2017 Legislative Guide

The Juneau Empire’s

to the Alaska State

INSIDE • Meet your new legislators • Budget balancing act • Capitol upgrades

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

3

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Sen. Bill Wielechowski, D-Anchorage, is proposing a constitutional amendment that would guarantee the Permanent Fund dividend for good.

Dividend, alongside budget, will be a focus for lawmakers

By JAMES BROOKS JUNEAU EMPIRE

Sen. Bill Wielechowski knows the state needs to balance its budget. The Anchorage Democrat just wants to make sure that Alaskans’ Permanent Fund Dividend isn’t a price of that balancing act.

For the third consecutive

Legislature, Wielechowski is proposing a constitutional amendment that would guarantee the dividend for good.

In proposing dividend-focused legislation, Wielechowski won’t be alone this time. Sen. Mike Dunleavy, R-Wasilla, will introduce a measure to restore the $1,000 per-person payment vetoed by Gov. Bill Walker last year. Rep. David Eastman, R-

Wasilla, will pre-file a companion bill in the House.

“I’m going to prefile the PFD Restoration Act,” Eastman said.

The dividend was a touchy topic last session as lawmakers pondered a cap on dividend payments alongside a diversion of some Permanent Fund proceeds to state government.

The cap was considered necessary to maximize the amount

of money available to state services.

In the end, Senate Bill 128 failed to gain House approval and died at the end of the Legislature.

After the session ended, Walker cut $600 million from the $1.2 billion appropriation for the dividend, effectively

SEE dividend | Page 6

table of contents • • • • •

Alcohol legislation poised for big push — 4 New-look capitol will greet lawmakers this year — 5 Push and pull of oil tax will continue this year— 7 Before the oath, the Freshman 15 move to Juneau— 11 New House Resources chairs ready to take on oil — 20

• Walker budget plan pitches job cuts, nest-egg earnings— 22 • Senate Biographies — 8-11 • House Biographies — 12-17 • Executive Biographies — 18 • Commissioner Biographies — 19

4

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Danny Hartley works the variety pack boxing line at the Alaskan Brewing Company on Jan. 14, 2016. Much of Title 4, which regulates alcohol sales, hasn’t been updated since 1980.

Alcohol legislation poised for big push

By JAMES BROOKS JUNEAU EMPIRE

Sen. Peter Micciche, R-Soldotna, is expected to be the key figure this year as long-awaited reforms to Alaska’s alcohol laws reach the Legislature.

Since 2012, members of the Alaska Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and stakeholders from across Alaska have been redrafting Title 4, the chapter of state statute that regulates “the manufacture, barter, possession, and sale of alcoholic beverages in the state.”

“We’ve been working on …

I don’t want to say revising so much as bringing Title 4 into the new millennium,” said Bob Klein, chairman of the ABC board.

“

”

We’ve been working on … bringing Title 4 into the new millennium.

Bob Klein Alcoholic Beverage Control Board chair

Much of Title 4 hasn’t been updated since 1980, and during that time, the alcohol industry has changed dramatically.

When Alaskan Brewing opened for business on Dec. 26, 1986, it was the first successful craft brewery in modern Alaska history. Now, there are more than 35 across the state.

They’ve been joined by craft distilleries and a surge in the

number of restaurants and seasonal businesses seeking alcohol licenses. The number of liquor-license applicants rose 20 percent in the past year alone, said Cynthia Franklin, director of the Alaska Alcohol and Marijuana Control office.

Franklin said she believes at least part of that surge is coming from businesses seeking to get “public convenience” licenses

before they’re eliminated.

Micciche introduced Senate Bill 99 in 2014 to implement the Title 4 revisions, but that bill didn’t move from the Labor and Commerce committee to which it was referred. A companion version, House Bill 185, was submitted by Rep. Bob Herron, D-Bethel, but that also didn’t move from its committee of first referral.

In 2015, Micciche stripped some elements from SB 99 and put them into the new Senate Bill 165. That bill passed both houses of the Legislature and was signed into law by the governor. SB 165 reduced underage drinking penalties so they no longer result in the loss of

SEE alcohol | Page 6

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

5

New-look capitol will greet lawmakers this year New bones and façade for 85-year-old building

By JAMES BROOKS JUNEAU EMPIRE

There are two ways to look at the just-completed four years of renovations at the Alaska State Capitol: Inside and out.

“I don’t think you’ll notice anything different,” said Pam Varni, executive director of the Legislative Affairs Agency, which oversaw the effort.

Since 2013, almost $36 million has been spent on renovations to the 85-year-old building. The effort was intended to reinforce the building against earthquakes, make its heating system efficient, and restore it to the way it looked in 1931.

When the Capitol opens for business at the end of December and the start of January, people walking its halls will be hard-pressed to tell what was done.

Jeff Goodell has been the building manager of the Alaska Capitol since 2014, and he’s been the renovation’s project manager.

“Just recently, I had the House Rules chair (Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux, R-Anchorage), and I had taken her into one of the suites, and she said, ‘Well, what was it you did in here? It all looks the same,’” Goodell remembered.

He had to explain to her that a few months before, the entire floor was gutted. There were no rooms, fittings or walls, just open air marred by concrete columns.

The walls might be a few inches thicker now than they were before — thank insulation for that — but few people will notice the difference. More are likely to notice the change in the exterior.

“It looks entirely different from the outside,” Goodell said.

The renovation removed the building’s old red-yellow brick and replaced it with darker masonry more resistant to rain and moisture. There’s fresh copper cladding and clean stonework throughout its facade.

“If you look at the building from the outside, you should notice quite a bit of difference,” Goodell said.

If you haven’t noticed, don’t worry —

SEE capitol | Page 23

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE

A Dawson Construction employee works on the Alaska State Capitol building's facade on Dec. 15, 2016.

6

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

dividend: Continued from Page 3 reducing the per-person payout from $2,000 to $1,000.

As lawmakers prepare to readdress plans to use Permanent Fund revenue for state expenses, Wielechowski says a dividend guarantee is critical to build popular support.

“I think if the Legislature wants to restructure the Permanent Fund … probably the only way you could get people to support it is if you can ensure they continue to get a dividend,” Wielechowski said.

“If you guarantee the dividend, then I think that’s a big selling point for a lot of Alaskans.”

In 2013, Wielechowski proposed SJR 13, which never received a hearing. In 2014, it was SJR 1, which passed out of the Senate State Affairs Committee but never passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

When Gov. Bill Walker vetoed half of the Permanent Fund Dividend in 2016, Wielechowski sued and lost in superior court.

The case is still pending on ap-

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

In this Feb. 4, 2016 photo, Senate State Affairs Committee members listen to UAA Professor Emeritus in Economics Scott Goldsmith about possible budget solutions during a hearing at the Capitol. Several lawmakers intend to introduce legislation in 2017 that would secure Permanent Fund dividend payments to Alaskans. peal.

Wielechowski said the proposed constitutional amendment — which would set in stone the formula used to

alcohol: Continued from Page 4 a driver’s license, and fines can be reduced through Youth Court or taking alcohol education classes.

SB 165, while incorporating some of the recommendations of the commmittee convened to review Title 4, left most of the particularly contentious items alone.

Among the committee’s recommendations: • Increase alcohol license fees (they haven’t risen since 1980); • Consolidate licenses (get rid of brewpub and bottling works licenses) and to compensate, create add-on sampling

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Sen. Peter Micciche, R-Soldotna, shown in this Jan. 26, 2016 photo, is expected to be the key figure in alcohol law reforms this year. ability to brewery and distillery licenses; • Let breweries and distill-

calculate the 2015 dividend — follows the strategy he’s been following for a long time.

But does Wielechowski’s idea make sense if — as will be eries hold a restaurant license as well; • Allow growler-filling stations at liquor stores to give out samples; • Increase penalties for liquor license-holders who violate the law; • Change the makeup of the ABC board; • Increase efforts to stop bootlegging.

“Sen. Micciche’s pretty determined to get as much of that through as possible,” said Cynthia Franklin, director of the Alaska Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office.

Franklin and Klein each said the work of the Title 4 review committee is done, and the issue is now in the hands of the Legislature.

“All the hurdles have been cleared now, and it’s mostly a case of just doing the legal mumbo-jumbo,” Klein said.

discussed this year — the Legislature enacts a statewide sales tax or income tax?

SEE fund | Page 18

Publisher Rustan Burton Interim Managing Editor Emily Russo Miller Sales Manager Kathryn Fritz Circulation Director Brian Naplachowski Reporter James Brooks Design Randi Spray Photography Michael Penn Compiled by James Brooks Juneau Empire 3100 Channel Drive Juneau, AK 99801 Phone: 586-3740 www. juneauempire.com

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

7

Push and pull of oil tax debate will likely continue this year

By Elwood Brehmer MORRIS NEWS SERVICE-ALASKA

The incoming Alaska Legislature will face the same daunting fiscal issues as its predecessor, but the Walker administration is hoping the impending session will at least have a different theme.

“We don’t want the 2017 legislative session to be dominated by fights over oil taxes, we just don’t. I can’t stress that enough,” said Tax Director Ken Alper during a Dec. 1 address to the Resource Development Council for Alaska.

“We actually have bigger issues in front of us right now, mainly Alaska’s fundamental imbalance: our giant structural budget shortfall.”

While much was said and written regarding the state’s $3 billion-plus budget deficit over the past year, ultimately, little was done.

The marathon 2016 legislative session bogged down into a political fight over oil and gas tax credits and how much, if at all, the state can afford to subsidize or incentivize growth in its trademark industry. That largely relegated the bigger issues Alper referenced to be heard during legislative overtime and subsequent special sessions called by Gov. Bill Walker. By then, legislators that convened in January were weary as the calendar turned to summer, and with two-thirds of them up for reelection the prospects of passing bills that would not only overhaul state budgeting but touch the pocketbooks of every Alaskan in some way faded quickly.

That said, the tax credit issue will come up again, Alper acknowledged, as the administration still needs to “stop the bleeding” from the North

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Rob Annett, an engineer with the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, speaks about the difficulties of keep oil running at a reduced rate through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System during a Feb. 2, 2016 presentation at the Capitol.

Slope credit program, that was mostly untouched in last session’s legislation that focused on Cook Inlet.

The status quo could leave Alaska on the hook for $4 billion or more if the major recent discoveries by Caelus Energy and Armstrong Ener-

gy, which could cost upwards of $13 billion combined to develop, are seen through to fruition because of the North Slope net operating loss credit that allows small companies to claim up to 35 percent of exploration and development costs in refundable credits.

There are several options available to alleviate the prospective bill, but finding the fairest of them all without chasing business away is the challenge.

“If you’re going to do that — changing a major benefit that only accrues to the explorers, how do you make it a fair impact so that we’re not overly tilting the field again towards the major producers?

That’s the conundrum that we’re wrestling with internally at this point,” he said.

The more immediate conundrum the administration hopes will garner more attention come Jan. 17 when the Legislature gavels in is the $3 billion one.

Gov. Walker said time and again last session — as ratings agencies downgraded the state’s credit ratings and instate companies threatened to pull investment — that a comprehensive solution to close the budget gap and reduce the state’s dependence on oil revenue was badly needed then.

Alper painted the picture that if Alaska was speeding toward the “fiscal cliff” over the past year; the front tires are now over the edge.

“If no (fiscal) solution is passed this coming session it means that the Legislature in 2018 can’t balance the budget, period,” he said. That would lead to a “panic, hair on fire budget a year from now,” Alper described.

That’s because at the end of the current 2017 fiscal year next June, the state of Alaska will have about $4 billion left in the Constitutional Budget Reserve, or CBR. If the gap is not closed and another $3 billion or so is drawn from the CBR, only about $1 bil-

SEE push | Page 21

8

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

SENATORS Information for these biographies was compiled from a variety of sources, including personal interviews, the Alaska Division of Elections and the Legislative Affairs Agency.

Senate President Sen. Pete Kelly R-Fairbanks — District A 877-665-3709 Email: Senator.Pete.Kelly@akleg. gov Session contact: Room 111 State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3709, fax 465-4714 Interim contact: Phone 451-4347, fax 451-4348 Occupation: Small business owner Personal: Born in Fairbanks; married (Perri); three children; two grandchildren Education: Liberty University, B.S. Business Management Political and government: Alaska State Senator (1999-2003, 2013-present); State Representative (1995-99) Business and professional: Director of State Relations, University of Alaska; Owner, Kelly Communications; Licensed real estate agent Senate Majority Leader Sen. Peter Micciche R-Kenai — District O 800-964-5733 Email: Senator.Peter.Micciche@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-

2828, fax 465-4779 Interim contact: Phone 283-7996, fax 283-3075 Occupation: Alaska State Senate – District O; commercial salmon fisherman (Drift Gillnet) – Permit/Vessel Owner since 1994; superintendent, Integrated Projects – ConocoPhillips Kenai LNG Personal: Alaska resident since 1982; married (Erin); four daughters Education: University of Alaska, A.A; Alaska Pacific University, B.A. Business Management, summa cum laude Political and government: senator, District O Kenai Peninsula (2013 – present); Soldotna City Council (2007-08); Soldotna mayor (2008-2013); Alaska State Senate (2013-current); Kenai River Special Management Area Board; National Fire Protection Association Standards Council (LNG); USCG Area Maritime Security Committee; management board. USCG Cook Inlet Harbor Safety Committee; Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District Board; AK Regional Suicide Prevention Team; Alaska Partnership for Infrastructure Protection; vice chair, Kenai Peninsula Local Emergency Planning Committee; Kenai Peninsula Fish Habitat Partnership Steering Team; Cook Inlet Spill Prevention and Response Board of Directors Business and professional: Commercial salmon drift gillnet fisherman (1994-present); Natural gas/LNG positions from roustabout to Superintendent (1982-present); Small Businessman of a restaurant, snow plowing, commercial painting and residential rentals (1983-present); member, Sons of the American Legion; member, Alaska SeaLife Center Board of Directors; member, Soldotna Rotary; member, NRA; board of directors, Boys and Girls Clubs; member, Soldotna, Kenai, Seward, Funny River and Cooper Landing Chambers of Commerce

Senate Minority Leader Sen. Berta Gardner D-Anchorage — District I 800-331-4930 Email: Senator.Berta.Gardner@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Suite 9, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-4930, fax 465-3834 Interim contact: Phone 269-0174, fax 269-0177 Occupation: Senator for Anchorage, District I Spenard/Midtown/UMed Personal: Born April 12, 1954, in Salt Lake City, Utah; married (Michael); three adult children; four grandchildren; Alaska resident since 1992 Education: University of California, Riverside, B.A. in psychology Political and government: Alaska State House (2005-12); Democratic Whip (2010-12); Alaska State Senate (2013-present), Democratic Leader Business and professional: Office manager, bookkeeper and child advocate Sen. John Coghill R-North Pole — District B 877-465-3719 Email: Senator.John.Coghill@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653719, fax 465-3258 Interim contact: Phone 4512157 Occupation: Small business owner Personal: Born Aug. 15, 1950, in Fairbanks; married (Luann); three children; four grandchildren Education: Nenana Public School (1968) Political and government: Chairman, District 18 Republican Party of Alaska; former chairman, District 32 Republican Party of Alaska; delegate, Republican National Convention (1996) Business and professional: Small business owner; private school teacher; pastor’s assistant; concrete cutter; U.S. Air Force staff sergeant, five years service Sen. Click Bishop R-Fairbanks – District C 800-336-7383 Email: Senator.Click.Bishop@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652327 Interim contact: Phone 456-

8161, fax 456-8163 Personal: Born July 25, 1957 in Mexico, Missouri; married (Darlene); two children; four grandchildren; Alaska resident since 1959 Political and government: Commissioner, Labor and Workforce Development (2006-12), administrator and coordinator; board member, State Job Training Coordinating Council; Business and professional: Alaska Operating Engineers/Employers Training Trust; board member, Alaska Works Partnership Inc.; member, University of Alaska

Fairbanks Tanana Campus Advisory Board; member, Operating Engineers Union Local No. 302; Alaska AFL-CIO Thomas Cashen Award for lifetime training (2008); Pacific Northwest Apprenticeship Education Conference Excellence in Apprenticeship Award for Outstanding Partner (2010) Sen. David Wilson R-Wasilla — District D Email: Senator.David.Wilson@ akleg.gov No photo Occupation: Legislator available Personal: Born and raised in California; 17-year Alaska resident; married to Aleta Education: Alaska Pacific University 2004 (A.A. education, B.A. psychology) and 2008 (MBA in Health Service Administration) Political and government: Wasilla City Council, 2012-2016; Mat-Su Borough Ethics Board, 2009-2015, including stint as chairman; Mat-Su Borough Transportation Advisory Board 2016 Business and professional: Alaska Family Services domestic violence and sexual assault program director, 2011-2016; Primary Care Association 20082011; Southcentral Foundation 2006-2008; NorthStar 2003-2006 Sen. Mike Dunleavy R-Wasilla – District E 877-465-6601 Email: Senator.Mike.Dunleavy@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-6600 Interim contact: Phone 376-

3370, fax 376-3157 Personal: Age 54, born in Scranton, Penn.; Alaska resident for 31 years; three children Education: College Misericordia, B.A. History (1983), Educational Endorsement Program (1984); University of Alaska Fairbanks, M.A. Education (1992); University of Alaska Anchorage, Superintendent Endorsement program (1997) Political and government: State Senator (2013-present), Mat-Su Borough School District Board member (2010-12), president (2011-12); Governor Sean Parnell’s Education Transition Team, Chair (2010) Business and professional: Public school teacher; school superintendent; director of K-12 outreach at the University of Alaska; project manager at the Alaska Teacher Mentor Project; Dunleavy Educational Services consultant Sen. Shelley Hughes R-Palmer — District F 800-565-3743 Email: Senator.Shelley.Hughes@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653743, fax 465-2381 Interim contact: Phone 376-

3725, fax 376-4768 Occupation: Project consultant

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide Personal: Born January 1958 in Canton, Ohio; Married (Roger); four children; five grandchildren; Alaska resident since 1976 Education: Cuyahoga Community College, A.A. (1985); University of Alaska, B.A. English (2002) Political and government: Legislative Aide for Rep. Gatto, Alaska State Legislature (2003-2005); founder/ past president, Alaska All Academies Association; past vice-president, Mat-Su Republican Women; Valley Republican Women.

Business and professional: Palmer/Wasilla Chambers; Mat-Su Business Alliance; Commonwealth North; Resource Development Council; Alaska Outdoor Council; Palmer Lions; Mat-Su Health Foundation; Government Affairs Director, Alaska Primary Care Association (2005-11); Special Projects Volunteer Director, Crossroads Community Church, Palmer (1995-2005); Contract Academic Instructor, Mat-Su Pre-Trial Facility, Palmer Correctional Center (1998-2003); Summer Theatre Conservatory Director, LCCP/Haines; VPA/ Wasilla (1999, 2000, 2003); Substitute Teacher, Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (1995-97); Fort Yukon School District Resource Center Assistant (1987-88); Data Coordinator/Secretary, Phillips Alcoholism Treatment Center, Bethel, Alaska (1985-86); KYUK Newscaster, Volunteer, Bethel, Alaska (198587); Teacher, Mount Bethel Christian School, Hoonah, Alaska (1976-81); Proud Stay-at-Home Mother of four (1980-2003) Sen. Anna MacKinnon R-Eagle River — District G 800-861-5688 Email: Senator.Anna.MacKinnon@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3777 Interim contact: Phone 694-

8944, fax 694-1015 Personal: Lifelong Alaskan; husband, two sons, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren Education: Service High School, Anchorage; studied accounting and finance at Univeristy of Alaska Anchorage ange Fairbanks Political and government: Member, Alaska Statewide Suicide Prevention Council; member, Renewable Energy Fund Advisory Committee; member, Executive Committee and Vice Chair, Labor and Economic Development Committee for the National Conference of State Legislatures Business and professional: Chair and Vice Chair, Anchorage Assembly; former member, Mayor’s 9/11 Task Force; former chair, Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Task Force; emeritus member, National Sexual Violence Resource Center Advisory Council; former Executive Director, Standing Together Against Rape (STAR); former Development Director, Hospice of Anchorage; founding board member of the Alaska Veterans Museum Sen. Bill Wielechowski D-Anchorage — District H 800-550-2435 Email: Senator.Bill.Wielechowski@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652435, fax 465-6615 Interim contact: Phone 269-0120, fax 269-0122

9 Occupation: Attorney Personal: Born Dec. 7, 1967; married (Laura); one child Education: Seton Hall University, B.S. Business Management, Finance; Seton Hall University, J.D. Political and government: Legislator (2007-present); member, mayoral Transition Team (2003); chair; Creekside Town Center Committee (2001-06); member, Anchorage School District Budget Review Team (2003); chair, Alaska Workers’ Compensation Board (1999-2004); member, Anchorage Planning and Zoning Commission (2004-06); board, former president and vice president, Northeast Community Council (2004-06) Business and professional: Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development, hearing officer (200304) and acting chief of adjudications (1999-2004) Sen. Tom Begich D-Anchorage — District J 888-330-3704 Email: Senator.Tom.Begich@ akleg.gov Session contact: Room 411, State Capitol Building, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3704, fax 465-2529 Interim contact: Phone 269-0169, fax 269-0172 Personal: Born 1960 in Anchorage; 55-year Alaska resident. Married to Sarah Sledge; lived in Juneau in 1985 and 1997-2000, otherwise in Anchorage Occupation: Strategic consultant and musician Education: B.A. Bard College (History) 1982; A.A. University of Alaska Anchorage (History) 1983; economics, philosophy and political coursework at University of Oxford, 1989-1990 Political and government: Chairman and 21-year member of the Alaska Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee; Alaska Community Justice Coordinator 1997-2000; Anchorage Disproportionate Minority Contact Committee 2005-2011; Secondary Education Curriculum Committee 1993-1994 Business and professional: Owner of Alaska Research Associates/TRG 1983-1999; CW Communications 1999-present; Director of the Nick Begich Scholarship Intern Fund 1993-present; Government Affairs, Coalition for Education Equity 2010-present; Director of Reclaiming Futures Anchorage 2006-2009; Villages Services Director of Cook Inlet Tribal Council 2002-2005; Restorative Justice Director of the Alaska Native Justice Center 20002002; Anchorage Youth Development Coalition; Bartlett Democratic Club; NAACP; Alaska AFSCME Retirees, Chapter 52; American Federation of Musicians, Local 1000 AFL-CIO Sen. Mia Costello 800-773-4968 R-Anchorage — District K Email: Senator.Mia.Costello@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654968 Interim contact: 716 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, phone

269-0117 Occupation: Legislator, former high school teacher Personal: Born Jan. 11 in Anchorage; married (Andrew); two boys Education: Harvard University, B.A. Government; University of Alaska Southeast, M.A. Teaching Political and government: Chair, Senate Labor

and Commerce Committee 2015-present, Vice Chair, Senate Resources 2015-present; member, Senate Judiciary Committee 2015-Present; member, House Finance Committee 2011-2014; Governor’s Communications Office; Legislative Aide; Public Information Officer; Governor’s Outdoor Recreation and Trails Advisory Council; Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports; Statehood Celebration Commission; Intern Coordinator for U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens Business and professional: Teacher, Anchorage and Juneau School Districts; Public Relations Executive; Coach, NineStar Education and Employment Services Sen. Natasha Von Imhof R-Anchorage — District L 866-365-2995 Email: Sen.Natasha.vonImhof@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol Building, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-2995, fax 465-6592 Interim contact: Phone 269-0250, fax 269-0249 Occupation: Financial Analyst Personal: Born 1970 in Anchorage; married to Rudi for 20 years; children Liesel and Nicolas; fourth-generation Alaskan Education: Bartlett High School, 1988; Harvard College B.S., 1992; University of Washington Master of Business Administration, 2007 Political and government: Anchorage School Board, 2012-2015 Business and professional: Financial analyst at Latash Investments 2002-Present; Rasmuson Foundation board 2005-Present; Atwood Foundation board 2010-Present; Anchorage South Rotary 1999-2007 Sen. Kevin Meyer R-Anchorage — District M 866-465-4945 Email: Senator.Kevin.Meyer@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654945, fax 465-3476 Interim contact: 716 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 500, Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: 269-0199, Fax: 269-0197 Occupation: Investment recovery coordinator, ConocoPhillips Alaska Personal: Born 1956 in Beatrice, Neb.; married (Marty); two children Education: University of Nebraska-Lincoln, B.S. Business Administration; University of New Mexico, Master of Public Administration; Alaska Pacific University, Master of Business Administration Political and government: Anchorage assemblyman (1993–2000); Alaska House of Representatives (2001-08); Alaska State Senate (2009-present) Business and professional: Purchasing and finance, ConocoPhillips Alaska (2000-2011); supervisor, director of administrative services, ARCO Alaska (1983–2000); board member, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southcentral; board member, Habitat for Humanity; board member, Anchorage Chamber of Commerce; board member, Anchorage Economic Development Council; board member, Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau; member, Standing Together Against Rape (STAR); member, National Rifle Association; Kenai River Sport Fishing Association (KRSA)

10

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide Sen. Cathy Giessel R-Anchorage — District N 800-892-4843 E-mail: sen.cathy.giessel@akleg. gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654843, fax 465-3871 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0181, fax 269-0184 Occupation: Registered nurse and advanced nurse practitioner Personal: Married (Richard); three children; five grandchildren Education: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, B.S. Nursing; University of Alaska Anchorage, M.S. Nursing Political and government: chair Senate Resources committee, co-chair Senate Arctic Policy; vice chair Senate Health; vice chair Senate Labor & Commerce; chair Energy Producing States Coalition; Council of State Governments, Energy Council executive committee Business and professional: Member, Resources Development Council; member, Alaska Miners Association; member, Alaska Industry Support Alliance, member Anchorage Chamber of Commerce; Pioneers of Alaska; National Rifle Association Sen. Gary Stevens R-Kodiak — District P 800-821-4925 Email: Senator.Gary.Stevens@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-

4925, fax 465-3715 Interim contact: Phone 486-4925, fax 486-5264 Occupation: Retired professor, University of Alaska Personal: Born Aug. 21, 1941, in McMinnville, Ore; married to Rita; three children; one grandchild; Alaska resident since 1970 Education: Bachelor of Arts, Linfield College; Master of Fine Arts, University of Oregon; Ph.D. University of Oregon; post-graduate work at Harvard Kennedy School of Government Political and government: Member, Alaska State Senate 2003-present; member, Alaska House of Representatives 2000-03; former mayor, Kodiak Island Borough and City of Kodiak; former president, Kodiak Island Borough School District; president of the Senate 20092012; chairman, 100-year celebration of the Alaska Legislature 2012-2014, chairman, Advisory Task Force on Higher Education and Career Readiness 2010; former chairman, Senate Rules Committee 2008; former Senate Majority Leader 2005-2008; immediate past national chairman, Council of State Governments; chairman, CSG International Committee Business and professional: Past district governor, Rotary International; U.S. Army intelligence officer, Army Commendation Medal

Interim contact: Phone 465-4947, fax 465-2108 Occupation: Legislator Personal: Born in 1947 in Juneau; married (Linda); two children; four grandchildren Education: Radio Operating Engineering School; U.S. Army Radio Communications School, honor graduate Political and government: Former mayor of Juneau, assembly member, deputy mayor and planning commissioner; former member of the Juneau Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Alaska Municipal League, Southeast Conference Board and Southeast Conference of Mayors Business and professional: Owner of AlaskaJuneau Communications (1986-2009); Board member of Alaska Committee; member of Juneau Rotary; U.S. District Court Merit Selection Panel member; member of Ducks Unlimited; Alaska Army National Guard 910th Engineer Company (1967-74); volunteer firefighter (1969-81); named Alaska Broadcaster of the Year in 1990 and inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2001; spent more than 30 years on the Alaska Broadcasters Association Board of Directors; former member of Juneau Jazz and Classics Board and Salvation Army Advisory Board

Sen. Dennis Egan D-Juneau — District Q 855-465-4947 Email: Senator.Dennis.Egan@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654947, fax 465-2108

Sen. Bert Stedman R-Sitka — District R 877-463-3873 Email: Senator.Bert.Stedman@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653873, fax 465-3922 Interim contact: Phone 225-

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide 8088, fax 225-0713 Occupation: Financial services, owner of Pioneer Capital Management Personal: Born March 6, 1956, in Anchorage; married (Lureen); one daughter Education: University of Oregon, B.S. business administration and finance Political and government: Alaska State Senate 2003-present; deputy mayor and assemblyman, City and Borough of Sitka Assembly Business and professional: Member, Sitka and Ketchikan chambers of commerce; Elks Lodge; Masonic Lodge; Shrine Club; Scottish Rite; Sons of Norway; National Rifle Association Sen. Lyman Hoffman D-Bethel — District S 866-465-4453 Email: Senator.Lyman.Hoffman@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-4453, fax 4654523 Interim contact: Phone 465-4453, fax 4654523 Occupation: Fisherman and businessman Personal: Born Feb. 13, 1950, in Bethel; married (Lillian); two children; three grandchildren Education: University of Alaska Fairbanks, Business Administration Political and government: Alaska State Senate 1991-92, 1995-present; Alaska House of Representatives 1986-90, 1993-94 Business and professional: Deputy Director, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corportion; owner, Bethel Drilling & Welding: owner, Golden Eagle Unlimited; Finance Committee Member, Orutsararmiut Native Council; member, Lower Kuskokwim Development Corporation; interest in mining operation Kisarelik Unlimited; shareholder, Blue Sky Estates Sen. Donny Olson D-Golovin — District T 800-597-3707 Email: Senator.Donny.Olson@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capital Building, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3707, fax 907-465-4821 Interim contact: Phone 269-0254, fax 907260-2031 Occupation: Doctor, pilot, reindeer herder and businessman Personal: Born June 18, 1953 in Nome; married (Willow); three children Education: Airline Transport Pilot License; commercial license; airplane and helicopter licenses; Airframe & Power Plant Mechanics License; Inspector’s Authorization; University of Minnesota Duluth, B.A. Chemistry; Oral Roberts School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine; Cambridge University, England; Seattle Pacific College; University of Alaska Fairbanks; University of Colorado School of Law Political and government: Alaska State Senator 2000-present; Alaska State Medical Board 1994-2000 Business and professional: President/CEO: Olson Air Service, Inc., Donald Olson Enterprises, Inc., Olson Ventures, LLC

11

Before the oath, the Freshman 15 move to Juneau 25 percent of Legislature replaced in 2016 elections

By JAMES BROOKS JUNEAU EMPIRE

Twenty-five percent of this year’s incoming class of lawmakers have never served in the Alaska Legislature before.

Whether Democrat, Republican or Independent, those 15 new members of the 30th Legislature are sharing the same stresses and learning curve.

Jason Grenn is an Independent from Anchorage. Last year, he welcomed his third child.

“I wasn’t busy enough with life, and so I thought, ‘Why not run for office?’” he said by phone in early December.

On Jan. 9, he’ll pack his wife, kids and himself onto a plane for a flight to Juneau and their new temporary home on Glacier Highway.

“It wasn’t easy or cheap, I’ll say that” of finding a place to live in Juneau, Grenn said.

George Raucher, a Republican from Sutton, defeated incumbent Jim Colver in the Republican primary for the expansive House District 9. He’s already shipped his truck to Juneau but hadn’t quite bought his plane ticket in the first week of December.

“I’ll be in around the 10th,” he said, and he expects his wife will be there for the swearing-in, but after that, she has to head back to Sutton. She’s a schoolteacher, and classes don’t stop just because your spouse was elected to the Legislature.

The session doesn’t formally begin until the day after the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, but the Legislature’s freshman class arrives early for a few days of training, acclamation and organization.

Until then, they’re in limbo. Their predecessors are still in office until the

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Low fog lingers over Gastineau Channel in front of downtown Juneau on Oct. 27, 2015.

17th, which means they can’t formally use staff, and their ability to use the resources of the Legislature is limited.

Most of the new lawmakers said they aren’t planning a significant number of prefiled bills — partially because they don’t have the resources to do them well.

David Wilson is the new senator from Wasilla. He defeated incumbent Rep. Lynn Gattis in a race to replace Sen. Charlie Huggins.

“Transition sucks for incoming legislators,” he said.

Wilson’s official email account isn’t active until he’s sworn in, and he can’t

SEE 15 | Page 17

12

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

REPRESENTATIVES Information for these biographies was compiled from a variety of sources, including personal interviews, the Alaska Division of Elections and the Legislative Affairs Agency.

House Speaker Rep. Bryce Edgmon D-Dillingham — District 37 800-898-4451 Email: Representative.Bryce.

Edgmon@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654451, fax 465-3445 Interim contact: Phone 269-0275, fax 269-0274 Occupation: Legislator Personal: Born May 3, 1961 in Dillingham; married (Melody); three children Education: University of Alaska Anchorage, B.S. Business Administration Political and government: Former chair, City of Dillingham Planning Commission; Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission Business and professional: Board chairman, Choggiung LTD.; former board member, Southwest Alaska Vocational Education Center; Former COO, Bristol Bay Economic Development Corporation, State CDQ Program Manager House Majority Leader Rep. Chris Tuck D-Anchorage — District 23 866-465-2095 Email: Representative.Chris.

Tuck@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-

2095 Interim contact: Phone 269-0240 Occupation: Business representative Personal: Born in Taft, Calif.; two children; Alaskan resident since 1972 Education: Dimond High School; Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Trust; National Training Institute; University of Tennessee Political and government: Treasurer and board member, Anchorage School District; member, Education and Workforce Advisory Committee Business and professional: Board of Directors, Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Trust; Board of Directors, Alaska Process Industry Careers Consortium; Board of Directors, Putting Alaska’s Resources to Work House Minority Leader Rep. Charisse Millett R-Anchorage — District 25 888-269-3879 Email: Representative.Charisse.

Millett@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653879, fax 465-2069 Interim contact: Phone 269-0222, fax 269-0223 Occupation: Legislator Personal: Born Feb. 11, 1964 in Juneau; three children Education: Dimond High School (1978-1981), University of Alaska Anchorage (1981-1983) Political and government: Abbott Loop Com-

munity Council, Past Vice-president; Anchorage School District Minority Education Concerns Advisory Committee, Past Member Business and professional: Airline employee and management (1981-2005); legislative and administration staff (2005-2007); past vice president, Abbott Loop Community Council; past member, ASD Minority Educations Concerns Advisory Committee; legislative aide; special assistant, legislative liaison; special assistant for communications, Department of Administration; past chairwoman, District 30 Republicans Rep. Scott Kawasaki D-Fairbanks — District 1 866-465-3466 Email: Representative.Scott.

Kawasaki@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone 4653466, fax 465-2937 Interim contact: Phone 456-

7423, fax 451-9293 Occupation: Senior patient representative at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital Personal: Born March 20, 1975, in Tokyo, Japan; Alaska resident since 1980 Education: University of Alaska Fairbanks, B.S. Biomedicine Political and government: Former councilman, Fairbanks City Council; former legislative aide, Alaska State Legislature Business and professional: Member, Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce; member, American Council of Young Political Leaders; fellow, German Marshall Memorial Foundation; member, Council on U.S./Italy Relations Rep. Steve Thompson R-Fairbanks — District 2 Email: Representative.Steve.

Thompson@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3004 Interim contact: Phone 4521088 Occupation: Legislator Personal: Born in Cottage Grove, Oregon in 1944; married (Kathleen); five children; 10 grandchildren; Alaska resident since 1965 Education: Oregon Technical Institute (1962-1963); Southern Oregon College (1963-1965) Political and government: Former member, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District Budget Review Committee; former member, Alaska State Workers Compensation Board; Mayor, City of Fairbanks (2001-2007); member, Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce; member, National Rifle Association Business and professional: Past president/ CEO, M&O Auto Parts and Equipment, Inc.; U.S. Army, Sergeant Rep. Tammie Wilson R- North Pole, R-Fairbanks — District 3 800-860-4797 Email: Representative.Tammie.Wilson@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-4797

Interim contact: Phone 4512723, fax 452-3430 Personal: married (Robert); four children; one grandson Education: Illinois State University, B.S. Education Political and government: Member, Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly, Coordinated Transportation Committee; chairwoman, Golden Valley Electric Association District 3; GVEA Membership Advisory Committee Business and professional: Former owner/operator, Antique and Collectible Store; former vice president and board member, Love Inc. Rep. David Guttenberg D-Fairbanks — District 4 800-928-4457 Email: Representative.David.Guttenberg@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654457, fax 465-3519 Interim contact: Phone 4568172, fax 456-2490 Personal: Born in New York City; Alaska resident since 1970 Occupation: Construction worker, legislative finance aide and small business owner Education: Springfield Gardens High School (1969); Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (1970); AFL-CIO Organizing Institute (1993) Political and government: Commissioner, Chena/ Goldstream Fire and Rescue; commissioner, Jennifer Drive Service Area; member, Borealis Community Land Trust Board of Directors; past chairman, Alaska Democratic Party; Democratic National Committeeman for Alaska; Alaska House of Representatives (2002-present) Business and professional: Major, Alaska Civil Air Patrol; finance staff, Rep. John Davies (1999-2002); legislative staff, Rep. Tom Moyer (1992); auditor, Alaska Laborers Local 942; member, Alaska Laborers Political Education Committee; political director, Fairbanks Central Labor Council Rep. Adam Wool D-Fairbanks — District 5 Email: Representative.Adam.

Wool@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Room 420, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-4976 Interim contact: 1292 Sadler Way, Room 324, Fairbanks, AK 99701, phone 452-6084 Occupation: Owner, The Blue Loon restaurant and theatre Personal: Has lived in Alaska 32 years; married (Kate); two children Education: University of Alaska Fairbanks; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, technology and policy program Business and professional: co-founder, Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream; founder, The Marlin Bar; founder and owner, The Blue Loon

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide Rep. David Talerico R-Healy — District 6 Email: Representative.David.

Talerico@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653853 Interim contact: 1292 Sadler Way, Suite 328 Fairbanks AK, 99701; Phone 451-2818, fax 456-3346 Occupation: Miner Personal: Has lived in Healy for 46 years; married (Peggy); two children; seven grandchildren Education: Tri-Valley High School (1974) Political and government: Denali Borough mayor (2002-2012); Denali Borough assemblyman (20012002); Upper Railbelt Schol Board member (19761977); legislative chief of staff; former Alaska Municipal League board member and president; former Alaska Safety Advisory Council member Business and professional: Human resource and safety director; mine supervisor; small business owner and operator Rep. Colleen SullivanLeonard R-Wasilla — District 7 800-782-4833 Email: Representative.Colleen.

Sullivan-Leonard@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654833, fax 465-4586 Interim contact: Phone 373-6285, fax 373-6286 Occupation: Public servant Personal: Born in Fairbanks, 57-year Alaska resident, lived in Anchorage from 1959-1996, Wasilla from 1996 to present; married to Ted, seven kids: Matt, Adam, Molly, Nathan, Kristal, Briget and Jared Education: West Anchorage HS (1977); University of Alaska-Anchorage, business management and human resources Political and government: Wasilla Planning Commission 1999-2000, 2005-2008; Wasilla City Council 2001-2003, 2010-2016; Alaska Municipal League Board and Vice President 2010-2014; Alaska Juvenile Justice Advisory Commission 2010-2016; Governor’s Mat-Su Regional Director 2006-2009; State of Alaska — Alaska’s 50th Statehood Commission, Project Coordinator 2007-2009; Alaska State Legislature staffer, 2003-2004 Business and professional: CSLeonard & Associates — Research and Accounting services 2010-2014; Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, Home Health, and Human Resources 1999-2001; Providence Alaska Medical Center, Health Unit Coordinator 1987-1999; Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce board 2001-2003, 2011-2015; National Rifle Association, Alaska Outdoor Council, Mat-Su Republican Women’s Club Rep. Mark Neuman R-Big Lake — District 8 800-505-2678 Email: Representative.Mark.Neuman@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652679, fax 465-4822 Interim contact: Phone 376-

2679, fax 373-4745 Occupation: Small business owner

13 Personal: Born Aug. 12, 1959, in Rice Lake, Wisc.; married (Adel); two children; Alaska resident since 1981 Education: Mat-Su College, HVAC certificate (19881989) Political and government: House of Representatives (2005-present); National Conference of State Legislatures, Western Conference Committee Member; NCSL Agriculture, Environment & Energy Committee member; National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, National Executive Committee Business and professional: Owner/operator, Heirloom Wood Crafters Rep. George Rauscher R-Sutton — District 9 Email: Representative.George.

Rauscher@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3853 Interim contact: TBD Occupation: Maintenance Personal: Age 59, lived in Alaska 38 years, always in Sutton; married to Elizabeth; four children: Morgan, Ashley, Mary and Emily Interests: Hunting, fishing, skiing Education: Vocational school graduate 1975 (architectural drafting); high school graduate 1992 (Mat Valley Community College); Mat Valley Community College 1989-2013; UAA 1994-1999; UAF Construction Management 2008-2013 Political and government: Sutton Community Council; Alpine 31 Road Service Advisory Board; Mat-Su Road Service Advisory Board; Alpine Civic Club; Jonesville/Slipper Lake Action Committee Business and professional: Business owner, civil inspector Rep. David Eastman R-Wasilla — District 10 800-468-2186 Email: Representative.David.Eastman@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652186, fax 465-3818 Interim contact: Phone 3731842, fax 373-4729 Occupation: Firefighter/EMT Personal: Age 35, born in Redwood City, California, has lived in Alaska 13 years in Eagle River and the Mat-Su; married to Jennifer, two children: Felicity and Danielle Education: Cavalry Chapel High School ISP 1999; U.S. Military Academy West Point 2003 (B.S. Law); Biola University 2008 (M.A. Apologetics); University of Oxford graduate fellowship 2009 (Jurisprudence); John Jay Institute graduate fellowship 2010 (American institutions and statesmanship) Military Service: U.S. Army and Army Reserve, 1999-2011, Captain Political and government: Firefighter/EMT; Alaska Fire Investigator technician; Military Police Officer; Military Chief of Police (Provost Marshal); Military Court Martial panel member; Military judge (summary court martial); Court-appointed special advocate for child abuse/ neglect; Amateur Radio Operator (KL2HZ); Alaska Peace Officers Association Business and professional: Entrepreneur; Lincoln Fellow, Claremont Institute for Statesmanship and Political Philosophy; Alaska Disaster Medical As-

sistance Team; State of Alaska, Emergency Management Specialist; Chugiak Fire Department public information officer; National Eagle Scout Association; Military Police Regimental Association; American Legion; VFW Rep. DeLena Johnson R-Palmer — District 11 800-565-3743 Email: Representative.Delena.

Johnson@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653743, fax 465-2381 Interim contact: Phone 3763725, fax 376-4768 Occupation: Business owner and Palmer Mayor Personal: Age 52, born in Portland, 49-year Alaska resident; married to Steve (35 years); five children: Sven, Signe, Jasmin, Kiersten and Stefan; lived in Talkeetna, Wasilla and Palmer Education: Su-Valley High (1981); University of Alaska Anchorage (1983); Mat-Su College (1987, AAS Electronic Technology); University of Alaska Anchorage (1991, B.A. Mathematics) Political and government: Palmer Mayor; President, board of the Palmer Museum of History and Arts, Mat-Su Marijuana Board, elected president of the Alaska Conference of Mayors; National Rifle Association; Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; Mat-Su Republican Women’s Club; Valley Republican Women’s Club Business and professional: President, Ethos LLC (1984-present); Property Development (1984-present); Commercial and Residential Rental Property (1985-present); Part Owner, Hot Air and Associates; Mat-Su Business Alliance; Pioneers of Alaska; Palmer Lions Club; Lifelong member of Palmer Museum of History and Arts Rep. Cathy Tilton R-Chugiak — District 12 Email: Representative.Cathy.

Tilton@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3853 Interim contact: 907-3156292 Occupation: Real estate investor/businesswoman Personal: Born Aug. 28, 1962; three children Education: Service High School, Alaska Business College, University of Alaska Anchorage Political and government: Legislative staff, Legislative Council (2011-2012); legislative staff, House Finance Committee (2013-2014) Business and professional: Former Special Assistant to the Mayor of Wasilla; business owner; past president of the Alaska Motor Mushers Club Rep. Dan Saddler R-Eagle River — District 13 877-460-3783 Email: Representative.Dan.Saddler@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, phone 465-3783, fax 465-2293 Interim contact: Phone 6223783, fax 622-3784 Occupation: Legislator Personal: Born in Elyria, Ohio; married (Chris); four children and two grandchildren; Alaska resident since 1988

14

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

Education: Miami University, B.A. Journalism (1983); Ohio State University, M.A. Journalism (1987) Political and government: State Representative, 2011–present; Chairman, Republican Party District 18 (2004-10); governor’s deputy director of boards and commissions (2007-10); Department of Natural Resources special assistant (2005-07); governor’s deputy press secretary (2002-05); legislative staffer (1993, 1995-2002) Business and professional: Alaska Airmen’s Association; Air Force Association; Aircraft Owners and Pilots’ Association; Alaska Veterans Museum; Anchorage Republican Women’s Club associate member; Association of the U.S. Army; Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; Chugiak-Eagle River Chinooks Booster Club; Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center; Commonwealth North; Eagle River Area Rotary Club; Midnight Sun Republican Women’s Club associate member; National Rifle Association; Resource Development Council of Alaska; Safari Club International.

Rep. Lora Reinbold R- Eagle River – District 14 800-770-3822 Email: Representative.Lora.

Reinbold@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653822, fax 465-3756 Interim contact: Phone 622-

8950, fax 694-1015 Occupation: Health care industry professional, education professional and community advocate Personal: Born in Fairbanks; married (Eric); two children Education: Oral Roberts University, Tulsa, OK, B.S. Business Administration Political and government: Past House Administrative Regulatory Review Committee chair; Labor and Commerce Committee vice chair; Labor and Commerce Committee vice chair; Education Committee vice chair; Health and Social Services Committee member; Regional and Community Affairs Committee member; Military and Veterans Affairs Committee member; Chugiak-Eagle River Parks and Recreation Board of Supervisors; South Fork Community Council vice president; Eagle River Trails Committee chair.

Business and professional: District manager, Bristol-Meyers Squibb Anchorage; assistant business office manager, Trinity Medical Center; operations manager, Medical Park Family Care; substitute teacher, Anchorage School District Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux R-Anchorage – District 15 800-689-4998 Email: Representative.Gabrielle.

LeDoux@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654998, fax 465-4419 Interim contact: 716 W 4th Ave, Suite 611, Anchorage, AK 99501 Occupation: Attorney (inactive) Personal: Born March 24, 1948 in Baltimore; married (Kurt - deceased); three children; Alaska resident since 1978 Education: University of Southern California (19661968); University of California, Berkeley (1968-1970); University of California, Berkeley, School of Law (197073).

Political and government: Alaska State Representative (2013–present); Alaska State Representative (2005–2009); borough Mayor, Kodiak Island Borough (2001–04); board Member, Kodiak Electric Association (1995–2000); board Member, Northeast Community Council (2010–2013); board Member, Alaska Municipal League (2003–04) Business and professional: Admiralty Law Section; Alaska Bar Association; Disciplinary Area Hearing Committee; Alaska Bar Association; Maritime Law Association; Women’s Fisheries Network Rep. Ivy Spohnholz D-Anchorage — District 16 866-465-4940 Email: Representative.Ivy.Spohnholz@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654940, fax 465-3766 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0123, fax 269-0124 Occupation: Not-for-profit management Personal: Born 1973 in Nebesna; Alaska resident 1973-1991, 1999-present; lived in Nebesna and Anchorage; married to Troy Bowler; three children: Iris, Kim, and Maya; foster parent Education: Steller Secondary, West High School and SAVE II, General Education Diploma, 1991; University of Washington (1997, B.A. Political Science) and (2014, Masters of Public Administration) Political and government: Foster Kids First; Alaska Women’s Lobby; Alaska House of Representatives Business and professional: The Salvation Army, director of development; University of Alaska Anchorage, senior development officer; Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis, development coordinator; Alaska Children’s Trust; YWCA Alaska; The Foraker Group; Association of Fundraising Professionals; Tanaina Child Development Center Rep. Andy Josephson D-Anchorage – District 17 800-465-4939 Email: Representative.Andy.

Josephson@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654939, fax 465-2418 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0265, fax 269-0264 Occupation: Attorney; school teacher Personal: Born in Anchorage; married (Donna) Education: Whitman College, B.A. History (1986); University of Alaska Anchorage, M.A. Teaching (1992); Penn State Dickinson School of Law, J.D. (1997) Political and government: Municipal Zoning Board of Examiners and Appeals (2005-2006); Municipal Planning and Zoning Commission (2006-2008) Business and professional: Internship, Sen. Ted Stevens; Legislative Aide, 17th and 23rd Alaska Legislatures; public school teacher, Kuspuk School District, Kalskag; superior court judicial law clerk, 4th and 3rd Judicial Districts, Fairbanks and Kenai; Assistant District Attorney, Kotzebue (1999-2001); Associate Attorney, Law Offices of Dan Allan & Associates (2003-2008) and Law Offices of G.R. Eschbacher, (2008-2012); Adjunct Instructor of Constitutional Law, University of Alaska, Anchorage (2003-2008)

Rep. Harriet Drummond D-Anchorage — District 18 Email: Representative.Harriet.

Drummond@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653875, fax 465-4588 Interim contact: phone 269-

0190, fax 269-0193 Occupation: Owner, Drummond Design Personal: Born in New York, NY; married (Elstun Lauesen); three children (Rachel, Jenny and Alex); Alaska resident since 1976 Education: Bronx High School of Science; Cornell University, B.S. design and environmental analysis; University of Alaska Anchorage, graduate work in public administration Political and government: Anchorage Municipal Assembly (2008-2013); Anchorage School Board (1994-2003); former chair, North Star Community Council and Federation of Community Councils Business and professional: Graphic designer

Rep. Geran Tarr D-Anchorage – District 19 800-303-2455 Email: Representative.Geran.

Tarr@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653424, fax 465-3793 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0144, fax 269-0148 Occupation: Adjunct faculty at the University of Alaska Anchorage Personal: Born in Akron, Ohio; Resident since 1998 Education: Ohio University, B.S. Botany, Environmental Studies and Women’s Studies; University of Alaska Anchorage, Master of Public Administration Political and government: Former president Airport Heights Community Council; Chair/Commissioner, Anchorage Women’s Commission Business and professional: UAA Biology Department, adjunct faculty since 1999; Senator Johnny Ellis, former Chief of Staff; Anchorage Farmer’s Market founding board member; American Council of Young Political Leaders delegate Rep. Les Gara D-Anchorage — District 20 Email: Representative.Les.Gara@ akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652647, fax 465-3518 Interim contact: Phone 2690106, fax 269-0109 Occupation: Attorney and writer Personal: Married (Kelly) Education: Freeport High School, Freeport, Ill. (1981); Boston University, B.A. (1985); Harvard Law School, J.D. with honors (1988) Political and government: Assistant attorney general, Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Civil Prosecution Section; law clerk to Alaska Supreme Court Justice Jay Rabinowitz; state representative Business and professional: Part owner, Snow City Cafe; former law partner; freelance outdoors/fishing writer

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide Rep. Matt Claman D-Anchorage — District 21 Email: representative.matt.claman@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654919, fax 465-2137 Personal: Born in Boston, Massachusetts; married (Lisa Rieger); two children; Alaska resident since 1988 Occupation: Attorney, Wilderness Guide Education: University of Texas School of Law (JD, 1987); Colorado College (BA History, 1981); National Outdoor Leadership School (1979) Political and government: Acting Mayor, Municipality of Anchorage (2009); Assembly Member, Municipality of Anchorage (2007-2010), Chair (2008); Board of Governors, Alaska Bar Association (2002-2008), President (2007-2008); Heritage Land Bank Advisory Commission (2005-2007), Chair (2006-2007) Business and professional: Counsel to the Firm, Lane Powell (1995-96, 2007-present); Owner, Claman Law Firm (1992-1993; 1996-2006); Attorney, Preston Gates & Ellis (1993-1994); Law Clerk, Federal District Judge Harry Lee Hudspeth (1987-1988) Rep. Jason Grenn I-Anchorage — District 22 Email: Representative.Jason.

Grenn@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone (907) 465-3892 Occupation: Pick.Click.Give.

Manager Personal: 35 years old; born in Anchorage and lifelong Alaskan, always in Anchorage; married to Jana; children Atticus, Vivienne, and Truman Education: Dimond High School 1999; Northwest Nazarine University 2003 (B.S. in Public Communication); University of Alaska 2011 (certificate in nonprofit management) Political and government: President of Sand Lake Community Council Business and professional: Public information officer for Alaska Department of Health and Social Services; Marketing director for Anchorage Concert Association; Marketing manager for Visit Anchorage Rep. Chuck Kopp R-Anchorage — District 24 866-465-4993 Email: Representative.Chuck.

Kopp@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654993, fax 465-3872 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0200, fax 269-0204 Occupation: Public safety retiree Personal: Married to Trish; children Chuck, Holly, Paul; 51 years old, lifelong Alaskan; born in Anchorage Education: Cook Inlet Academy 1979-1983; University of Alaska Anchorage 1983-1987 (B.A. Justice); FBI National Academy 1996; Graduate course in public administration, UAS 1999 Political and government: Public safety transition team for Gov. Sarah Palin (2006), Alaska Police Standards Council 2003-2007; Alaska Judicial Council 2007-2008; Alaska Peace Officers Association 19932015

15 Business and professional: Reserve officer, Anchorage Police Department (1986-1989); Police officer in Kenai and Bristol Bay Borough (1989-2009); Kenai chief of police (2002-2008); Acting Kenai City Manager (2005-2006); Alaska Legislature staffer (2009-2016); LeeShore Center member 2002-2008; Kenai Peninsula Community Care Center member 1995-2002 Staff: Erick Cordero, TBA Rep. Chris Birch R-Anchorage — District 26 800-870-4931 Email: Representative.Chris.

Birch@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654931, fax 465-4316 Interim contact: Phone 269-

0205, fax 269-0207 Occupation: Engineer Personal: Age 65, born in Sterling, Illinois, 46-year Alaska resident; lived in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Chandalar Lake; married to Pam; children Logan and Tali Education: Lewis & Clark High School, Spokane, WA 1968; University of Alaska, B.S. Mining Engineering 1972; University of Alaska, M.S. Engineering Management 1979 Political and government: Anchorage Municipal Assembly (2005-2014); Chugach Electric Association (1997-2005); Mid-Hillside Community Council; ValliVue Homeowner’s Association; Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly (1984-1990) Business and professional: Registered Civil Engineer, Alaska (1978-present); VP Business Development, NANA (2007-2011); Principal-in-Charge, W.H. Pacific/ASCG (2005-2007); Senior Engineer, TNH Engineers (2004-2005); Manager-Engineering, Environment and Planning, Anchorage International Airport (1998-2004); Anchorage East Rotary; Anchorage Chamber of Commerce; Alaska State Chamber of Commerce; Alaska Support Industry Alliance; Commonwealth North; Resource Development Council; World Trade Center Alaska Rep. Lance Pruitt R-Anchorage — District 27 888-478-3438 Email: Representative.Lance.

Pruitt@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653438, fax 465-4565 Interim contact: Phone 2690100, fax 269-0105 Occupation: Small business owner and transportation and logistics general manager Personal: Born Aug. 18, 1981 in Anchorage; married (Mary Ann); two children Education: University of Alaska Anchorage, B.A. History (2003); Kaplan University, Masters of Business Administration (2009) Political and government: Alaska State house of Representatives (2010-present) Business and professional: Former general manager, Sears Logistics; small business owner; former service manager, FedEx Ground; NANA slope worker; member, National Rifle Association, Western Legislative Academy Graduate, CSG Henry Toll Fellow, Aspen Rodel Fellow

Rep. Jennifer Johnston R-Anchorage — District 28 800-478-4950 Email: Representative.Jennifer.

Johnston@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654949, fax 465-4979 Interim contact: Phone 269-0244, fax 269-0248 Occupation: Retired Personal: Age 62, born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, 40-year Alaska resident; lived in Fairbanks 1976-1988 and Anchorage 1988-present; married to Allan R. Johnston; children Lauchlin, Ross and Merrick Education: Danville High School, Vassar College, University of Vermont Political and government: Municipality of Anchorage Assembly Member (2008-2016); Past President and Board Member of the Alaska Municipal League; Past Chair and Board Member of Chugach State Park Advisory Committee; Past Chair and Board Member of Anchorage Center for Families; Board Member of Education Matters and ARISE Business and professional: Founding Member of 49th State Angel Fund Network; Outdoor Education – CITC and Migrant Education; Owner/Operator of Alaska Gourmet Adventures; Expedition Manager of Mount Vaughan Antarctic Expedition; Issue Advocacy Manager for Alaska Support Industry Alliance; Legislative Aide; Owner/Operator of Cripple Creek Resort Rep. Mike Chenault R-Kenai — District 29 800-469-3779 Email: Representative.Mike.

Chenault@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653779, fax 465-2833 Interim contact: Phone 283-7223,

fax 283-7184 Occupation: Vice-president, Qwick Construction Company Personal: Born Feb. 25, 1957 in Hobbs, N.M., married (Tanna); four children Education: Kenai Central High School (1975) Political and government: Alaska State House of Representatives, Speaker of the House (2009-present); Kenai Peninsula Borough School Board (1999-2000); Kenai Fire Service Board (1999-2000).

Business and professional: Former president, North Peninsula Chamber of Commerce; member, Elks Club and Moose Lodge

Rep. Gary Knopp R-Soldotna — District 30 800-463-2693 Email: Representative.Gary.

Knopp@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652693, fax 465-3835 Interim contact: Phone 283-

2690, fax 283-2763 Occupation: General contractor Personal: Age 59, born in Whitefish, Montana, 37year Alaska resident; lived in Anchorage 1979-1980, Sterling 1980-1995, and Kenai 1995-present; married to Helen Education: Flathead High School; college courses

16

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

at Flathead Valley Community College, Kenai Peninsula College, University of Alaska Fairbanks Political and government: Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly (2006-2012 and 2015-present); Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly president (2010-2012); Alaska Municipal League board of directors 2010-2011 and 2015-present; Kenai Peninsula Borough Board of Equalization (2010-present) Rep. Paul Seaton R-Homer — District 31 800-665-2689 Email: Representative.Paul.

Seaton@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4652689, fax 465-3472.

Interim contact: Phone 235-

2921, fax 235-4008 Occupation: Business owner and commercial fisherman Personal: Born Oct. 1, 1945; in Oxnard, Calif.; married (Tina); two children; Alaska resident since 1975 Education: University of Alaska Fairbanks, B.S. Biology (1968), M.A. Teaching Biological Sciences (1972); San Diego State College, M.S. Marine Zoology (1972) Political and government: House of Representatives, 2003-present; member, Community Rivers Planning Coalition; member, Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Settlement Advisory Council; West Coast Advisory Panel for the National Academy of Sciences; National Research Council Committee on Individual Fishing Quotas; North Pacific Fisheries Council Committee on Harvest Priority and Full Retention and Full Utilization Business and professional: Member, Kachemak Bay Conservation Society; Kenai Watershed Forum; Homer Chamber of Commerce; Seward Chamber of Commerce; Alaska Marine Conservation Council; National Rifle Association; American Association of Retired Persons; Homer Senior Citizens; Anchor Point Senior Citizens; former board member, North Pacific Fisheries Association; former member, United Fisherman’s Association; National Education Association; Kachemak Bay National Research Reserve Community Council; former board member, Alaska Marine Conservation Council; North Pacific Fisheries Association

Rep. Louise Stutes R-Kodiak — District 32 Email: Representative.Louise.

Stutes@akleg.gov Session contact: Alaska Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-2487, fax 465-4956 Interim contact: 305 Center Ave. Suite 1, Kodiak, AK, 99615; phone 486-8872, fax 486-5264 Occupation: Retired business owner Personal: Has lived in Kodiak for 35 years; married (Stormy); four children Education: Queen Anne High School; Shoreline Community College; NW Medical College; University of Alaska Kodiak Political and government: Past member, Kodiak Island Borough Assembly; past member, Kodiak Borough Fisheries Advisory Group; past member, Kodiak Borough and City of Kodiak Fisheries Work Group Business and professional: Past owner, Village Bar; member, Alaska Cabaret, Hotel, Restaurant and Retailers Association board; president, Kodiak CHARR

Rep. Sam Kito III D-Juneau — District 33 877-465-4766 Email: Rep.Sam.Kito@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654766, fax 465-4748 Interim contact: Same as session contact Occupation: Civil engineer Personal: Born April 25, 1964 in Anchorage; one daughter Education: University of Alaska Anchorage, B.S. Civil Engineering (1988) Political and government: Alaska House of Representatives, 2014-present Business and professional: Member, American Society of Civil Engineers; past president, ASCE Juneau Branch; past chair, Professional Engineers in Private Practice; past chair, Alaska Professional Design Council Legislative Liaison Committee; member, Glacier Swim Club Board of Directors; past member, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Native advisory committee Rep. Justin Parish D-Juneau — District 34 800-968-6744 Email: Representative.Justin.

Parish@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653744, fax 465-2273 Interim contact: Same as

session contact Occupation: Paraeducator at Floyd Dryden Middle School Personal: Age 34, born in Juneau, lifelong Alaska resident; father Dave Parish, stepmother Snova Parish, brother Zeif, sister Noora, brother-in-law Roel Mangaccat Education: Juneau-Douglas High School 2001, University of Alaska Fairbanks 2006 (B.A. Foreign Languages); Beijing Language and Culture University 2008; University of Alaska Southeast 2013 (B.S. Biology) Political and government: UAS student senator 20122013; Alaska Democratic Party regional vice chairman 2016-present Business and professional: Alaska Department of Fish and Game, TEMSCO Helicopters, University of Alaska Southeast, JAMHI, REACH, Juneau School District

Rep. Jonathan KreissTomkins D-Sitka – District 35 888-461-3732 Email: Representative.Jonathan.

Kreiss-Tomkins@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653732, fax 465-2652 Interim contact: Phone 465-3732, fax 465-2652 Occupation: Program administrator Personal: Born in 1989 in Sitka Education: Sitka High School (graduated 2007); Yale College (attended 2008-2012) Political and government: Alaska Legislature (2013-present) Business and professional: Freelance writer; program administrator; entrepreneur

Rep. Dan Ortiz I-Ketchikan - District 36 800-686-3824 Email: Representative.Daniel.

Ortiz@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4653824, fax 465-3175 Interim contact: Same as

session contact Personal: Born in Ottawa, Ill.; has lived in Ketchikan since 1969 Occupation: Public school teacher; principal, cross country and debate coach Education: Ketchikan High School (1976); Seattle Pacific University, B.A. (1981); University of WisconsinEau Claire (1997) Business and professional: VFW Teacher of the Year; American Legion Teacher of Year 2013; Junior Achievement leader; negotiator and professional rights and responsibilities mediator for Ketchikan Education Association

Rep. Zach Fansler D-Bethel — District 38 800-323-4942 Email: Representative.Zach.

Fansler@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 4654942, fax 465-4589 Interim contact: Bethel LIO office, Box 886, Bethel, AK 99559, phone 543-5898, fax 543-3542 Occupation: Attorney and faculty for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Personal: Born in 1979 in Lebanon, Pennsylvania; nine-year Alaska resident Education: Annville-Cleona High School; Saint Joseph’s University (B.S.); Temple University (J.D.) Political and government: Bethel City Council, 2014-present Business and professional: Former race manager for the Kuskokwim 300, faculty at the University of Alaska Fairbanks; Director of Development at KYUK-FM; attorney; Catholic Church volunteer; Bethel Lions Club; Bethel Actors Guild (President); Bethel Council on the Arts (President) Rep. Neal Foster D-Nome — District 39 800-478-3789 Email: Representative.Neal.

Foster@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Room 434, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3789, fax 465-3242 Interim contact: Phone 4435036, fax: 443-2162 Occupation: Corporate officer Personal: Born May 29, 1972 in Nome Education: Stanford University, B.A. Political Science (1996); University of Alaska Anchorage, B.S. Business Administration, Finance (1997); Oxford University Overseas Program, Legal Philosophy emphasis (1993) Political and government: Alaska House of Representatives 2009-present; Nome City Council (20082009); Alaska Workforce Investment Board (20032009); Board of Directors of the Bering Straits Regional Native Corp. (2006- present); Board of Directors of the Sitnasuak Village Native Corp. (2003-present); Board of

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

17

Directors of Siu Alaska (2008-present), Board of Directors of Rural Cap (2010-2012) Business and professional: President of Bonanza Fuel; President of Banner Wind; Vice President of the Sitnasuak Native Corp.; owner of Foster Properties Rep. Dean Westlake D-Arctic – District 40 888-288-3473 Email: Representative.Dean.Westlake@akleg.gov Session contact: State Capitol, Juneau, AK 99801, phone 465-3473, fax 465-2827 Interim contact: Phone 465-3473, fax 465-2827 Occupation: Director of Village Economic Development, NANA Corporation Personal: Born in 1960; lifelong Alaskan; lived in Noorvik, Kiana, Red Dog, Kotzebue, Anchorage, Fairbanks and Galena; children Dennis, Autumn-Rose, Tallon Education: Kiana and Noorvik public schools followed by Sheldon Jackson College, the municipal police academy and numerous FBI and law enforcement training courses.

Political and government: Northwest Arctic Borough Assemblyman Business and professional: Kotzebue City Planner; Cook Inlet Tribal Council; Family Assessment Division, Galena Office of Children’s Services; Kotzebue Boys and Girls Club (Board Member), Kotzebue Policemen’s Association (Founder). Galena Village Tribal Council

15: Continued from Page 11 be in a Legislative Information Office without being supervised, he said.

“At this point, I’m not going to try to rush a prefiled bill,” he said.

Despite those obstacles, he’s not sitting still — he’s meeting with constituents and traveled to Juneau in October to look at housing.

Wilson won his campaign with a data-driven approach, and he said he’d like to continue that idea when he gets into office. He’ll be setting up a series of constituent surveys to get as much information as possible.

“Yes, they elected me to do the job,” he said, "but I want to make sure we’re getting real feedback. Data and facts ... legislation by emotion is always a bad thing.”

Similarly, incoming Sen. Natasha Von Imhof, a Republican from Anchorage, said she’s been compiling her notes and preparing herself for a seat on the Senate Finance Committee.

“I’ve been paying attention to Alaska politics ... since on or before my time

on the (Anchorage) school board,” she said. “What I do is I create copious notes, and I collect newspaper articles, and I interview people.”

In early December, Von Imhof said she expected her intensity to rise once Gov. Bill Walker released his proposed budget on Dec. 15.

One incoming legislator is formally a rookie, but he already has more experience than some lawmakers who sat through the last session.

Rep. Chuck Kopp has served as a staffer in the Alaska Senate since 2009 and knows how the body functions, inside and out.

“Being a staff person gives you just a real deep understanding of how the Legislative process works; also, of the issues that are the most important,” he said.

He had to resign the staff role in June before announcing his campaign, but he still knows plenty of people in the Capitol.

He said those relationships are the things incoming lawmakers should seek out.

“You develop bonds and relationships in any workplace,” he said. “That’s probably the greatest personal wealth that any of us have, is those relationships.”

18

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

EXECUTIVES Governor Bill Walker Sworn into office Dec. 1, 2014 State Capitol, third floor P.O. Box 110001 Juneau, AK 99811-0001 Phone: 465-3500 Fax: 465-3532 governor@alaska.gov gov.alaska.gov Personal: Lifelong Alaskan from Fairbanks; married (Donna); four children; two grandchildren Education: Valdez High School; Treasure Valley Community College; Lewis and Clark College; Seattle University School of Law Political and government career: Transportation commissioner; city councilman and mayor, Valdez; charter member and three-term president, Prince William Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Council; project manager, Alaska Gasline Port Authority Business and professional career: Owns or has owned construction, hotel, retail, travel, fishing charter, real estate and law businesses; former law partner, Hughes, Thorsness et al; owner, Walker Richards LCC; steering committee member, North American Gas Summit Lt. Governor Byron Mallott Sworn into office Dec. 1, 2014 State Capitol, third floor P.O. Box 110015 Juneau, AK 99811-0001 Phone: 465-3520 Fax: 465-5400 lt.governor@alaska.gov ltgov.alaska.gov Personal: Lifelong Alaskan from Yakutat; married (Toni); five

children Education: Pious X Mission; Sheldon Jackson High School; Eastern Washington University; Western Washington University Political and government career: Mayor, Yakutat; mayor, Juneau; assistant, Governor Bill Egan; commissioner, Alaska Department of Community and Regional Affairs; Alaskan Command Civilian Advisory Board Business and professional career: Trustee, chair and CEO, Alaska Permanent Fund; director, chair and CEO, Sealaska Corporation; president, Alaska Federation of Natives; president, First Alaskans Institute; member, Alaska Air Group Board; member, Alaska Public Radio Board; member, ACS Board

fund: Continued from Page 6 After all, if that tax passes and so does Wielechowski’s amendment, the state’s government would effectively be taking from one hand and giving from another.

Wielechowski doesn’t see it that way. In fact, he doesn’t think a sales or income tax is necessary at all — if the state restores oil taxes to their historic average.

“If you simply restructure the oil taxes to get our historic 30 percent, it brings in $4.2 bil-

lion,” Wielechowski said. “You just about completely eliminate the deficit.”

Raising oil taxes would be a tough sell in the Republican-led Senate and even in the House, where a coalition majority rules.

“I can’t have it unless I try,” Wielechowski said.

While Wielechowski is looking at future dividends, Dunleavy is looking at the past. In October, he announced that he will file a bill to restore the half of the 2016 dividend vetoed by Walker.

“The bill will be pre-filed as soon as possible,” he said at the time, “and I will ask for an expedited hearing when the Legislature convenes on Jan. 17, 2017.”

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

19

COMMISSIONERS Department of Administration Commissioner Sheldon Fisher P.O. Box 110200 Juneau, AK 99811-0200 Phone: 465-2200 Fax: 465-2135 sheldon.fisher@alaska.gov doa.alaska.gov Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development Commissioner Chris Hladick P.O. Box 110800 Juneau, AK 99811-0800 Phone: 465-2500 Fax: 465-5442 chris.hladick@alaska.gov commerce.alaska.gov Department of Corrections Commissioner Dean Williams 802 Third St. Douglas, AK 99824 Phone: 465-4652 Fax: 465-3390 dean.williams@alaska.gov correct.state.ak.us Department of Education and Early Development Commissioner Michael Johnson 801 W. 10th St., Suite 200 Juneau, AK 99801-1894 Phone: 465-2802 Fax: 465-4156 deed.commissioner@alaska.gov education.alaska.gov Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Larry Hartig 410 Willoughby Ave., Suite 303 Juneau, AK 99801-1795 Phone: 465-5066 Fax: 465-5070 DEC.Commissioner@alaska.gov dec.alaska.gov Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Sam Cotten 1255 W. 8th St. P.O. Box 25526 Juneau, AK 99802-5526 Phone: 465-6141 Fax: 465-2332 dfg.commissioner@alaska.gov adfg.alaska.gov Department of Health and Social Services Commissioner Valerie Davidson 350 Main St., Room 404 P.O. Box 110601 Juneau, AK 99811-0601 Tel: 465-3030 Fax: 465-3068 val.davidson@alaska.gov dhss.alaska.gov

Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Heidi Drygas P.O. Box 111149 Juneau, AK 99811-1149 Phone: 465-2700 Fax: 465-2784 commissioner.labor@alaska.gov labor.alaska.gov Department of Law Attorney General Jahna Lindemuth P.O. Box 110300 Juneau, AK 99811-0300 Phone: 465-3600 Fax: 465-2075 attorney.general@alaska.gov law.alaska.gov Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Laurel J. Hummel P.O. Box 5800 Fort Richardson, AK 99505-5800 Phone: 428-6003 Fax: 428-6019 Laurel.Hummel@alaska.gov dmva.alaska.gov Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Andy Mack 400 Willoughby Ave., Fifth Floor Juneau, AK 99801 Phone: 465-2400 Fax: 465-3886 andy.mack@alaska.gov dnr.alaska.gov Department of Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan 5700 E. Tudor Road Anchorage, AK 99507-1225 Phone: 269-4542 Fax: 269-4543 walt.monegan@alaska.gov dps.alaska.gov Department of Revenue Commissioner Randall Hoffbeck P.O. Box 110400 Juneau, AK 99811-0400 Phone: 465-2300 Fax: 465-2389 randal.hoffbeck@alaska.gov dor.alaska.gov Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Commissioner Marc Luiken 3132 Channel Drive #300 Juneau, AK 99801-7898 Phone: 465-3900 Fax: 586-8365 dot.commissioner@alaska.gov dot.state.ak.us

20

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorge, right, Rep. David Guttenberg, D-Fairbanks, center, and Rep. Geran Tarr, D-Anchorage, left, speak to House Minority Leader Chris Tuck on the last day of the legislative session April 25, 2014.

Josephson and Tarr will co-chair the House Resources Committee in 2017, the first stop for any oil and gas tax bills on their way through the legislative process.

New House Resources chairs ready to take on oil credits and AKLNG Anchorage Democrats Andy Josephson and Geran Tarr will be first stop for any oil and gas tax bills

By Elwood Brehmer MORRIS NEWS SERVICE-ALASKA

The shakeup in state House control seemingly gave Gov. Bill Walker allies in leadership positions on fiscal issues, but the upcoming session will still be an uphill battle on the Alaska LNG Project.

Anchorage Democrat Reps. Andy Josephson and Geran Tarr will co-chair the House Resources Committee, the first stop for any oil and gas tax bills on their way through the legislative process.

They take the Resources gavel from Reps. Dave Talerico, R-Healy, and outging Ben Nageak, D-Barrow — strong supporters of the state’s oil and gas tax credit program — when the 30th Legislature convenes in January.

All indications are the credit debate, which dominated this year’s marathon session, will again be front and center in 2017. The refundable credits for work in the Cook Inlet basin ultimately went the way of the horse and buggy when the dust settled, so now the administration and

the new House Majority have their sights set on at minimum reworking the North Slope incentives.

The challenge will be threading the needle to reduce the state’s future credit obligation without discouraging industry activity on the Slope that the state needs to keep its largest revenue stream flowing.

Any credit reform legislation that makes it out of the House will also have to appease at least a few Republicans in the Senate, which cut major changes to Slope credits out of last year’s bill, in order to make it to the governor’s desk.

SEE house | Page 22

“

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

push: Continued from Page 7 lion will be left to fund the 2019 fiscal year budget.

Lawmakers would have to turn to the earnings reserve of the Permanent Fund to fund government. If they don’t do that, they’ll create a situation that could lead to damaging budget cuts, dramatically high taxes, or both.

The new, bipartisan-led House Majority coalition formed with the stated goal to fix the problem this year after much of the governor’s fiscal legislation stalled last year.

The current unrestricted General Fund budget is about $4.4 billion. When adjusted for population and inflation, the 2017 budget is on par with 2006 levels and “it’s well below the average for all 40 years since (the Trans-Alaska Pipeline) started flowing,” Alper said.

The $4.4 billion budget is also down more than 45 percent from the peak spending years of 2012 and 2013. But to those who insist more budget cuts must be the primary the solution, Alper said that simply isn’t an option.

“We are part of the effort to further downsize state government. We know that our state has the highest per capita spending in the country,” he said. “But it’s also true Alaska really is different. Just like industry, we have high costs of living; we have big logistical costs; the state funds the majority of public education, which is not true all over the country where it’s largely supported by local property taxes and you get big disparities between wealthy school districts and poor.

“There truly are limits to how far we can cut government, but the budget has been trending downward severely for four years now and it will continue,” he said.

And since, according to Alper, it would take $102 per

21

We know that our state has the highest per capita spending in the country.

But it’s also true Alaska really is different.

”

Ken Alper Tax Director

barrel oil or each adult Alaskan suddenly smoking 10 pounds of legal, state-taxed marijuana per year to balance the current budget, two options remain: broad-based taxes and a structured draw from the earnings of the Permanent Fund.

The Permanent Fund bill that passed the Senate last year would have provided at least $1.6 billion to the state General Fund yearly, barring another financial market meltdown. That, on top of the roughly $700 million that could come from $1,000 per person in additional taxes and $60 per barrel oil — a more realistic possibility after other oil producing nations recently agreed to cut output — would leave the annual deficit in the low hundreds of millions, not billions.

Alper noted even with an additional $1,000 per person in personal taxes, up from about $500 currently, “Alaska would rocket past New Hampshire” to become the 49th least taxed state in the union.

Last session the governor proposed an income tax to raise about $200 million and a suite of other industry tax increases. Alper said several weeks ago that the administration is working on its own income tax system, rather than piggybacking on the federal tax, as its previous bills did.

22

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

Walker budget plan pitches job cuts, using nest-egg earnings

By BECKY BOHRER THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

JUNEAU — Gov. Bill Walker has proposed cutting hundreds more state jobs as part of a budget plan that includes the use of earnings from Alaska’s oil-wealth nest egg and ultimately tripling state motor fuels taxes.

Walker’s budget office said the governor’s overall budget plan, if implemented, still would leave a budget deficit of nearly $900 million that would need to be closed with lawmakers’ help.

In a statement Thursday, Walker said the state has already slashed its budget and will look for more ways to reduce costs. But he said Alaska can’t cut its way to prosperity and a critical discussion is needed on raising new revenue.

Alaska, which has long heavily relied

on oil revenues to help pay for state government, is grappling with a multibilliondollar budget deficit amid chronically low oil prices.

Revenue Commissioner Randall Hoffbeck said issues that need to be dealt with include some kind of broad-based tax and further changes to Alaska’s oil and gas tax credit system. But rather than release a suite of proposals — as Walker had previously done with little success — Hoffbeck said the governor wants to work with legislators to devise a package “that everybody can agree to move.”

“It didn’t work the other way, so we’re hoping it’s going to work this way,” Hoffbeck said by phone Thursday.

Heading into this year’s regular session, Walker proposed various industry tax increases, oil and gas tax credit changes and use of Alaska Permanent Fund earnings to help pay for state government. Lawmak-

ers, whose work extended into two special sessions, agreed to credit changes focused largely on Cook Inlet, but other major pieces pushed by Walker faltered.

On Thursday, Walker proposed permanent fund legislation similar to what passed the Senate earlier this year but died in the House. It calls for draws from fund earnings based on a percentage of the fund’s value to help pay for state government. It also would change how annual dividends to residents are calculated. Dividends would be $1,000 for each of the next two years.

Under Walker’s fuel tax proposal, motor fuel taxes would double starting July 1, and increase again, to triple the current rates, on July 1, 2018. The funds could be used for highway maintenance, harbor infrastructure and other transportation needs, according to the Department of Revenue.

house: Continued from Page 20 Josephson said the fact that the state will have burned through more than three-fourths of its savings from when budget reserves peaked at about $17 billion — and will be left with about one year of cash left at the end of this fiscal year — means “we have to do something (on oil tax credits). The idea that we could choose not to do something is, frankly, at this point ludicrous.”

The central issue, the new Resource chairs said in separate interviews, is that the state is no longer generating meaningful revenue from its production tax since oil prices have fallen and largely stabilized at sub-$50 per barrel prices.

The Revenue Department projects that net operating loss, or NOL, credits claimed

SEE BUDGET | Page 25 by the state’s large producers and used against tax liability will virtually offset production taxes through 2021, with the state taking in about $130 million in production tax revenue over that time based on its oil price forecast.

On top of that, Alaska could owe upwards of $1.1 billion in refundable credits to smaller companies by the end of fiscal year 2018, according to state Tax Director Ken Alper.

New House Finance cochair Rep. Paul Seaton, RHomer, was central in drafting a credit reform-reduction bill that passed the House last session with support from Democrats and moderate Republicans, but was picked apart when it got to the Senate.

Tarr acknowledged that the Legislature has at times been fairly criticized for frequent oil tax changes — also noting some recent changes came at the request of indus-

SEE chairs | Page 24

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

23

capitol: Continued from Page 5 the windows, stonework and brick were deliberately chosen to match patterns and colors from the existing building as closely as possible.

Wayne Jensen is the architect behind the renovation, and he says most of the big changes in the past four years have been to the building’s concrete skeleton.

“There’s quite a bit of work you can’t see,” Jensen said. “You can’t see any of the structural work; it’s all buried in the walls.”

When the Federal and Territorial Building opened in 1931, it included federal offices, a post office, the territorial governor’s offices and the state museum. By the time Alaska became a state, the 90,000 square-foot building had been consumed by government offices.

It cost $1 million and took 18 months to construct, and when built, it consisted of a concrete skeleton covered by a skin of brick, limestone and terra cotta.

By the turn of the 21st century, the building was showing its age, and there were extensive talks about replacing the Capitol with a new building on Telegraph Hill.

After a final design was selected — and loudly rejected by the state’s residents — the existing capitol’s problems became a critical issue. Moisture had seeped into its walls, and its masonry was decaying.

The Alaska Legislature started setting aside renovation money in 2006, and the first contract was awarded to Jensen, Yorba, Lott (Jensen’s firm). The first construction contract came in 2013.

From the summer of 2013

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Remodel work on the Alaska State Capitol building by Dawson Construction nears completion on Nov. 14, 2016.

“

”

This building was in disrepair, things were falling off, and now it’s a thing of real beauty.

through the end of December 2016, work progressed in a regular pattern: Contractors would set up shop once the Legislature adjourned for the summer, then take down their equipment each December and January.

“The hardest part, really, was the fact that it was a threeyear deal,” Goodell said. “Mobilization and demobilization is very expensive, and it’s just problematic from a management standpoint.”

Goodell has worked in Juneau’s construction industry since 1988, and he’s never had a project like this one.

The building’s original skeleton consisted of concrete columns. In an earthquake, those

Like us on facebook at facebook.com/juneauempire

Jeff Goodell Building manager

columns might buckle, collapsing the Capitol. During the renovation, workers installed concrete walls to join the columns, stiffening the building’s structure. They also braced the building’s foundation.

To do that, they had to crawl into the muck beneath the building. In 2013, they exavated 66 dump-truck loads of glacial till, allowing space for future work. It was nasty, mucky work — and hot, since the building’s steam heat wasn’t replaced with a more efficient system until 2014.

In addition to the structural work, the renovation added six new rooms to the capitol — two each on the third, fourth and fifth floors — and even re-

inforced the marble columns on the building’s portico.

Some work remains to be done, Jensen said, but the unfinished items aren’t significant and should be cleared off the checklist without too much trouble next summer.

The state of Alaska paid for most of the project — the Juneau Community Foundation added about $1 million — and Goodell thinks the state’s residents have gotten the worth of their money.

“I think so, yes, and I hope the residents of the state feel the same way,” he said.

“This building was in disrepair, things were falling off, and now it’s a thing of real beauty.”

Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/JuneauEmpire

24

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

chairs: Continued from Page 22 try — but added that the oil prices of today weren’t even considered when Senate Bill 21 and other oil tax laws were passed.

“It’s been proven now the low price environment is the new normal,” she said.

“There’s just no denying that when we created the current tax structure — the record is clear — we only looked at the $60 to $120 (per barrel) band.

We did not create a system that works at these prices and I believe 100 percent we would not have the system we have today if we had done that.”

As challenging as it might be, her goal is to come out of the next session with an oil tax system that is durable for the next 10 years, and last year’s lengthy debate should help

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Rep. Geran Tarr, D-Anchorage, of the House Resource Committee asks a question of Joe Balash, Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources, during an overview of the proposed Alaska LNG project on Jan. 27, 2014. Rep. Paul Seaton, R-Homer, is left. legislators pick up where they left off, Tarr said.

Josephson and Tarr both served on the Resources Committee previously, so they have significant working knowledge of the issues at hand.

Tarr said she would support capping the amount of

losses companies can claim in any one year to spread the tax deductions or allow them to be deducted at a reduced rate.

“You just can’t do what you can’t afford,” she said.

On refundable credits, the Democrats said they are open to ideas on how to change the system, but not interested in the status quo.

Currently, small and nonproducing companies working on the North Slope can claim the 35 percent NOL credit for cash, an incentive aimed at spurring development in the high-cost regime, under the theory that the state will ultimately recoup the credits in royalty and taxes when the oil starts flowing.

The large Pikka and Smith Bay discoveries recently announced by Armstrong Energy and Caelus Energy, respectively, which together could produce more than 320,000 barrels per day when fully developed, would be eligible for the refundable NOL. Those discoveries are also estimated to cost a combined $13 billion or more to bring online, costs that could translate into a roughly $4 billion NOL liability to the state.

“The $4 billion we would spend helping those fields is not practical; it’s not something that’s affordable, so (the state help) is going to have to be something less than that,”

Josephson said.

He added that does not mean doing away with state support for early-stage projects.

“What I’m interested in is a more iterative plan that is more like royalty relief where the industry would carry the burden and they would be able to prove up to our geologists and our DNR team and Revenue team that something is truly viable and not pie in the sky,” Josephson said. “If anyone thinks that I’m going to be supporting the abolition of all cashable credits; that is not necessarily going to be my position at all.

“It would be foolish to look at a prospect like.”

Tarr also said she sees a place for direct state investment in the exploration and early development phases of projects. She said finding ways to encourage companies to partner on projects could reduce the dependence on state subsidies.

“What we have to recognize is what we can afford. It may be that it means at lower prices there’s less (money) available for support,” she said.

Tarr noted that Caelus has said the tax credits were influential in bringing the Dallasbased independent to Alaska.

Caelus expects to have about $200 million in credit certificates by next spring, according to spokesman Casey Sullivan.

Josephson emphasized that the current North Slope credit system isn’t working for anyone, as Walker’s collective $630 million in vetoes to tax credit payments in the last two years have thrown the current program into disarray.

“I think anyone would look at this and say things are so dire that all you have to do is look at the last two years of governor’s vetoes — no one benefits from this anymore because (the credits) are just not something you can rely on,” he said. “It frankly becomes a fiction at some point and you might as well deal with something that is more predictable and reliable.”

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide

MICHAEL PENN | JUNEAU EMPIRE FILE

Rep. Dan Ortiz, I-Ketchikan, listens to lawmakers in February 2016 as they discuss changing their governing rules to focus on the budget crisis.

BUDGET: Continued from Page 22 Rates for highway fuel, for example, would go from the current 8 cents per gallon to 24 cents per gallon by 2018, which Walker said is in line with the national average.

Walker’s budget for the spending year starting July 1 would cut 795 positions. As part of the cuts, the state expects to have 400 fewer employees by this time next year, said Pat Pitney, Walker’s budget director.

The budget office said already there are 2,500 fewer state employees than two years ago. As of October, there were 24,300 state employees, she said.

Reaction to Walker’s plan was muted.

Sen. Anna MacKinnon, REagle River, and co-chair of the Senate Finance Committee, expressed disappointment with the level of proposed cuts.

But she pledged her committee would find places to make government “run more efficiently and effectively.”

Minority Senate Democrats, meanwhile, wanted to see legislation dealing with credits.

Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux, RAnchorage, said while Walker has gotten things started, House and Senate need to work on responsible ways to fill the deficit. In a release, LeDoux, one of three Republicans who joined with Democrats and independents to form a new House majority for the coming Legislature, said she hopes fixing the state’s “flawed system of subsidizing the oil and gas industry with large tax credits will be part of the fiscal solution.”

25

26

Juneau Empire’s 2017 Legislative Guide