Thread by @ANCDEADBEAT

Oof. Roads are at a standstill. Going to be late to the assembly meeting today, but worry not! I will make it there. #ANCgov

Alright! Made it to the Chambers. Missed the Mayor and Chair's updates, but heard them on the stream. Discussion of continued road plowing and the Muni manager situation. Committee reports happening now. #ANCgov

Zalatel says on Dec 14 they had a meeting of the utilities and enterprise oversight committee dedicated to the port. She highlights that the port isn't a topic they discuss at the dyas regularly, but the meeting was intended to create a stable plan on funding. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson says the budget and finance committee meeting for December has been cancelled. Wishes everyone a Merry Christmas. #ANCgov

Volland says the health policy committee meeting has been cancelled, but they intend to discuss the health effects of snow removal and plow outs at the next meeting. #ANCgov

Onto the laid on the table items. 6 tonight, 4 supplemental and 2 requiring a vote. #ANCgov

The first supplemental relates to elections questions and records requests. Second corresponds with a contract with ADN. Third, Rabbit Creek CC comments on an AO. And fourth, reaffirming all projects in the housing plan for 2023, Zalatel's position at ACEH, and funding. #ANCgov

Onto the two requiring votes. First, a resolution recognizing and honoring Cpt. Gerard Hazlan (?) for his service and dedication to the APD. Constant says that Hazlan is retiring, and they are sad to see him go. He is here tonight. Unanimous consent to lay on the table. #ANCgov

Second item, a resolution reappropriating $32.5k from the Muni manager office for a municipal audit. Constant moves to lay on the table, Zalatel seconds. Unanimous consent. #ANCgov

Constant motions to incorporate the addendum and laid on table items, Petersen seconds. No opposition. And so it is done. #ANCgov

One appearance requests, Tony Izzo, CEO of Matanuska Electric Association. Says they are a co-op, not for profit. Each payment we make has a small margin that goes towards operations. Capital credits represent our ownership in it. He has a retirement check here tonight. #ANCgov

He presents a fake check with the real check on the back. #ANCgov

LaFrance notes that we make exceptions to the sign size limit for checks. Onto the consent agenda. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson pulls 10b3, 10b6, 10d25, 10e7, and 10e10. Dunbar pulls 10a2. Zalatel pulls 10a1, 10b4, 10b7, 10d9, 10d10, 10d20, 10d22, and 10d27. Constant pulls 10a3, 10b9, 10d13, 14, 15, 23, and 24. Cross pulls 10b5. On behalf of the Admin, 10a2. LaFrance pulls 10g9. #ANCgov

*10b2 on behalf of the admin.

Zalatel asks to be added as a cosponsor of 10a2, Constant suggests adding all members as sponsors. Everyone agrees. Bronson as well. Constant moves to approve the consent agenda (minus pulled items), Petersen seconds. No objections, and so it is done. #ANCgov

Now onto pulled items, starting with a resolution recognizing West High's Performing Arts Programs and celebrating it as the 2022 NFHS Performing Arts School of Excellence. Students and faculty approach the lectern to accept. #ANCgov

Awesome. This award is only given to one school in America per year, making West the 7th to receive it. Go West! #ANCgov

Next, a resolution recognizing and honoring AFD Captain Matthew Herman and Firefighter James Johnstone, recipients of the AFD's highest honor, the firefighter medal of honor for acts of conspicuous heroism. #ANCgov

Incredible heroism. So thankful for our firefighters.

Chief Schragge says these are some of the finest specimens of firefighters we have and he is proud of them for what they do any given day. He says any of our firefighters would be ready to do the same at any time. Says that Herman and Johnstone represent all of AFD. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution recognizing and honoring Captain Gerard Asselin for 25 years of dedicated and honorable service to the APD and the MOA. #ANCgov

Gerard says that the recognition is appreciated. He has fond memories of being in these Chambers. Feels fortunate to have made it this far, many do not. There are currently 3 APD officers out of duty due to having been shot. He's thankful to have been part of the group. #ANCgov

He says he firmly believes that people are fundamentally good and seek to do the right thing. No one succeeds alone and he thinks his career exemplifies that. #ANCgov

Constant moves to change the order of the day to take up 10b4 and 10b7 now. Rivera seconds. Quinn-Davidson asks Constant why he wants to change? He says it was requested to consider doing so, since both are related to the ACEH, which Zalatel must be excused from. #ANCgov

No opposition, so it shall be done. We take up a resolution of the MoA reaffirming Assembly support for a projects in the 2021 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan. #ANCgov

Zalatel asks to be excused from this and the next item. In one she is explicitly named and in the other the ACEH has issued an official position. The chair excuses her for the items. #ANCgov

Constant moves to approve the S-version, Rivera seconds. Constant says this is interesting, as the body passed a year ago the plan that we are looking at, but there is an interest in reopening it due to potential concern about the federal government seeing a conflict. #ANCgov

Constant moves an amendment that checks a box that states that Zalatel is recused (from what I gather). Rivera seconds. No further discussion. Voting commences, passes 9-0 (Allard and Perez-Verdia are not present today). #ANCgov

Onto the main motion. No discussion. Voting commences. S-version is approved 9-0. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution expanding the Sullivan emergency shelter capacity to 360. Rivera moves to approve. Constant seconds. Rivera says he has questions and then amendments. #ANCgov

He asks the admin, regarding the warming area, what services/amenities are currently being provided? Alexis Johnson says they are taking donations but offering no services present inside. Are there chairs and tables? Yes. Interesting, because we see people sitting on the floor...

Johnson says people move them. Rivera asks if they have seen the task force's recommendations? They've seen the preliminary but not the final. Rivera asks if the Aviator is full right now? Johnson says that they are demobilizing the Aviator, have to cut to 75 by February #ANCgov

So we do have empty rooms there. Rivera asks to speak to a member of the task force. She says their recommendations haven't changed from the preliminary that the admin has. They rec that any increase be done on a surge capacity, determined by 90% utilization across all locations

Must be reevaluated on a thirty day basis. Must keep the warming room active. The warming center must report census data so they can plan for future needs based on that data, and that we fund all locations based on those needs. #ANCgov

Rivera asks if the admin would like to comment on that, now that they have heard it? Johnson says they don't want to go to a thirty day basis. No comment on the warming room. #ANCgov

Cross asks admin if they declare a state of emergency, could they go to 360 without passing this? Johnson says that's a question for legal. Cross says he doesn't like expanding capacity without hearing from the community. #ANCgov

Sulte asks Johnson if we have looked at other shelters to see what extra capacity they may have before expanding the Sullivan? She says they spoke to BFS, they can't increase, the Alex is at capacity. She says the Sullivan is the only one to expand. #ANCgov

Constant moves the first two parts of Constant amendment 1 (as Rivera's amendments will tackle the rest more effectively). Rivera seconds. He says this documents that the decision was already made for them and they're being asked to approve post-hoc. #ANCgov

Voting on the amendment commences. Passes 9-1, Sulte dissents. Perez-Verdia is with us on the phone now. #ANCgov

Rivera proposes an amendment. He says this applies guardrails for this. Constant says he hates this, his community hates this. It is the dead of winter and people need solutions. People blame the assembly, but they've been fighting the admin. He has to support this. #ANCgov

He says that people who pay the tax to this who live off of Abbott, or up on the hill, who don't see it, still must acknowledge that this is necessary. We are providing for these people on the backs of the Fairview residents. #ANCgov

LaFrance asks about the money they've approve for monitoring the situation at Sullivan. Will they need more if this capacity increases? Volland also wants more info on how those appropriations are being implemented. #ANCgov

Volland says that Demboski said at the last safety meeting that APD would be using overtime for patrolling and parks and rec would engage in clean up in the area. He notes that James Thornton is here, head of the adhoc committee and member of Fairview Community Council. #ANCgov

Volland says he shares the interest in hearing from the admin how that money will be used. Bronson throws to Christensen. She says the general plan is to plan for overtime in APD and P&R will hire temporary workers for cleanup. They want to get it up and running asap. #ANCgov

Alexis Johnson adds that when they bring people experiencing homelessness inside, they are less likely to be in the neighborhood. She wants to bring them inside, give them food and a bed, and this expansion will do so. #ANCgov

Volland asks for Thornton to come up to speak to it. Cross says this is inconsistent with how they treated Ron Alleva previously. Constant says he can move to override the ruling of the chair, no member of the public has a right to speak, the members of the assembly have a right.

Volland asks Thornton about his tour and his thoughts. Thornton says we can do better. Says they are doing their best at the Sullivan, and acting with compassion, however we need to get people into a more permanent solution. The warming area isn't the Sullivan arena. #ANCgov

He says there are people sleeping on the pavement. He says everyone should go see it if this is how we're going to handle overflow. He says he doesn't think we should increase the capacity as a matter of the equity of the community, however for the people in need it's better.

He says everyone is stretched right now. We can't find good people to work in any sector. He says we should move people into the Sullivan, but he feels embarrassed as an Alaskan to see people sleeping on the floor like sardines. We can do better. #ANCgov

Dunbar provides context. He notes 360 is far larger than we permit except in extreme conditions under code. In 2020 this body took action to purchase buildings to move people out of the Sullivan. They reiterates their interest in that concept, which would be distributed. #ANCgov

He says it would've been more humane and less impactful on one community. But the Mayor chose not to pursue that strategy. Now we're back in an inhumane and disgraceful situation at the Sullivan. He asks that this amendment be changed to note that this is happening. #ANCgov

He says you can imagine these fluctuations happening without people knowing about it. Wants the language to require the admin to acknowledge the changes when implemented. #ANCgov

Rivera says he likes to be specific, would add the language that has the admin notice the public and surrounding community councils. Constant is cool with it, so they work to add the language to the amendment. #ANCgov

Dunbar, hearing the language, recommends a slight alteration that adds also a necessaey explanation. #ANCgov

Sulte says that Homelessness has been politicized and the homeless are paying with their lives. We all have a part. The hotel plan hasn't been followed through. The NavCenter wasn't pursued. The GL has been delayed. Other shelters, in his opinion, are at historic low occupancy.

He says he wants to see it fixed. He asks that the amendment strike the language "for five days" as he knows the shelters can empty out in good weather. Rivera doesn't accept. Sulte then proposes to amend the amendment, Cross seconds. #ANCgov

Cross says that he supports this and encourages everyone else to unless they're willing to sleep in a tent outside for 5 days. Rivera says this language came from the task force and is intended so we make wise choices across the system. #ANCgov

He says we need to make smart decisions, since it impacts the clients and the surrounding neighbors and asks a rep from the task force to speak. She says he nailed it, but there's also lags in the data reporting so this helps with that. #ANCgov

Bronson issues a point of information, asks her about the data. When you see the situation at the warming center, does it make sense to wait for the data lag? What data do they want to use? She says the HMIS bed occupancy data that's logged every day. #ANCgov

Bronson asks what she'd make the decision on, the data on a screen or what she sees with her eyes? She says she doesn't work at a shelter so she wouldn't have that data. #ANCgov

Sulte rereads the language. Says that by language, if all other shelters are full, the Sullivan is at 90%, if they vote to wait five days they are voting to kill people. Discussion ends. Voting commences. Sulte's amendment to the amendment fails, 6-4. #ANCgov

We're back to Rivera's amendment. Constant says that he disputes the idea that the people in the warming center are not inside the Sullivan. They were let inside, breaking code, but still not provided services. #ANCgov

LaFrance notes that since the assembly is 12, they require a vote of 7 for an item to pass, that's why the vote failed. Bronson asks Johnson to correct Constant. She says the shelter has 200 capacity, with all services. Historically the warming center was outside. #ANCgov

The fire inspector told them that the warming center couldn't be slept in because it was heated by propane. They let people into the interior warming area so people could have some dignity. They don't have the authorization to provide the services to all, she's asking to do that

Constant agrees with all that but says that increasing capacity doesn't increase funding and the right thing to do is treat people with humanity. But tell us when it's being done, don't break the code to achieve a goal, come to the assembly. Johnson says they brought 2weeks ago

LaFrance says anyone could've motioned it two weeks ago, and nobody did. Constant says that regardless, they had already decided to do it when the authorization resolution was sent to the assembly. Bronson wants to fight, LaFrance shuts it down. #ANCgov

Dunbar calls the question. Rivera seconds. Voting on calling the question commences. Passes 10-0. Voting on Rivera's amendment commences. It's approved 8-2, Sulte and Cross oppose. #ANCgov

Rivera moves another amendment, Constant seconds. This one adds a time limit that gives time for the admin, the assembly, and the task force to work together on the issue. Says it's an important guardrail. No discussion, voting commences. Passes 8-2, Sulte and Cross. #ANCgov

Back to the main motion. Volland says he believes part of the contention has been that the expansion was proposed after the warming room was active. #ANCgov

Volland references this quote and asks why wasn't there a request to the assembly to bring the tent inside? #ANCgov

https://twitter.com/mayor_bronson/status/1600353394128203777?t=-SvU4bLBSAusesiwyE7lDA&s=19

Johnson says her frustration comes from the fact that they brought this two weeks ago, took a pause, and now they are going to approve the same 160. They could've spent two weeks giving people food, beds, and intro to housing. #ANCgov

Volland says that he felt surprised by the request a day before the last regular meeting. He says it felt rushed, he wanted more info. He isn't convinced this will be the last capacity increase request. He says the increase already happened, even if we intentioned. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson responds to Johnson, this is the same thing over and over. The admin waits around, doesn't solve problems for months and months, then last minute puts something forward and expects them to approve it. Calls it amateur hour. #ANCgov

Constant says the assembly allowed a 150 capacity. The admin asked for 50 surge capacity and was granted it. Then, whatever the reason, increased it and asked after. It makes it hard to do business. However, despite all that, he supports the increase for basic humanity. #ANCgov

Johnson says in early October they saw warming numbers in the 20s-30s. In November 60s-70s. Then in December, 178. They had to act for people not to freeze to death. There was no preplanning months in advance. The people are there, they need the beds. Please approve. #ANCgov

Dunbar asks Bronson, there's a legal process for such a thing, why didn't he declare a state of emergency? Bronson says winter isn't an emergency, cold weather isn't an emergency. He saw people in need and was forced into action. He took the measure to protect people. #ANCgov

Dunbar says that next time he recommends he take the legal action. Bronson says he didn't have time to take legal action.

(Woah)

#ANCgov

Voting commences, the resolution is approved 10-0. Zalatel is allowed to return. #ANCgob

Next item, a resolution approving the temporary delegation of Acting CFO to Grant Yurtrzenka. Rivera issues a point of order, he believes the item should actually be 10b3 (this is 10b2). They're verifying. #ANCgov

Okay we're doing the Acting CFO one. Constant moves to approve, seconded. Constant moves admin amendment 1, which changes the word "financial" to "fiscal." Seconded. Voting commences. Passes 10-0, Perez-Verdia is excused. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson says that we have a lot of acting positions that start out temporary, and then continue on as they are asked for more time. She asks why they haven't hired a CFO and when they plan to? Trombley says they've had a post up, and are boosting it. #ANCgov

Zalatel moves an amendment to put a limit on this position to 30 days, Constant seconds. Zalatel says she wants to make sure we are regularly updated on the progress. She thinks the acting person is doing a good job, but this is an essential position and we need to make progress.

Voting commences. Passes 10-0. Back on the main motion. No discussion, voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next up, a resolution transferring a marijuana retail license to Scorpio Grass and stating the Assembly's waive of protest. There's apparently a discrepancy between the numbering in the binders and online which causes some confusion. No discussion, voting commences. 10-0. #ANCgov

We're going to take a break while we verify the numbers. Back soon. #ANCgov

Back in session! Numbers have been confirmed. Next is a resolution determining a vacancy will exist on the Assembly in seat C for District 2, Chugiak-ER and JBER and initiating a process to fill the vacancy. Allard's seat. Cross moves an amendment striking a portion. #ANCgov

Constant wants to get Gates' comment on why it was worded this way, but he isn't here. Voting commences. Passes 10-0. Onto the main motion. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Constant moves to change the order of the day to take up 10b6 after the fifteens. Zalatel seconds. If necessary they can change it to take it up earlier. Unanimous consent. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution recognizing a 2022 elections questions and records request letter regarding the April 5 election and directing certain actions regarding those requests. #ANCgov

Constant moves to approve the S-version, Zalatel seconds. Cross asks if the admin has any comments on it. Bronson has nothing to say about it. Voting commences. Passes 9-1, Sulte dissents. #ANCgov

Next, a memorandum providing a sole source contract for professional services between the MoA and Denali FSP for the prep and mgmt of all grant proposals for ARPA funding. ($135,600). #ANCgov

Zalatel moves to postpone to January 10th meeting. Constant seconds. She says that with items that have multiple changes or issues we need more time. Constant says that some scrutiny over the entire lifespan of this item is warranted. #ANCgov

Trombley says if this isn't passed we are at risk of losing the contractor who does all our ARPA grants. Rivera says this is something that the audit committee discussed, and the audit will take place on the 10th. We could talk to the audit committee and ask them to do it earlier

Constant asks Trombley about this item, saying it says the contractor will be drafting grant proposals. What proposals need to be drafted at this point? Seems like the management aspect is more important now. Unaware of new grant proposals. #ANCgov

Trombley says that we're still working our way through awarding grants. Constant agrees, but why would preparation be necessary? Trombley says as they read it, it's the management of all proposals. #ANCgov

Constant says that isn't how it reads, but if we all agree that's fine. Zalatel asks what the fund is, usually we get to know the source and not just the number? And also it says it's from the mayor's office, we usually know who and which position? #ANCgov

Trombley says he worked on it with legal. Zalatel says he approved it, so this is unusual. She says she pulled this because there's a bunch of anomalous aspects. Is he saying Mr. Miller won't continue to work on the project? Trombley says he can't speak for Miller. #ANCgov

But, Miller won't get paid. Zalatel wants to go ahead with the vote. Voting commences, postponing passes 7-3. Sulte, Cross, and Rivera dissent. #ANCgov

Next, a memorandum. Contract for Proprietary Services with Legislative Consultants for professional lobbying services for the MoA (NTE $80,004). Zalatel moves to postpone to January 10. Volland seconds. She says this one also has anomalous aspects, as well as a typo. #ANCgov

No discussion, voting commences. Passes 7-3, Sulte, Rivera, and Cross dissent. Next, a memorandum. Senior Citizens Advisory Commission appointment of Gordon Glaser and Emily McMahan. Constant moves to postpone to January 10th. #ANCgov

Constant says that they are still evaluating these items and need some time to do so. Zalatel seconds. Rivera says he's reluctant to postpone unless he can get a strong reason why, asks Constant to do so. Constant is gonna pull up the file and read them for him. #ANCgov

Constant says they didn't provide which seat the individuals are going into, so they don't know which term they are filling. Is it vacant or has someone left? The admin has previously offered more information than this. #ANCgov

Rivera asks if that logic applies to the rest of the boards and commissions appointments? Constant says not for all of them and he wouldn't call them all errors, but we do need more information on on all of them. Rivera says that assuages his concerns, especially for B&C. #ANCgov

Constant says these kinds of issues go back through multiple admins, we're slowly working out how to properly communicate between branches. Bronson asks Wilbanks to speak. He says that over his tenure he's only made a dent on the errors in all these documents. #ANCgov

He says records are not all kept the same way. He says that, however, it is not new to not have seat numbers. He says some reasonable appointments can be made tonight, including military advisory commission and youth advisory commission. #ANCgov

He is happy to have a meeting to work it out. Constant says they had a meeting today to draft a resolution showing what info needs to be sent over. Says he's grateful for the admin's willingness to work with them. #ANCgov

Voting on postponement commences, passes 9-1, Sulte dissents. Next, a memorandum for appointment of Amal Agalawatta to the Military and Veterans Affairs Commission. Constant moves to postpone to January 10, same reasoning. #ANCgov

Wilbanks says that all appointments to this commission are 1 year appointments, and there are 3 vacant seats. Constant says the first year is a one year, remaining years are full term. A conversation needs to be had. #ANCgov

Wilbanks says it is not a reappointment. Voting commences. Passes 8-2, Sulte, and Quinn-Davidson dissent. #ANCgov

Next, Youth Advisory Commission appointment of Teagan Halsey. Constant moves to postpone to January 10. Seconded. Same argument. Cross asks for clarification. Constant says it's an issue of which term is being filled. Voting commences, postponing passes 8-Sulte and Cross. #ANCgov

Next, a memorandum for a sole source contract amendment 1 with Henning Inc for Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering services at the Alex hotel. $797,921.61. Zalatel is excused for conflict. Constant moves to approve, Rivera seconds. #ANCgov

Rivera says that members should have received a resolution setting food service level at all locations. They aren't ready to amend this contract to solve that, but it's an issue raised by community members and he hopes to address it in a separate policy decision. #ANCgov

Rivera asks about an amendment to extend emergency shelter at Covenant House, not present in this item. Says there was some confusion that led to it not to be here today, does the admin have a plan to bring it forward? #ANCgov

Alexis Johnson says there was some confusion, says they are working to resolve it now and they are in the internal processes. Rivera says it would have a negative effect on the community it the beds at Covenant couldn't be used. Hopes the admin will bring it forward in January.

Johnson says we don't have funding for it, as he knows, says we're in a bit of a pickle. Cross says when he sees these items come forward it breaks his heart. Says under 18 help is sorely missing. Every person experiencing homelessness is a victim of some childhood issue. #ANCgov

He says if we don't start being very intentional with how we use millions of dollars, we will deal with this issue forever. Wants us to stop spending on advertising to tell people what a good job we do. #ANCgov

Voting commences, passes 9-0. Next, memorandum for sole spruce contract amendment 2 for Henning for emergency congregate sheltering services at the Sullivan. $1,080,191.48. Rivera moves to approve. Constant seconds. #ANCgov

Rivera says these numbers show that either something is missing or we're severely underfunding these services. Asks Johnson to explain. She says she needs a few minutes to verify the number. #ANCgov

While that happens, Rivera makes a motion to lay on the table his item that establishes a standard level of food service across the shelters. LaFrance asks if we can have a motion to suspend the rules. Discussion behind the dyas. #ANCgov

We figure out a way. Rivera moves to incorporate the unnumbered AR and lay it on the table. Petersen seconds. Rivera apologizes to the assembly, saying he knows this is frowned on. He had originally planned on amending items already on tonight with dollar figures, but... #ANCgov

...couldn't get the numbers. Then he wanted to amend them with intent, but that's not appropriate for contracts. So this is the third method. Voting on incorporation and laying on the table commences, passes 9-0. #ANCgov

Rivera motions to change the order of the day to take this item up. Constant seconds. Unanimous consent. Rivera motions to approve it. He says this resolution tries to create consistency between the shelter locations to establish a minimum level of food... #ANCgov

...as well as in the warming area. He says the admin has raised concerns about waste, but there are discussions with Beans and others to find ways to reduce waste. He says this is important policy for now and the future. If there is necessary funding to make this happen...#ANCgov

...that they will bring that proposal in January. LaFrance brings up that Zalatel was excused from the last item, and would need to read through to determine if she has a conflict, so we take back up the last item. #ANCgov

Johnson has figured out that there was a discrepancy in the numbers, she says that the best way to go forward is to move to approve and amend for the remainder. Something like $360k extra. She also notes that we sheltered 200 people for well under the $1.5mil allocated. #ANCgov

Voting on approving the memorandum for Sullivan sheltering services commences. Passes 9-0. Back to Rivera's laid on the table resolution. Zalatel returns to the Chambers. #ANCgov

Zalatel says this resolution is a policy regarding task force recommendations. She says previously items related to the task force were ruled that she doesn't have a conflict, which she believes is the case here. LaFrance goes through the conflict of interest questions. #ANCgov

The answers to the questions are all essentially no. Chair rules no conflict. Back to the item. Cross understands and supports the intent, but doesn't like that they mandate 3 meals a day. Our schools struggle to provide lunches. #ANCgov

He believes the contractors have the best idea of how to allocate food to their clientele. If they can do three meals a day, he can't see why they already wouldn't? We should trust the people already there working with them. #ANCgov

Sulte asks if there has been a need established for three meals a day? He's not opposed but wants to know. Johnson says that the Aviator had determined there was food waste when providing three per day, says with the new funding for the Sullivan there shouldn't be an issue.

Zalatel says that she reads this to allow providers to get meals in a responsive manner to the needs, but they should have three meals available. Cross asks what the difference between a snack and a meal? #ANCgov

Zalatel says the providers are the best to ask about that, probably relates to USDA. Says we want the providers to be able to provide adequate nutrition. Voting commences, passes 9-1. Cross dissents. #ANCgov

Next, appointments of Andrew Kastning, Mary Vollendord, Stacey Lange, and Scott Womganz to the Anchorage Parks and Recreation Service Area Commission. Constant moves to postpone to January 10, seconded. Wilbanks proposes postponing indefinitely so they can bring it again.#ANCgov

Everyone amenable. Voting on indefinitely postponing commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, appointments to the Anchorage Equal Rights Commission of Ryan Riley and Michael Hayes. Constant moves to postpone to January 10, Rivera seconds. Same argument. Voting commences. Postponing passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, appointment to the Budget Advisory Commission of Mark Sayampanathan. Sulte moves to approve, Cross seconds. Sulte says that he's been asked to do so. Dunbar says he's pulled it and not moved it previously, but now that it has been he will speak to it. #ANCgov

He says the appointee has made gross and inappropriate comments directed at the body and he can't support the appointment. No further discussion. Voting commences, fails 2-8, Cross and Sulte in favor. #ANCgov

Next, a memorandum for Sole Purchase Order with AWE Acquisitions for Children's Early Learning Stations for the MOA Library. $37,706.50. Zalatel moves to approve, Constant seconds. Zalatel asks a rep from the library to explain the sole source nature. #ANCgov

Representative says this is a product, a computer for early learning, that has no competitor on the market. No further discussion. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, this.
Quinn-Davidson asks for an update from the admin on the construction of this so that she can feel comfortable voting on it. Chief Kerle says they are underway in construction. This 40k is in case they have extra walls that they need to tear down. They are 92% complete

*400k

Quinn-Davidson says that is helpful, and she says the AM that was submitted didn't have any of those numbers. In the future if that is included she won't pull the item. No further discussion. Voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution reappropriating <$50k from the AHD to the legislative branch for the ASD. Zalatel moves to approve, Constant seconds. Quinn-Davidson says it's a little unusual, asks for clarification from the mover. #ANCgov

Zalatel says that it is unusual, it's unusual budget year for ASD. She's had some frustrations with the ASD's budget cuts. She says this provides resources with the end goal of a process that is transparent and that the assembly can rely on in the future. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson says she would ask why they don't pull it from their own budget, but it's probably because they use every available dollar they can, right? Correct. #ANCgov

Bronson says this is awful strange, an entity with more money that we do asking for such a small amount. Who requested this money? Zalatel says it was done in concurrence with the school board leadership. Bronson asks if they ASD requested it? #ANCgov

No, but they worked together to make sure they didn't violate any caps on distribution to the ASD. No further discussion. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next is an item for introduction. It submits to the voters if Anchorage the creation of the Anchorage Bowl Chugach State Park Access Service Area on the April 4 Ballot. #ANCgov

Next, appointments to the Geotechnical Advisory Commission of Brian O'Dowd, James Colles, and Eli Ward. This was postponed from 10/11/22. Cross asks why this isn't being postponed like the others due to lack of seat numbers? Constant says it's been around for months. #ANCgov

LaFrance urges a no vote on this one. They held a work session and heard that formal education including a master's degree and years of experience are required for these seats, and these appointees do not have those. #ANCgov

This is a life and death safety issue and there were other, more qualified, candidates. She urges a no vote. Voting commences. Appointments fail, 1-8. Dunbar is the lone yes vote, Quinn-Davidson was absent. #ANCgov

Next, the platting board appointment of Sam Laffey. This was postponed from 11-22-22. Constant moves to postpone to January 10, Rivera seconds. Constant says that the term needs to be corrected, there needs to be a chance to come to a meeting of the minds. #ANCgov

Wilbanks says that he worked with them to figure this out. The term has ended and the seat is vacant, which has been confirmed. He isn't sure what the problem is that would lead to postponement. Constant says he hasn't personally reviewed the records, they need to meet. #ANCgov

He says he isn't sure what the body wants to do but there are questions. Wilbanks says that the platting board is reaching a point where they won't be able to take cases. He's quadruple checked this one to make sure it's all in order. We're reaching point critical. #ANCgov

Voting on postponement commences. Fails 2-8, Rivera and Quinn-Davidson in favor of postponing. Back to the main motion. Petersen moves to approve, Cross seconds. Petersen says they need to have a quorum, let's pass this. Voting commences. Passes 9-1, Zalatel dissents. #ANCgov

Next, the executive appointment confirmation hearing for Library Director, Virginia McClure. Volland moves to approve, Constant seconds. Volland says they had a great confirmation hearing. Rivera thanks the admin for bringing a very qualified person forward. #ANCgov

Constant says they've been waiting 18 months for her. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. Applause!

#ANCgov

Next, the Executive appointment, Confirmation hearing is Kent Kohlase as Director of Public Works. Zalatel moves to postpone to January 24. Volland seconds. She says his role as acting Municipal Manager necessitates it, they want to see the organizational structure. #ANCgov

Quinn-Davidson asks why they can't just approve and then review later? Zalatel says she isn't comfortable voting for confirmations just because they're before us, we need these roles filled and a sense of permanence. #ANCgov

LaFrance says she'll support postponing, but after the confirmation hearing she has no reservations about his ability to work in this position. Constant also doesn't have any reservations about Kohlhase, but there's reservations concerning the surrounding issues. #ANCgov

He was presented by Demboski four days ago, and with everything pivoting so quickly he thinks we need breathing room. Voting on postponement commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, Executive appointment Confirmation hearing for Lance Wilber as Director of Office of Economic & Community Development. Zalatel moves to postpone to January 24, Rivera seconds for purpose of discussion. #ANCgov

Zalatel says he has often filled in for Muni Manager, and he could be a replacement so unless they want to tell us their plan tonight let's hold off. Dunbar says he'd also like to hear from the admin, but he feels comfortable approving this tonight. #ANCgov

Volland says he is also confident confirming Wilber tonight, says he would be comfortable confirming him to nearly any position in the Muni. Rivera says he also is comfortable, says the logic is too speculative to postpone. #ANCgov

Zalatel says she will vote to confirm if this motion fails, but the uncertainty of positions isn't great for the city. Voting commences, fails 3-7. #ANCgov

Onto the main motion. Constant says Wilber is the most competent individual in municipal employment. Discussion ends. Voting commences, confirmation passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, the Sister Cities Commission appointment of Claudia Farias. Constant moves to postpone to January 10, Rivera seconds. Same argument. Wilbanks says they noticed there was a typo, it should says seat 4, not seat 14. Says this is why seats might have been left off. #ANCgov

Wilbanks offers a floor amendment to change the seat number? Constant says we could return to this, the goal is to get things lined up so we don't do it on the dyas. We'll move on and come back to this item. #ANCgov

Next, this. Zalatel moves to approve. Constant seconds. Zalatel says this is a reasonable way forward when we find out there are contacts or supplies that move without assembly approval. Legal settlement just pays out, circumventing assembly approval. This mitigates that. #ANCgov

Christensen says that the legal office and Muni attorneys have not been able to determine the legality of this action. Constant asks Gates for his thoughts, just to get a second opinion. #ANCgov

Gates says there's been disagreements as to the legality and there hasn't been a conclusion. If challenged in court, he can't say what chance there is of defending it at this time. #ANCgov

LaFrance says she'll support, even though there are legal risks, because the other risks that take place when contracts move forward without approval are larger. The Hickel contract still isn't resolved. She urges support. Voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Now back to the Sister Cities Commission appointment. Constant says staff has come forward with adjustments that bring it in alignment. Rescinds the motion to postpone. Motions to amend the item to change seat 14 to seat 4. Zalatel seconds. #ANCgov

Constant says that the intent seems to be to create a new sister city relationship, asks the mayor to speak to it. Bronson says he isn't sure what he means. Constant says this individual intends to expand the scope of our sister city relationships. #ANCgov

Bronson says that there is a Brazilian city that shares characteristics with us, and Farias has engaged with officials there to strengthen that relationship. The amendment passes without dissent. Voting on the appointment commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Five minute break before public hearings. Be back soon! #ANCgov

And we return! Volland motions to change to order of the day to take up 13a, 14a, then 14j. Dunbar seconds. Constant says he isn't opposed, but there are a number of must pass items that may necessitate interrupting public testimony. He'll support, just with the caveat. #ANCgov

Rivera says he isn't a fan of interrupting public hearingsz would prefer to go through must pass items first then do public testimony uninterrupted. Constant says maybe we should just knock out the must pass items? Volland says he's okay with that. Dunbar concurs. #ANCgov

So we're now on changing the order of the day to take up the must pass items. LaFrance asks for unanimous consent. Constant talks about 14e being also must pass, which is out of order but LaFrance allows it. No opposition. #ANCgov

Okay looks like we're doing public testimony? I got confused. First up, this. Ron Thompson testifies. He says he's been a building official, he's been public works director, he's been part of this stuff for 30 years. #ANCgov

He says this stuff is hard to comprehend when you aren't in it. He says a decade ago he thought this wasn't the best idea. But since then he's been out of the system and considers timely reviews. This is about speeding up the review process. It's not about safety. #ANCgov

It's been very well received in the private residential sector. The state, outside of Anchorage, there is no structural review for businesses. So we're still in addition to the state requirements. It works great residential, it will work great commercial. He thinks it will work.

Cross asks him, the building department has said this isn't necessary, why does he think they said that? He says they probably say that to keep staff. Doesn't think they can prove any greater risk for collapse or damage. If in the rest of Alaska there were issues, they'd change.

Right now there are people in the department that aren't licensed doing the review anyways. #ANCgov

Kayli Thompson testifies in support. Says time-frames are a big deal in construction, and currently they're the slowest in 8 years. Reviews slow down everything. They can take 4-8 weeks in peak season. She thinks this should be an option for everyone. Urges support. #ANCgov

Onto the phone list. Joelle Hall testifies. She opposes the ordinance. She submitted written testimony, but wants to address the prior testimony. What this seeks to do is to be independent from the municipality. Usually the Muni vets a set of engineers and retains them. #ANCgov

This retains the engineers and protects the muni's interests. Points to section AD4, which says that the engineer can't be a builder on the project, but it doesn't say they can't be in an LLC relationship. She can't see why builders wouldn't form their own LLCs with inspectors.

She says independence from the municipality isn't something we should strive for. #ANCgov

John Cecil testifies over the phone. He is the principal of the AMEA. They are opposed to adoption, which they believe will negatively affect their membership. As far as they know, two positions are already being removed from the budget for other purposes. #ANCgov

Third party review options already exist in code, but are seldom used. This appears to be a solution in search of a problem. Public servants must act impartially. In the event that additional inspectors are needed they can be contracted. #ANCgov

They urge the assembly to oppose the ordinance. Public testimony ends. Cross moves to approve. Volland seconds. Cross says Anchorage is #1 worst place to do business according to CNBC. Everyone says the same thing. Tough to do business, especially to build. #ANCgov

He says think of Engineers just like you would electricians, builders, etc. They are licensed and approved. The way we do things now is unprecedented in the rest of the state. There is a rigorous verification process. Says concerns are fearmongering or concerns about layoffs.

But this could be good for the private sector. He says people are fundamentally good, that extends to engineers. This is also key to economic revitalization plan. Urges approval. #ANCgov

Zalatel says we have a shared goal, getting projects built, including housing. But she says we could address it without changing code. We could extend contract periods. Let's try with the upcoming building season, use our internal tool. Our term contracts use private... #ANCgov

... sector, but allows for Muni oversight. That's what she's comfortable starting with. She is still concerned about privatizing this process. Echoes the concerns of previous testifier about business relations. She hopes something is brought forward for the coming season. #ANCgov

LaFrance thanks Cross for starting the conversation. She agrees we need to streamline the process to make it faster, but as it is she isn't ready to vote yes. Safety issues, economic damage, insurance issues. With the terms independent and third party... #ANCgov

... they have sometimes been conflated. That needs to be addressed. It would also be helpful to have a flowchart of the process to visualize how things move through. She isn't clear how the plan review bogs down the process, as opposed to issues in the plan being reviewed.#ANCgov

She supports Zalatel's suggestion, and notes that's how other jurisdictions have handled this. She'd like to see this remanded to the board of builders and reviewed. Thinks that would be a productive next step to keep it moving. #ANCgov

Volland thanks Cross for bringing him into the conversation. The body has a shared goal of doing whatever is productive in attacking the housing shortage and revitalizing Anchorage, in ways that are practical and effect change. #ANCgov

He isn't an expert in the field, but he's learned a lot. It's led him to curiosity, why are workers in the building department not licensed? In the work session he felt they got some good answers, but it was one sided as revealed in email testimony. #ANCgov

He's aware projects face bottlenecks, one has taken 8 months and still hasn't come through. During peak seasons there's issues as well. Wants to learn more about how things can be multitasked. Problem with workflow. #ANCgov

But people have reached out about safety issues. He got a letter from structural engineers of Alaska issuing their lack of support. Acknowledges he's waffling. Hears Zalatel's proposal. If this isn't the vehicle, we have to do something to improve the process. #ANCgov

He rescinds his support. Cross says he'd like to see maybe a different motion to keep this alive. Says that the process is already political. Greuning middle school sustained earthquake damage even with this process. There's a higher requirement in a certain private... #ANCgov

...process than in the government. He says no one likes their cheese touched, government includes. They like the authority. But if we have to kick it back to the board of examiners, he'll motion for that so that it doesn't die here. Dunbar seconds that motion. #ANCgov

Cross asks Trombley what the admin's feeling is on it. He says they support it. Is it perfect? No. Could more work be done? Yes. A list could be made to have private contractors that are vetted by the Muni, maybe as a compromise. Overall though the assembly supports it. #ANCgov

Cross proposes remanding to the board of examiners and appeals and to be brought back at the February 21st. Dunbar agrees. Constant says he likes Cross a lot, so he didn't do what he would normally do, which is to totally revise this to do the opposite. #ANCgov

Constant says he's really uncomfortable with this, especially safety concerns. He's fine with remanding it, but it gives him heartburn. Voting on remanding commences, passes 9-1, Zalatel dissents. #ANCgov

Next, public hearing on this code amendment that would allow only owners or employees of a marijuana establishment to breastfeed on premises. #ANCgov

Public testimony opens. Owner of Secret Garden says this is already the law at state level, he's a supporter, it's essential. Doesn't seem reason not to do so. Says if there could be a streamlined process to adjust law between state and Muni more smoothly he'd appreciate. #ANCgov

Public testimony closes. Zalatel moves the S-version, Constant seconds. Quinn-Davidson speaks to it. She says Constant led the item, but she joined. Notes the state history of it. There's an applicant now that wants to implement, that is why it's here ahead of larger pack.#ANCgov

Constant says this is an issue of rights, mothers should be able to feed their children. It's in line with the state. Urges support. Voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Dunbar moves to extend to midnight, as he enjoys everyone's company and this is his last meeting. Constant seconds. Unanimous consent. #ANCgov

Next, an item stating the Assembly's conditional protest of a marijuana license for Alaska Wild Coyote Inc. voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, an item approving a marijuana license for Alaska Herb Garden. Constant moves to approve, Petersen seconds. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution approving a marijuana license for Cannabaska Concentrates. Constant moves to approve, Petersen seconds. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution approving a marijuana license for Uncle Herb's. Constant moves to approve, Petersen seconds. Voting commences. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution stating the Assembly's conditional protest regarding a new package store liquor license for Prospectors Provisions. Constant moves to approve, Petersen seconds. Voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Next, a resolution stating the Assembly's conditional protest of a new Beverage Dispensary license for Navigator Lounge. Constant moves to approve, Petersen seconds. Voting commences, passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Okay, onto public testimony for this item about ADUs. Zalatel moves to postpone the public hearing to January 24, Rivera seconds. Zalatel says she knows lots of people are here to testify, but her community council has asked for more time. More than a third proposed resolutions.

There has been a push for a worksession, and that can only happen if there's more time. Dunbar says he opposes it, there's a lot of people here to testify tonight. Volland is strongly opposed to postponing, there's been a worksession, there's plenty of participation. #ANCgov

Volland lists the different events so far for planning and participation. Walking tours, presentations. He says housing delayed is housing denied, let's move forward on this. #ANCgov

LaFrance says she supports both. Let's hear from people tonight, so we can work to address the comments. She will vote no on postponement, then support it after testimony. #ANCgov

Rivera says he strongly supports postponing. Many Community Councils aren't here because they assumed it would be postponed. Let's not move too quickly. We need to be thoughtful and take our time, which includes getting the best testimony possible. #ANCgov

Rivera says a short delay won't impact the goal of the ordinance. He says one of the early things Zalatel and him tried to do was get community councils in a workgroup, but the admin said no. He asks them to vote yes. #ANCgov

Cross says we have to hear the people who have waited for 6 hours to testify, give them their 3 minutes. Constant agrees, this is the time to start. He cautions the public, if changes are made and they've testified they don't get to do it again, that's the risk. #ANCgov

Volland says he doesn't believe community councils haven't had time. Wants to just get this done. Zalatel says she doesn't intend to postpone as an insult, but emphasizes, if you speak now you can't speak again later. Unfortunately we had a long agenda tonight. #ANCgov

Cross says he apologizes for implying she intended to insult the public, more that he would feel insulted if he had waited in the audience. Voting commences. Postponing fails 2-8, Rivera and Zalatel support. #ANCgov

Testimony opens. Rivera issues a point of order, asking that people understand they won't be able to testify again. #ANCgov

Dr. Peter Muse testifies for the Rabbit Creek CC. Refers to a packet from their resolution. Says it was created in response to why ADUs must be refined and regulated so they don't cause harm, including lost or stolen solar, views, etc. Housing is a crisis, but ...

... the amendment as proposed is a cash cow. Solar access is critical. He reads from the resolution. Says the ADUs as defined does not define character, but compatibility. ADUs are small subordinate detached units near a private dwelling. Says these larger developments ...

... haven't been defined as to how they would respect rights of neighbors. Could prevent solar panel usage for neighbors. Other major cities have used smaller dimensions and small building sizes. Rogers Park (not Rabbit Creek, my bad) asks they remain in scale. #ANCgov

Rivera asks him to finish his list of requirements. First, remain in scale to family pattern, restrict second full size home on a plot. Second, measures to protect neighbor privacy and solar access, with height restrictions, etc... #ANCgov

Constant says that this is outside the scope of a small continuation. We have others. Next, Katie Severyn (sp?). She is pregnant and stuck around because she is passionate. We have an aging population and seen a rising cost of housing. We need additional housing. #ANCgov

ADUs increase housing stock and allow seniors to stay in their place, raise extra money, stay close to friends, etc. It allows for people to downsize while keeping their closeness. Says the recommendations are in line with best practices and housing plans for the city. #ANCgov

She says that the proposed changes have been developed in tandem with the mayor's office and the work group, there's been ample outreach. There's been more than a year, extremely thorough process. We need housing to support all of Anchorage, especially seniors. Urges support!

Lindsey Hyduk (sp?) Testifies. She urges support. ADU reform is just one change needed to right size Anchorage housing. Nearly seventy percent of participants in a study said the city needs to do more for housing. The planning process did more to reach residents did..

..more to reach people than other efforts. There were notices and surveys for engagement, with over half of the 330 expressing interest in building an ADU. Changes proposed tonight reflect all the feedback, but has been in work since the start. Based on best practices. #ANCgov

Daniel George testifies. He continues Muse's suggestions. He appreciates everyone who has worked on the work group. He appreciates the level of communication from the planning department. He works as a realtor and says he hears questions about compatibility with this idea.#ANCgov

He encourages some of the changes, including some of Volland, but says they don't go far enough. He speaks fast and technically, I'm missing a lot, I'm so sorry. #ANCgov

Zalatel asks him about an idea of bulldozing a triplex next to a sevenplex. He clarifies the necessary change to be made. #ANCgov

Irene Quednow testifies. She didn't read up on it, but has thoughts regardless. From what Volland said, there was a robust public process. She's seen them not extend on issues with less public testimony. She says if Zalatel wanted to postpone, but they can't mention it...#ANCgov

...then they should change the rules. And finally, if they chose not to testify hoping for an extension and it didn't pass theyd miss it entirely. #ANCgov

Emily Wiser testifies in support of the AO and passing it tonight. People need housing. Postponing a month, may postpone housing for a month. The changes proposed don't do much structurally. Height adjustments and what not aren't different to what already can be done. #ANCgov

Some say this could change their neighborhood, but she supports it because she loves her neighborhood and wants to invite more people to live there. She urges support and wants to see it passes tonight. #ANCgov

Yarrow Silvers asks them to pass it tonight without delay. It's been going through CCs for months. It's been brought up in FCC many times and many have refused to even entertain an anti bill. STRs need to be addressed, but as a comprehensive, city wide plan. Pass it tonight

Bob Buterra, Rogers Park. Doesn't support this revision. The original was respectful of neighbors, this one isn't. Focus is only on maximizing housing. The groups involved in revising were well intentioned, but don't understand how it will affect neighborhoods. #ANCgov

Different neighborhoods need different restrictions. By removing owner occupancy requirements, it opens us to STR issues. The ideas must be addressed concurrently. Understanding this revision takes work. Take a step back, do it right. Reject this ordinance. #ANCgov

Mark Foster, Rogers Park. He speaks to owner occupancy requirement. Peer reviewed literature showed without that requirement, housing markets become less affordable. This must be considered. Could exacerbate the problem. #ANCgov

Zalatel asks if that article discussed the intersection between increased housing stock and the STRs? Yes, but the question was left open of the most efficient way to do it. #ANCgov

Kayli Thompson testifies. Her business has done permitting for 12 ADU projects this year. She supports it. Says the planning dept did a great job. This AO fixes a lot of issues. Asks that they pass this today, projects are on hold that could open housing in Spring. #ANCgov

Christine Stoner, midtown CC. Her council supports the idea of ADUs but this ordinance has shortcomings and they want a worksession. The planning dept came to their council. They asked questions and the dept didn't have answers. They felt like they didn't get answers. #ANCgov

Some concerns are home ownership and neighborhood stability / character. The proposed amendments seem to contradict the land use plan. Instead the changes allow for doubling of housing density without infrastructure. #ANCgov

The city hasn't offered data that there's a need for the changes. No evidence that increased sizes reduced costs or improves financing. Names Girdwood, Juneau, Seward, and Homer as victims of STRs. Parking space requirements should be included. #ANCgov

If someone wants an ADU, they must supply parking. This AO overrules HOAs. The city shouldn't override what they've already put together. She thanks Roger's Park and Rabbit Creek CCs and the Assembly's work. #ANCgov

Amanda Mozier testifies. Anchorage is in a housing crisis. Over 16 years, she's watched peers move out of state. Twice a year, 1500 people gather and look at a economic forecast. Included in that forecast is emigration of 18-40 year olds. This is related to housing. #ANCgov

She doesn't believe massive amounts of ADUs will be built. Younger generations want to live in central areas with access to amenities and the ability to bike or walk. Thanks the planning department for their work. Urges support and approval tonight. #ANCgov

Constant moves to continue this public testimony to January 10. Rivera seconds. Constant says we have four more people on the phone, others didn't attend, others want a worksession. We can respect all of this with a small postponing. #ANCgov

Dunbar says based on testimony tonight, he was prepared to vote. But he recognizes the reality of the time. ADUs were one of the first things he wanted to work on, and it's a fitting end that he won't get to vote on it. The gears of the assembly grind on. #ANCgov

Voting on postponement passes 10-0. Constant moves to incorporate and lay on the table a resolution approving the temporary delegation of the acting director of public works position to Kent Kohlhase. Zalatel seconds. Unanimous consent. #ANCgov

Constant moves to approve, Zalatel seconds. Zalatel moves amendment 1, Rivera seconds. She explains that this amendment differentiates the acting position and acting assignment as Muni manager. No discussion, voting commences on amendment. Passes unanimously. #ANCgov

Onto the main motion. No discussion. Voting commences, passes 10-0. Next, a resolution determining that Dunbar's seat will be vacant and initiating a process to fill it. Constant moves to approve, Zalatel seconds. #ANCgov

Constant tells Dunbar good luck and it's been a good journey. Zalatel wore a Ramen sweater in honor of Dunbar's passion for ramen. She appreciated working with him. Quinn-Davidson thanks him for his work on the body and commitment to working people and the community. #ANCgov

He was the first person she met on the body, and her experience was that he used his position to lift others up for the best of the community. Says he is funny and she'll miss him. He loves animals. He's a high quality human. Wicked smart. Recommends getting a colleague like him.

She says they are mostly friends behind the dyas. She'll miss having him as part of the group. Thanks him for all of these qualities and wishes him great success. #ANCgov

Petersen says it will be a big adjustment for him and East Anchorage, they've become adjusted to working with him. Wishes him luck in Juneau. #ANCgov

Rivera says it has been a pleasure to work with him. Says he was the only individual that had experience as chair when Rivera needed to lean on him in his own tenure. Says he's thoughtful. Says he's known for "it's a ceiling, not a target" saying. Will miss the shared passion...

...for all things nerdy. Says he doesn't expect that anyone else will get his references. Good luck in Juneau and he will be missed. #ANCgov

Volland says that Forrest was a friend before he had even considered the assembly. Good luck in Juneau. #ANCgov

Cross says he wishes he had met him earlier. Says he is sharp and analytic. Wishes him luck in Juneau. #ANCgov

LaFrance says that it's hard to imagine this body without him. She is glad that he'll continue to serve, even in Juneau. We wish him the best. He will be missed. #ANCgov

Sulte says that he didn't get the time to know Forrest well but wishes him the best and hopes he won't forget about little ol us in the city. We'll miss ya, take care. #ANCgov

Dunbar says that for the public that thinks maybe this time could've been better spent on ADUs, there are too many amendments, he assured us. He has a letter of resignation that outlines many experiences from his time on the body. Thanks the Clerk and their staff. #ANCgov

He hopes that East Anchorage can get a temporary replacement seated by January 10. Says it's appropriate that this went right up to midnight. #ANCgov

Voting on the item commences. Passes unanimously. LaFrance notes the time frame for applications for the interim member. #ANCgov

LaFrance says we will move to final audience participation but first we need a motion to conform the agenda due to moving stuff around. It has been approved. #ANCgov

James Thornton testifies. He says that the increase in capacity at Sullivan does not change the fact that large shelters in low income communities is not the solution. Hopes for there to be work done over the next year to better solve this issue. #ANCgov

He says we are reacting to issues rather than preventing them. The community wants to know why GL isn't being used. Trash removal is falling behind. Will the admin continue to fill up the warming area? We need to open alternate housing options. #ANCgov

The Fairview Community wants to see a moratorium on the use of the Sullivan as a shelter in any capacity. The Fairview Community Council encourages the city to start producing real solutions. Go fast alone, go far together. #ANCgov

And with that, we are adjourned. Have a good night, Anchorage, sleep well and tell the ones that you love when you love them. ❤️#ANCgov