An Act extending the termination date of the Alaska regional economic assistance program; and providing for an effective date.

The Alaska Regional Development Organizations (ARDOR) Program is the State's contribution to regional initiatives for developing Alaska's economy. In 1988, the Legislature recognized that a locally driven initiative, in partnership with the State, is the most effective approach to creating and sustaining a strong and healthy economy. The Legislature established the ARDOR Program to create a network of organizations to plan and support economic development at the regional level.

There are currently 14 ARDOR's. The ARDORs, like their counterparts nationwide:

• Enable local officials and businesses to pool their limited resources and work together on economic development issues,
• Develop partnerships among public, private and other organizations, and
• Provide needed technical assistance via direct links with local citizens.

It's not the State trying to determine what's best for the region; rather, it's the residents and those doing business in the region working together to create their economic future.

The ARDOR Program is providing a return for the State's investment. The State provides $620,000 in grant funds for the ARDOR Program. The accomplishments of the ARDORs are impressive. Additionally, the ARDORs have used $620,000 in State grant funds to leverage over $3.6 million in other funds.

Board members participation reflects a local commitment to the ARDOR Program. The 14 ARDOR boards, each with 10-20 members, constitutes 150 plus local, civic-minded individuals who volunteer their time to achieve a stronger economic base in their region.

The original intent of the ARDOR Program was to create regional entities that could improve the local economy and eliminate region-wide economic development barriers. The ARDORs are meeting this legislative intent. The ARDORs work on a wide range of projects. Some, like Anchorage's "Military Hub Study" have regional or statewide impacts. Other projects, such as the Arctic Development Council's Revolving Loan Fund, assist individuals and businesses.

This legislation would extend the sunset date to July 1, 2008.

Last Updated: 02/10/2003

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