I expect that Juneau will have universal curbside recycling, with likely twice-monthly pick-up. A prerequisite for such service is the transfer of the RCA certificate from Alaska Pacific Environmental Services and a long-term contract with them so that they can make the capital investment in the required equipment. Scheduled hazardous waste collection will continue at our new public works facility.

The CBJ is barred by its charter from operating at a deficit. We know, however, that there is a major gap between our revenues and operating expenses in the coming fiscal years. The manager and Assembly have anticipated these circumstances by having built up the “rainy day” fund to avoid major disruption in service, limiting new positions and holding expenditures in check. We continue our advocacy for federal and state revenue sharing. If faced with the need to take additional measures, I will support a combination of targeted reductions, re-alignment of city priorities, and taxes and other revenues.

By
• supporting workforce development in Juneau. This means active support for the University of Alaska Southeast and trade apprenticeship programs.
• supporting legislation that would re-institute student loan forgiveness for those returning to the state.
• encouraging the state to re-examine its salary and benefit schedule. The State of Alaska remains the largest single employer in Juneau. Its salary and benefits have failed to keep pace with COLA.
• continue work on affordable housing alternatives.
• encourage expansion and diversity in our economy (e.g. seafood processing; health care)

CBJ needs to seek transfer of the state certificate of public convenience and necessity from its private owner so that we as a city can direct how the community’s waste materials are collected, recycled and disposed. Our next decision is whether and under what circumstances we will pursue incineration of solid waste. This will directly impact the kind of recycling program we will ultimately establish. On a parallel track, we are developing a draft policy on universal trash and recycling collection services.

“Capital creep” is a direct result of the highest executive conducting business outside of the capital. Seek commitment from all gubernatorial candidates to live in Juneau. Help secure a permanent residence for the lieutenant governor in Juneau. Support new state infrastructure in Juneau (e.g. new archives building, new state office building). Continue outreach to the state.  Establish commission of prominent Alaskans (non-Juneau residents) to advise the state and city on ways to enhance Juneau as the capital city.