Possible improvements might include satellite drop-offs around the community to make it more convenient. We also might explore the possibility of community composting. I do not support mandatory trash pickup since that may increase the cost for residents already suffering the effects of the economic downturn. Recycling is available today and the public’s use is driven by their own interest. Elected officials can encourage continued interest in recycling and look for innovative ways to expand the program.

Zero-based budgeting should be explored. Instead of adjusting last year’s budget up or down, start from scratch with basic needs. To fund basic government services, there are only two options:  reduce costs or increase revenues. It is important to re-examine the “why” and make sure reasons are still valid. Recognize municipal revenue sharing is decreasing; amount Juneau receives is population-driven. Since a good portion of reduced revenues are due to reduced investment revenue, make sure our assets are working for us. We need to diversify our economy to increase our tax base and spread the cost of essential services.

The young adults I have spoken with list a good job as the No. 1 requirement for living in Juneau. We should work to enhance career opportunities in health, forestry and fisheries research. Juneau has to take advantage of our new Lena Point Fisheries facility, our new Tongass Research Forest and our regional health facilities at Bartlett and SEARHC. Second, is public access to land — for both residential and recreational use. Limited housing options and lack of diverse recreation opportunities deter young people.

Support the effort of Southeast communities to establish a Solid Waste Authority to investigate options for shared services. This problem is too big for one community to handle. Restoration of incinerator may need CBJ help but it should not become a CBJ enterprise. Work to clean up the Lemon Creek landfill. It will beautify Juneau and bolster our image as the Capital. Lemon Creek is a wetland area and we can do better than simply use it to dump our garbage.

I would work to keep the cost of living reasonable so families want to locate here. Find out why the state transfers jobs then fix the problem and work to return jobs to Juneau. Support projects like the airport improvements. Enlist other Southeast communities to understand keeping the capital here is a Southeast issue — not just a Juneau issue. Suggest a liaison from the state administration serve as a member of the Alaska Committee so communication is consistent and clear.