Proposition #1: Why It Matters:
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) requires the City of Cordova to install an electrified bear fence at the active waste area of the 17 Mile Landfill.
This requirement is due to an increase in brown bears accessing the landfill and eating garbage. Regular access to garbage is harmful to bears. It can damage their health, change natural feeding behavior, and increase the risk of dangerous encounters with people.
Installing a bear fence will stop bears from reaching the refuse. This helps protect bears, supports safer wildlife behavior, and reduces the risk of human-wildlife conflicts. It also brings the City into compliance with ADEC permit requirements.
To fund this project, the City applied for assistance through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program. This program provides low-interest loans for essential public infrastructure.
The City was approved for a loan of up to $870,000. Of that total, $500,000 is forgiven and does not need to be repaid. This means the City would be responsible for $370,000, plus interest, even if the full loan amount is used.
A yes vote on Proposition #1 allows the City to complete this project, meet state requirements, and help protect local wildlife.
Early voting begins February 10th, election day is March 3rd.
Please Contact Kevin Johnson, Public Works Director, for additional details at publicworks@cityofcordova.net or 907-424-6220