Retirement
Dear Editor: This week the city’s expert project manager, Kelli Cropper, will retire.
Over the years she has successfully managed some of Sitka’s most complex projects including the new library and Centennial Hall.
Bringing big projects to completion without litigation or cost overruns takes a lot of skill and experience.
Thank you and good luck, Kelli,
Hugh Bevan, Sitka
Thanks to Stedman
Dear Editor: I am writing to commend Sen. Bert Stedman for listening to his constituents about the child care crisis and its impact on Alaska’s children, families, employers and schools.
Child care advocates asked legislators to increase state spending from $1 million to $15 million in a budget line item for child care. This increase would mean better wages for child care workers. That proposed increase, however, did not make the House operating budget.
Under Senator Stedman’s leadership, the $15 million was included in the Finance Committee’s counterproposal, the Committee Substitute. This will go to the floor of the Senate after public comment. If it is passed by the Senate, it will be returned to the House for further consideration.
Please let the Senate know that child care is at the foundation of our state and local economies and that families depend on child care. Senator Stedman can be reached at sen.bert.stedman@akleg.gov. Please thank him for his attention to children and families. The Early Childhood Coalition and Child Care Now will work to update you on public comment opportunities.
Kari Sagel, Sitka,
Early Childhood Coalition
