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RCA Spurns Ratepayers, Upholds Chugach Electric’s “Cents of Community” Program

Natalie Spaulding
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RCA Spurns Ratepayers, Upholds Chugach Electric’s “Cents of Community” Program

In August, many members of Chugach Electric Association (CEA) denounced CEA’s automatic enrollment of all members into their “Cents of Community” Program. The program signed up every member to give an average of 50 cents per month to a grant fund which would be distributed to 501(c)(3) charities chosen by a CEA-approved board. Members would have zero say in which organizations received their hard-earned money. 

The outrage caught the attention of Attorney General Stephen Cox, who brought the issue to the attention of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA). He argued: “Because Chugach’s members are captive customers, the automatic round-up requires them to fund speech they may not agree with. That raises serious First Amendment concerns. Alaskans should not be put in the position of supporting organizations or advocacy they disagree with just to keep the lights on.” 

However, the RCA denied responsibility for curtailing CEA’s undermining of First Amendment rights. The RCA argued that the program “does not involve a utility-related service … Nor does it alter or increase the compensation Chugach collects for providing a utility-related service.”

On the other hand, RCA Chair John Espindola and Commissioner John Springsteen dissented. They argued: “By rounding up its members’ bills for electric service to the nearest dollar, the program directly affects charges imposed on members and we continue to believe this falls within the purview of the Commission’s jurisdiction.” 

AG Cox vows to continue to pursue the matter under the state’s consumer protection laws. “Yes, members can opt out — but they shouldn’t have to,” Cox stated. “The default should always be consent, not silence.” 

The state Department of Law late Tuesday released a “consumer alert” about utility charity programs, asking Alaskans to “report confusing billing or charitable charges to the Alaska Department of Law’s Consumer Protection Unit.” 

Generosity retains its virtue only when freely given. When coerced, charity programs like CEA’s “Community of Cents” become nothing more than legalized theft. The CEA should be held accountable for its manipulation of members’ money and circumvention of consent. 

Read the full RCA majority decision and dissenting opinions here:

RCA Decision Re CEA Community of Cents ProgramDownload

Read our previous coverage of the issue here:

Chugach Electric customers are charged up over automatic “Round-Up” charges – Must Read Alaska 

BREAKING: New Alaska AG Cites “Compelled Speech” as Basis For Objection to Chugach Plan – Must Read Alaska 

Natalie Spaulding, a 2025 Hillsdale graduate, recently joined the Must Read Alaska team.

Newly Formed Alaska Gasline Caucus Launches

Jon Faulkner
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10
Newly Formed Alaska Gasline Caucus Launches

A new, bipartisan Alaska Gasline Caucus, co-chaired by Rep. Mia Costello (R-Anchorage) and Rep. George Rauscher (R-Sutton), met for the first time yesterday to assess Alaska’s readiness for the proposed 800-mile Alaska LNG pipeline. The inaugural meeting in Anchorage featured presentations from Glenfarne Alaska LNG, the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and the University of Alaska, and was attended by over 20 legislators in person or via livestream.

Glenfarne, University, and State Leaders Weigh-In

Glenfarne President Adam Prestidge highlighted the pipeline’s alignment with the existing Trans-Alaska oil pipeline route for efficiency, describing it as the most engineered pipeline project to-date, with construction (“pipe rolling”) slated for mid-2026. The initiative is projected to create 12,000 jobs in Alaska. If approved, the Alaska LNG project will be one of the largest infrastructure projects on the planet. 

University officials, including Interim Dean Kevin Alexander of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College, reported near-capacity enrollment in construction-related programs, with certification pathways, but stressed a supply-demand imbalance for skilled workers.

Labor Commissioner Cathy Munoz outlined regulatory reforms to recognize out-of-state occupational licenses, retention strategies for military personnel, and updates to the statewide gas line workforce plan, with enhanced training capacity. Further details will follow legislative sessions in January.

Co-chairs Costello and Rauscher emphasized inter-agency accountability, free-flowing ideas, and legislative support to prioritize Alaskan benefits, while acknowledging ongoing questions as the project progresses. The caucus aims to ensure comprehensive state readiness for this “historic opportunity.”

“This project will bring tremendous opportunity to the state,” Costello said. “We are going to be asking all state departments ‘What have you done? What are you doing now, and what are you planning to do?’ We will be having many meetings, and we want to keep the ideas free flowing.”

The Phases, Major Partnerships, and Glenfarne’s Final Investment Decision

Glenfarne Group, LLC, solidified its role as the lead developer of the Alaska LNG project in March 2025, acquiring a 75% stake in collaboration with the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC), which retains 25%. The 42-inch-diameter natural gas pipeline leverages existing infrastructure by paralleling much of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System route.

The pipeline is designed for phased implementation to address both domestic and export demands. Phase One focuses on a 765-mile segment extending to the Anchorage area, aiming to mitigate perceived natural gas shortages in the Cook Inlet region, where production has plummeted.

Phase Two would extend the pipeline under Cook Inlet to a state-of-the-art 20 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) LNG export terminal in Nikiski, positioning Alaska to supply liquefied natural gas to high-demand Asian markets.

To drive economic feasibility, Glenfarne claims it has secured offtake agreements with major players, including Japan’s JERA for up to 4 MTPA, South Korea’s POSCO (which also commits to supplying steel for construction), and Thailand’s PTT. Engineering partnerships, notably with Worley, have refined designs, while expressions of interest from strategic partners exceed $115 billion in total, according to reports.

Glenfarne expects a final investment decision (FID) for the pipeline by late 2025, with full project FID in 2026, and construction commencing mid-2026. Peak construction is estimated to produce 12,000 jobs. Overall, the initiative represents a transformative infrastructure project with the promise to revitalize Alaska’s resource-based economy and to create a stable source of energy for consumers.

Questions and Concerns

With energy strategy shifting to North Slope gas in lieu of Cook Inlet gas, some southcentral consumers are wondering what will happen to Cook Inlet producers such as Hilcorp, Furie, and Bluecrest Energy. Similarly, railbelt utilities want assurances that connection agreements can be secured with 8-Star LLC to off-take natural gas adequate to outpace the supposed supply gap in Cook Inlet.

Dahlstrom Enters Alaska Gubernatorial Race 

Natalie Spaulding
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Dahlstrom Enters Alaska Gubernatorial Race 

Yesterday, Oct. 7th, Nancy Dahlstrom officially announced her campaign for Governor of Alaska. There are now 13 candidates (12 Republican, 1 Democrat) running in the 2026 race. 

“I’m stepping forward to lead Alaska because I believe in its future, and I want our kids and grandkids to see theirs here,” Dahlstrom stated, speaking on her motivation in joining the race. 

She then reminded Alaskans of her accomplishments as Lieutenant Governor and Commissioner of Corrections: “I’ve spent years serving this state with grit, honesty, and a commitment to getting things done. As Lieutenant Governor, I’ve fought to expand our energy opportunities and safeguard the freedoms that define life in Alaska. As Commissioner of Corrections, I overturned soft-on-crime policies that weakened public safety. And in the Legislature, I stood up for Alaskans and protected the Permanent Fund Dividend.” 

Here is what Dahlstrom claims to bring to the table: “Now, I’m running for Governor to bring experience, determination, and common sense to the job. My promise is simple: I’ll work every day to make Alaska a place where families can put down roots, businesses can grow, and communities can thrive.” 

In the 2024 election for the Alaska seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Dahlstrom selflessly withdrew from the race so that Nick Begich could defeat Peltola. How will she react to this year’s fight? Will she prioritize a unified Republican front against Tom Begich even if it takes herself out of the race? Or is she in it to win this time? We shall see. 

View full press release here: Lt. Governor Nancy Dahlstrom Announces Campaign for Governor of Alaska – Nancy Dahlstrom for Alaska 

Natalie Spaulding, a 2025 Hillsdale College graduate, recently joined the Must Read Alaska team.

Election Results in for Alaska’s Communities  

Brenda Josephson
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Election Results in for Alaska’s Communities  

The first results from Alaska’s local elections on October 7th are starting to come in as municipalities across the state tally votes for mayors, assembly members, city councils, school boards, and propositions. 

Preliminary and unofficial results are being reported, with certification of official results anticipated in the upcoming weeks. Unofficial results are provided in the links below. 

Fairbanks North Star Borough elected three assembly seats and two school board seats. Brett Rotermund received 9,383 votes on election night in his unopposed bid for assembly seat B. For assembly seat C, Garrett Armstrong is leading with 6,554 votes to J.T. McComas-Roe’s election night total of 4,869. For the FNSB seat I, Patrick Roach is leading with 8,163 votes to Barbara Haney’s 6,293 votes in the unofficial tally. Seats for the school board are more competitive, with Aundra Hull leading over Cemetria (Sam) Spencer with 7,446 to 6,532. Only 131 votes separate candidates for school board seat D, with Naomi Hewitt receiving 7,072 votes, closely followed by Melissa Burnett’s 6,941 election night tally. Counting will continue on October 14th, with certification to occur on October 23, 2025. Fairbanks North Star Borough with the City of Fairbanks & North Pole Oct 7 unofficial results  

The City of Fairbanks appears to have elected liberal Mindy O’Neall as mayor with 1,808 votes, over the conservative incumbent Mayor David Pruhs, who received 1,528 votes on election night. City council seat C has Sue Sprinkle leading over Hannah Ekalook, 1,859 to 1,362. Crystal Tidwell ran unopposed for council seat D and received 2,672 votes. Fairbanks North Star Borough with the City of Fairbanks & North Pole Oct 7 unofficial results 

North Pole has four council seats available, with David A. Skipps, Jordan Schuster, Sandra Rolfe, and David Brandt on the ballot. Fairbanks North Star Borough with the City of Fairbanks & North Pole Oct 7 unofficial results 

Palmer’s mayoral race saw Mayor Jim Cooper leading with a 54-vote edge over John Alcantra’s 103 votes. Two three-year council seats are available. Alison Collins is currently leading with 231 votes. The other seat will be determined during the canvassing process, with Amanda Graham at 197 votes and Carolina Graver receiving 160 votes on election night. Sherry Carrington is a clear leader with 227 votes. Counts with be updated on October 10th, with certification scheduled for October 13th. Palmer Oct 7 unofficial results 

Wasilla had one contested race for the three council seats on the ballot. Mark Schmidt received 63% of the votes on election night, leading Sue-Sue Scott 97 to 54. Final votes will be counted on October 10th. Wasilla Oct 7 unofficial results 

Houston will be filling three council members. Early and absentee ballots will be tallied on October 10th. Election night votes have Jason H. Kahn, Callie J. Courtney, and Dan Lewis leading in their races. Houston Oct 7 unofficial results 

Juneau has counted less than 22% of its ballots in the by-mail election for a total of 6,073 ballots as of election night. Only one assembly seat was contested, with Nathaniel “Nano” Brooks leading by 3 votes against incumbent Wade Bryson (2,743 to 2,740). Citizen-led initiative proposition 1, to cap the mill rate at 9 mills, is leading 3,104 yes to 2,920 no. Another citizen-led initiative, proposition 2, to exempt sales tax on essential foods and residential utilities is leading widely with 4,173 in support and 1,867 opposed. The municipality’s proposition 3 to establish seasonal sales tax rates is currently being rejected by the public with 3,534 votes against the proposal to 2,514 in support. Tallying will continue on October 10th, with updates to be provided on an ongoing basis until the election results are certified on October 21st. City and Borough of Juneau Oct 7 election night results 

Ketchikan Gateway Borough election night results show Austin Otos clearly in the lead for mayor with 1,135 votes. In the lead for two three-year seats on the assembly are Rodney Dial and Glen Thompson with 1,166 and 1,154 votes each. Daniel Ortiz is leading for a one-year seat on the assembly with 1,045 votes. Ketchikan Gateway Borough Oct 7 unofficial results 

The City of Ketchikan has two open city council seats, with Abby Bradberry leading with 567 votes and Janalee Gage following with 541 votes. Election night results indicated strong support for seven ballot propositions. These measures include a $15 million wastewater bond aimed at replacing aging sewer mains and upgrading the treatment plant. Additionally, there are six charter amendments designed to streamline ordinances, ease residency requirements for the city manager, and modernize provisions related to contracts, audits, and conflicts of interests. City of Ketchikan Oct 7th unofficial results 

Haines elected Gabe Thomas and Eben Sargent as clear winners for assembly seats. The government’s seasonal sales tax proposition has passed with 562 votes in support to 515 opposed. Haines Oct 7 unofficial results 

Skagway elected Mayor Orion Hanson, who ran unopposed. For two three-year assembly seats, Charity Pomeroy has 257 votes and Jay Burnham has 226 to lead over Andrew Cremata’s election night tally of 146. Dan Henry received 146 write-in votes for a one-year assembly seat. Luke Rauscher and Kerri Raia ran unopposed for school board seats. A proposition for a seasonal sales tax failed 140-222 with the canvass to occur on October 9, 2025. Skagway Oct 7 unofficial results 

Wrangell elected David Powell and Dan Powers to assembly seats, who both ran unopposed. Wrangell election information 

Sitka elected Katie Riley to assembly, while Thor Christianson currently leads for the second seat, surpassing Sherri Blankenship. Proposition 1, which aims to allocate recreation funding from the hospital fund, passed by a significant margin. However, proposition 2, focused on economic studies for initiatives, did not garner a majority of public support. Official results will be available following the canvass of final votes. https://www.cityofsitka.com/RegularMunicipalElection 

The Kenai Peninsula Borough saw early leads that suggest a preference for shifting elections to November and opposing the hand-counting of ballots, with the Soldotna annexation also under consideration. Full results are pending the canvass. Current leaders in the assembly districts are as follows: District 1 – Kalifornsky: Scott Griebel, with 335 votes. District 3 – Nikiski: Lenora Niesen, who ran unopposed, has received 523 votes. In District 4—Soldotna, Sergeant Truesdell is leading with 405 votes. District 5 – Sterling shows Dale Eicher in the lead with 544 votes. For District 7–Central, the unopposed candidate, Michael W. Hicks, has garnered 643 votes. For more details see the unofficial results. Kenai Peninsula Borough Oct 7 unofficial results 

Homer reelected incumbents Bradley Parsons, Jason Davis, and Storm Hansen to three council seats. Homer Oct 7 preliminary results  

Kenai’s early results show that Henry Knackstedt has been elected mayor with 461 votes. Two seats are available for council members with, Victoria Askin with 445 votes, followed by Bridget Grieme with 402 votes on pace to fill the seats. City of Kenai Oct 7 unofficial results 

Seward’s mayoral race has a clear winner, with Sue McClure receiving 260 votes on election night. Lori Draper is the apparent winner of a council seat with 215 votes. The other council seat is too close to call. with the potential of 91 votes to be counted during canvass on October 10th. Seward Oct 7 preliminary results 

Kodiak Island Borough results are unofficial, with Jared Griffin leading Scott Arndt for mayor 984 to 832. Two three-year seats for the borough assembly are available, with Jeremiah Gardner a clear winner with 894 votes, followed by Jeffery A. Woods with 661. Kodiak Oct 7 unofficial results 

The Aleutians East Borough voted on three assembly seats and three school board seats, with the results pending. This link will provide the official results as soon as they become available. Aleutians East official election results link 

Bristol Bay Borough has two open assembly seats, with Michael Peters leading with 132 votes and a tight race for the second seat between with Robert Babiak Jr., with 97 votes, and Pete Caruso, with 87 votes, prior to final counts to occurring during canvassing. Bristol Bay Borough Oct 7 unofficial results 

Dillingham has Triston Chaney leading for council seat A with 138 votes and Jean Barrett in the lead for seat B with 164 votes. Final results are pending canvassing on October 9th. Dillingham Oct 7 election night results 

Lake and Peninsula Borough filled two assembly seats and two school board seats, details pending final canvassing. 

Unalaska council seats A and D have unopposed candidates. Mayor Vince Tutiakoff Sr. 263 votes, and Daneen Looby garnered 241 votes. Zac Schasteen is currently leading for council seat C with 135. The race for board seat C is tight, with the candidates receiving the following percentages: John Warden 35%, Sean Peters 34%, and Megan Dean at 31%. The final canvass is schedule for October 10th. Unalaska Oct preliminary results 

Whittier voted on three council seats, with results pending final vote counting scheduled for October 10th. https://www.whittieralaska.gov/elections 

Bethel elected Mark Springer, Kelsi Kime, and Teresa Keller to two-year terms on the council, with write-in Greg Schiedler leading for one-year term. Final canvassing is scheduled for October 9th. Bethel general election information 

Northwest Arctic Borough has one contested assembly seat on the ballot with results pending final canvass.  

Nome preliminary election results show Kenny Hughes for mayor, unseating John Handeland. All other candidates were running unopposed. 

Must Read Alaska will monitor the election results and provide updates on the official outcomes once they are certified. If you would like to share your thoughts on how the election results impact your community, leave a comment or reach out to [email protected] 

Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected]. 

Administrative Order 360: Governor Dunleavy’s Bold Move at Regulatory Reform  

Jon Faulkner
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Administrative Order 360: Governor Dunleavy’s Bold Move at Regulatory Reform  

Last month, in a welcomed invitation to job creators, Governor Dunleavy issued an unprecedented directive to all state agencies to identify and repeal unnecessary regulatory burdens by 25% by the end of 2027. 

The Governor’s directive, known as AO 360, represents a significant shift in government policy within Alaska. Every executive branch agency has been directed by the Governor to undertake a complete inventory of departmental regulations that fall within the rulemaking authority of the administration and that possibly exceed the intent of federal or state laws. Future cuts in regulation will be measured from this current inventory, consisting mostly of Alaska Administrative Code.

Transparency is achieved by quarterly progress reports from agencies which culminate in an annual compilation of progress called the State Unified Regulatory Plan, a process which is intended to inform businesses as to what regulations are slated to be added or repealed. 

In a Press release, Governor Dunleavy conveyed his goal to make Alaska more competitive within our market-based system of free-enterprise: “AO 360 institutionalizes a culture of ongoing regulatory review,” he stated, “ensuring that the body of state regulations will not only be reduced in the short term but also kept in check over the long term. By requiring agencies to justify and regularly revisit their rules, the order aims to prevent the slow accumulation of red tape that can stifle growth and innovation.” 

Many state agencies, including the Departments of Transportation, Law, and Environmental Conservation, have already announced implementation steps, appointed regulatory liaisons, and have begun soliciting the public for their ideas and recommendations. By early 2026, agencies hope to publish their initial findings based on public input. 

In a statement released to MRAK, Alaska’s Attorney General Stephen Cox expressed his support for the Governor’s goals of public outreach and transparency when conducting regulatory reform: “Having helped lead regulatory reform efforts during the first Trump Administration. I know how powerful it can be when government takes seriously its responsibility to cut unnecessary red tape. And let me stress: regulatory reform matters most for small businesses. Large corporations may have in-house counsel offices and compliance departments, but Alaska’s small businesses shoulder these costs directly. Cutting red tape gives them a fairer chance to grow and thrive.” 

 Alaska’s businesses are all-to-familiar with the term “regulatory dark matter”—used to describe the growing volume of interpretive advice, “how-to” forms and guidance documents that are presented as reflecting law but are not always scrutinized for consistency or legislative intent. Now, under AO 360, agencies are required to publish all such guidance documents on the Alaska Online Public Notice System (“AOPNS”).  

AO 360 specifically targets one of Alaska’s persistent challenges: permitting delays. Departments typically burdened by permit applications, such as DNR and ADF & G, have been directed to streamline their permitting processes, to unify interagency coordination, and to adhere to deadlines. Applicants and the general public will be able to view the status of their permit application online.  

In stark contrast to prior administrations, Governor Dunleavy is emphasizing direct citizen outreach.  Department heads are directed to host meetings and to proactively solicit recommendations from the public. Regulated parties are even being encouraged to submit proposals. According to Cox, “The most helpful ideas will (1) identify where a regulation goes beyond statutory requirements, (2) specify which requirements could be cut, reduced, or eliminated, and (3) offer a cost-benefit analysis for the action.” 

Cox emphasized his desire to lead by example by publishing his reform plans, posting revised documents and his success metrics. “Our Department of Law intends to be a model in this process,” Cox said. “We will set the standard for transparency, accountability, and engagement as every agency works toward Governor Dunleavy’s 25 percent reduction goal.” The DOL is receiving public recommendations concerning AAC’s Title 9 through Oct. 31, 2025. Notices from other agencies seeking stakeholder feedback are posted on the Alaska Online Public Notices. 

Read the entire Administrative Order 360 here. 

Ruling on Jet Skis in Kachemak Bay Affirms Executive Authority to Repeal Regulations 

Jon Faulkner
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6
Ruling on Jet Skis in Kachemak Bay Affirms Executive Authority to Repeal Regulations 

In a case originally involving the Commissioner of Fish and Game’s authority to repeal a ban on jet skis in Kachemak Bay and Fox River Flats Critical Habitat Areas, the Alaska Supreme Court (SCOA) on September 26th affirmed the State’s authority to repeal outdated or poorly supported regulations.  

In a press release on the decision, the Department of Law confirmed the far-reaching implications of the case for Alaskans.  “This ruling sets a precedent for future regulatory actions, affirming the State’s ability to eliminate unnecessary regulations and adapt to evolving circumstances, thus reducing administrative burdens and enhancing governance”, the statement read.  

Broadly speaking, laws are passed by the Legislature, known as statutes, whereas Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) is promulgated by the Executive branch to implement the intent of statutes.  In modern times, Administrative Code has expanded dramatically, creating what many regard as a cumbersome and confusing array of regulations.    

In 2001, a regulation was created under then Governor Tony Knowles that banned the use of personal watercraft (jet skis) in Kachemak Bay. In 2021, Commissioner Vincent-Lang repealed the ban, prompting a legal battle over rulemaking authority and a complex fact-finding process over whether administrative actions were arbitrary or consistent with legislative intent.  

While SCOA’s decision confirmed the Commissioner’s authority to repeal the regulation, and upheld the State’s fact-finding process which justified the basis for repeal, it also serves as a stark example of how lower courts can misinterpret legislative intent, and how “science”-in this case findings of an activity’s compatibility with fish and wildlife conservation—can change over time.   

Logically, the court concludes, if the Administration has the delegated authority to create a regulation, then it follows that it has the authority to repeal it. According to a press release from the Department of Law, SCOA reversed a Superior Court ruling by applying a “basic principle of administrative law”—which is the ability to eliminate “zombie regulations, unslayable once promulgated, no matter the passage of time or change in circumstances.”    

According to a press release from Alaska Attorney General Stephen Cox, the ruling provides legal foundation and impetus for Governor Mike Dunleavy’s recent directive (Administrative Order 360) intended to reduce outdated or burdensome regulations. “This is a win for Alaskans. The Alaska Supreme Court affirms our authority to repeal outdated rules when the facts don’t justify them. That’s exactly the AO 360 playbook: take a hard look, cut red tape, protect what matters. More commonsense regulatory reform ahead,” he said.  

Commissioner Doug Vincent-Lang of the Alaska Department of Fish & Game also regards the decision as benefitting Alaskans: “It confirms the Department’s ability to remove outdated rules and ensure our parks and public lands remain open for responsible recreation,” he stated. “We’re pleased the Court recognized the importance of keeping regulations flexible and reflective of how Alaskans enjoy the outdoors.”   

Readers are encouraged to read the entire Alaska Supreme Court ruling. 

  

Election Day in Alaska: October 7th Local Elections Will Shape Our Communities 

Brenda Josephson
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Election Day in Alaska: October 7th Local Elections Will Shape Our Communities 

October 7th is a big, beautiful day for democracy as municipalities across Alaska hold elections for mayors, assembly members, city councils, school boards, and propositions related to taxes, education, and infrastructure. Regional Educational Attendance Area (REAA) elections for school boards are also taking place today. 

These municipal elections empower everyday Alaskans to guide education, infrastructure, and local services. Now is the last day to head to the polls to help build the stronger communities we deserve. It is time for Alaskans to make their voices heard together! 

The Kenai Peninsula Borough is conducting elections for assembly seats, school board seats, and service area board seats. Voters will also decide on propositions regarding voting methods, recreation, tax exemptions, sales tax, and election timing. In Homer, three council seats are up for election. Kenai is selecting a mayor and council members. Meanwhile, Kodiak Island Borough is holding a vote for a mayor and two assembly seats. 

Palmer is electing a mayor along with three council seats. Wasilla is filling three council seats, while Houston is also selecting council members.  

Fairbanks North Star Borough is electing three assembly seats and two school board seats. The City of Fairbanks will be filling the position of mayor and two council seats, while North Pole also has council seats on the ballot. 

Juneau is voting on three assembly seats, three school board seats, and three propositions regarding property tax caps, sales tax exemptions, and seasonal rates. Meanwhile, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and the City of Ketchikan are holding elections for a mayor, three assembly seats, two school board seats, and a proposition related to school capital taxes.  

Haines is filling two assembly seats, two planning commission seats, two school board seats, and a seasonal sales tax proposition. Skagway is electing a mayor, three assembly seats, two school board seats, and a sales tax proposition. Wrangell is choosing assembly seats and school board seats. Sitka is electing two assembly seats, two school board seats, and propositions on hospital funds and economic studies. 

Aleutians East Borough is voting on three assembly seats and three school board seats. Bristol Bay Borough has openings for assembly and school board seats. Bethel is electing four council seats. Dillingham is electing two council members and three school board members. Lake and Peninsula Borough will be filling two assembly seats and two school board seats.  

The Northwest Arctic Borough is electing members for the assembly and school boards. Unalaska is holding elections for various municipal positions. Nome is electing a mayor, two council members, two utility board members, and two school board members. Whittier is voting on three council seats. 

The Alaska Division of Elections is currently overseeing the REAA election for school board seats in rural areas within the unorganized borough. This includes regions such as the Aleutian Islands, Lower Yukon, Holy Cross, Lake Minchumina, Shageluk, Ruby, Koyukuk, Minto, Arctic Village, Fort Yukon, Northway, and Tok. But not all of these areas have contested seats on the ballot this year. 

Voting in Alaska’s local elections is essential because it directly influences the services and policies that affect daily life, including schools, roads, taxes, and community projects. Just a handful of votes has decided many local elections. Each vote holds power in determining leadership and shaping resource allocation for our communities. 

Don’t let low turnout decide our future, get to the polls today and make your mark for stronger schools, better roads, and thriving communities across Alaska! 

Your vote counts! 

Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected]. 

Trump Revives Ambler Road Project, Sparking Renewed Debate Over Alaska’s Minerals and Wilderness

Jon Faulkner
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22
Trump Revives Ambler Road Project, Sparking Renewed Debate Over Alaska’s Minerals and Wilderness

WASHINGTON—In a swift move signaling a break from Biden-era energy and mining development, President Trump yesterday approved the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority’s (AIDEA) appeal to advance the long-stalled Ambler Road Project. The action overturned the Biden administration’s 2024 rejection of the project and reignites familiar controversy over balancing U.S.-based mineral production with environmental objections.

The 211-mile industrial road, first proposed fifteen years ago by AIDEA to connect the Dalton Highway to the remote Ambler Mining District in northwest Alaska, promises to unlock vast deposits of copper, zinc, cobalt, gallium, and other critical minerals essential for national security and green energy technologies. Without U.S.-based mines, many argue, domestic demand for minerals becomes overly dependent on foreign supply chains, which only add to global environmental woes.  Dubbed one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-zinc belts, the district holds over 1,700 active mining claims; but its isolation—accessible only by air or winter ice roads—has long hindered development. Proponents, including Alaska’s mining industry, argue the road is vital for domestic manufacturing, projecting 2,730 construction jobs, $1.1 billion in state revenues from taxes and royalties, and a boost to rural economies battered by high costs and limited opportunities.

Yet the project’s history is marred by protracted legal battles and deep divisions. Since AIDEA’s initial right-of-way application in 2018, environmental groups and several Native communities have fought it, citing irreversible harm to caribou migration routes, salmon streams, and sacred lands in the Brooks Range. The proposed route skirts the southern edge of Gates of the Arctic National Park and crosses sensitive wetlands that support subsistence activities for northern villagers who rely on hunting and fishing. In May 2024, NANA Regional Corporation, representing Northwest Alaska’s Iñupiat shareholders, severed ties with the project, citing issues with AIDEA’s management and warning of cultural harm. Earthworks and the Sierra Club warned against a “disastrous industrial corridor” that could fragment wildlife habitats and pollute rivers, urging President Biden to reject it—a plea he heeded in April 2024 by halting the issuance of federal permits.

Trump’s decision, framed as a cornerstone of his “energy dominance agenda,” directs the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to reissue permits, deeming the road to be “in the public interest” with no viable alternatives. It builds on executive actions taken since his January 2025 inauguration: an order unleashing Alaska’s resources; streamlined permitting that reduced approval times; a March mandate to accelerate critical mineral production; an April Section 232 order to review import risks; and a June memo curbing bureaucratic overlap.

Reactions poured in swiftly. Alaska Republicans and miners celebrated, with Gov. Mike Dunleavy calling it “a win for working families.” Congressman Nick Begich, who has consistently favored the project, referred to the  Ambler Mining District  as “a strategic asset for Alaska and an important pathway to critical mineral development in the United States.” He described President Trump’s decision to grant AIDEA’s appeal as “a historic day for Alaska’s self-determination and will get Ambler access back on track.”

 NANA reiterated opposition, vowing legal challenges, while Cooper Freeman, Alaska Director for the Center for Biological Diversity, echoed the sentiments of the Sierra Club and others: “This private mining road” he said in a written statement to MRAK, “would threaten millions of wild acres in the Arctic, and ramming this project through is a slap in the face to everyone who’s spoken out about its harms. The caribou herds migrating through this wilderness can’t take any more obstacles.”

 Accompanying the Ambler Road action was an announcement that the U.S. government would make a $35.6 million investment in Trilogy Metals, securing a 10% stake plus warrants for 7.5% more, to fund exploration in the district. Trilogy, a key player, hailed it as a “game-changer” for U.S. competitiveness against China.

A Fact Sheet from the White House announcement can be seen here.

As permitting enters a fast-track phase, the Ambler Road project reflects a growing dilemma: How will America harness mineral riches without eroding the heart of our wilderness? With litigation sure to follow, this question will require both sides of the issue to make their best case to the state and to the nation.

Greg Sarber: Will Conservatives Turn Out for Tomorrow’s Local Elections?

SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR
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Greg Sarber: Will Conservatives Turn Out for Tomorrow’s Local Elections?

By Greg Sarber

Scott Pressler, a Republican political activist and specialist in voter outreach, has made an ominous warning about voter apathy in the local and state elections this year. He is concerned that conservative voters will not be motivated after the big turnout for President Trump last November and will fail to show up at the polls. Historic voting patterns in Alaska tend to validate his concerns.

Except for the Mat-Su Borough, most communities in our state will conduct a joint city and borough election tomorrow.   I live in Homer, and like most other towns in this state, presidential elections attract a large turnout. Unfortunately, off-cycle elections like tomorrow’s borough and city elections are typically very low-turnout affairs.

Table 1

You can see Homer’s participation in presidential elections illustrated in Table 1.  The city voter turnout is typically in the high 60% range, and often exceeds the national average.  In the last three elections, the Republican candidate won by large majorities of 15-20%.  We often hear that Homer is a liberal town, but not when it counts in presidential elections.

Table 2

The same is not true for local elections, where Homer has a very low participation rate.  The average voter turnout for the last four city and borough elections was an anemic 19.77%, and in all of these city council elections except one, the more liberal candidate won.  What’s worse, the winning margin of victory was only 285 votes!  The liberals barely squeak out a victory.  If conservatives had turned out in the same numbers they do for presidential elections, it would have assured a conservative majority on our city council.  However, in these off-cycle local elections, it seems like the Republicans stay home, gifting victory to the liberals.

While not having the excitement of a gubernatorial election, tomorrow’s local elections here in Alaska are still important.  One example is the sales tax we all pay.  The 7.85% sales tax residents in Homer pay on all purchases is a burden placed on us by the city and borough governments.  Those same officials also decide the amount of property taxes levied against us.  When you add these two forms of taxation together, the annual amount each resident pays runs into the thousands of dollars.  It is the local officials we elect tomorrow who will determine whether our tax burden will go up or down, and if the tax revenue is used wisely.

Mr. Pressler has focused his turnout efforts on the larger states holding elections for major statewide offices.  He knows the Republicans are the low-propensity party.  Historically, they vote in presidential election years, but fewer of them vote in off-cycle elections.  Their biggest hurdle will be getting every person who voted for Donald Trump in the last three elections to turn up and support local conservative candidates.  

Alaska doesn’t have a voter activist like Scott Pressler, but we do have the conservative readers of this site.  You can make sure you vote and get the word out to others who might have forgotten there is an election tomorrow.  Absentee voting in person is available in most communities, so you can vote today if that fits your schedule best. If you are someone who likes to go to the polling place and vote on election day, please do so tomorrow, and take a friend with you.

If you are unsure of the candidates and issues, I have prepared a voter guide for conservative voters in Homer. There are excellent conservative candidates and important issues on the ballot in every community and borough in Alaska. Please familiarize yourself and make your choices known.

The apathy that Scott Pressler is worried about doesn’t have to happen.  Conservatives can win in local elections.  All it takes is for a motivated group of individuals to show up tomorrow.  Please get out and vote. 

Citations:

https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2025/10/04/exclusive-scott-presler-biggest-hurdle-is-getting-republicans-to-vote-in-every-election-we-need-big-beautiful-turnout
https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2025/10/04/exclusive-scott-presler-new-jersey-governorship-is-winnable-we-need-big-beautiful-turnout
https://sewardsfolly.substack.com/p/its-not-just-the-candidates-ballot
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