Mat-Su Borough residents voice opposition to election machines and proposed board expansions

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly held a regular meeting on March 18, 2025, addressing several key issues affecting the community. The meeting featured public comments and discussions on various topics, including water body setbacks, election integrity, and the structure of road service advisory boards.

The meeting began with concerns raised by a resident regarding the lengthy approval process for applications related to water body setbacks. The speaker expressed frustration over potential delays that could hinder development, emphasizing the need for timely responses from the borough staff. This concern was echoed by others who fear that stringent regulations could disproportionately affect waterfront property owners.

Public comments also included strong opposition to the use of voting machines in elections. Several residents advocated for a return to paper ballots and hand counting, citing a lack of trust in electronic systems. They referenced past issues with tabulators and called for a focus on transparency and integrity in the electoral process.

Another significant topic was the proposed ordinance to change the membership of road service advisory boards from two to five members. Multiple community members voiced their opposition, arguing that the current three-member boards function effectively and that the proposed changes were unnecessary. They highlighted the importance of local knowledge and community engagement in decision-making processes.

Additionally, discussions touched on library issues, with some residents expressing concern over the content of books available to children. They called for greater oversight and community involvement in library decisions, emphasizing the need to protect young readers from inappropriate material.

The assembly also heard from residents advocating for improved code enforcement, particularly in relation to existing regulations rather than introducing new codes. They stressed the importance of having adequate enforcement officers to ensure compliance with current laws.

In conclusion, the assembly meeting highlighted a range of community concerns, from environmental regulations and election integrity to local governance and library content. The discussions underscored the need for continued dialogue between the assembly and residents to address these pressing issues effectively. The assembly is expected to consider the feedback received as they move forward with legislative decisions.