Mia Costello, a former Alaska state senator, has been appointed as the director of Legislative Affairs by Mayor Dave Bronson.
The announcement was made Tuesday. Costello, a lifelong resident, served in the Alaska Legislature for 12 years, with four years in the House and eight years in the Senate.
During her tenure, she was on the House Finance Committee, chaired of the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee, and was Senate Majority leader. After district lines were shifted during redistricting, she lost to Sen. Matt Claman, a Democrat.
Prior to her political career, Costello worked for Gov. Frank Murkowski and Gov. Walter Hickel. She has a bachelor’s degree in government from Harvard University and a master of arts in teaching from the University of Alaska Southeast.
She taught social studies, government, and history at Service High and Juneau-Douglas High and played crucial role in assisting at-risk youth in obtaining their diplomas at Nine Star Education & Employment Services.
Mayor Bronson expressed his confidence in Costello’s abilities, stating, “Mia is a devoted public servant and competent leader. Her experience in both the legislative and executive branches of government, combined with her diverse history serving our community, make her an ideal choice for this position.”
He further emphasized the shared goals of his administration, including modernizing the Port, enhancing public safety, and fostering a more competitive business environment in Anchorage.
“I love our city and look forward to helping advance Mayor Bronson’s vision of a prosperous and vibrant Anchorage. I’m honored to have been selected to fill this role, and am excited to work with the Assembly, state lawmakers, Congressional delegation, and Governor Dunleavy’s administration to make Anchorage a more desirable place to live, work, and play,” Costello said.
Costello’s first day in her new position is set for June 20.
