Both candidates vying for the open House District 3 seat in the Alaska Legislature said they aren’t convinced the state’s controversial Cascade Point ferry terminal project will benefit Southeast communities.
In the November election, District 3’s Democratic incumbent Rep. Andi Story faces Republican challenger Annette Kreitzer. The seat represents Haines, Skagway, Gustavus and parts of the Mendenhall Valley, Auke Bay and Out the Road.
Story lives in Juneau and has held her seat in the Legislature since 2019. Her opponent, Kreitzer, lives in Haines and previously served as its borough manager from 2021 to 2024. The candidates share similar views on stabilizing education funding and lowering energy costs, but differ on resource development.
In an interview, Story said she opposes the Cascade Point ferry terminal project in its current form. She said the state needs to focus on maintaining the current ferry infrastructure instead of investing in a new project.
“Cascade Point isn’t ready to be a viable project right now,” she said. “There’s not the support for it in Southeast by the majority of the people who have commented to me and testified.”
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities has been pushing for the new terminal for several years. The department said it would benefit travelers in Southeast by reducing operating costs and travel time between Juneau, Haines and Skagway.
However, more than 90% of public comments submitted to the state earlier this year oppose the project. Some argue it only stands to benefit the New Amalga gold mine proposed by Grande Portage Resources, a Canadian company, which plans to build an ore terminal at the site.
Kreitzer said she isn’t sure whether she would support the project if she’s elected.
“At this point, I don’t know. I’m just going to have to say I don’t know because I feel like I still haven’t seen enough of that detail, “ she said. “I’ve met with folks about this project, and I’ve come away from those meetings thinking I still don’t have enough of the answers about this project.”
Alongside Story for reelection is Juneau Rep. Sara Hannan, who is running unopposed for another two-year term in her District 4 seat.
Early voting for the midterm elections is underway. For more information about where the candidates stand on other important issues, read election coverage, watch debates and check our voter guide at ktoo.org.
Polls will be open on Election Day, Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
