Alaska Matters: Revenue & Budget Update

Protecting Your Rights: Serving West Anchorage

January 27, 2023

Start of Session

I'm honored to serve as the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. My other committee assignments include the Senate Resources, State Affairs, and Legislative Council Committees.

Watch this week's video for an update on what's ahead.

Watch this week's video update

Revenue and Budget Update

Last year's budget was based on oil prices over $100 per barrel. Prices had soared after Russia invaded Ukraine, but the price of oil has since dropped and is now at $82 per barrel. Meanwhile, the Department of Natural Resources reports that oil and gas production has been steadily maintained, even in aging oil fields.

As we work to balance this year's budget, I remain committed to holding the line on the Percent of Market Value law that caps the draw from the Permanent Fund Earnings Reserve and prioritizing essential state services identified in the Alaska Constitution, including public safety, public education, and public health.

Our office created an informational video about the Percent of Market Value revenue cap, and the law that created it, during the last legislative session. For a refresher and more information, check out the video.

Learn about the Percent of Market Value revenue cap

Community Information

→ FedEx ANCA Facility Development at Ted Stevens (ANC)

Project information: FedEx is planning to redevelop and expand the FedEx Cargo Development area at ANC with the intention of accommodating existing and future demand for cargo operations, increasing operational efficiencies, and meeting FAA and airport safety requirements. The project includes construction of new feeder aircraft parking apron, cargo building, automobile parking areas, two connections to Postmark Drive, and new security and perimeter fencing.

Public meeting: A public open house will be held on Thursday, February 16 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM at the Coast Inn at Lake Hood (3450 Aviation Ave, Anchorage). This meeting is considered a public scoping meeting, meant to allow the project sponsor to receive input as they draft the Environmental Assessment.

→ People Mover Rider Survey

The People Mover is accepting responses to the Rider Survey through January 31. The survey takes place three times a year (January, May, September). Community members are encouraged to provide feedback regarding their experience with People Mover and what areas can be improved.

Take the survey at https://www.research.net/r/QQYW3VJ.

Printed copies of the survey are available at the customer service office and both versions are available in Tagalog, Korean, and Spanish.

→ AMATS Survey

AMATS is creating its first Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) Plan. This plan will focus on coordinated strategies to enhance the safety and efficiency of our current travel options. Take the survey and let them know what strategies you think should be explored.

Take the survey at https://survey123.arcgis.com.