August 27, 2021 (Anchorage, AK) – Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson today vetoed Ordinance No. AO 2021-76, passed by the Anchorage Assembly's Regular Meeting on August 24, 2021. Mayor Bronson provided the following justification in his veto:
I have reviewed the ordinance, heard the Assembly's justifications for and against the ordinance, and understand the sentiments expressed during public testimony. As you know, addressing homelessness is a pillar of my administration. The homelessness crisis in Anchorage does not require another board or commission to contemplate or pontificate policy suggestions or to make advisory recommendations. Instead, the homelessness crisis demands action.
As you know, the Municipality already has a Homeless, Housing, and Neighborhood Development (HHAND) Board specifically designated to “advise the Mayor and the Assembly on issues related to long and short-term housing, homeless and community development needs… and strategies to effect revitalization of lower-income and at risk neighborhoods." Moreover, the stated purpose of the proposed Houseless Lived Experience Advisory Board replicates work being done by the Houseless Resource Advisory Council (HRAC). The HRAC also has voting members who have experienced or are experiencing homelessness. There is no need to create an additional board and incur increased costs to simply replicate the advocacy work already being done by HRAC or HHAND.
Anchorage's resources should be used to focus on helping those experiencing homelessness rather than to just talk about it.
Media Contact: Matt Shuckerow, Interim Communications Director, Mayor's Office, matthew.shuckerow@anchorageak.gov, 907-744-2771
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