Juneau’s mayoral candidates, Beth Weldon and Angela Rodell, tackled key issues at the League of Women Voters forum. Catastrophic flooding, tourism overcrowding, and homelessness topped the agenda.
Flooding remains a pressing concern, with Mendenhall Valley experiencing its second year of devastating floods. Weldon described the city’s response as “pretty good,” crediting collaborative efforts with tribes, state leaders, and volunteers. She highlighted short-term solutions like six-foot-high sandbags and long-term plans developed with the Army Corps of Engineers.
Rodell emphasized the need for short-term and long-term solutions, stressing the importance of pressuring the federal government for assistance. She noted that 300 families are anxious about Suicide Basin refilling and potential property damage.
Addressing Juneau’s Critical Challenges
Tourism overcrowding was another hot topic. Weldon pointed to agreements limiting cruise ships to five per day and capping passenger numbers at 16,000 on certain days. A fifth cruise ship dock is planned for downtown Juneau to alleviate congestion.
Rodell supported the dock construction, citing reduced congestion and job creation. However, neither candidate mentioned the ‘Ship-Free Saturdays’ ballot initiative, which would ban large cruise ships on Saturdays.
Homelessness was also addressed. Weldon highlighted the city’s $5 million investment in homelessness programs and the Housing First initiative, which reduced street homelessness from 100 to 20-25 individuals.
Rodell questioned allocating significant resources to homelessness while hundreds of Mendenhall Valley families face flooding concerns. She prioritized supporting residents and property owners.
Juneau’s Critical Challenges extend to hospital staffing and government spending. The candidates discussed workforce issues at community hospitals and municipal expenditures.
Assembly candidates also spoke at the forum, with three open seats up for grabs. Juneau’s elections will occur on October 1, alongside 17 other communities.
Addressing Juneau’s Critical Challenges requires careful consideration of competing priorities. As the city navigates flooding, tourism, and homelessness, residents will decide who will lead them forward.
Juneau’s Critical Challenges will continue to shape the city’s future, and the mayoral candidates’ responses will influence voters’ decisions.
This news story was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
