CARES Act disbursements are being overseen by the U.S. Treasury Department’s inspector general, says Alaska state Rep. Chris Tuck. That will require due diligence by the state to ensure the money is spent appropriately.
Local Government
Please stay on the (punch)line: Callers overwhelm Juneau’s new joke hotline
A gag a day keeps the virus away — or, at least it’ll brighten up your day.
Human remains discovered on Kruzof Island near Sitka
Although the identity of the deceased remains unknown, law enforcement officials believe the remains are contemporary rather than archaeological.
Juneau Assembly approves $200,000 in renter relief
The emergency appropriation sets aside money from Juneau’s affordable housing fund for residents who have been laid off or are unable to work due to COVID-19.
Bristol Bay health organizations increase testing capacity as they brace for fishing season
Bristol Bay’s health corporation and the Camai clinic in Naknek are continuing to prepare for the upcoming fishing season, when the region expects thousands of commercial fishers and workers from around the country to come to the region.
As state officials consider a plan to reopen Alaska’s economy, Anchorage releases its own roadmap
Among other criteria, including medical capacity and the availability of personal protective equipment, Anchorage officials need to see a 28-day downward trend in hospitalizations and new COVID-19 cases to begin easing current restrictions.
Property tax increase contested as Juneau officials budget for an uncertain year
City officials know they’re going to have millions of dollars less in sales taxes and cruise ship taxes, but they don’t know for how long because of big, unpredictable factors related to the pandemic.
Valdez challenges RCA’s decision to keep Hilcorp finances confidential
The City of Valdez is appealing a decision from the Regulatory Commission of Alaska, the state agency tasked with reviewing a critical piece of BP’s proposed $5.6 billion sale to Hilcorp.
North Slope Borough backs out of deal with Ravn, reaffirms right to commandeer assets in emergency
The North Slope Borough is backing out of a tentative deal to rent RavnAir Group’s Utqiaġvik hangar and is reasserting its right to use Ravn’s assets to support air service to its communities during the coronavirus emergency.
Juneau Docks and Harbors Board OKs relief for fee-paying users
The Juneau Docks and Harbors Board voted to refund, defer and reduce certain fees. They also suspended vessel impounds for live-aboards who can’t make rent.