Citizens hold sway

Even at a distance, public input key in Legislature

March 13, 2—7

By Russell Stigall

Frontiersman

JUNEAU - The state's capital is beautiful, and with the strong middle-class jobs provided by Alaska's government, the houses are quaint, the downtown vibrant and the arts and culture world class.

It would be difficult for the community to lose the government so vital to its year-round well being. But that is a question and a possibility under discussion, if not on the House floor, at least in House offices. And why would legislators want to move the capital? To be closer to the constituents.

&#8220Nothing substitutes for personal, face-to-face interaction,” Senate President Lyda Green, District H, said during a face-to-face interview

Monday.

In agreement, Rep. Bob Buch, District 27, said, &#8220There's nothing like your own voter, Republican or Democrat, staring you in the face.”

In the interim, before state and national flags flutter over Willow's proposed new capitol building, constituents are welcomed and encouraged to make the pilgrimage to Juneau and meet legislators in person.

A quick test at www.alaskaair.com turns up the cheapest ticket from Southcentral to Juneau. Cost: a 16-ounce latte shy of $500. If the citizen is lucky and isn't rerouted for weather, accommodations can cost as little as $15 per night at the Juneau Hostel. Be prepared to vacuum, mop or wipe sinks, though. At the other end, a visitor can spend $140 per night at the famous Baranof Hotel.

To meet a senator or representative is easier than it sounds. Constituents hold sway over almost every other group when it comes to scheduling time with a representative or senator.

&#8220Constituent is an important word for us,” said John Davis, staff member to Rep. Vic Kohring. &#8220Constituents are a priority on our calendar.”

When a lobbyist for the Tongass National Forest was asked whether legislators are just like normal people, he answered, &#8220No, they're bionic.”

But then he said, &#8220Just kidding, they are actually very kind and engaging.”

And this is true. Voters put legislators in their offices. Legislators are thankful for that.

For the eager constituent traveling to Juneau, here are some rules for effective citizen lobbying.

According to attorney and lobbyist David E. Rogers, when constituents have scheduled a meeting with a Mat-Su representative or senator, they should be prepared and be brief.

&#8220Hit the high points,” agreed Rep. Mark Neuman, District 15.

&#8220Be very precise in what you are talking about.”

Typically, meetings with legislators last 15 to 30 minutes. Usually, Neuman said, within five minutes, he knows what constituents want.

Green recommended setting up all appointments before leaving the

Valley.

&#8220And bring a buddy,” Green said, because it helps to remind each other to stay on topic.

Even if a legislator is unavailable, a constituent's Juneau visit is not wasted. At times, especially in the busy final 45 days of the session, constituents have to be satisfied with meeting a staff member.

&#8220Don't be offended,” Green said.

There are times also when legislators get trapped by poor weather. Kohring was held up by a snowstorm, missing an 11 a.m. interview on

Monday.

Being part of the Legislature does not require a week-long trip to Juneau. If constituents want to contact their legislators without the travel time, they can visit the Legislative Information Office at Railroad Avenue. Or send an e-mail.

Green says she gets a lot of input from e-mails and phone calls, and said she &#8220still gets handwritten letters.”

&#8220If you have a television or computer, it is an easily accessed system,” Green said.

Contact Russell Stigall at 352-2267 or russell.stigall@frontiersman.com.