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Coaches, athletes and parents push House Finance Committee to fund Arctic Winter Games 2028 in Fairbanks
Summary
Coaches, parents and athletes urged the House Finance Committee to add $1.75 million to SB 214 to help Fairbanks host the 2028 Arctic Winter Games, citing youth development, cultural exchange and expected economic benefits.
Public testimony before the House Finance Committee on April 29 featured multiple appeals to add funding for the Arctic Winter Games if Fairbanks hosts the 2028 event. Leah Farzin, who said she coached Team Alaska figure skating in 2020 and 2026, asked the committee to "add the $1,750,000 to the budget to support Winter Games 2028 in Fairbanks," saying the Games bring roughly 2,000 athletes and about 3,000 friends and family and that participation helps youth develop teamwork and resilience.
Parents and athletes backed that request. Anne Weske, representing an athlete, said the Games are "about 95% celebrating our indigenous cultures," and described the event as an experience that builds pride and cross-cultural relationships. Athlete Drew Weske said the Games created deep bonds across communities, calling the experience “connection” and saying it will stay with him for life.
Representative Tomaszewski told the committee he intends to offer an amendment to fund the Games; Representative Ballard said Fairbanks funding needs would likely be larger in some scenarios, noting that organizers have discussed a $3.5 million package for a Fairbanks bid and that host communities can expect significant visitor spending. Ballard also relayed a figure cited by organizers — about $8 million in revenue if the host city secures approval and supports the event.
Committee co-chair Schrage noted public testimony will be accepted until 6 p.m. and thanked speakers for focusing their remarks on the youth and cultural benefits of the Games. No formal committee vote on an Arctic Winter Games amendment was recorded during this hearing.
Why it matters: Legislators weighing the capital budget must balance investments that produce direct community benefits and those that are primarily statewide economic incentives. Supporters told the committee the Games provide rare competitive and cultural opportunities for Alaska youth, and backers said hosting may deliver substantial local economic activity if the event proceeds in Fairbanks.
Next steps: Representative Tomaszewski indicated he would offer an amendment for the committee to consider; no floor action was taken during this hearing.
