Dear Neighbor,

The interim is flying by and my office has been busy preparing for the next ‘budget season.’ Last year, the Fall Forecast was released in late November and I anticipate a similar schedule this year, with the Governor’s Budget planned to be released sometime in early December. Every year my office fields hundreds of requests for projects requesting the aid of the state government. As we review district transportation needs, school construction and community and citizen projects, my priorities will be to improve the quality of life in Fairbanks. I will discuss more over the next few weeks on how to sort through the community needs and wants, while being frugal with our state budget and living within our means. Please feel free to send me your budget suggestions and comments.

Post Office Locations on Chopping Block; Public Comment Open

Last week the United States Postal Service posted “Proposal of Closure” notices at two post office locations at Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base. The proposals are part of a federal budget cut and could have serious impacts on the downtown Fairbanks post office, which will likely pick up the additional traffic. The good news is that there are no plans to close before the holidays. I have written a letter in opposition of these proposals, and you can too. December 26 is the last day for public comment, which can be made in writing to:

Diane Horbochuk
District Manager, Alaska
United States Postal Service
3720 Barrow Street
Anchorage, AK 99599-0001

Or by email at:

dianne.p.horbochuk@usps.gov

After that, if final notice for closure is posted, only those residents directly impacted by the closure (folks on Ft. WW/Eielson) would be able to appeal to the Postal Regulatory Commission. Appeals must be received within 30 days. The PRC can only deny the appeal or return the proposal to USPS, but they cannot modify the proposal.

This is a good time to contact Senator Begich, Senator Murkowski, and Congressman Young to express your opinion.

APRIL Luncheon

Early this month, I addressed the Associated Programs for Rural Independent Living at the 2011 Convention in Anchorage with my colleague Senator Johnny Ellis. Over 230 people attended from around the country. I spoke on how to be engaged in the political process, youth empowerment, and how being an engaged young person influences and enhances the community. I am always humbled by the amazing people who face disabilities every day. Rural communities in our state already face challenges in transportation, high costs of living, and scarce services. These are important factors for sustainability of our vast rural communities and I will work with legislators across the state on finding solutions for the best quality of life possible for all.

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative