Lawmakers designated Kachemak Bay a critical habitat area in 1974, which was incompatible with Homer Port and Harbor activity. The port director says normal operations technically violated the area’s environmental protections.
Southcentral
Chugiak Sen. Stoltze won’t run for reelection
Sen. Bill Stoltze announced on the Senate floor Wednesday he will not seek re-election.
Conference committee votes to cut University of Alaska by $50 million
The conference committee voted five to one to adopt the House version of the university budget, which cuts $35 million more than the $15 million cut proposed by Governor Bill Walker.
Oil and gas tax credit debate rages ahead of legislative session end
The debate reveals a deep divide among lawmakers over how to respond to low oil prices – and the resulting state budget gap.
Kenaitze Indian Tribe opens new elder center
Officials say it’s part of a larger strategy to restore the tribe’s original village site and bring better services to tribal members and other Alaska Natives and American Indians living in the area.
2 Hikers Rescued from Kenai Peninsula Glacier
Bad weather and difficult terrain hampered rescue efforts for three days, but Monday night four Alaska Air National Guard rescuers were delivered by helicopter onto the glacier. They located the two hikers who had dug snow caves after their tent failed.
Power Cost Equalization Fund could pay for community assistance
The concept arose from a concern over Senate Bill 210, which would reduce the amount that municipalities receive in revenue sharing.
Senate passes criminal justice overhaul 16-2, sends it to House
The bill would divert nonviolent offenders from prison toward alternative programs. It shifts the focus of bail from people’s ability to pay to the risk they present.
Senate passes concealed carry bill, 13-5
Bill sponsor Fairbanks Republican Sen. Pete Kelly says students would be safer if there were more guns on campus.
9 months into prep, prospective pot retailer has $50,000 invested with nothing to sell
As of March 30, 177 cannabis applications have been formally initiated with dozens more started. Business locations stretch from Ketchikan to Nome. The highest concentration is in the retail and industrial zones within the Anchorage bowl.