(JUNEAU) - As a result of a meeting with legislative colleagues, Representative Mike Kelly (R-Fairbanks) was selected to chair the Interior Delegation at the start of the 24th Alaska State Legislature.

Immediately following that meeting, Representative Kelly began organizing weekly morning meetings and monthly evening meetings intended to solicit input from Interior residents concerning delegation activities and legislative priorities.

After assuming his new duties, Representative Kelly stated, "I'm honored by the opportunity to serve in this role. While the work we do here in Juneau is important, staying in contact with those that sent us here is equally important. Despite the geographic distance from our constituents, I intend to insure our delegation is accessible to those we serve."

At this time, Representative Kelly plans to continue weekly morning teleconferences between the delegation and the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce to discuss legislative priorities for the Interior. In addition, Representative Kelly will continue the bi-weekly discussions with the Arctic Alliance. He encourages other local organizations to contact his office to arrange teleconference participation throughout the legislative session. Representative Kelly is also planning monthly evening meetings as a general comment/question period for Interior residents. Representative Kelly's office has been in contact with KUAC radio to broadcast the evening meetings and with KFAR radio to begin scheduling regular "Problem Corner" call-ins by delegation members.

The morning meetings are tentatively planned for every Tuesday from 7:30 to 8:30 AM and the evening meetings for the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. The first morning meeting is planned for January 25th. For more information contact Representative Kelly's office toll-free at 1-866-465-4976.

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