Alaska State Legislature

News From The House Majority

Ken Freeman, Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801
phone: (907) 465-3804
web site: http://www.akrepublicans.org
Actuality line: 1-800-478-6540

Measure to Extend Economic Programs (ARDOR's) Passes Senate

For Immediate Release: May 6, 1997 Contact: Rep. Alan Austerman (907) 465-2487

JUNEAU - The Alaska State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that extends the sunset clause for the Alaska Regional Development Organizations (ARDOR's) to July 1, 2000.

The ARDOR's were created by statute in 1988. They are private, nonprofit corporations formed by local initiative to promote private sector economic development within their designated regions. The Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference (SWAMC), which includes Kodiak, has over 130 public and private sector members.

"I firmly believe in this cooperative economic development effort. It has been a successful program in providing an arena where regions can work on issues of common interest," said Representative Alan Austerman (R-Kodiak).

Representative Alan Austerman introduced House Bill 35 to ensure the continuation of sound economic development on a regional basis. As regional non-profits, ARDOR's have the unique ability to forge strong partnerships with the public and private sectors within their regions and collectively throughout the state.

ARDOR's have successfully leveraged millions of dollars into regions throughout the state for a number of projects and services vital to the strong economic growth of Alaska," said Austerman.

HB 35 now goes to the Governor for his signature.

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