When seeking financial assistance to promote and encourage economic development in Whittier, the three words I hear most from granting agencies as well as other private and political figures regarding funding and development support are, “consistency, stability and accountability”.

A few years ago our community went through an extensive and thorough comprehensive planning process where everyone had an opportunity to voice their thoughts as to what direction they wanted to see our community grow. The consensus was that nearly everyone wanted to see harbor expansion, Shotgun Cove road and “head of the bay” development as three priorities in Whittier. Recently, I went to Washington DC seeking federal support for these major projects. I am happy to report that with a lot of hard work, we are making significant progress. The City of Whittier was able to clearly illustrate that Whittier’s requests are consistent with our community’s comprehensive plan and our priority goals. Whittier is now being seen as consistent, stable and accountable. We still have work ahead of us, so we must continue operating and being vigilant in developing and projecting this consistent, stable and accountable image.

I am proud of the accomplishments I see around Whittier. We now have a beautiful hotel, several new businesses, a new ferry terminal, a Cruise Ship facility, paved parking lot with extra wide side walks, an Alaska Railroad Pedestrian tunnel connecting residential and business districts, all of which improve the image and efficiency of Whittier.

It is now Whittier’s turn to “step up to the plate” and be responsible for encouraging economic growth and development in our community by creating jobs, housing and other economic opportunities. Sometimes the wheels of government turn more slowly than that in the private sector, but rest assured, Whittier is definitely on the right track, and state and federal agencies are beginning to see Whittier’s value to Alaska’s economy.