Rep. Andy Josephson - I answer to you!

Things are in full swing at home and in the Legislature. For effective government we need to hear from you. I am always interested in your questions and suggestions.

Last week I spoke with University of Alaska President Pat Gamble about the construction of the new UAA engineering building, and the proposal for a parking garage.

The legislature provided half the money for the engineering facility last year, but funds to complete it are not included in the governor’s budget. I am fighting to add funding, because Alaska needs more home-grown engineers.

While there is broad support for strengthening UAA’s engineering program, local residents have expressed concern about the proposed location of the associated parking garage at Mallard Lane and UAA Drive. The Municipality’s Urban Design Commission will be meeting on February 13th at 6:30pm in the Loussac Library Assembly Room to discuss the construction of the parking garage. If you have concerns, I urge you to attend the meeting and submit comments. I will be following the Commission’s actions closely and welcome any further information or questions you have.

On Monday the State House considered legislation which lowers standards set by a 2006 Citizens’ Initiative to regulate cruise ship wastewater disposal. The change in guidelines allows for increased copper and ammonia contamination in our coastal waters, ultimately affecting our salmon and halibut. I offered an amendment to the bill that would preserve the will of the voters and protect Alaska’s fisheries.

The bill has moved from the House to the Senate Finance Committee. On Thursday, February 7 at 9:00 a.m., the committee will take public testimony. If you feel strongly about this issue, you can call toll-free (855) 463-5009 to speak for two minutes to the committee on Thursday, or send an email to the Senate Finance Committee members using the address senate.finance.committee@akleg.gov

While filling out your 2013 Permanent Fund Dividend application don’t forget about the “Pick. Click. Give.” program. Pick. Click. Give. makes it easy for Alaskans to give back to the community by supporting hundreds of educational and charitable organizations. In 2012, Alaskans generously gave over $2.2 million dollars to over 400 nonprofit organizations.

As always, I answer to you. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me on my personal cell phone which serves Midtown, University, and East Anchorage residents (575-2639) or on my office phone toll free at (800) 465-4939.