Updates on education, energy, and community priorities for District J

 

Dear Friends and Neighbors,  

As we open up this 34th Legislature together, I’m honored to once again be seated here in Juneau serving and representing Senate District J. As I’ve been settling into the start of the legislative session and the different daily routine of life here in Southeast Alaska, my neighbors of East Anchorage have been at the top of my mind. Each day, I find myself incredibly grateful for the ongoing support, ideas, and encouragement that my team and I receive from our wonderful community. 

I’m entering this legislative session excited to be a voice for all of those I met door knocking and during constituent meetings over the past few months. Heavy in my mind are the priorities and concerns you’ve all shared with me through our many conversations. 

It’s no secret that education funding challenges are hitting Anchorage hard, especially in East Anchorage. Nunaka Valley Elementary is slated to close next May, a decision that may signal the start of additional closures after years of failing to adjust school funding to keep up with inflation. On a brighter note, new bipartisan coalitions in the House and Senate offer a renewed opportunity to address this issue. I’m optimistic we can work together to increase the Base Student Allocation and ensure our students and families get the resources they need.

Time and time again this summer, concerns about access to reliable heat and power came up from neighbors across District J. In this vein, and with these conversations in mind, I’ll be advocating for sustainable, affordable and long-term solutions to our ongoing natural gas shortage throughout Southcentral Alaska. 

While I am down here in Juneau, my lines of communication remain open for any questions, concerns, policy priorities, or other comments you might have. As we move forward in the session, my team and I are doing so with the thoughts and concerns of our community as the guiding light leading us forward.

Honored to serve you,

 

Office of Senator Dunbar | Alaska State Capitol 120 4th St, Ste 125 907-465-6944 | Juneau, AK 99801 US