Juneau -- Representative Norman Rokeberg (R-Anchorage) Thursday introduced legislation which creates competition for the construction of a new legislative hall for Alaska.

House Bill 234 would permit the Alaska Legislative Council to develop specifications and solicit proposals for a new legislative hall. The bill allows proposals from boroughs or unified municipalities with at least 30,000 residents, which would include Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna, Fairbanks, Fairbanks North Star Borough, Juneau, and Kenai Peninsula Borough.

Upon making a selection, the legislative council would be responsible for carrying out the terms of the proposal, and for the operation and maintenance of the building. The rent would be set at $1 per year. The new hall would be completed and ready for occupancy by June 30, 2003.

Rokeberg contends that while efforts have been made to update the State Capitol, which was built in 1931, there are major problems that need to be addressed, including: corridors which do not meet the current fire and safety building codes; limited ingress and egress for the disabled; lack of amenities such as parking and a public lounge; antiquated heating and ventilation systems; inadequate wiring for electrical and telecommunication services; and insufficient office, chamber, and committee space. "The capitol building has outlived its usefulness as a legislative hall," says Rokeberg, "It is time to have a modern, functional building."

Rokeberg admits that he is well aware that introducing this legislation at a time when Alaska's financial future is uncertain may seem problematic. He nevertheless asserts that the construction of a new legislative hall requires long-range planning, and now is the time to start the discussion.

"This bill provides a fair, equitable and competitive mechanism for procuring a legislative hall adequate for the 21st century. There is no reason why Alaska should not invest in a new legislative home, and it is appropriate to discuss it now."

"HB 234 will provide Alaskans with an up-to-date, accessible, and safe legislative hall - a distinguished symbol of our government, and a structure that Alaskans can be proud of," Rokeberg says.

Broadcasters note: Audio comments are available on the Majority Actuality line, 1-800-478-6540
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