Juneau -- Representative Fred Dyson (R-Eagle River) has introduced legislation which would allow village government structures to be recognized under state law.

"This bill would permit an unincorporated village, through the charter system, to flexibly define its scope of governing powers and services to meet specific area needs in way that is culturally relevant and useful," Dyson said. "Under HB 255, a village would be able to assume any of a wide range of powers, from alcohol and animal control to airport and public works management.

"For instance, a village charter could be drafted to provide for police or fire protection services while leaving land permitting and platting issues in the state purview," Dyson said. "My goal is to make it as easy as possible for a local group to organize and assume responsibility while avoiding bureaucratic red tape."

Among the powers HB 255 would permit the state to grant to villages would be the legal standing to:

• contract with state or other local government entities to provide or receive services;
• contract with private corporations or groups for services;
• apply for and receive federal and state grants;
• engage in customary funding measures such as bond issuances;
• establish a legally recognized forum to address local concerns;
• have a platform from which to petition the state or federal governments.

HB 255 received an initial referral to the House Community and Regional Affairs Committee.