(JUNEAU)- The Kenai-Kodiak Caucus has organized and will be holding regular meetings to discuss their position on various issues.

"The two boroughs were joined politically with reapportionment and the six legislators representing them have agreed to join a caucus for our mutual benefit", said Senator Tom Wagoner. Wagoner will serve as the first Chair of the Caucus.

The Caucus members are: Senator Alan Austerman, (R) Kodiak; Senator Tom Wagoner, (R) Kenai; Rep. Mike Chenault, (R) Nikiski; Rep. Paul Seaton, (R) Homer; Rep. Gary Stevens, (R) Kodiak, and Rep. Kelly Wolf, (R) Soldotna.

Representative Stevens commented, "I'm pleased to have a part in this caucus; we can all help each other and we clearly have many areas in common. For example, both boroughs are 2nd class boroughs and are responsible for K-12 education."

"Commercial Fishing is an important economic contributor to both the Kenai Peninsula Borough and the Kodiak Island Borough; it makes sense for us to work on common goals to help that industry", said Representative Chenault.

Newly elected Representatives Seaton and Wolf noted that they were pleased to be working with veteran legislators who would help shorten their respective learning curves.

"All in all, it is very practical to join together - it provides a stronger presence for all of us", said Senator Alan Austerman.

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