In an effort to hear ideas and suggestions from those who would be most affected by the proposed Alaska natural gas line, Senate Republicans in the State Legislature are hosting a public meeting and listening session on Aug. 6 in Anchorage.

“The purpose of this meeting is to hear directly from the people who would experience the benefits and challenges of an Alaska gasline,” said Senator George Rauscher (R – Sutton), Co-Chair of the Alaska Gasline Caucus. “Mayors, utilities, and industry leaders understand the energy needs of their communities better than anyone. Their insight will help inform legislators and the public as we continue the conversation about securing affordable, reliable energy and creating long-term economic opportunities for Alaska.”

The Alaska Gasline Caucus will host a listening session with a panel of presenters from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Anchorage Legislative Information Office.

The listening session will feature presentations from Alaska mayors, industry leaders, and utility representatives who will discuss how a natural gas pipeline would affect their communities, businesses, and constituents. Speakers will share various perspectives on the economic, energy, and infrastructure benefits of bringing North Slope natural gas to Alaskans.

“The Alaska Gasline Caucus was formed to bring together legislators and stakeholders who recognize the importance of advancing an Alaska gasline,” said Representative Costello (R – Anchorage), co-chair of the Gasline Caucus. “This listening session is an opportunity for the public to hear directly from the communities, industries, and utilities that stand to benefit from the project and to better understand how natural gas can help meet Alaska’s long-term energy and economic needs.”

The gasline has been a major priority for Gov. Mike Dunleavy, but the project has faced intense opposition from the Democrat-controlled State Senate. Dunleavy has called lawmakers into three special sessions this summer to specifically work on approving gasline legislation.

Legislators, staff and the public are encouraged to attend the Aug. 6 meeting, which will also be available to watch online through Gavel Alaska.

Panelists at the event will include the following individuals:

— Mayor Edna DeVries, Mat-Su Borough

— Mayor Peter Micciche, Kenai Peninsula Borough

— Commissioner Cathy Munoz, Department of Labor and Workforce Development

— Patrick Rose, Department of Labor and Workforce Development

— Joe Balash, Alaska Chamber and Resource Development Council

— Tony Izzo, Matanuska Electric Association

— Matt Kissinger, Alaska Gasline Development Corporation

— Rebecca Logan, The Alliance

— Alicia Maltby, Associated Builders and Contractors

— Adam Prestidge, Glenfarne

— Luke Saugier, Hilcorp

— John Sims, EnStar

— Demian Voiles, Matanuska Telecom Association

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