Peek at the Past: March 31, 1983

Here’s what made the news 29 years ago, from the March 31, 1983 edition of the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman:

Legislation would leave schools $1.9 million short

A bill already through the state House and entering the Senate would slam a financial blow to this school district’s 1983-84 budget if it passes. The school board already cut the $36 million budget about $1.5 million without touching existing programs or reducing the pupil-teacher ratio. The bill has no provision for districts experiencing growth, such as Mat-Su. District communications director Gordon Tope said he expects the shortfall to come out of the district’s budget and would most likely mean not hiring new teachers next year and cuts to existing programs.

Prison site study points to Sutton area

A cost effectiveness study on locating a maximum-security prison in the Palmer-Sutton area may be ready for the assembly and administration. Leading the study effort is Dr. Rick Enders, who explained that this area is still the most logical place for the prison from a cost standpoint. He said studies already completed by the past administration gives this area the edge because another study would cost more and put the program back about nine months. Enders said the borough wants to use the positive aspects of the study to influence legislative thinking, but added the information would all be positive. One Sutton area resident summed it up saying, “It sounds like a good idea, but when it lands in your backyard, maybe it isn’t such a good idea.”

Opposed to Lacher’s HB 164

A teleconference on House Bills 164, 201 and 245 on the Permanent Fund Dividend distribution received a variety of public comment. The majority of persons giving testimony statewide were opposed to HB 164. The bill provides for the distribution of the state’s permanent fund income to the municipalities and unincorporated communities. It also calls for repeal of the permanent fund dividend program.

It cost what?

According to advertisements, in 1983 you could:

• Purchase a state-of-the-art VHS recorder for $469.

• Rent a two-bedroom apartment in Wasilla for $525 a month.

• Purchase a 1982 Volvo for $9,700.