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Assembly approves transfer of old McQueen School to City of Kivalina; residents press for housing and safety fixes
Summary
The Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly voted Aug. 27 to transfer the old McQueen School “as is” to the City of Kivalina at the city’s request. Community members welcomed the transfer but urged action on VPSO housing, evacuation-road repairs, fire hazards and patient lodging.
The Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly voted Aug. 27 in Kivalina to turn the old McQueen School over to the City of Kivalina after the city formally requested the property.
Mayor Austin Swan Sr. told the Assembly that the City of Kivalina is interested in taking ownership of the school so it can be used for community activities. Vice President Walter Sampson moved to transfer the property “as is”; Member Delores Barr seconded the motion, and the Assembly approved the turnover by unanimous roll-call vote.
Why it matters: City leaders and residents said the building will provide space for gatherings and community programs in a village that has limited public facilities. Residents and Assembly members asked for clarity on what constitutes a legal transfer, what assets and liabilities will move with the building, and whether the School District must sign off on disposal of the property.
Community members at the meeting said the turnover is welcome but stressed urgent needs that remain unaddressed. Community Member Becky Norton expressed appreciation for the environmental program and asked that VPSO housing and Trooper responsiveness be addressed so safety services can function. Nelda Swan and other residents raised fire-safety concerns at a small community building with damaged doors and windows and asked about grants or startup funding to renovate the gym and other gathering spaces. Elder Joe Swan and others described an evacuation road that was built “temporary,” noting a bus recently went off the road and asking where material and grant funding for repairs would come from.
Assembly members acknowledged the concerns. Member Craig McConnell, who also referenced recent public-safety work and a boiler program available for Elders, encouraged residents to sign up for existing programs; Member Reid Magdanz and Member Lincoln Carr highlighted housing shortages and the need for timely action. President Nathan Hadley Jr. said borough staff and the Assembly will follow up and that the Assembly plans to meet with the School District to clarify disposal steps.
Next steps: The Assembly approved the turnover and directed follow-up conversations with the School District and borough staff to specify the terms of the transfer and any outstanding obligations. The Assembly’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 23–24, 2024.
