"Requesting the Local Boundary Commission to consider borough incorporation for certain areas."

SCR 17 requests the Local Boundary Commission to do the analysis and make recommendations concerning the viability and advisability of allowing several Alaska communities that have been absorbed into a larger municipality to take on the responsibility of their own self-governance.

Eagle River, where I have lived for over 25 years, was absorbed into the Municipality of Anchorage under the banner of efficiency. Even though Eagle River is arguably the second largest community in the state by population, we do not have the option of making community appropriate ordinances, governing our own local schools, planning land use, police services, or any number of other local responsibilities that generate community welfare. Fairbanks and Juneau are approximately the same size, but Eagle River has been rapidly growing since the last census with new subdivisions popping up in several locations. There is a core of community "elders" that are able and willing to step in and make Eagle River an even better place to live than it is now. My belief after listening to my constituents is that a strong majority of them want this change and many are eager for SCR 17 to pass to begin the process. Our preliminary research indicates that this action is economically feasible and beneficial.

SCR 17 will enable the Local Boundary Commission to direct some of its resources into determining if it is appropriate to allow Eagle River, Skagway, Delta, and Wrangle to become separate self governing entities. A positive decision will enable these communities to evaluate the benefits and costs of choosing independent self governance, a concept valued by our constitution and the Alaskans in these communities. I urge you to support this legislation to enable the process to work and allow local citizens to take more local responsibility.

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