Angela Denning, CoastAlaska, Author at KFSK

Author: Angela Denning, CoastAlaska

Petersburg Borough considers limiting sales tax exemption to low-income seniors

Nearly a quarter of Petersburg’s residents are seniors, and the borough is losing out on sales tax, according to borough officials. That’s because the borough has a decades-old senior sales tax exemption. Now, the borough wants to limit that exemption to just low-income seniors to help make ends meet.

Petersburg Borough wants to raise rates for water, sewer and electricity

“The cost of things going up, it’s got to get paid for somehow,” said Assembly Member Rob Schwartz. “And it’s something I’ve wrestled with quite a bit, and I don’t know any other answer to raise the revenue to do this. But I value my water, my sewer and my power.”

A 20-year marine highway plan heads to the Alaska Legislature and governor for consideration

Alaska’s long-range ferry plan is complete after three years of preparation. The Alaska Marine Highway Operations Board approved the plan at a meeting on April 25, and now it goes to the Legislature and the governor for consideration. The plan relies on millions of dollars every year, but where that money will come from is unknown.

Petersburg assembly to consider ways to increase revenues

Borough finances are the main topic for tonight’s Petersburg Borough Assembly meeting.

Ferry board recommends retiring the M/V Matanuska

“Funding is tight, and will those dollars stay there in the rural ferry program? You know, with the new administration?” said Marine Director Craig Tornga. “We just don’t want to be competing against our new build plan that’s in the long-range plan.”