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Home My WebLink AboutChevak Community Plan 2007Chevak Community Plan Developed by the Chevak Planning Committee and the residents of Chevak With support from Rural Alaska Community Action Program and the Denali Commission August 2007 Acknowledgements The Chevak Community Plan is the product of a coordinated effort of the Chevak Planning Team, City of Chevak, Chevak Native Village (referred to henceforth as the Qissunamiut Tribal Council), Chevak Native Corporation, and residents of Chevak. This plan is a direct result of their contributions of time, knowledge of their community, and desire for a sustainable future. Chevak Planning Team: Ulric J. Ulroan John Atchak Earl Atchak Roy Atchak John Pingayak Xavier Atcherian James Ayuluk Wayne Hill Tony Umugak Dennis Jones Richard Slats Three planning team workshops and one community meeting were held throughout the summer of 2007 to gather public input for the plan. At the community workshop in July 2007, approximately 150 residents attended. Thanks to the City of Chevak, Chevak Tribal Council, and Chevak Company Corporation for the generous contributions of door prizes. This plan was prepared by Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP). RurAL CAP is a private nonprofit organization working to improve the quality of life for low-income Alaskans. Rural Alaska Community Action Program: David Hardenbergh, Executive Director Mitzi Barker, Director, Rural Housing & Planning Janet Hall, Interagency Liaison, RurAL CAP & Denali Commission Nathaniel Betz, Community Planning Intern, co-author Walter Ramsey, Community Planning Intern, co-author Funding for the preparation of the plan was provided by the Denali Commission. The Denali Commission is an innovative federal-state partnership designed to provide critical utilities, infrastructure, and economic support throughout Alaska. Denali Commission: [wi ‘Q (ii, + George Cannelos, Federal Co-Chair ee Governor Sarah Palin, State Co-Char NATE sere Chevak Community Plan: Table of Contents Vision Statement .......... cece ceee cette eee eeee teresa eeeeeeseeeeaeeeeaeeeesaneeneees Planning Principles and Process ..............ccceceeeeeeeeeeeeeee eee eee essa eeneeen ness Executive Summary of Chevak: Background Information and History ......... 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As a people of great resilience flourishing in the harshest climate of the world, we honor our Creator, our ancestors that led us through past generations, our elders of today, our parents, and our own children. We strive to preserve the practice of subsistence that has provided the essence of our identity and culture. Taught from generation to generation it is certainly as essential now for our sustenance today as it has been for the past two thousand years. Chevak is renowned for its preservation of traditional and cultural heritage, and will continue to hold them in highest esteem as we seek to incorporate a balance of the most useful aspects of the cash-economy, with which we are confronted today. We embark today to fulfill a successful life of self-sustenance and sufficiency that has brought us this far as the Cup’ik people, utilizing these strengths and values. Principles, Process, and Purpose of Planning The guiding principles of RurAL CAP’s planning philosophy are the following: e Alaskans are rich in cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. e The landscape of development and methods for the sustained efficacy of the rural Alaskan way of life are unique variables that will require dedicated local effort to attain and maintain. e The most effective rural planning ties the traditional values that have sustained the comprehensive history of rural Alaska, with the capacity to function independently within a larger system of governance and economy. The plan itself chronicles the past, present, and future goals of a community and develops a comprehensive document that serves both as a platform for community advancement and as evidence of the community’s motivation, public leadership, and popular support. It addresses broad-based issues, and acts as a guide for prioritizing future, project-specific planning. Alaska State Statutes mandate the development of a community plan for second class cities, such as Chevak. Additionally, federal, state, and non-profit funding organizations recognize the need for rural communities to develop their priorities into an organized framework. Since 2005, the Denali Commission has mandated a community plan as a requisite for funding. This plan meets the Denali Commission standards. The development of this, Chevak’s first community plan, has been achieved through the leadership of the City of Chevak’s first-term mayor, Ulrich Ulroan, with the considerable support and full cooperation of both the Qissunamiut Tribal Council and the Chevak Company Corporation. Throughout the process of development this plan has achieved consensus and cooperation from all local entities and the people of Chevak on the direction of Chevak’s future advancement. Community Planning Session 7/19/07 Executive Summary of Background & History Chevak Background Due to flooding, and the need to establish a BIA school on solid ground, the Qissunaq people moved from their original site, “Old Chevak” in 1946. Though the new, current village site was situated on the traditional subsistence ground of Hooper Bay, it was given full approval by an agreement reached between the two peoples. In addition to the new village site, the agreement provided that no boundaries would be drawn between the two villages limiting the other’s subsistence. The new Chevak village site was first reported by the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey in 1948 and a post office was established by 1951. By 1967, a municipal government had been incorporated. Chevak Native Village was organized in 1972 as a federally recognized non-profit under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). Currently it has an enrolled membership of over 1,200 people. Today, almost 96% of the Chevak population is either part or entirely Native Alaskan, and the community thrives with a rapidly growing population, half of which is under 19 years of age. Physical Setting “During winter, the tundra is still, like a sleeping giant, and in spring it comes to life with millions of nesting birds that migrate here from other parts of the country. When the sun comes up in the morning, the land is cast with many emerging colors. At twilight, colors illuminate the rolling hills and the clouds high in the atmosphere.” John Pingayak Fish Camp Location Chevak is located in the Southwest region of Alaska on the coastal lowlands between the Yukon and Kuskokwim river deltas. The village is situated on a bluff on the west bank of the Ninglikfak River, roughly 20 miles from the Bering Sea and 130 miles west of Bethel. Chevak is within the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge, the Bethel Recording District, the Wade Hampton Census Area, and is a part of the Unorganized Borough. The closest village is Hooper Bay, 17 miles away. Chevak is located in section 34, T17N, RQOW of the Seward meridian, and at the geographic coordinates 61° 31’N 165° 35’°W * he Source: DCCED cy Chevak is considered to be within the transitional zone between maritime and continental climate, experiencing maritime in the warmer summer and continental in the winter when sheet ice forms over the Bering Sea. July temperatures average 52°F, and in January 10°F, with significant surface winds year-round. The mean average temperature is 29°F. Snowfall averages 70 inches per year and annual precipitation is 20 inches. Freeze-up occurs in October with break-up in June (ASCG Road Feasibility Study). Climate Natural Resources The two forms of land features in the delta are lowlands, known as maraq in Cup’ik; and highlands called nunapik. The maraq are marshy wetlands with coastal flooding and are popular waterfowl nesting areas in the spring and summer. Nunapik is found farther from the coast, Es , where rivers and lakes become fresh [~~ = water. Coastal flooding is not 7" present, and there is an abundance of berries and sod. The Cup’ik people have many uses for tundra plants, including food, medicine, basket making, and insulation. The village sits near one of the largest waterfowl flyways in the world. More than one million ducks and half a million geese use the area for breeding purposes each year. There are also very large seasonal concentrations of northern pintails, loons, grebes, swans, cranes, and spectacled eiders. Salmon, herring, and other fish are prevalent in the area, and vital to subsistence. The salmon runs follow the herring in June and continue through the summer. Chevak residents spend most of the summer in fish camps catching, drying, and smoking fish. Geology Typical of coastal lowlands, the geology consists of alluvial deposited loams, silts, and fine sands. The stratified soils are covered by a thick mat of peat. Continuous permafrost underlies the tundra, with the exception of that land in close proximity to large bodies of water. The active layer is approximately 18 inches deep and is saturated during the thaw. As a result, buildings and water lines are elevated to reduce sinking. The village is located on bluff 30 feet above the Ninglikfak River. The Army Corps of Engineers lists the flooding potential of the village as low. However the lowland beneath the bluff, including the boat and barge landing flood annually in the fall. The USGS registers Chevak in Seismic Risk Zone 2, indicating a low risk of earthquake occurrence and damage (ASCG Road Feasibility Study). Demographics Derivation of Data Much of the data used in this section and throughout the plan is derived from 2000 U.S. Census. Although this plan was produced in August of 2007, this was the most recent census data was available. As such, these numbers may not be precise, but are useful as indicators of status and various relationships. The planning committee should update this section of the plan when the next census is conducted in 2010. Wade Hampton Census Area Chevak is in the Wade Hampton Me Wade Hampton Census Area Census Area. Covering 17,194 square miles, the Wade Hampton is home to 1.2% of Alaska's population. Population density is 0.4 people per square mile, high compared with other rural census areas, but well below the statewide average of 1.1 people per square mile. By per capita income, Wade Hampton is considered the 8" poorest county in United States. It Souce: Alaska Departmert of Labor And Wotkforce Development, Research and Analysis and Buea is part of Alaska’s Unorganized sinieineaaionel Borough. The majority of the settlements in the Census Area are along The Yukon River, with the exception of Scammon Bay, Hooper Bay and Chevak, all to the southwest on the Bering Coast. Bethel is the regional hub, but located in a separate census area. Cash Income Chevak meets all three of the Denali Commission’s 2007 Distressed Communities Criteria standards: e Average market income in 2006 is less than $14,872 ($7,416) e More than 70% of residents 16 and over earned less than $14,872 in 2006 (82.9%) e Less than 30% of residents 16 and over worked all four quarters of 2006 (14.2%) Population The most current population count by the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development (DCCED) is 908 residents for 2006. The earliest recorded estimate is 43 residents between 1940 and 1950, when the ‘New Chevak’ town site was established. The population has risen steadily compared to other rural areas. The population has increased 30% between 1990 and 2000, and 19% between | 2000 and 2005. o+ According to these Ss growth rates, the population will be in the 1000 +— 750 Population 8 n a 3 Source: U.S. Census Data Chevak Population (1940-2006) range of 1,079 to 1,179 residents in 2010. The planning team estimates that there are roughly 1,000 residents living in Chevak as of August 2007. Age and Gender Age distribution can be used as an indicator of what resources and programs the community may need for specific age groups, and information about the available labor force. The age distribution in Chevak indicates high growth in youth population. In 2000, 55% of Chevak was under the age of 19. The median age for the census area and Chevak is far lower than the state as a whole. The median age in Chevak was Chevak Population Distribution by Age (2000) 65.and over 4% 45 to 64 years old 11% Under 19 years 20 to 44 years| eld 55% 30% Source: 2000 US. Census 17.4 years, less than half the national average of 35.3. The population distribution presents a significantly lower number of people aged 20 to 24, indicating that people in this age group are more likely to relocate from Chevak temporarily. Reasons for this include employment opportunities and higher education. Of the total population of Chevak, 53.2% are male and 46.8% are female. Race 90.5 % of Chevak’s population reported that they were Alaska Native, with an additional 5.8 percent considering themselves native in combination with one or more races. This is consistent with the proportions of the Wade Hampton Census Area and surrounding villages. The majority of residents that identify themselves as non-native are teachers employed by the school district. Community Governance City of Chevak Chevak is a second class city incorporated on September 17, 1967. City leadership positions are the following: Mayor, Vice-Mayor, City Administrator, Treasurer, and Secretary. These positions are selected by and from a seven member City Council. Elections are held yearly on the first Tuesday of October. Qissunamiut Tribal Council The Qissunamiut Tribal council is a federally recognized tribal governing body, with authority to administer various federal programs. It is governed by a five member council. Chevak Company Corporation The Chevak Company Corporation is a local, federally recognized for-profit corporation established by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. It owns the surface estate of the Chevak land allotment encompassing 138,240 acres. The Calista Corporation and Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Chevak is a member of the Calista Corporation, the second largest of the 13 regional native corporations designed and incorporated by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971. Founded the next year in 1972, the Calista Corporation, and its 56 villages own nearly 5 million acres of entitlement land across the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Calista’s total land entitlement however, exceeds 6.5 million acres, leaving the corporation with substantial room for discretionary expansion in the case of further mineral discovery or other pressing need. The majority of land held by Calista is composed of the sub- surface lands of its villages, who own the surface land rights. It has also acquired numerous selections of mineral rich real-estate for potential mining and development. 10 The Calista Corporation is governed by an eleven member board, and composed of over 13,000 shareholders across the region. Shareholders were originally only Alaska Natives born before 1971, but shares have been passed down through recent generations, and to be correctly allocated to the desired recipient(s), should be specifically designated and detailed in the will of the present owner. Chevak is represented on the Calista Corporation Board of Directors by Mike Akerelrea, who also represents Hooper Bay, Piamiut, and Scammon Bay. 2007 Chevak Governing Entities Entities and introducing members of the 2007 Chevak Community Plan, and leaders of Chevak City of Chevak Ulric Ulroan, Mayor Pete Slats, Vice-Mayor Carl Chimeralrea, Secretary John Atchak, Treasurer Earl Atchak, Member Mary Jones, Member Dennis Jones, City Administrator Chevak Native Village Roy J. Atchak, Tribal President Leo Moses, Jr., Tribal Vice-President Vacant, Secretary and Treasurer Xavier Atcherian, Sr., Member James Ayuluk, Member Albert Ulroan, Member Richard Slats, Tribal Administrator Chevak Company Corporation James Ayuluk, Chairman Patrick Tall, Vice-Chairman Anthony G. Umugak, Secretary and Treasurer Xavier Atcherian, Sr., Member Pius Imgalrea, Member Roy J. Atchak, Corporate Manager Telephone: 907-858-7912 11 Goals and Priorities for the Future of Chevak © Home — Road: Trail — Reserved Area $ roo me a This is 2n approximate map of Chevak 2007 The imagery is from the 1934 Water and Sewer Plan. Adaptations end additions have been drawn by hand, it may contain errors or omissions. This map was crezted exclusively for the Community Plan. ae : Planning Dimensions The planning process has been divided into the following eight dimensions to adequately address the scope of Chevak’s planning endeavors. ASHA Housing e Wellness and Safety e Land Use and Environment e Transportation e Public Facilities and Utilities e Housing e Economy e Culture and Tradition e Youth Development 12 An over-arching goal is outlined for each dimension in order to develop a complete framework, and reference point for the future direction of the community. In turn, for each goal, several priorities are set forth to detail important, pragmatic measures to be completed in the process of wholly achieving the coherent goal. The Goals of the Chevak Community Plan The following is a list of the eight primary goals created through the community planning process. They are demarcated according to eight planning dimensions. Wellness and Safety e Improve existing, and develop new institutions for the maintenance of the well-being of all community members. Land Use and Environment e Chevak land will be managed wisely, in harmony amongst the competing interests of private property owners, public entities, and natural resources. The evidence of the community's great respect for Chevak and the surrounding ecosystem will be demonstrated through successful efforts to protect its cleanliness and integrity. Transportation e Chevak will accommodate adequate mobility of people and goods within the village and to surrounding areas. It will capitalize on its potential for positioning as a sub-regional hub, both economically and in the transportation sector. Public Facilities and Utilities e Chevak’s public facilities and utilities will be clean, reliable, accessible, and economically sustainable, leading to a higher level of organization and functionality. Housing e Adequate housing that meets the needs of Chevak’s growing population, taking into account cost and suitability for harsh climate. Economy e Develop a self-sustaining community with the capacity to comfortably provide for itself, and serve economically as a sub-regional hub. Additionally, to see continued growth by encouraging innovation among community members, and leadership from individuals committed to economic advancement. 13 Culture and Tradition e Chevak will advance as a community by maintaining the strength of cultural and traditional values that sustained its forbears for thousands of years, and by utilizing these assets to make wise decisions concerning the social, familial, and economic well-being of the Chevak community. Youth Development e Ensure the leadership and creative potential of the next generation of Chevak’s community leaders through the provision of productive activities for the vital energies of the community's youth. Wellness and Safety Critical Issues Build new clinic for better capacity pag to serve the population of Chevak e Development of a safe house and children’s advocacy program e Reinstitute the Talking Circle e Improvement of Emergency Response Capability e Expansion of ability and organization of Search and Rescue e Functionality of the Village Police Officer (VPO) Program e Fire fighting capacity Goal: Improve existing, and develop new institutions for the maintenance of the well- being of all community members. Context Health Care Health Care in Chevak is provided by the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC). On the local scale, YKHC services a village clinic that provides basic care and emergency services within the village. For more advanced medical treatment than can be provided by local health aides, patients must travel to one of four sub-regional clinics 14 (located in Aniak, Emmonak, St. Mary’s, and Toksook Bay, with another planned to open soon in Hooper Bay); or to Bethel and Anchorage hospitals. Bethel is home to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital, and the Community Health Services Building. These facilities provide optical, dental, and behavioral health services (Community Health Services), as well as standard hospital services such as surgery, pharmacy, x-ray, and obstetrics ward http://www.ykhc.org/). Fire Safety Chevak is served by a volunteer fire response team, composed of most of the able-bodied men of the community who utilize several fire hydrants placed strategically throughout the village. Aided by no central planning body or authority, response to fires is often too late to save a burning building. It would be prudent to consider meeting regularly for fire drills, appointing an authority to report to (i.e. VPO ), and issuing a prompt announcement over VHF whenever suspicion arises in regard to a fire. Another hindrance to effective fire fighting in Chevak is the lack of equipment, including hoses, nozzles, transportation, etc. Public Safety Chevak is served by five Village Police Officers (VPO), and will be host to a sub- regional state trooper beginning in the fall of 2007. The five VPO’s have only recently been hired and are charged with the burden of maintaining civil authority in a locale that has been without for several years. Solid Waste | The subject of landfill maintenance and location is a pressing issue in Chevak. The current site has been half-filled already in the past ten years, in addition to having insufficient fencing to confine waste within the parameters of the enclosure. The ™ import of the problem is magnified when taking into account the close proximity of the river and the pursuant threat of pollution. Of further concern is the Entrance to landfill tendency of users to forego the responsible deposit of their waste within the boundaries of the landfill. The landfill is situated on the west side of town, separated by a considerable distance from the nearest housing units, though not far enough to preclude the annoyance of smoke from blowing into the village with the direction of the wind. 15 Priorities and Actions of Chevak Wellness and Safety Build New Clinic for better capacity to serve the population of Chevak Old clinic is too small to facilitate the requisite number of health aides for the community’s growing population Old clinic has aged to the extent that it has become exceedingly difficult to maintain in winter months when pipes freeze repeatedly Site and design for clinic have already been decided Before proceeding research ‘pros and cons’ of refurbishment versus replacement To proceed in construction, pursue and acquire funding from Yukon- Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) Additional Comments: Consider development of a safe house and children’s advocacy program to Address Domestic Abuse Would preclude the need for compromised individuals to leave the village and the social support network it provides Options for feasibility o Renovate city owned building for use as facility o Institute a home stay option, allowing for needy individuals to be hosted by responsible, respected community members chosen specifically for their suitability to the role o To develop: research cost, demand, and practicality Eliminate the importation of drugs and alcohol into Chevak Additional Comments: Reinstitute the Talking Circle for wellness meetings Allocate meeting space and promote its availability Hold community health meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, anger management, and general health meetings Additional Comments: Improve Emergency Response Time Coordinate “Emergency Response Network” with all village entities and agencies Devise a standardized procedure utilizing a call list for communication amongst all capable responders Additional Comments: 16 Expand the capability and organization of Search and Rescue Establish and organize a search and rescue non-profit organization Organize system of recruitment for responders, and coordination of effort through “Emergency Response Network” Currently have resource of approximately 30 experienced responders Potentially coordinate office space/headquarters with VPO office Raise money for purchase of basic equipment such as wilderness survival gear, flares, portable/handheld GPS Utilize resource of strategically placed trail shelters to be built and stocked along major trails in Fall 2007 Provide EMT training Additional Comments: Further develop the functionality of the Village Police Officer (VPO) Program Secure funding for the remaining two officers needed to meet recommended count for village size Introduce low-rent, city owned housing option to VPO’s to increase incentive and commitment to employment Sub-regional state trooper to arrive in Fall 2007: needs housing accommodation Additional Comments: Supplement current Fire Fighting capability Shorten response time through “Emergency Response Network” Explore funding options for increased frequency of hydrant placement throughout village, as well as the additional equipment necessary to service the expansion Build a fire station Additional Comments: 17 Land Use and Environment Critical Issues e Development of available land for community growth e Identification and preservation of subsistence lands during the growth process e Reduction of pollution and protection of natural resources e Riverbank erosion Aerial view of Chevak Goal: Chevak land will be managed wisely, in harmony amongst the competing interests of private property owners, public entities, and natural resources. The evidence of the community's great respect for Chevak and the surrounding ecosystem will be demonstrated through successful efforts to protect its cleanliness and integrity. Context The townsite of Chevak was chosen for its firm ground atop a bluff. The elevation of the land protects it from seasonal flooding. But the availability of build able land in the village is limited, and requires wise planning. Ownership Ownership of land in Chevak is generally divided among private individuals, businesses, the City of Chevak, Tribal Council, and the Native Corporation. The Chevak Company Corporation has ANCSA 12(a) land entitlement to rights to 138,240 acres of surrounding land and has begun the process of conveying surface estates to the City of Chevak. Completing the 14(c)3 selection continues to be a priority in the village. A lack of current mapping impedes the ability to convey the land and define lot lines. The Alaska Division of Community Advocacy is producing a community profile map for Chevak in Fall 2007. The U.S Fish and Wildlife Service permits subsistence practices on the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge. In the early years of the village, the elders of Chevak and Hooper Bay adopted a verbal treaty of shared land use for 18 subsistence purposes. Presently these lands remain accessible to all members of Chevak and Hooper Bay, and also include those from Piamiut and Scammon Bay. Growth and Development The earliest structures in Chevak were built on the bluff, between the Ninglikfak River and Chevak Lake. Characterized by high density and mixed land use, this area has become the core of the community. Many of these structures are aging and require renovation/replacement. The haphazard layout of the structures indicates that they were built prior to recent construction and land use standards. Growth from the central village has radiated westward along the bluff and north on both sides of Chevak Lake. The lots of the newer subdivisions are larger and less dense. On the east of the lake is the new high school and clustered teacher housing. The relocation of the airport has been beneficial to the community. Although it is farther from the village, the location is safer, and reduces noise pollution. But it also presents some challenges for medical services and access from the east side of town. The old airstrip provides Chevak with quality land on which to build. Chevak should determine the best use for this prime land, whether subdividing into lots for homes or for a shared community purpose. Erosion Riverbank erosion is a natural process, typical of meandering rivers such as the Ninglikfak. However, certain measures can be taken by the community to mitigate the damage to Chevak structures. The problematic areas are at the bend between the two boat landings. The worst erosion damage occurs during fall flooding. Buildings and roads have been relocated in the past, and currently fencing protects the surface of the fragile bank. Approximately 10 years ago, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the Army Corps of Engineers installed chain and sandbag reinforcements to the bank. The project was designed to last for 5 years and has performed its function for approximately 10 years. Erosion control is now in need of an immediate update. Old water storage tanks could be cut and installed as reinforcements. The Alaska Division of Community Advocacy provides flood mitigation service grants to address community flood and erosion issues. Ninglikfak River 19 Priorities and Actions of Chevak Land Use and Environment Identify locations for Future Growth and plan for proper Land Management Acquire current satellite imagery of village from the Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Community Mapping Profile Project (to be completed fall in 2007) Complete ANCSA 14(c)3 settlement (in progress) City of Chevak should develop a system to record and organize land transactions Create site plan for land use in main village, designating appropriate locations for public services, residential, commercial concentrations Work with all landowners and shareholders to determine best sites for future growth Determine best land use for abandoned airstrip, as soon as possible Additional Comments: Identify and Protect Subsistence and Cultural Areas. Identify and record local subsistence areas either by map, or written account o Designate these subsistence areas as off limits to development, and maintain their integrity Work with Hooper Bay, Piamiut, and Scammon Bay Native Corporations to produce written treaty that protects and manages the subsistence grounds used collectively by community members of each village Additional Comments: Implement strategies to protect Air, Water Quality, and Environment Address landfill capacity o Higher fences to confine waste within the boundaries of the facility o Attendant to ensure responsible use and efficiency of facility Educate community on the responsible disposal of hazardous and non- hazardous waste Enact an ordinance that prohibits and punishes illegal dumping Further promote “Clean-up Days” Convert BIA tank for use as a functional incinerator Create a salvage yard for vehicles Surface roads to minimize dust (see transportation) Develop alternative sources of energy more sustainable and less contaminating than fuel o Develop the potential of wind power for city owned buildings 20 Investigate feasibility and implementation of wind generation (an abundant resource) Accommodate sewage overflow into secondary lagoon and protect this area with a fence Need preparation plan for oil spill response Additional Comments: Protect North Bank of village from Erosion Produce a feasibility study that explores rate of erosion, possible damages, and a quote for riverbank restoration project Explore community’s options of erosion mitigation such as sandbags, old tanks, retaining blocks, bank grading, or planting vegetation Potential funding available from Army Corps of Engineers; Department of Community & Economic Development, Division of Community Advocacy Additional Comments: Transportation Critical Issues e Road system health and safety risks e¢ Connectivity of trail networks e Airport improvement and expansion e Energy independence through lessened use of fuel and gas e Construction of adequate barge landing Goal: Chevak will accommodate adequate mobility of people and goods within the village and to surrounding areas. It will capitalize on its potential for positioning as a sub-regional hub, both economically and in the transportation sector. 21 Context Travel to and from Chevak is facilitated by airplane, small boat, or snow machine. For travel to the regional hub of Bethel however, or any location outside the Yukon-Kuskokwim Region, airplanes are the most consistently used and efficient means of travel. Chevak is served primarily by regional carriers Grant Air, and Hageland Aviation, which holds the USPS mailing contract for the Yukon- Kuskokwim region. Alaska Airlines and Frontier Flying provide transportation beyond Bethel. Skiffs provide access to fish camps and traditional subsistence hunting and gathering grounds, as well as to neighboring villages such as Hooper and Scammon Bay, which are located on the coast and have access to the full resources of the Bering Sea. For travel within the village, ATV’s and snow machines are used most readily. Snow machines are also used during the winter for hunting and inter-village travel, much as the skiffs are in summer months. Usually once a year, a barge will deliver goods too large or unwieldy for delivery by air. Fuel Costs As fuel prices continue to rise, it becomes more expensive to reach subsistence areas with motorized vehicles. As of May 2007, gasoline costs $5.00 per gallon (Wayne Hill Store), however unlike the variable pricing techniques utilized in most of the United States, prices are set once a year when the fuel arrives on the bi-annual barge landing. Roads and Trails The Chevak community is connected by a system of sand and gravel roads, and wooden boardwalks. Improving Chevak’s road system is an established priority. In 2004, ASGC Inc, conducted a Road and Boardwalk Feasibility Study, and collected an inventory of Chevak’s roads. The community has approximately 7 miles of existing roads and several thousand feet of boardwalks. There are 10 to 20 private automobiles and trucks, 200 snow machines, and 200 ATV’s in the community. Most of the roads, including the primary streets consist of a silt/sand embankment, with no surfacing material. Residents cite pervasive dust from the roads as a cause of respiratory problems, and an impediment to drying fish. The streets of newer subdivisions are surfaced with gravel and function adequately. These roads however, are on the outskirts of town and serve a marginal number of homes. The road connecting the airport and town, built by the FAA and DOT8PF in conjunction with the new airport project, is a high quality 22 gravel road. Chevak roads are maintained by the City. The City’s chief source of revenue for roads comes from state revenue sharing funds. The City reports that approximately $10,000 is allocated annually toward drainage, grading, and depositing sand for Chevak road improvement. Trails, over both land and water, are vital to subsistence hunting and gathering. Winter trails connect to Hooper Bay (17 mi), Scammon Bay (25 mi), and Newtok (50 mi). Travel can be dangerous in winter and markers must be updated regularly. Traditional river routes could be made more expedient and cost- efficient with the construction of several over-ground tramways and reinforced “short-cuts” that eliminate would the need to follow the meandering path of complex waterways. Airport The current airstrip is located a half-mile northwest of the village. The FAA and DOT&PF have recently completed relocation construction, and the runway opened for service in September of 2006. The previous runway has been decommissioned and all infrastructure removed. The airstrip, owned and maintained by the State of Alaska, is serviced by Arctic Circle Air Service, Grant Air, Hageland Aviation, Inland Aviation Services, Inc., and Yute Air. These flights transport both people and goods to and from the village. There is currently no terminal or sheltered waiting area. One of the foremost priorities of Chevak is to establish itself as an economic sub-regional hub, servicing the coastal villages of Hooper and Scammon Bay. The airstrip site is located on high ground that is not subject to flooding and is sheltered from the high winds present in communities along the coast. Chevak’s airport, with further expansion, can accommodate larger loads and heavier air traffic than neighboring communities because of its operational freedom from the weather conditions that hamper flights into more coastal towns. Priorities and Actions of Chevak Transportation Improve and Expand Road and Boardwalk Network ¢ Quality roads and boardwalks will improve health and safety, as well as mobility of transportation e Feasibility study completed: Determine best construction plan and priorities. This may require collaboration among the City of Chevak, Qissunamiut Tribal Council, and Chevak Company Corporation e Build road along old airport to connect, north of Chevak Lake, with the new airport e Construct access road to north boat landing e Improve boardwalks; consider a footbridge across the lake to the school from the adjacent housing 23 Explore option of low-cost, high quality gravel from Stebbins rather than by barge from farther points Additional Comments: Improve and expand network of Subsistence and Inter-Village Trails Produce a map to utilize traditional shortcuts and waterways to minimize time and money spent on travel Over-ground tramway and traditional style man-made canals: for connection of adjacent bodies of water to minimize travel time Increase safety by installing new markers and safety shelters Create a trail to the volcanoes Fund improvements and maintenance of trail markers (raise money, research grants) Additional Comments: Upgrade Airstrip to receive flights directly from Anchorage, and serve as a sub- regional hub to Hooper, Scammon Bay, and other surrounding villages Runway extension to support larger airplanes o Engage the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) with a business plan for runway expansion, to accommodate expanded service Construct a terminal/sheltered waiting area Approach (cargo & passenger) airlines about proposition for potential as sub-regional transport hub Establish taxi service run by village entity or private owner to provide access to and from airport, would require purchase of vehicle and insurance Utilize a city owned building for temporary sheltered waiting area Additional Comments: Reduce Dependence on Gasoline. Promote use of efficient four-stroke engines Encourage walking and use of bicycles when possible Reconsider traditional methods that synthesize with fuel engines, such as the kayak Research and develop alternative sources of energy more sustainable and less contaminating than fuel Investigate feasibility and implementation of wind generation, an abundant resource in Chevak Additional Comments: 24 Construct adequate Barge Landing and Boat Harbor. e Plan and construct new barge landing and boat harbor; ensure placement does not infringe on private property; consider factors such as capacity, traffic, bank erosion, and downstream sedimentation e Additional Comments: Public Facilities and Utilities Critical Issues e Preventative maintenance e Minimizing cost of infrastructure development e Capacity to fund improvements e Conversion of vacant BIA school building into multi- use facility ¢ Quality water and sewer e Chevak guest housing options Goal: Chevak’s public facilities and utilities will be clean, reliable, accessible, and economically sustainable to lead to a higher level of organization and functionality. Context Chevak has been successful in its recent past both in advocating for and completing capital projects. Major projects within the last 10 years include the construction of a new airport, school, landfill, water and sewer system, a fishery support center, and multiple housing projects. There remain however, several potential improvements and recommended public facilities. A combination of community support and public leadership for these projects, along with an increased capacity for the City, Tribal Council, and Corporation to support those for which they are responsible will allow Chevak to achieve its goals. 25 As a second class city Chevak exercises the right to levy taxes. Presently, its municipal budget is composed primarily of a 3% sales tax, various service charges, and profits from enterprise such as bingo. Hiring a grant writer may provide access to assistance from programs such as the Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (IGAP). There is growing community consensus for the building of a multi-use facility in a central village location, to foster a joint administrative, cultural, and recreational role in community life. The vacant former Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) School provides a viable option for such a facility. It is the second largest building in town, structurally sound, connected to infrastructure, and centrally located. Potential uses include: city and tribal council offices, post office, Alaska courthouse and magistrate office, cultural museum, native craft store, dance hall/auditorium, and community gymnasium. The building is large enough to facilitate most, if not all of these proposed uses. Former School Building The roadblocks to this remediation project include the expensive process of removing suspected asbestos, as well as new lighting and electric wiring. Bulk Fuel Storage Bulk fuel storage tanks are filled once a year with fuel brought by the barge, and serve as the only source of fuel for Chevak throughout the rest of the year. There are eight bulk fuel storage tank facilities in Chevak. They are listed here in descending order of capacity: Village Corporation Store (195,840 gal), AVEC (136,700 gal), Kashunamiut Schools : : = (119,300 gal), Village Corporation beach Corporation Bulk Fuel Tanks (46,000 gal), City Water/Washeteria/Hall (39,600 gal), Wayne Hill Store (28,000 gal), Village Council (12,600 gal), and Army National Guard (2,500 gal) (www.dced.state.ak.us ). Water and Sewer Currently all homes and civic buildings are connected to piped water and sewer services. The project was completed from 1994-2000, and included a new landfill, a washeteria renovation, a new watering point, water treatment plant, a 26 150,000 gallon water storage tank, sewage lagoon, and a vacuum sewer plant. In several sections of the system, sewer pipes are sagging, as a result of shifting permafrost. Although owned by the City of Chevak, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the City and the YKHC Rural Utilities Cooperative (RUC) transferred all maintenance and operational control to RUC. The system is serviced by two full time employees hired by RUC. Electricity Electricity is provided by Alaska Village Electric Corporation. AVEC is a non- profit electric utility cooperative that serves residents in fifty-one locations throughout rural Alaska, including Chevak. It is financed by customer payments as well as loans from the Rural Utilities Service and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Village governments hire plant operators and oversee day-to-day operation of the power generation and distribution plants. In a 2002 report by the Center for Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (CEERE), residential electric service costs a total of 44 cents per kilowatt hour used, which includes a charge of 32 cents per kWh, plus fuel costs of 12 cents per kWh. Electric service costs are supplemented by the State of Alaska Power Cost Equalization Subsidy. In 2003, AVEC received $2,500,000 in high energy cost grant funds from USDA to address the high cost of electricity in Chevak. The funds have been and will continue to be used for a power plant upgrade, heat recovery system, and wind generation system. Electricity costs will be reduced by increasing generation efficiency, improving reliability, and utilizing wind energy and heat recovery. AVEC is a Denali Commission partner and the USDA grant was funded in concert with the Denali Commission's program for rural Alaska energy upgrades. Although a site has yet to be confirmed for the proposed wind generation systems, an assessment shows that the area has adequate wind conditions to generate 24% of the energy generated by diesel in 2002 (CEERE). The project is funded and will be owned by AVEC. The only direct benefit to residents of Chevak will be a slightly reduced cost of electricity, and decreased dependence on fossil fuel. In addition to this wind generation project, AVEC is planning a Power Plant Upgrade in Chevak. 27 Priorities and Actions of Chevak Public Facilities and Utilities Improve Community Services and Facilities e Appoint and train individual to maintain city property, buildings, land-fill, and vehicles (i.e. preventative maintenance) e Develop wind generation capability for service of city owned buildings e Complete renovation of Public Safety Building e Additional Comments: Increase Capacity of City of Chevak, Qissunamiut Tribal Council, Chevak Company Corporation to fund public services, capital improvements, and infrastructure e Develop strategies for City and Tribal Council to establish income opportunities by developing business projects such as guest lodge/hotel, leasing office space to regional organizations, issuing permits to corporation lands, etc. e Employ a grant writer to maximize funding options e Additional Comments: Develop Central Multi-Use Facility that unites leadership, government, and people of Chevak e Renovate old school into a mixed-use community facility that serves dually as an administrative and cultural center e Explore options in testing for asbestos and funding its removal e Prepare a business plan and work with potential tenants to cover operating costs o Seek funding from Rasmussen Foundation, Denali Commission e Additional Comments: Provide Quality Water, Sewer, and Electrical Service for entire village e Address current needs and repairs to system e Complete construction of water reserve tank (material available) e Move forward with AVEC (Marie Becker) to construct planned tank farm and power plant under AVEC’s Power Plan Upgrade e Additional Comments: 28 Develop Village Guest Housing to improve external business relations and economic opportunity e Renovate city-owned four-plex e Fund and construct additional teacher housing units e Obtain funding for construction of housing complex for visiting public servants (i.e. VPO, State Trooper, dentists, physicians and nurses) e Additional Comments: Housing Critical Issues e Land availability to address housing demand | e Capacity for village —— ——¥ = i initiated construction, and maintenance of housing units e Aging housing stock in village center e Setting standards for new housing Goal: Adequate housing that meets the needs of Chevak’s growing population, taking into account cost and suitability for harsh climate. Context Chevak is a healthy, growing community and as a result is rapidly filling its available land for development. A large youth population and increasing number of young adults starting families have put new housing in high demand. At the time of the 2000 U.S. Census Chevak had 190 housing units for a population of 765, one home for every four people. Population is expected to grow to at least 1100 by 2010, an increase that would proportionally necessitate a total of 275 units. There are currently no existing Approximate Age of Housing Stock (%) 50 or more 2% less than 20 years 40 to 50 years 16% 17% 30 to 40 year: 24% 20 to 30 years 41% Source: 2000 U.S. Census 29 lots on which to build homes. The vast majority of homes use fuel oil for heat, are connected to the Rural Utilities Cooperative’s (RUC) water and sewer, and the AVEC electrical grid. This figure depicts the aging housing stock in Chevak. A majority of homes, particularly in the older central portion of Chevak were constructed in the 1970’s prior to adherence to building codes and outside assistance. Many of these homes require improvement. Many of the newer homes built by HUD and Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) Housing Authority have proven insufficiently durable to withstand the rigors of a harsh climate. RurAL CAP has since weatherized these homes. Chevak’s Qissunamiut Housing Authority once oversaw housing affairs locally. The AVCP now performs this duty, rotating throughout the Yukon-Delta Communities, including Chevak, building several homes per year in selected villages. The measure of AVCP resources dedicated to Chevak is dependent on need and available funds. Building codes have been instituted for the protection and well-being of the community. AVCP has provided four to five houses every five years in Chevak; not an adequate supply to meet the increasing need. Application for the Indian Community Development Block Grant by the Tribal Council should commence as soon as possible. The ICDBG can be used for various activities such as housing development, land acquisition, infrastructure development, and single or multi-purpose community buildings. The Native American Housing and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) requires that in order to receive an Indian Housing Block Grant, each tribe or Tribally Designated Housing Entity must submit an Indian Housing Plan to HUD for each fiscal year. Each plan must detail a five year plan and a one year plan along with a mission statement for the submitting entity. Each Indian Housing Plan must include individual goals and objectives and outline the performance objectives or deadlines for UC lg a lear P o each proposed activity. Each plan must include a listing of funding sources and a line-item budget, to outline how the funds will be used. Additional funding sources include the State of Alaska Community Development Block Grant funds (available to the City of Chevak), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA loans), the BIA Housing Improvement Program, as well as individual grants from AVCP, and Fannie Mae. 30 Chevak fields a quality construction workforce of local contractors, plumbers, welders, electricians, and carpenters. It is more affordable, more productive, and more beneficial to the community to hire local labor for housing development and indeed any building project. A well-planned housing project should hire locally to renovate the aging housing stock of the central ‘Old Village’ and build new homes in plotted growth areas. An alternative to single family homes is cluster style housing that promotes compact development to conserves resources. Priorities and Actions of Chevak Housing Increase amount of land in current village site to adequately Accommodate Housing Demand and set new Housing Standards e Complete 14(c)3 to produce lots for homes, identify locations for future subdivision development e Consider options for higher density housing in current village site, such as cluster housing e Check and enforce village ordinances to set guidelines for housing development: ideal density, building setbacks from lot lines, electric lines, sewer lines, and fire buffers. Develop new ordinances as needed e Ensure families that have lost their homes to fire receive priority in new housing development e Additional Comments: Renovate or Rebuild aging housing stock in the village center e Set standards for housing units e Evaluate existing homes for feasibility and cost estimates of renovation e Hire locally to renovate existing buildings or with owner's permission, demolish unusable vacant housing to remove public hazards e City should consider application for State of Alaska Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) funds e Consider application for Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) or NAHASDA funds to repair, demolish, and upgrade existing housing e¢ Community members may apply for BIA Housing Improvement Program loans and USDA low interest loans e Additional Comments: Increase capacity to Construct and Maintain housing stock e Re-establish Qissunamiut Housing Authority, fill vacant administrator position e Complete construction of two unfinished homes e Provide training opportunities for community members to increase their ability to build and maintain homes 31 e City of Chevak should sell vacant buildings to supplement the community housing stock e Train, develop, fund local workforce of contractors, plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and other trades o If possible through on the job apprenticeships e Additional Comments: Economy Critical Issues e Utilization of natural resources and tradition to develop tourism industry e Institution of leadership steering group to give consistency and long-term viability to economic growth e Encouragement of small business prospects and localization of ensuing money flow Ninglikfak River e Preparation and job training for service sector employment Goal: Develop a self-sustaining community that can comfortably provide for itself, and serves economically as a sub-regional hub. Additionally, to see continued growth by encouraging innovation among community members, and leadership from individuals committed to economic advancement. Context Chevak’s economy strongly resembles those of neighboring villages in the Wade Hampton Census Area. Distinguishing it from comparable communities however, is an exceptionally high level of resolve to achieve economic self-sufficiency. This is exemplified in the case of the single-village school district, which provides employment for numerous local community members; additionally in the capability of community members to supply all necessary labor for any building project. Sources of revenue are associated primarily with local government, education, or health services, and supplemented by seasonal, on-demand commercial fishing 32 and construction opportunities. Monetary income is combined with substantial levels of subsistence fishing and hunting. A study conducted by Robert Wolfe of the Alaska Department of Fish & Game estimated Chevak’s Annual Wild Food Harvest (Ibs per person) at 716.2, indicating a 1.962 Ib daily wild food harvest per person. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, Chevak fielded a total potential workforce (age 16 and above) of 404 individuals. Of that total, only 231 were employed (173 unemployed). 132 of the 173 unemployed individuals within the potential workforce were not seeking work. This figure is contextualized when considered in light of the following from the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED) concerning the Wade Hampton Census Area Economic Overview. The normal measure of unemployment (people unemployed and actively seeking work) is somewhat misleading in rural Alaska because it does not reflect the realities of a small cash economy and high dependency on a subsistence economy. A better indicator of unemployment is an estimate of the number of working-age adults not in the labor force. In the Wade Hampton Census Area, the number of working adults not in the labor force, 44.3% in 1990, was very high and far exceeded the regular measure of unemployment. The higher percentages in Alaska reflect the amount of time and effort directed toward subsistence activities, as well as limited opportunities to earn cash. Over the course of a year, there is a large variation in unemployment rates in the Wade Hampton Census Area. This fluctuation reflects the seasonal nature of an economy based on natural resources and the limited opportunities to raise cash. Far from dissolving concern, this overview leads to the obvious conclusion that low levels of employment, as a result of “limited opportunities to raise cash,” lead to further problems such as the inability of community members to pay for essential services (home energy costs, fuel for boats, snow machines, ATV’s, and other necessities such as home weatherization). Partly as a result of low employment, a dilemma compounded by even lower availability for future employment, the median household income in 2000 was $26,875; and per capita, only $7,550. These figures give special credence to the necessity of generating the cash income to Wayne Hill Store provide financially for those costs now inextricably linked to the provision of subsistence needs. 33 This balance should be achieved through the enterprising of individuals seeking to market the indigenous, renewable resources of the region in order to generate the consistent, self-perpetuating cash flow vital to the future economic autonomy and well-being of the Cup’ik people. Priorities and Actions of Chevak Economy Utilize natural resources and tradition to develop an Eco-tourism Industry Develop and market the potential of bird watching, art, and cultural tourist attractions Develop a marketing strategy — If potential customers don’t know what you are doing, its becomes a worthless enterprise Offer an authentic native cultural experience using traditional tools, kayaks, sod houses, etc., to provide tourists and student groups a hands- on learning experience that they can’t get anywhere else Build a lodge/hotel to comfortably accommodate tourists and visitors and explore eventual privatization (see public facilities) Additional Comments: Institute a Leadership Steering Group on growth in order to provide consistency and long-term viability to economic enterprise Hold consistently scheduled community-wide economic development conferences to gain from valuable ideas for enterprise, and test viability Marketing: among other things, create website, with links to native crafts sales Additional Comments: Encouragement of Small Business Prospects and localization of ensuing money flow Co-op for native craft sales 8(a) contracting Encourage the innovation of Chevak community members to start small businesses o Educate about possibilities through Alaska Marketplace Fostering and research of economic prospects such as the following: o Niche spring water bottling facility o Hide tanning Additional Comments: 34 Prepare and train local residents for Service Sector employment e Professional Fire Fighting o Crew boss training in McGrath o Traveling, seasonal “Hot-Shot” crew from Chevak e Explore prospect of local Chevak trade/vocation school in conjunction with Alaska university system Hospitality Eco-tourism Study apprenticeship availability Additional Comments: Culture and Tradition Critical Issues Reinstitution of the Qissunamiut Project Promotion of cultural classes in survival and traditional life Increased connection of the community with elders Continuation of Cup’ik language fluency Artist Earl Atchak and sons (www.thealaskahouse.com) Goal: Chevak will advance as a community by maintaining the strength of cultural and traditional values that sustained its forbears for thousands of years, and by utilizing these assets to make wise decisions concerning the social, familial, and economic well- being of the Chevak community. Context The Cup’ik people of Chevak have lived in the region for thousands of years, making their livelihood from the fruit of the land by their own resourcefulness. Historically, nearly every aspect of life was based in or around the men’s house, or qaygig, where the men of the village passed on their knowledge and skills to their children, and where gatherings and festivals were held, among other things. In the summer people moved to mobile fish camps where they caught and dried 35 their catch in preparation for the winter, at which point they moved back to the more permanent site. Following the arrival of Western culture, in the form of the first Bureau of Indian Affairs School, much changed. Instead of sod-houses, modern, wooden homes were shipped in by barge. Instead of fish-traps and hand-made nets, set by men on foot or in kayaks, large commercial nets were set enlisting the aid of motorized aluminum skiffs. And bow and arrows and traditional hunting forms were eclipsed with the advent of the rifle. While the mode of gathering may have changed, the people of Chevak have however, made a conscious effort to hold strong to their culture and traditional values. Subsistence remains the primary and most necessary form of income and sustenance for virtually every member of the community. Today the community faces the challenge of integrating a sustainable cash- based economy into its daily mechanism, in order to autonomously support the new modes of subsistence hunting and fishing, to pay for gas to power boats, trucks, snow machines, and ATV’s; and for the fuel oil to heat homes. The passing on of traditional customs, even those that are no longer widely used, is of utmost importance to the community, and many planned initiatives seek to refresh their teaching through greater youth and elder collaboration. Of greatest note and of first priority are the continuation of Cup’ik language fluency, and the return of community meetings to the qaygiq, and the leadership ae f se 44) mechanisms of the talking circle Traditional qaygiq built by Chevak students and Qissunamiut Forum. Language The spoken language in Chevak varies depending on age. Typically, elders speak Cup’ik primarily and fluently; middle-aged individuals are the most bilingual group, while the younger generation (those under 30 years of age) speak primarily English and vary widely in Cup’ik fluency, depending largely on family usage. The Cup’ik language is a dialect of Yup’ik, shared in name and similarity by the people of Nunivak Island. There is currently a community-wide movement to reestablish universal Cup’ik fluency through a half-day immersion program beginning in kindergarten and following its class through high school. 36 Of his Cup’ik language, Anthony G. Umugak says the following: “We have lost quite a bit of our native language words. To this day we still speak our own Cup’ik language. Even to this day our young people, though they speak it or some, don’t know a lot of it. As spoken before by our ancestors, our language is diminishing and we are losing a lot of it. This Cup’ik language, like any other dialect (of Yup’ik), is an old language. When we speak it, we speak just as our ancestors have spoke.” Religion There are two churches in Chevak. The Uttermost Tabernacle is a Pentecostal- style church pastored locally. The other is the Roman Catholic Church, staffed by an itinerant priest who serves Chevak, Hooper Bay, and Scammon Bay. The day to day workings of the Roman Catholic Church are facilitated largely by the dedication of community members. Priorities and Actions of Chevak Culture and Tradition Reinstitute the Qissunamiut Project Apply for funding as soon as possible through Rasmussen Foundation Establish Qissunamiut Forum to enable traditional mechanism for village leadership Project provides for the integration of culture into the scholastic and extra- curricular activities of youth Construct another traditional qaygiq (men’s house) elder guidance Provides the impetus for the following o Nationally and internationally traveling Cup’ik dance groups o Consistent performance of traditional native and student designed skits and mini-dramas in school Student Cup’ik language development Preservation of the art and song of the Cup’ik people Creative expansions such as pilot program for students to raise dog teams as a class, giving them responsibility of caring for and training animals as well as building constructive skills for assembly of dog-houses and sleds = Potential for future local youth dogsled races Additional Comments: ooo Develop and Implement Cultural Classes in survival and traditional life Begin elder knowledge seminars Seasonal cultural study and summer youth camps 37 Revival of construction and use of traditional tools and clothing Give youth an avenue of constructive entertainment with beneficial, enduring life-skills As an elder-planned program would provide for re-assimilation of native traditions and techniques that are as useful today for subsistence life as they have been for thousands of years Additional Comments: Increase Community Connection with Elders. Possible combination with new senior center/elder hot lunch program Goal to pass on traditional knowledge, stories, legends that are now in jeopardy of being forgotten with this generation of elders Daily elder-taught lesson at hour-long assembly for all students Additional Comments: Development of means for Cup’ik Language Continuation Half-day Cup’ik immersion at Chevak Elementary School and Headstart: immersion to follow current grade through high school Further cooperation with elders for language skills Utilize technology to preserve Cup’ik language, as well as the traditional knowledge of today’s elders Fund and author a Cup’ik dictionary Additional Comments: Youth Development Critical Issues Re-incorporation of Chevak Village Youth Association Youth leadership development Advance further educational opportunities 38 Goal: Ensure the leadership and creative potential of the next generation of Chevak’s community leaders through the provision of productive activities for the vital energies of the community’s youth. Context Prior to the advent of modern culture, the youth of Chevak would learn the tools of subsistence life from their parents and elders on a generally sex-based division of labor. As the Bureau of Indian Affairs School grew in attendance, and modern contrivances replaced some of the traditional means of survival, many of the lessons previously taught by experience and within the family were no longer. A balance of institutional education, and experience-based, hands-on familial learning began to develop. Throughout the modern history of Chevak, youth have shown developed leadership skills and much creativity, instituting constructive avenues for their energies such as the Chevak Village Youth Association which held dances, organized seasonal cultural festivals with regional attendance, and other creative, positive options for entertainment. Today there still exists a community youth center, and dances are held periodically, but there is little leadership or organizational support. Youth have turned to other forms of entertainment such as basketball, as well as some less productive avenues such as video games, television, alcohol, and drugs. The City of Chevak, Tribal Council, and Corporation have proposed initiating a tradition of appointing youth leadership representatives to attend each of their meetings, as well as reestablishing such institutions as the Chevak Village Youth Association. Kashunamiut School District is a single-school district that serves the needs es — Kashunamiut Schoo! The Kashunamiut School Distri of the youth of pee Chevak exclusively. Because of its status as a single-school district, it enjoys a healthy infusion of education dollars (an average of nearly $2.2 million per year from 1999-2006 according to the 39 Alaska Department of Education and Early Development), to support its educational goals. In 2003 a new school building of nearly 70,000 sq. ft. was completed featuring one wing for elementary, one wing for junior high, and one wing for the high school, along with a full-size gymnasium. 329 students enrolled for the 2005-2006 school year, and nine graduated. Priorities and Actions of Chevak Youth Development Re-incorporate Chevak Village Youth Association e Youth-run organization that raises money, plans events, provides constructive entertainment e Reports to village authority e Eligible for Rasmussen funding, could become at least partially self- sustaining once established, have vending-style pool hall, video games e Develop a written history of youth organizations in Chevak e Additional Comments: Facilitate Youth Leadership development Youth representatives on all village councils Host and send youth to local, regional, national leadership conferences Establish a youth court Encourage job-shadowing and apprenticeships Support youth litter patrols Establish regular recreational sports leagues by age group Re-establish Boy Scout and Girl Scout programs Additional Comments: Advance further Educational Opportunities Start mentorship program to advise youth about further education Hold GED preparation class in youth center building Seek funding to hire after school tutors Use surplus city computers in youth center Additional Comments: 40 Leadership and Implementation Building on the advantages of a healthy community, traditional values, and far- sighted, pragmatic vision, the Chevak community planning committee of 2007 was composed of the leaders of the City of Chevak, Qissunamiut Tribal Council, and the Chevak Company Corporation. This cooperation was no small task, and in fact, has never been accomplished in the entire span of the collective existence of these entities. The planning committee forum was touted as a modern form of the talking circle, the traditional form of governance in Cup’ik history. To maintain this unprecedented level of cooperation, and continued development of the valuable combination of young, and veteran leadership, the planning committee should continue to meet regularly to inform all entities of progress achieved, and to set new goals as earlier priorities are fulfilled. As this broad-based plan outlines areas for further, specific attention, it is important that the planning committee embrace the challenges it has given itself. It is essential that as each priority is completed, it is replaced by another. To sustain the motivation and energies of all members and the community, long term projects should always be supplemented by the simultaneous focus on numerous short term projects that will perpetuate the efficacy of the committee and provide immediate, frequent successes that bolster the resolve of their promoters, and enhance the well-being of their beneficiaries. As recognized in the planning committee meetings, it is of paramount import that a self-sustaining economy be the backbone of all future endeavors, to preserve the integrity of local government and the community itself in anticipation of dwindling federal and state support in the near future. Selected Priority Actions As stated, successful realization of the goals developed by this plan will require the frequent completion of short-term priorities that set the pace for and provide the impetus to build toward long-term projects. The long range actions are ambitious undertakings and often propose sweeping changes that would significantly alter the community structure as it stands today. Because of the expansive scope of these large priorities it is important that their backing stay resolute throughout their completion. Short term successes provide the building blocks and the periodic motivation to see the larger ones come to fruition. 41 Short Term Actions ACTION: Hire a grant writer ACTION: Provide trooper housing ACTION: Reinforce river bank ACTION: Complete 14 (c)3 conveyances ACTION: Re-establish Qissunamiut Project ACTION: Build mixed-use community center in old school ACTION: Provide preventative maintenance (landfill attendant) ACTION: Determine best land use for old airstrip ACTION: AVEC Power Plant Upgrade ACTION: Establish leadership steering committee Long Term Actions ACTION: Renovate road system ACTION: Extend airstrip ACTION: Survey lots for future homes ACTION: Improve landfill ACTION: Construct lodge for tourism ACTION: Develop wind generated energy ACTION: Host cultural camps for student groups Continuation of the Chevak Community Plan “The present leadership of the community feels that this ‘community plan’ must be constructed, planned, and implemented by its citizens (Chevak) in order to ensure the present and future growth and well being of the community. Summarily, this CHEVAK COMMUNITY PLAN of 2007 is made in preparation for future community growth and development. Be it known that this community plan can and may be modified and/or amended with a due written consent of the Community Planning membership (see section one: Community Governance).” Chevak Planning Team 2007 42 Appendix Chevak Community Map Resolution Sources Contacts Public Infrastructure Summary 43 vv Community Map CHEVAK Home — Road: Trail — Reserved Area yeasyy jo dey Ayiunuiwog x This is an app The imagery is from the 1994 Water and Sewer Plan. Adaptations and additions have been drawn by hand. it may contain errors or omissions. This map was created exclusively for the Community Plan.geo CITY OF CHEVAK P.O. Box 136 Chevak, Alaska 99563 (907) 858-7128 Resolution for Adoption of Chevak Community Plan Resolution No. 07-004 WHEREAS, this community plan is important to the future growth and development of Chevak, Alaska; and, WHEREAS, this plan was created through a public process which captured the values and goals of our community; and, WHEREAS, this plan is a tool that helps us manage change in our community, and, WHEREAS, this plan is intended to coordinate future community development and service delivery; and, WHEREAS, we ask all public, private, and non-profit entities serving our community to recognize and use this plan; and, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that this plan is adopted by the community of Chevak, Alaska; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the parties of this resolution agree to work together to pursue the values, goals, and visions expressed in this plan. Certification We hereby certify that this resolution was duly passed and approved by the following parties: KL. hewn SLAB/LOF Ulric Ulroan, City of Chevak, Mayor Date x 7 -ost Roy At Kashunamiut Tribal Council, President Date x James ty Chevak Company Corporation, BOD Chairman Date Resolution for Adoption of Chevak Community Plan Resolution No. 45 Sources Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development http://www. labor.state.ak.us/ Alaska Division of Community Advocacy. Alaska Community Database Community Information Summaries (CIS) http://www.commerce.state.ak/dca/cammdb/CIS.cfm US Census Bureau, Census 2000. City of Chevak, Wade Hampton Census Area http://factfinder.census.gov Pingayak, John. The Cup’ik People of the Western Tundra: Alaskool Curriculum http://www. alaskool.org/projects/chevak/chevak/TheCupikPeople.htm USDA/Rural Development High Energy Cost Grants http://www. rurdev.usda.gov/rd/newsroom/2003/highenergy.html An Analysis of Loads and Wind Energy Potential for Remote Power Stations in Alaska, The Center for Energy Efficient and Renewable Energy, Alaska Village Electricity Cooperative http://www.ceere.org/rerl/publications/published/2004/ASES%2004%20Analysis %200f%20Remote%20Power%20Stations%20in%20Alaska.padf Previous Plans in Chevak: Chevak Community Survey Chevak Tribal Council Chevak Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste Master Plan, 1994 City of Chevak Chevak Road/Boardwalk Feasibility Study, 2005 ASCG Inc. Under Contract with Qissunamiut Tribal Council Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy & Area Plan, 2006 Lower Kuskokwim Economic Development Council Referenced Plans: Russian Mission Community Plan, 2006 RurAL CAP/ Denali Commission Manokotak Comprehensive Plan, 2005 Agnew::Beck Consulting Services 46 Contacts Local Contacts City of Chevak Ulric Ulroan, Mayor Dennis Jones, City Administrator P.O. Box 136 Chevak, AK 99563 Phone: (907) 858-7128 Fax: (907) 858-7245 Chevak Native Village Roy J. Atchak, Tribal President R.B Slats, Tribal Council Administrator PO Box 140 Chevak, AK 99563 Phone: (907)858-7428 Fax: (907) 858-7812 E-mail chevaktc @ unicom-alaska.com Chevak Company Corporation James Ayuluk, Chairman Roy Atchak, Corporate Manager P.O. Box 5478 Chevak, AK 99563 Phone: (907) 858-7912 E-mail: chevakcc @ unicom-alaska.com Qissunamiut Schoo! District Delbert Lantz, Principal 985 KSD Way Chevak, AK 99563 Phone: (907) 858-7712 Fax: (907) 858-6150 Email: dlantz @ vak.gcisa.net Website: http://www.chevak.org Sacred Heart Catholic Church 249 Government Hill Chevak, AK 99563 Phone: (907) 858-7826 47 Regional Contacts Alaska Village Electric Cooperative (AVEC) 4831 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503 Phone: (907) 561-1818 Toll Free: (800) 478-1818 Website: http://www.avec.org Association of Village Council Presidents P.O. Box 219 Bethel, AK 99559 101 Main Street Phone: (907)543-7300 Toll Free: (800) 478-3521 Website: www.avcp.org Calista Corporation — Regional Native Corporation 301 Calista Court, Suite A Anchorage, AK 99518-3028 Phone: (907) 272-5516 Email: calista@ calistacorp.com Website: http://www.calistacorp.com Coastal Villages Regional Fund (CVRF) 711 H Street, suite 200 Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: (907) 278-5151 Website: http://www.coastalvillages.org Lower Kuskokwim Economic Development Council P.O. Box 2021 Bethel, AK 99559 Phone: (907) 543-5967 Email: carl_berger@ ddc-alaska.org Rural Utilities Cooperative (RUC) Seth Smith, RUC Manager Phone: (907) 543-6184 Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) P.O. Box 528 Bethel, AK 99559 Phone: (907) 543-6020 Website: http://www.ykhc.org 48 Statewide Contacts Department of Commerce Community and Economic Development Division of Community Advocacy Ruth St. Amour, Development Specialist 550 W. 7™ Avenue, Suite 1770 Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: (907) 269-4527 Email: ruth_st.amour@commerce.state.ak.us Website: www.commerce.state.ak.us/cda Denali Commission 510 L Street, Suite 410 Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: (907) 271-1414 Website: http://www.denali.gov Office of the Governor Sarah Palin P.O. Box 110001 Juneau, AK 99811-0001 Phone (907) 465-3500 Website: http://www.gov.state.ak.us Rural Community Action Program, Inc. (RurAL CAP) 731 East 8" Avenue P.O. Box 200908 Anchorage, AK 99520 Phone: (907) 278-2511 Toll Free: (800) 478-7227 Website: http://www. ruralcap.com 49 Public Infrastructure Summary Service ‘Airport Provider Current Facilities ravel airstrip and two equipment sheds (2006) p Selby Bick ent Sue venan® Watts Issues/Notes/Needs area Lengthen airstrip Boat Landings City Small Barge Landing, two small boat landing storage areas Barge landing needs to be relocated Improved access to boat landings Water/Sewer City/ Volunteer Communications | United Utilities | Satellite television and Adequate internet Electricity AVEC Diesel Fuel Power Plant Wind energy in development (2003) Landfill City Landfill (2000) Estimated 50% capacity, requires an attendant and new fencing Roads City Older, fine silt roads (1950+) | Older roads and boardwalks require Newer, gravel roads on immediate improvements. Dust and periphery (1980+) mud are major concerns RUC Water/sewer system (1994) Repairs and upgrades ne eS eded None Minimal equipment and hyd ants Police State/ AVCP Public Safety Building Housing for Trooper and VPO’s Search and Volunteer/ - Equipment needed, EMS training Rescue CVRF Community City Bingo Hall Chevak lacks a true central community Center facility for social gatherings Postal USPS Post Office, tenant of City - Office Building Health YKHC Small Health Clinic (1970's) A new Clinic has been designed Senior Center - - There is currently no facility in Chevak providing senior services. Elders are cared for by family and community Youth - Playground, basketball courts (2003+) City government | City City Office Space Adequate office and meeting space; need improved communications. Want to move into new community center Tribal Qissunamiut Tribal Council Office Building - | government Tribal Council Pre-School RurAL CAP Head Start building Great condition Education K-12 Kashunamiut School District School Building, Administration Building (2003) Great condition College UAF Kuskokwim Campus of UAF, Bethel Library There is currently no public library 50