Mat Su Borough Residents Demand Accountability on Gas Tax and Education Spending

During the recent Regular Assembly Meeting on August 5, 2025, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, significant concerns were raised regarding the borough's budget and a newly approved gas tax. Community member Linda Spohn expressed her disappointment over the assembly's decision to implement a 7-cent per gallon gas tax without putting it to a public vote. She argued that this decision undermines the principles of government accountability and transparency, especially after hearing numerous testimonies against the tax.

Spohn highlighted that a substantial portion of the borough's budget—58.1%—is allocated to education, which she criticized as ineffective. She called for a reevaluation of the education system, suggesting that privatization and increased support for private schools could provide better options for families and improve educational outcomes. Spohn emphasized that despite Alaska's high spending per student, the state ranks last in academic achievement, indicating a disconnect between funding and results.

Her remarks resonated with broader concerns about government spending and the need for fiscal responsibility. Spohn urged the assembly to consider budget cuts rather than increasing taxes, warning that continued financial mismanagement could jeopardize the future of the community and its children.

The assembly's decisions and discussions during this meeting reflect ongoing debates about fiscal policy and educational reform in the borough, highlighting the need for community engagement and accountability in local governance. As the borough moves forward, the implications of these discussions will likely continue to shape public sentiment and policy decisions in the Matanuska-Susitna area.