News from Patrick Flynn

Happy one week ‘til solstice, when winter begins (unless you live in Alaska and it started back in October).  Tuesday’s meeting, on December 13, was the last Assembly assembly until January 17 so those afflicted with excess interest in local politics have no choice but to relax and enjoy the holidays with family and friends.  In an effort to tide you over, here are a few tidbits from the front lines.

First off, a big thank you to the legions of folks who expressed support for Anchorage’s Parks & Recreation department.  You made a huge difference in convincing eight Assembly members to approve a little extra funding for those worthy programs.  I’d be remiss if I didn’t also thank my colleague, Bill Starr, for his help.  He and I have very different political philosophies but I truly appreciate his commitment to the role the Assembly plays in setting municipal policy.  I believe our common ground on that subject pays dividends to our community.

On the topic of fireworks, expect another somewhat noisy New Year’s Eve.  While the added restrictions on their use will theoretically retard the explosion (sorry) of activity we saw last year, the genie doesn’t return to the bottle that quickly.  With a blanket prohibition slated to resume in 2012 it’ll be interesting to see if and how this discussion continues.

Library fans were very kind in their appreciation of the small increase in materials funding the Assembly added to the budget.  What most folks don’t know but I consider rather important is those incremental funds can be leveraged to obtain additional support from other sources – a rather impressive multiplier effect.  Best of luck to those working to stretch those dollars for the benefit of all library patrons.

Congratulations to backers of One Anchorage, who succeeded in placing a long-overdue amendment to Anchorage Equal Rights code on the April ballot.  The proposition closely mirrors the ordinance I authored a little over two years ago and respects the varying perspectives on sexual orientation.

Fans and critics of the Anchorage Port project will be well served to keep an eye on things during the holiday season.   It should be worth your time.

Finally, and most importantly, here’s to a healthy, happy, prosperous 2012 for you and yours.

Regards,

Patrick