if we look to the budget to the budget proposal was put on the Web page, there are over 6 million dollars in travel, mostly travel budget items that were suggested to be removed and it was voted out. So this was on the bite on your Web page. I'm opposed to it. Ask you not to put forward. >> Welcome, please. them a part of town from left 3 minutes. >> Lee Haywood, Southside of Anchorage. I came tonight to talk about maybe a solution for this I could see anchors needs more money for taxes and we need more resources for those types of things. I am a post with the way it it's written right now. But I was thinking maybe not designate are 4. Property owners that that have property here in Anchorage that already pay into the tax. Text maybe for veterans may be for also seniors and then that way we can collect those funds from tours that come in are people that are from outside the state and still allocate that tax and they could be as simple as having maybe a sticker or designate or on your ID flash. When you go to these different places. You know, I think that that would pull into that money that we need and also put the burden where July with other folks that are not paying taxes right now. So that's just quick, simple idea maybe find a solution to this where both sides get to get could get together and property owners alike, seniors, those types folks and it could done simply with the a sticker or some sort of designate are the same way they used to do like in Seattle back in the day when we would fly down there and say, hey, we're Alaska residents and they wouldn't charge is for taxes. So I just want to but that out there that. Thank you. Well, >> hello, my name is Sherry come from to Yak district 2. Last time up just before Thanksgiving. Some members of the assembly have proposed some budget cuts. Those were voted down. Unfortunately, as a family, we have to budget. We expect our summly members to also budget. But the money that we already give you like many have already said there are alcohol taxes, tobacco taxes, marijuana taxes. Where is that money going? Also you got new furniture. We can't afford new furniture because we're already paying taxes. So we're just asking you. So please think about your constituents. We expect you to do your jobs and look after us. >> Welcome, please. State your name upon intended from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> My name is Kevin firemen. I've been 25 years Midtown. And a CPA here. A pub look at a little bit differently in a section and that is I agree with many of the comments that have been made already. I'd like to see a little bit more accountability of where money has went. Maybe a little bit of guarantee that we're going to show exactly where the money does go. If this was 2 get put forward and passed. >> But I really >> have a concern about the one percent for property tax relief. The whole kind of all use the term shell game of spending all the administration, the time and everything to charge somebody. One percent to say that we're going give it back some way, which is going to take even more administration and time. I'm not sure that that makes very good sense. One where a state of money as we are right now, I'd rather just see a 2% tax then and then go spend it properly. And so I feel strongly about that part is that at Spurs and I don't like it, especially the part where after the first year, who knows where it goes into what? I'm against the proposal, especially way it's written. I don't think this is a good time right now for additional sales taxes. I appreciate where members of the assembly are at 4. Less state money and that aid funding I can. I can feel that. But I think this needs to be rewritten. I think needs to be rethought. And I against that. The wind is right now. Thank you. >> Thank you. Welcome. Please tearing them apart it 3 minutes. >> Thank you. Simply, Missouri, President constant members of the assembly, my nation pressure Uber. I'm a local resident. I'm a small business owner. I'm also the state director for Americans for Prosperity I'm speaking on behalf of myself tonight and the 28 people that center of us that wanted to testify but couldn't stay so long as to do so. They wanted to go home, go to bed with their kids to get up and start working tomorrow morning so they can make a living and bring their dollars home and make difficult choices between what we want, what we need. I'm associate myself with everybody else's remarks about why the sales tax is a bad idea. They've all headed. talking about something a little bit different. talked about issue that was raised tonight and that's trust. And public service. So you heard tonight from one person I've heard from 150 people this week and 5 heard from one. I'm not gonna go to assembly and testified because they won't listen to me. They don't care what I say. And they've proven to that committee over time. That's a shame. Right? That's a shame. People should the welcome here. They should want to come. You're serving We ask you to do that. We don't only not have revenue problem. We do have a spending problem. But more importantly, we've got a leadership problem. This city. Most of the residents. believe that this is a bad idea. Most of the residents are picking for things that they need and not what they want. Most of the residents are tightening their belts. Most of the residents are trying to figure out how to live from month to month its repressive. It's sneaky. It's outside the cap, which is awesome. We passed a 657 million dollar budget this year. The biggest one ever within $200,000 of the cap. Nice job. Now what are we gonna do will just create a new 200 million dollar revenue source outside the cap. Because we want it not because we need it Mr. Consovoy understand that. We can't ask you questions were up here. I see that. But we can go and see your head shaking or your smirks or and I don't care. I've been in this game a long time. But these people, some of these people are here for the first time. They can't even laugh or clap. I mean, good Lord. You work for these people. Not the other way around. >> I'm sorry. With all due respect, they're your boss. The nice tool. Let people come out and tell you what they really think. The infighting, the response show some games don't have a son, a city that we've got. I'm on the rise homelessness out of control. Weve got 80% of our residents that think the city is on the wrong track. We have 55% of our visitors that think the city is not a good place to stay anymore. And the answer is more money. Well, it's not been the right answer yet. So let's think about needs and wants. Let's think about earning respect. And let's think about diligence. So just don't sit there and listen to those of us that take our time to come. Testify, get out in the community. You're going to find that if you read the room, this is the wrong tax at the wrong time. It won't work and it will cost additional respect of the public. You've got to do better. >> Thank Welcome. Please take them from F 3 minutes. Scott race. On the South side come up above the zoo. >> And nothing, nothing. It's going affect more people and sales tax. That definitely directly affects everybody. So we should take it lightly. A neighbor, Laura, talk or anything, last guy. But reality is this. This will be your legacy if it passes on your watch. Got the sales tax. An Anchorage. Before jumping was going to say I can help but notice some of was addressed this last part. Online 6 and authorizing borrowing from a trust fund to financed the start-up costs. That's a big one. We've got think about borrowing means you also have pay back. I'm sure there is there could be attacks we can tack on later for that. But nonetheless, you know, it's just $0.03 per dollar for safer streets. Me, homeless solutions. Things like that. But if we look at this real plainly, a sales tax, as you've heard, it's going to crush the people who can least afford it. The single mom working 2 jobs in the minimum wage spends almost every dollar she earns at the grocery store at gas station. You know, Wal-Mart, I mean, the 3 pennies are coming straight out of her baby's formula. Her kids shoes maybe medicine patients, not to skip. Meanwhile, that millionaire, if you will, down the street, fight down to see how Dallas buys a suit. And, you know, it doesn't really notice the tax mean same rate just completely different pain. And that's not shared sacrifice. That's the kind of punishment on the on the working poor. Well, hate. I think the sales tax cut as its let's ally wrapped up in the slogan. Kind of real world example would be like Washington state, the lowest income households forked over about 15.7% of their earnings. To sales and property taxes while the richest pay just 4.4% 15 versus 4. Same rate, completely different pain. It's not shared sacrifice. It's just punishing the working poor. Ironically, it's like the working poor. Funding. The non working poor. I mean, look, we're going take care of maybe some housing for those who are not working, but they're poor. And that working 40 to take care of this and the sales tax would do that. Anchorage where this unique position where we have Palmer with cell who've already got their taxes, you know, paying and on their cell. So they have an excuse to come to Anchorage. And that's wonderful. We get that. But we don't get it once. There's no excuse to come here. Member who cut the PFT 10 years ago. For to do the Walker. That's his legacy. Who started the sales tax? Well, this could be your legacy, I'd say, say no to sales tax. Yes, the fairness jobs and real leadership. Thanks for your time. >> Welcome, please. State your part of town you're from. He'll have 3 minutes. My name is Anthony Collins. And small business owner and southeast side Anchorage. And I have opposed tax to joke your Eric and disdain disgusting. This whole Assembly is a clown show. You people should be ashamed yourself, especially you, sir. You're arrogant piece garbage. And that's a fact. Have a good day. Austin might wish to be heard. ♪ Welcome, please. State your part of town or from you'll have 3 minutes. Jamie. Kersh from the Coalition for My own Self. I'm prepared remarks. struggle is real. You I don't envy. >> it's tough having discussion. You look at it from perspective economics and you look at the lessons Detroit. Over 6 year period that city essentially almost ruins. And a lot of it started. you know, for cultural reasons and it became. Taxes. Increased businesses left. And then the people. those couldn't the taxes go because there's reduced tax base to have to pay for services and became a cascade. continued and continued to the point that those couldn't leave foreclosures. Anthony at any number of miles of homes that were essentially abandoned and eventually the level and then meanwhile, we have all this space, we have to provide services. You no longer have the tax base to pay for. >> And so I'm not saying I'm for or against any sales tax whatsoever. >> But what I am saying is, is that, you know, you have to blast the money and the amount that a lot of times dollars circulating an economy and that tends to become reduced. When you create barriers, you know, for people in the form of taxes. And so ultimately what ends up happening is people will spend last where they'll find other places to spend. Businesses may leave. And then you see where this going. And so you temp programs that you need to fund. You know, the concern right now is recruitment and retention of certain individuals, whether it's fire department, a St, you know, police. how do you provide reasons incentives for people to want to come? You look at the project anchors to and you know Oklahoma City that was like one of the lowest economy in terms of what the cost of living. There's a lost cause. The 3rd highest cost of living and United States Pine California. think New York State and so yeah, it's a difficult. What do you do? you know, you're going to have to find ways to move forward and to pay for things. But maybe there's a different and so the but that front. >> Thank you. Welcome, please. State your name will part of time from. You'll have 3 minutes. >> Sure. Leader Chi Girdwood Alaska. Anchorage Sparrow. This is only the second time I've been here. The first time was withholding hills. We are paying for Holton Hill's because of the decisions made by. Heritage Land Bank in the assembly. And I have to say that the way bill is written, that only 50 plus one have to pass it. When it's written into law to be 60%. Hold you accountable for following the law. My property taxes have gone up 3 times this year because of Anchorage wanting our money and now you want to add sales tax. Stop back. I am an alcohol and drug counselor. And I've watched you mismanaged the alcohol tax. I don't want that to happen with this tax where it says it goes to property, but it actually goes to corporate more than 2. The actual members of our community. You really have to look at what you're doing and I see that many people here said we have a spending problem. mismanagement with administrative. And I know for a fact that some people in administrative here make 6 digits. And I find that. Inappropriate for the amount of work that they're expected to do. Thank you for your time. And I hope that you really take seriously either rewriting this and replanting what to do with our money. Thank you. Thank you. >> Anyone else tonight? Complete now, OK, we'll go ahead take our next action. we actually have 3 people in the fungus. I'm sorry. Can we trust make those costs? >> Thus the call for Stephanie Bergman from the Anchorage Assembly. We're taking money on 2025. 1.33, a general sales tax. Please state your name up. Returning from have 3 minutes. >> Thank you. My name is Stephanie Berglund, the CEO of Thread. We're Alaska's child care resource and referral organization. Red is a 40 year-old nonprofit. We provide services statewide to strengthen access to affordable and high-quality early child education with a focus childcare. Our headquarters is here in Anchorage. Thank you for the opportunity to add to the discussion this evening and chair about the need for more childcare investment in the municipality. The child care sector fragile. It's long been a sector with institutional deficiencies for decades but has seen increased challenges over the last 5 years. Since 2020, we've seen over 25% of the licensed childcare programs closed and we're grateful for the municipality supporting the pandemic. And now to a fund supporting childcare. resources have been helpful in stabilizing current childcare businesses, but additional investment is needed for Anchorage to realize childcare sector that is sustainable, unable to grow. Of the current licensed child care programs and their capacity not enough care to support working families in Anchorage households with all of the adults of the household working. There's a gap in the need of over 8,000 children needing care. Currently fewer families can access affordable and quality child care services than ever before. In fact, 46% of Anchorage households have at least one member who would work or would work more if they had access to childcare. Childcare also expensive affordable for most families. From our latest economic impact report families, Anchorage are spending on average 15% of their household income on childcare. The annual average spending on child care is $17,250 which is $1000 higher than the statewide average. also look to the quality of child care is important to ensure we set young children up for successful mantra. School. According to the State Department of Education and Early Development. Just 31% of our Anchorage students are considered prepared when they enter school early learning is a key part of the education continuum and investing in childcare helps children be more prepared when they enter kindergarten. Those and high-quality early learning do better throughout their trajectory in school and beyond. Okay to quality early learning is the child care workforce. Get the child care workforce is struggling due to low wages benefits. The sector has high turnover and there's competition for other jobs that pay more and provide When we don't have a strong childcare sector, we see our economic infrastructure struggle. Businesses cannot recruit and retain quality employees. And when residents can't work, they don't have the financial security to support their families. They aren't able to achieve their self-sufficient people and are able to contribute to the economy. This not only stifles the quality of life for families, but this also stalls encourages growth. Adding revenue and support for childcare will strengthen and support a more sustainable and growing child care sector. Investing in childcare means more. Families in Anchorage are able to work grow, stay and build a quality of life. In our great city. Thank you for the opportunity testify. >> Thank you for your time and supported children and families in Anchorage. >> Thank Spring week. Call Sir Stuart. Next. >> Hi, Trevor. >> It restores Anchorage assembly taking testimony on 2020 2025. 1.33 channel sales tax. Please state your What part of town you're from? Have 3 minutes. >> Thank you for this opportunity testify for the record. I'm Trevor presidency on Alaska Children's Trust, which is based kind of midtown. And I personally live in south part of town. Our mission at the chill mistress to prevent child abuse neglect by ensuring every family in Alaska has access to the knowledge, skills, support resources to thrive. I want to start by thanking Assembly Ministration for having the courage to begin conversation on one of the most pressing challenges facing Anchorage. And that is long-term economic stability, growing revenue options, but not only strengthen our fiscal foundation but also invest henschel system that families be ion like childcare is exactly the type of forward looking leadership first to be need. This proposal acknowledges the fundamental truth. Anchorage cannot grow, attract the workforce to sustain a vibrant economy. family's have reliable, affordable child care and your willingness to tackle this head-on is commendable. The children's trust is not opposed and 3% tax. We support the direction in key component, especially on child care. But we do believe the proposal needs for the discussion to ensure places the possible burden on our lowest income neighbors. You heard a lot from threat. We support everything that they were outlining. Anchorage has been steadily losing licensed childcare capacity over the past 2 years. Families can't find care. Players can't hire retain workers and our economy. It's being held back to be stable. Predictable. Local funding is essential. We want a city where children are Parents can work in business can grow. encourage residents took an important step and 23 by dedicating the city's marijuana tax to childcare and early education. That revenue is only a pour in the bucket needs across the childcare sector far exceed what the marijuana tax along can support the proposed sales tax would greatly some telling the essential bucket. That said I want to be transparent about our concern that sales taxes are inherently regressive. While we recognize that a sales tax may be the most viable option available to municipality, we must take deliberate steps to reduce its impact on those with the least ability to absorb it for this reason, even as we support the concept, ongoing discussion. We strongly urge this family to pursue every possible measure mitigate the grass regress Beyond just exemptions for essential goods like tax credit, we're asking the public to make this investment. We have an obligation to ensure the Boerne shares fairly as possible. Anchorage can't live without childcare. Our children, families and employers need long-term reliable solutions. This proposal moves that in the right direction so long as we parent with top of protections for those who carry the heaviest load. Thank you for this consideration get an opportunity to share our thoughts and your commitment to our children and families here in Anchorage. >> Thank you. Can we call the final person on the list? >> evening. This is >> Had Mr. Curtis and personally were taking testimony tonight 2025 dash one. 33 general sales tax. Please state your name. A part of Turner from have 3 minutes. >> Thank you. My name is where Walker Livingston R. I first want to think of the Stanley and the mayor's office for bring up the question of revenue despite it being obviously always for tonight, a child, a conversation with office back. I think Apparent to Thomas that encourage face of our challenge us on the It infrastructure migration lots of state funding that folks mentioned. And I want to. No action is taken and action and that the longer we defer action, the costs will only increase over time, make it more difficult to address the challenges before us and we can't rely and, you know, certain care, right on the sea to help us get out of some of challenges problems. Right understanding. I think like the deferred maintenance. Cough up there for the hundreds of millions of dollars that we have deferred maintenance on our infrastructure. That's not going to go away. That's going going to become more expensive for us to do with the community that's our streets and infrastructure. Our public buildings, libraries of the pack. And so I think it's clear that we need to dress revenue. And so again, I'm glad that their proposals out there and folks I've heard mentioned kind some other kind of revenue streams that we have, whether that's a kind of marijuana, Nicole taxes or back taxes. But the reality is that those are on kind of an order of magnitude different of revenue generation. Then the need that we have and I also heard folks They don't know where this from the going out understand source can go to yours and yours are calmer care kids. Encourage dot com to look at kind of where those money are being spent. Isis has invested in our community. And I certainly think it's worth 3% to invest in ourselves and try to making grids a better place to live and better place for folks to under folks move here. So we don't continue out-migration trend that we've been saying I've also heard mention that we have a spending issue, not a revenue problem. I think there's a priest comments or mention like and encourage folks look at the budget I would as well. Look at the operating over 50% goes to police, fire and maintenance things like snowfall removal, things that are necessary to run a city and Anderson, also about like half of what the operating budget actually for salaries for again, in those instances of those departments, Harmon and police officers and give back some files and there's also a mention of the capital budget. It kind of we're already but a lot of the majority of our budget your bottom Walker. >> Are your time's expired? Thank you very for your support. So I don't know that we have anyone else in person to testify tonight. >> Moved to continue the public hearing to the meeting of January 13, 2026. second. >> There's a motion to continue the public hearing to January 13, famous, probably seconded by Baldwin Day. Speak to that. >> One is of the administration who is the sponsor of this has asked us to do so. we anticipate ongoing conversation about this. So this gives ample time for folks to still participate. Thank you. >> So I will just make some brief comments I heard some teams tonight in the public hearing. We need budget meeting at audit. We need transparency and I would direct people to the office of Municipal Finance. The the audit is, in fact, posted on the website and far as on its go. It's as clear as it could be. It is a vast document detailing the budget of this municipality. So that information is available to everybody who asked for it, who has the time and the ability of means to sort through the information. So there is no lack of transparency, in my there's just a lack of ability to to get into those records that are publicly available to today. So as we continue in this conversation, we talk about. Revenues and expenses and all of this get decision making on specific question. There are tools out there available for people. So anyone else on the motion to continue the public hearing? Seeing Is there any objection to the motion? And seeing no objection will consider that motion adopted item U.S. postponed or excuse Adams continue to the meeting of January 13. We have one last item on our regular agenda, which is item 14, 14, all 2025, dash, one, 34, an ordinance to Anchorage municipal, somebody amending the Sunset date 2023. Dash one. says amended to extend it in the reacted and just work on Section. 23 attended one of 4.9 third-party plan. Review license reviews for commercial building permits as well as residential public hearing on this item is now open should be heard on this item. Public hearings now closed. That's where the body moved to prove. Second movement probably a second by miss Balding day, a spry. >> Yes, thank I will briefly give some background on And I would also encourage folks to listen to the community and economic development meeting from I believe it was October. We did a briefing on I am the last sponsor standing was former members Kevin Cross and Randy sold expand what we already had for third-party plan review, meaning for certain parts of the plan, approval process. If you're doing a development, you can utilize a 3rd party rather municipal plan review. That is only true for certain things. It is not true for structural and, you know, out mechanical these kind of more complex things. But it's been allowed for residential builds for a long time in our code several years. This prior ordinance passed a couple years ago expanded that to allow for for most commercial developments are some that are still exempt so fast forward to now. That ordinance is set to expire to sunset on December 31st. 2026 5 or or after that date. And so if we intend for this to continue than we would need to pass this ordinance. So what this does the ordinance before you now, it extends that period only for and an additional year. So we did hear from staff of the intent was to get some more day to see how this is working. And if we need to make changes or if it's not working and it's creating safety issues, for example, then we would revert back to only allowing for residential reviews. So in this case, the planning Department or I'm sorry gentleman Services Department did a partial audit as required in the There was some staffing issue, some other things that made it challenging to do a full review. And so the request is to make this extended for one additional year, gather additional data. Now we have a fully staffed department and then really to to look more closely at should we keep this as it is? Should we change it or should and this and this option? And so this is really just the sunset. But that is the background. And I expect that we will be back here. You're again to evaluate this with more fulsome data. Thank >> Any further discussion? Mr. Johnson. Yeah, I think inclined to support this tonight, but I do just want to raise some concerns that I >> hopeful be addressed in the coming year. And I understand a lot of comes down to the lack of data. But I look at some of these supporting that would have received, for example, looking at the residential permits. We're only 6 for audited, but of the 6 that were added, a 3rd of them failed. And then the definition of Phil's corrections, by design or require that are considered substantial or life safety risks. And again, this is a very small data set. But if I take the fact that a 3rd of them are considered fails and we have 170 permits that went through the 3rd party process. I mean, that would lead to the conclusion that over 50 these what it entails had they been audited right? And maybe that's not actually correct. But with the debt we've been presented, it seems like a pretty significant Want to give this my mind's more runway to try and get a better picture. How it's working. I also want to point to some of the concerns the department raise, even though the department recommends this that we do see concerns around a conflict of interest for the 3rd party reviewers. So it's all to say that I, for my part. I'm willing take a chance and give us more time. I recognize the need for us to have an efficient process for people to permits for residential and commercial construction. But I. I hope we have more fulsome picture because I think if this comes back around to us again. Similar conclusions and similar information to draw. would be hard for me to support going forward. Thank you. >> Yes, thank you. Those concerns are are certainly well noted and wonder if I could briefly ask us one person to address not in detail, but kind of that the nature of the audits that were conducted and to my understanding, there might have been a little bit of a sampling bias. Thank chaired rally. It's so in talking with the department, it sounds like they absolutely. you know, detailed in in the supporting materials that came along with this ordinance. >> There have they have pulled a few items to examine them for it. You know how well it party plan review has performed, but they've indicated to me that actually don't see that as a representative sample. They need to go. They know how are fully staffed. They have the resources to go back and actually do the comprehensive on it for to examine how effective and how efficient us they're pretty plan. Review process has ban and 8. don't think the breakdown that's detail than there actually is indicative of what we're seeing across the board just because of how things are selected for that initial review. And so again, I think that with the time and with the adequate staffing that the team now has to be able to do a systematic review that should more effectively show at the end of this extension period before the end extension period. What we're seeing from that they're pretty plan review process and allow from our recent consideration of extension. >> none members may proceed to vote. >> Member Martinez. >> Oh, shoot. I'm sorry. I didn't call the vote Mr. Martinez us to be in the Queue C. Coming up. All that back briefly since we haven't finished and he was in the queue. There 14 us. I guess last we're good. Thank you. >> Memorable and >> Member >> Silvers. a ♪ Yeah, yes. ♪ >> So on a vote of 10 to 0 2025 Dash one 34 U.S. pass the body Mr. Gates can we pass on that item? last item. Asked that question. go ahead and read the title of this information memorandum. From some bleach are constant. Vice chair of Raleigh information, acknowledgment of outstanding performance her knees attorney finds his Lawyer bounces long laughter in community theater. So this am will need a motion to lay on the table. So moved second, moved by Mister Baldwin Day. Seconded. Rowley. Any discussion? This is what let's can we just sit in one move. The motion I would ask for is a motion to lay on the table and approve. >> That that will be my intent. Is the second yeah. Just I will say. >> first, I will say let the record reflect that one of our municipal attorneys is not only a very talented stage performer, but also thoroughly wanting us to all stop looking at him >> so so for those who are not looking at this already, one of our Assembly Council, Mister Matthew Hurt and his daughter. Actually, we're in a recent performance The Addams Family Musical I had occasion to attend this performance. It was amazing. And I ran for 3 weeks at the at the Pump coming arts center through increased community as we know, community theaters, a mixed bag. But I will say that it exceeded everybody's expectations that we heard from. And several of us got a chance to win joy. so we wanted to take the opportunity because he was featured in the bar rag, which is a publication for the legal community. We just wanted to take the opportunity to make sure that's part of the permanent record of the municipality of Anchorage. Thank you. >> It's part a spot, Mr. Hird, would you like to add anything to the record? >> I would. I would like to thank member Poland for making this whole whole article happen. I guess as I understand it, he was the impetus behind And I would like to apologize to my middle school daughter is probably going to be more tough. okay. So we have the question. But first, I'd like to ask unanimous consent any objection. Adoption. A motion. >> Hearing seeing no objection. The motion adopted. presented. So without them, concluding our business so for what it's worth. And so we'll go ahead and move to something our. Audience participation of them. Are the public wish to be heard? As your chance ready to go home? Welcome. Police now a part of time for me have 3 minutes. >> You're only impacts from from Fairview, but I was to try tell you a story, our girl when I went to that. Ffa convention say convention and I first time ever put stickers on my are close. And that's little girl in high junior. I came up to me in and and she said all. The that's I like your sticker it twice. But nobody else would cause they know what to think of me. You know. And so I went to the next state convention and she come up, gave me a big hug and that an and so the kid, the fake, it's called Kobe sticker ill. And then then I went home and then later on, I got a call for from. She's from around Fairbanks and I got a call guy, guy for I had a 2 chapters then Fairbanks area. Ffa chapters and all right. And our works with 50 car Curran car currents, it's charter school in and brains for natives mostly natives and they have FFA chapter there. So what are they? He called me up and said free, come up there. And and high graduation. So I came up there, she can or should come running up to me and I gave me a big But I want say is every car couriers who is a one of the best. What a what I've for phase one of the best schools that have I mean, Palmer's card when up Fairbanks, a 50 cartons. Good one. But they they have a lot that. They have FFA chapter up there. Yeah. Thing I'll say about about valley is lot of people don't understand why the pallet group. The group Valley crew is because the road the road got better. They had a single and during on the flats there, they had a single to lays there and ever improved on the track traffic, that Valley got better. So you got to have always valley people going out there. And I I I I went to high school in valley. So I know I seen people going to to increase from the valley and that and that's why an attack that had a fair tax. That's one of reasons I really, really our. Really want I think fair tax is good. You for Please come forward. Welcome, please. State your Part of time from you'll have 3 minutes. >> All right. Jaime Lopez, the sinkers formally coalition homeless, prepared remarks. Well, what I say, the spectacle, the Rome is burning. >> And But, you know, >> I won't go into the Lions and Tigers in the Coliseum and, you know, the gladiators to die during body else. But and this is, you know, sort of a production. my concern, obviously as usual when I'm beating that courses to people outside. I go out every single night you know, we what. What is happening, how people are treated by police, how people are not supported. And it is going to get very cold. And this weekend. And when people are in mostly just place and have nowhere to go in, the shelters are full. The outcome is predictable. the efforts of this administration right now, leading law enforcement. And that is not the way the reason why because people been endlessly traumatized by law enforcement do not trust law enforcement. And when you attach services to law enforcement, it's a barrier and people are are not going to get care. you look at the dashboard for, you know, you know 2025 70 for us to something like 42 arrests. 300 plus voluntarily comply. I had to my pants off complaints complaints, compliance by Lieutenant Fix because it reminded me of the 80's, some flooded navigator yet IMAX and that's all he said, the entire film. But all that there are ways to work problems and there are ways to reduce crime. To improve economic prospects. We use arms. On people businesses it's just not seeing it right now in terms of a everything is reactive, not proactive engagement. White people. Trust me and the trust me because go out, I don't have a badge. don't have a kind. I don't have a vest. I show up acting good face. I don't a uniform. And when I use humor as an icebreaker and I listen to people and I take them things and I'm not a threat. And that is how you build that trust relationships where you break cycles and then you improve the outcomes everyone. like I said, is going to require a paradigm shift in thinking for the people making decisions right now to change outcomes. All that said. They're only something like 20 people except to services on a on dashboard. And I'm like. Yeah, that's a sense success. All right. Thank you very much for your time. Also, spirit tonight. All right. Well, good move to member comments starting with. >> Thank you, Mr. comments. Anyone else on the phone. All right. Mr. Martinez, go ahead. Yeah, no comment. All right. Thank you. probably no comment from me that Mister Chair, Mr. Holland, thank you. ♪ >> Mayor meet Thank Mr. Mccormick. Welcome and thank you. think everybody stand adjourned. >> Food, food. ♪ ♪