Candidates vie for election to Susitna Community Council

MAT-SU — Susitna Community Council elections will be the highlight of the Nov. 3 meeting. Running for open seats on the community council are:

Director (two-year term) four seats

Bob Dawson

“Just want to see it done right, honestly and above board for everyone.”

Phenie Miller

“I came to Alaska on vacation in 1975 and did not return to California. My husband, Fred, and I purchased Sheep Creek Lodge in 2006 and enjoy living in the Valley. I have been in executive management positions and held leadership roles and/or participated in numerous nonprofit organizations. My experience has taught me to see, hear and understand multiple perspectives and find collaborative, creative solutions to meet diverse objectives. I look forward to continuing my service on the Susitna Community Council board and finding solutions that meet the diverse needs of the varied communities represented by this council.”

Robert Coleman

“I am pleased with the many accomplishments of the Susitna Community Council. From the Department of Transportation redesign of the Parks Highway to the inclusion of the Su Valley Safety Crossing in the State Transportation Plan, many good things have been done. However, we still are faced with many issues and untold infrastructure needs remain. I would appreciate the opportunity to continue serving as a board member and keeping the council working for the residents of the Upper Susitna Valley.”

Bronn Salmon

“I am husband and father of four. I finished my master’s degree in California where (I was) stationed while serving eight years in the Marines. I was in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm and spent 10 years working for the Department of Defense as an IT specialist during both 9/11 and Operation Iraqi Freedom. I have owned my own IT consulting business for more than 16 years, participated in several community boards, volunteer organizations and, if re-elected, I will continue to do my best to insure this community continues to grow while not losing the essence of what makes it a special place to live and play.”

Alternate Director (one-year term) two seats

Bruce Gunderson

No statement received.

Scott Holcomb

“I have served on our community council now for several years. I’m willing to serve some more for the same reasons as before. I want to see this area continue to be a quality place to live and work. The community council has an impact on this in as much as it is the community’s voice to those beyond our boundaries (i.e. borough, state and others), who make decisions that affect us.”

Bill Stearns

“The existing members of the Susitna Community Council have done a commendable job of dealing with issues in Sunshine, Caswell and the adjacent areas, as well as planning and initiating new programs and ideas. This council is well-respected, which is demonstrated by responses from borough and state authorities. I have lived in the Sunshine area since 1988 and believe I can contribute to that continuing effort by utilizing my knowledge and insight of the infrastructure is this district. I am also prepared to stand on the sidelines when there may be a perceived conflict with my existing businesses.”