Walker makes local appointments

Three Mat-Su Borough residents were among the appointments by Alaska Governor Bill Walker to various state boards and commissions.

Gerald Diotte, Jr. of Palmer was reappointed for a three-year term to the public/restricted seat on the Alaska Veterans Advisory Council. The Council works to identify and advocate for the needs of Alaskan servicemen and women in our state. Diotte, an aircraft maintenance manager of DynCorp International, begins his term Nov. 10.

Harold Henderson of Wasilla was appointed to the licensed professional counselor seat on the Board of Professional Counselors for a term which began Oct. 26 and runs through March 1, 2018.

The Board regulates licensing standards, examines applicants, and provides disciplinary sanction of professional counselors as needed. Henderson is the co-founder of Harvest Counseling Center in Wasilla and is also a counselor at Colony High School.

Walker appointed Houston resident and Houston Fire Department Chief Christian Hartley to the chief admin officer/fire chief/volunteer staff seat on the Alaska Fire Standards Council. His term began Oct. 26 and runs through Oct. 15, 2019. Alaska firefighters ensure the safety of Alaskans in times of great need. The Council works to provide a swift response when a home or business catches fire, as well as quality emergency care for Alaska’s families.