Alaska government migrates to the north

[The Straight Story]

Alaska government migrates to the north

Capital shift?

Alaskans have argued for generations over the location of the state capital, about access and power and the weather in Juneau. But in just two years, and with hardly any debate, Gov. Sarah Palin has shifted the center of state government to Anchorage.

Juneau still gets the state Legislature -- at least during the 90 days a year when lawmakers are in regular session. But the governor's mansion in Juneau sits empty for most of the year, as Palin chooses to govern from the Atwood Building in downtown Anchorage and commute to her home in Wasilla. Only three of her 14 commissioners live in Juneau, a huge change from previous governors who insisted cabinet members live and work in the capital city.

Juneau's legislators say they are glumly counting up the number of state jobs shipped from their town.

"This administration has had the biggest pull of people out of Juneau we've seen," said state Rep Beth Kerttula, a Juneau Democrat. "As one of Juneau's representatives, it's been extremely difficult because we have constituents call us in almost a panic."

http://www.adn.com/politics/story/630232.html

[Bluestar]

1. Just Sarah, spreading her joy around n/t