Ethics and Politics

With the indictment of Ted Stevens, the concept of ethical government in Alaska has taken another hit. The indictments and convictions of state legislators, the still-to-come trial of former Juneau representative Bruce Weyhrauch, and the recent flurry of issues surrounding Alaska's Department of Public Safety Commissioner have all contributed to the unsavory reputation Alaska politics is developing.

But this diary is not about state or federal politics, it is about Juneau politics. The Assembly is insulated from many of the ethical pressures and temptations that are at higher levels of government. First, because the Assembly is legally non-partisan, party politics does not control individual actions. Each member has their position, but we are not pressured to conform to a "party line." I think that is a good thing. Second, in our council/manager form of government the ability to direct money to individual causes (earmarks) is severely limited. Most budgeting is done by city staff, and while the Assembly has the power to change anything - its practical power is much less than state or federal levels. Third, the Alaska Open Meetings Act applies to everything the Assembly does. Unlike the state legislature-- we cannot "caucus" in private. Almost everything the city does is open to the public, and that scrutiny helps enforce ethical behavior. Since our system is not perfect, it needs your scrutiny.

So please keep it up. Attend public meetings. Attend or listen to Assembly meetings. Engage in this community government process. I think it works. But not without you.