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Assembly approves first readings of FY26 budgets; debate centers on capital improvement program and utility rate increases
Summary
The Sitka City and Borough Assembly approved first readings of its fiscal-year 2026 ordinances for the general fund (4-1) and the enterprise funds (5-0) on April 8 amid debate about whether the capital improvement plan adequately lists school facility needs and amid public opposition to utility and fee increases.
The Sitka City and Borough Assembly held extended debate April 8 before approving first readings for its fiscal-year 2026 budget ordinances. The Assembly approved the general-fund ordinance on first reading by a 4-1 vote and the enterprise-fund ordinance on first reading by a 5-0 vote.
Finance director Brooke Falskank, in her second week on the job, acknowledged much of the work was completed by staff and offered to answer questions as they arise. Falskank told the Assembly that the long-term capital plan is required by the charter to inform the public of foreseeable needs but does not itself appropriate funds; this year's ordinance adopts the annual budget and the CIP as the public-facing plan.
Assembly member Janet Carlson (identified in the record as Miss Carlson) said she could not support the…
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