Community

It took the work of journalists, lawyers, tribal leaders and citizens to release the Fairbanks Four, after they wrongfully convicted on a murder charge and other serious crimes. Now there is an effort underway to compensate the men for the 18 years they spent in prison. Marvin Roberts, one of the Fairbanks Four, shared his thoughts on the issue.

A unanimous Juneau Planning Commission approved the first phase of the Pederson Hill subdivision, clearing a major hurdle for the city’s housing initiative. Now it will be up to the Juneau Assembly to decide how it will offload the 86 lots.

Après-ski drinks are common in the Eaglecrest Ski Area parking lot. Now, the Eaglecrest board wants to license alcohol sales and earn a slice of the revenue.

Crews are working on the first phase of improvements to sidewalks, lighting and the pavement along South Franklin Street. The $1.2 million phase of the project is being funded through marine passenger vessel fees, sales tax and water utility funds. The target date for completion is June 1.

Boosters of Pederson Hill see scores of moderately priced homes for middle class families. Private developers fear competition from the city. Balancing free market principles against the barrier to home ownership experienced by middle class families is something the Assembly will have to grapple with.

Great Alaska Schools members wanted the participants to give the Department of Education ideas on how schools can improve for all Alaska’s students.