Dear Editor,

In recent weeks, my staff and I have had numerous conversations with youth service organizations and concerned individuals in Kodiak who are actively advocating for local youth. A concern that has been voiced numerous times is that an important funding grant for the Kodiak Youth Services Center (KYSC) was lost last year, resulting in a 80 percent reduction in their budget.

As a member of the finance subcommittee examining the Health and Social Services budget, I have emphasized the importance of KYSC to the committee during the last few weeks. I am pleased to announce that the budget proposed Feb. 19 by the subcommittee has earmarked $200,000 for Residential Child Care, which includes KYSC. Since budget cuts have affected the availability of youth services statewide, special attention to Kodiak’s needs is particularly noteworthy.

However, the budget as written has a long way to go. I urge the community to send emails or letters of support for this increase and explain how critical those funds are to local youth. In a time of statewide fiscal crisis, the united voice of a community can often make the difference in determining who receives assistance. The legislators you should write are Rep. John Harris and Rep. Bill Williams, Co-Chairs House Finance Committee, and Senator Lyda Green and Senator Gary Wilken, Co-Chairs Senate Finance Committee. I would also appreciate receiving a copy of your correspondence.

If approved, this money will provide programs at KYSC to help keep at-risk youth on the Island. I appreciate all of you who have raised concerns and helped keep me up to date on the issues facing our local kids. With our combined efforts, I am confident that KYSC will remain a vital part of our community.

Please contact my office with any questions you may have at 1-800-865-2487. You may also email me at rep.dan.ogg@legis.state.ak.us

Sincerely,

Representative Dan Ogg
465-2487