David Bernhardt previously worked as a lobbyist for several energy companies. He also represented the state of Alaska in 2014 in an unsuccessful lawsuit over seismic testing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Economy
Forest Service reschedules meeting on Southeast Alaska timber sales
The agency worked on the project during the partial government shutdown, which drew sharp criticism from environmental groups.
Crafting a story of romance and resiliency with Tongass bowls
Zach LaPerriere has heard some surprising comments about the wooden bowls he sells at markets. People reach out to touch them, admiring the detail of an exposed scar and the smooth curves.
Survey will monitor cruise ship emissions in downtown Juneau this summer
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation shared a new plan Tuesday to start tracking air quality in downtown Juneau in order to learn more about the impact of cruise ship emissions.
Interior delays public comment deadline for ANWR oil leasing
The Interior Department is giving the public an additional month to weigh in on its controversial plans to allow oil leasing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
‘Uber for icebreakers’ idea gains traction in Congress
A Senate proposal has $750 million for a third Coast Guard icebreaker, but that money is caught in a fight over President Trump’s wall at the southern border. Still, there’s more than one way to break ice.
Schools push back on proposed midyear budget cut
While school districts may have already spent money they counted on the state sending them later, the state’s new budget director says they shouldn’t have.
Proponents of Juneau Housing First nearing finish line for ‘Phase Two’ funding
The Juneau Housing First Collaborative announced this week that it has been awarded more than $2.5 million in grants and loans for a project that will add a new wing to a subsidized housing complex in Lemon Creek.
Study finds poor air quality aboard cruise ships
A covert study undertaken by a public health researcher found air quality on cruise ships to be on par with the world’s dirtiest cities.
Juneau Assembly approves passenger fee funding for waterfront development
Three days after the final ruling over how the city spends passenger fees, the Juneau Assembly approved a downtown waterfront improvement package Monday that will be paid for in large part with those fees.