LaFrance administration advances two Good Government priorities

Anchorage, AK－ At last night's Assembly meeting, the body passed two initiatives proposed by Mayor LaFrance, reflecting her administration's commitment to Good Government. These actions include expanding remote-work opportunities for the municipal workforce and investing in equipment to improve the Municipality's snow response.

"Good government is functional, reliable, and focused on the needs of the community," Mayor LaFrance said. "Our team is working to invest in a solid foundation so we can keep building on it."

Municipal departments have been operating despite high vacancies with a current vacancy rate around 16%. Directors identified lack of telework or remote-work opportunities made municipal jobs less competitive.

"During the pandemic the MOA transitioned to remote work, like most employers," Chief Administrative Officer Bill Falsey said. "But after the pandemic-unlike many employers-the Municipality reversed course. That choice made it harder to recruit and retain workers."

Last night's approval is a piece of Mayor LaFrance's broader effort to make the Municipality a more attractive and effective employer. By approving AR 2024-255, the Assembly ratified the administrative agreement negotiated with the Anchorage Municipal Employees Association (AMEA) to allow expanded remote-working opportunities.

Chief Fiscal Officer Alden Thern and his team delivered the 2022 Annual Consolidated Financial Report (ACFR) earlier this summer after a historic delay. Closing the books clarified remaining money in the Municipality's "fleet fund," a key source of investment for snow-response equipment.

"Closing the financial books of 2022 has been a positive step for us to be able to take decisive action to support our current needs," said Chief Fiscal Officer Alden Thern.

The Assembly approved AR 2024-284, which appropriated $3,750,000 for snow equipment to serve the city, including ten 4x4 pickups with plows, one "Vactor" vacuum truck, one sander truck with belly blade and plow, and three motor graders.

"We've seen a systematic lack of investment in our core infrastructure, including snowplowing equipment," said Municipal Manager Becky Windt Person. "Closing the books and bringing snow removal equipment to Anchorage is a win-win for our city."

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Media Contact: Amanda K. Moser
907-615-7852
​[email protected]

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