Residents of unorganized areas of Alaska, such as Georgetown, are preparing for upcoming governmental changes that may be forced on them.
The Alaska Constitution allows the legislature to establish boroughs in unorganized areas over local objections. In this past legislative session, Senate Bill 248 was introduced to create a new classification of borough: an administrative borough, commonly called the mini-borough, which would give the state power to appoint commissioners, set boundaries and impose sales taxes.
Several legislators argue that the unorganized borough results in a lack of local responsibility for education, fragmented structure for the delivery of services, and hindered social and economic development.
Many Tribal leaders are investigating options. With the rise of gas pipeline discussions, the possibility of gold mine developments and debate over a proposed Port Authority, many feel it may be time to create a governing entity managed by locals, such as a Home Rule Borough.
On April 6 -7, The Kuskokwim Corporation (TKC) held meetings with Tribal leaders in Aniak to discuss governing options. In addition to boroughs, other suggestions include forming a regional Tribally Sovereign Entity; however, the state would still have the power to enforce a borough.
During the meeting, a Borough Steering Committee was formed to seek funds for a feasibility study to determine the best option for residents.
Glenn Fredericks, Georgetown Tribal Council President, is still seeking information but is leaning support towards a Home Rule Borough that would permit the election of local officials to govern and use the same boundaries as the Kuspuk and Iditarod School Districts.
To incorporate a borough, the first step is for a resident to submit the proposal to the state’s Local Boundary Commission, which would direct extensive public notice, considerable opportunity for public comment, thorough study, public informational meetings, public hearings, a decisional meeting, and opportunity for reconsideration.
