News of the North (KINY)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking proposals for a permanent solution to Juno's annual glacial outburst flooding, with Assistant Secretary Adam Tell emphasizing the need for innovative drainage solutions. The Corps estimates that a tunnel or lake tap could cost between $613 million and $1 billion, but a local mining executive has proposed a plan that could potentially halve that cost. As the next flood approaches, officials are urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations.

As Juno prepares for potential flooding, officials are advising residents to pack go bags, plan evacuation routes, and move valuables to higher ground. Emergency shelters will be available, and the city is coordinating with the American Red Cross for support. Juno Animal Control has also expanded its safety program to assist residents with pets during evacuations, emphasizing the importance of early preparation.

Brent Clancy, a former Juno Fire Captain, has been convicted of assaulting his 12-year-old stepdaughter and is facing up to five years in prison. His attorney argued that the incident did not constitute a crime due to a lack of visible injuries. Clancy is no longer employed by Capitol City Fire and Rescue.

Alaska's third special session on the proposed Alaska LNG project is underway, but lawmakers have yet to see a bill from Governor Mike Dunlevy. The session aims to advance the gas line project before Dunlevy leaves office in December, but some lawmakers are hesitant about proposed tax breaks for developers, seeking more reliable information on costs and profits.

A Juno man, Steve Burns, and his dog Bandit are recovering after a harrowing 12-hour ordeal on Thunder Mountain, where Bandit escaped during a hike. Burns managed to locate and rescue Bandit despite challenging conditions, highlighting the risks involved in pet rescues. Juno Mountain Rescue advises against putting oneself in danger for pets.

Juno Police have identified 74-year-old Ross Pasquan, whose body was found in a chest freezer at Switzer Village Mobile Home Park. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on the circumstances of his death, which may involve financial motives, as he had not been reported missing despite being unseen for years.

The Juno Assembly has voted to postpone nearly $25 million in proposed bond measures for school and utility projects until next year. Concerns over ballot language and the potential impact of multiple tax measures on voters influenced the decision, with some arguing that delaying maintenance could lead to higher future costs.

Members of Veterans for Peace are urging the city to address a free speech violation after a veteran was barred from carrying an anti-war sign during the 4th of July parade. The group argues that the parade, being a public event, should allow for protected speech, and they are calling for an update to the parade authorization resolution.

The candidate filing period for Juneau's upcoming municipal election has closed, with eight candidates vying for three assembly seats and three candidates for two school board seats. Ballots will be mailed to voters starting September 18th, with Election Day set for October 6th.

The Alaska Department of Transportation will begin a geotechnical investigation for the replacement of the temporary Montana Creek pedestrian bridge. The work is expected to last up to 18 days and will involve drilling and limited tree clearing, with the pedestrian bridge remaining mostly open during the project.

Juneau officials are closing access points in preparation for the anticipated Glacial Lake Outburst Flood. Residents are reminded to respect closures and stay away from the river, as past floods have caused significant damage and necessitated repairs.

A public hearing has been held regarding a ballot measure that proposes to repeal Alaska's ranked choice voting system and restore closed party primaries. Supporters argue the current system is confusing, while opponents believe it offers more choices and transparency in elections.

The Juno Assembly proclaimed August 26 as U.S. Coast Guard Appreciation Month while deferring major capital bond decisions. Public testimony highlighted issues with the city's paratransit contractor and concerns about wildlife safety, particularly regarding bears attracted to trash in downtown areas.

A Juneau man, Himaloto Foto, faces assault charges after allegedly threatening a neighbor with a handgun during a dispute. Police used SWAT and drones to apprehend him without incident, recovering the weapon used in the altercation.

A draft report from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers presents several options to mitigate glacial flood risks in the Mendenhall Valley, with costs ranging from $130 million to $1.5 billion. City officials emphasize that no decisions have been made yet, focusing first on this year's expected flooding.

The Alaska legislature's third special session is underway, but lawmakers have little to discuss after Governor Mike Dunlevy did not introduce a new natural gas pipeline tax bill. With no legislation on the table, sessions have been brief, and leaders express concerns about the costs of reconvening.

Jonathan Kress Tompkins has emerged as the top fundraiser in Alaska's gubernatorial race, raising $1.8 million, primarily from wealthy donors outside the state. Other candidates have also reported significant fundraising, with discussions around restoring campaign contribution limits ahead of the August election.

Over 3,000 Alaskans have been moved to inactive voter status due to potential non-citizenship flags, attributed to outdated DMV records. State officials are investigating the issue, emphasizing that those flagged can still vote after confirming their citizenship.

A recent shooting of a black bear near downtown Juno has led residents to call for the removal of an armed encampment on Capitol Avenue, citing public safety risks due to unsecured garbage attracting bears. The Alaska Wildlife Troopers are investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about wildlife management and community safety.

The Juno Assembly is set to discuss two major bond measures totaling $25 million for public school repairs and wastewater treatment improvements during its upcoming meeting. This follows a previous decision to not place similar measures on the ballot due to a crowded election schedule.