It looks like the Sealaska land-selection legislation will become part of a larger bill that could be easier to pass. At least that’s the case in the U.S. Senate. Meanwhile, opponents continue lobbying against the measure.
Southeast
Coast Guard charges helo crash survivor in crewmates’ deaths
The U.S. Coast Guard has brought criminal charges against the sole survivor of a 2010 helicopter crash in which three people from Air Station Sitka died. Lieutenant Lance Leone is facing possible court martial for negligence and the death of two of his crewmates.
Federal cuts could threaten ferry repairs
The Alaska Marine Highway System could be another casualty of federal budget battles. Money used to repair and maintain the aging ferry fleet could become much tighter in the near future.
Advisory panel chimes in on transportation plan
Alaska’s ferry advisory panel wants a few changes in Southeast’s transportation system. That could include new roads, such as one across Baranof Island from Sitka, that would shorten ferry routes.
Sealaska defaults on part of California casino land
Sealaska has lost some its California casino land to foreclosure. But the regional Native corporation says it won’t hinder the project. The hundred-million-dollar-plus hotel and casino will be built about 85 miles north of San Francisco.
Sealaska defers to Goldbelt on CBJ-Petersburg land flap
Sealaska Regional Native Corporation owns about 25-thousand acres of subsurface mining rights in an area being contested by the City and Borough of Juneau and Petersburg.