Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly approves higher meeting fees after split vote

The Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly voted Oct. 2 to enact Ordinance 25-09, raising the compensation rate paid to Assembly members for meeting attendance after a divided debate over budget impacts.

Public Services Director Johnson introduced the ordinance and recommended passage. Several members, including Lincoln Carr and President Nathan Hadley Jr., voiced concern about timing and the borough's budget constraints; assembly member Craig McConnell and two residents who called in, Cindy Fields and Ruth Iten, urged caution citing the borough's fiscal pressures. McConnell recommended aligning the rate with the School District's $250 daily rate.

Delores Barr moved to amend the proposal, reducing the increase to $400 per day instead of the proposed $450; Austin Swan Sr. seconded the amendment. That amendment failed on a tie vote. Walter Sampson then moved to enact Ordinance 25-09 as presented, seconded by Derek Haviland Lie; the motion passed by roll call, six in favor and four opposed.

The debate centered on balancing elected-official compensation with the borough's budget priorities. Opponents emphasized current and anticipated budget cuts and argued the increase should be delayed or reduced; supporters said the adjustment helps ensure fair compensation for members who travel and serve the region.

Because the minutes record only the motion-level roll call outcomes, the detailed roll-call breakdown for each member's vote beyond the 6-4 tally was not specified in the record. The ordinance takes effect per borough procedures unless a further administrative step is required.

The Assembly continued with other business after the vote; the next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 27-28, 2025.