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Officials raise Selawik water, sewer and logistics concerns; airline service loss noted
Summary
During the Mayors report Assembly members flagged unresolved Selawik water and sewer maintenance, questions about disaster declarations and reimbursement for lime, housing and logistics; Craig McConnell also warned that Ravn is pulling out of Unalakleet, prompting calls to solicit alternative carriers.
During the mayoral and administrative reports at the May 20 Assembly meeting, officials outlined continuing water and sewer problems in Selawik and logistical challenges for summer maintenance.
VIF Project Coordinator Hiram Walker and CEDC Director Chuck Greene summarized work on Selawiks water and sewer projects and related travel authorized under the Mayors budget. Raven Sheldon said the City of Selawik is still waiting to meet with Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium representatives and DOWL engineering about summer maintenance and requested Walkers presence at follow-up discussions. Craig McConnell asked whether meetings had been rescheduled and emphasized immediate material needs such as lime; Derek Haviland Lie asked if a disaster declaration remained in effect and whether lime costs could be reimbursed.
Assembly members including Magdanz and McConnell pressed administration and legal staff on responsibility and accountability for repeated freeze-up and service gaps, and asked for clarity about reimbursement and whether agreements (including rent return or lease terms) would be required. Public Safety Director Darrel Hildebrand also described potential staffing and grant shortfalls that could affect response and maintenance timelines.
Why it matters: Persistent water and sewer disruptions and gaps in carrier service affect community health, school attendance and supply chains in borough villages. Members said they needed clearer timelines, assignment of responsibilities and information about funding or reimbursement eligibility.
What happens next: Administration said it will work with legal counsel and relevant agencies to clarify responsibilities and follow up with the Assembly; staff will coordinate meetings with ANTHC, DOWL and village officials to resolve maintenance plans and procurement questions.
