KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
This weekend a group of people are trying to rekindle a discussion about land use and logging in Kodiak.
It’s been about six months since dozens of Chiniak residents packed the borough assembly chambers to oppose a proposed land sale between the Kodiak Island Borough and A-1 Timber Consultants, Inc.
The 800 acres of borough land that was up for consideration was estimated to bring $2 million of revenue to the borough, but after heated public comments regarding current logging practices in Chiniak were expressed, the idea was taken off the table and no formal motions were ever made by assembly members to pursue the matter further.
While that land sale has seemingly died, the animosity toward logging expressed by community members during the October meeting is still alive and well. That’s why some community members are holding an informal meeting to discuss the matter this weekend.
Bonny McWethy helped organize the event.
“It came about because people were concerned about the logging and the roads in Chiniak.”
She said it will be pretty informal with a few facilitators to help direct the converstaion. Overall the goal is to give everyone a chance to voice their opinions on the matter.
“We’re aware this is a very controversial issue and there’s a lot to it. It’s very complicated and we would like to invite everyone to come to the meeting. We want to hear all sides, we don’t want to be blind to anything, blind to anyone’s needs.”
The meeting will be this Saturday at 6 p.m. at Fisherman’s Hall.
