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HomeMy WebLinkAboutGalena Strategic Community Plan2012-2017 Prepared by Tanana Chiefs Conference Community Planning Program in Cooperation with the: Louden Tribal Council, City of Galena, and Galena Community Members Galena Strategic Community Plan i Table of Contents Joint Resolution ……………………………………………………………………………….. iii Executive Summary ...………………………………………………………………………..… 1 Community Overview…………………………………………………………………………... 2 History …………………………………………………………………………………… 2 Location, Geography, & Climate .……………………………………………………..… 4 Land Use…………………………………………………………………………………..5 Population…………………………………………………………….………………….. 5 Governance……………………………………………………………………..................…… 6 Law Enforcement & Justice ………………………………………………………………6 City of Galena …………………………………………………………………………… 6 Louden Tribal Council ………………………………………………………………...… 7 Public Facilities & Infrastructure …………………………………………………………… 8 Health Clinic…………………………………………………………...………………… 8 Assisted Living Center ………………………………………………..…………………. 9 Galena USAF Base ……………………………………………………………………… 9 Communication …………………………….………………………………….………… 9 Community Hall …………………………………………………………………………. 9 Community Hall ……………………………………………………………….……….. 10 Educational Facilities ………………………………………………………………...……….. 11 Galena City School District …………………………………………………….……… 11 Sydney Huntington School …………………………………………………………….. 11 Galena Interior Learning Academy ………………….………………………………… 11 UAF Interior-Aleutians Campus ……………………………………..………………… 11 Transportation…………………………………………………………………………...…… 13 Long Range Transportation Plan Highlights …………………………………………... 14 Housing………………………………………………………………………………………... 15 Public Utilities ……………………………………………………………………………….... 18 Electricity & Power ……………………………………………………………………...18 Water & Sewer ………………………………………………………………………….18 Landfill & Recycling ………………………………………………………………….. 18 Bulk Fuel Storage ……………………………………………………………………… 19 Economy …………………………………………………………………………………..…… 20 Industries & Capital Projects ……………………………………………………….….. 20 Available Employment Opportunities …………………………………………………. 20 Income Levels & Labor Statistics ………………………………….………………..…. 21 Subsistence Levels…………………………………………………………………..….. 21 Barriers to Economic Development…………………………………………………….. 22 ii Potential Business Opportunities in Galena ………………………………………..….. 22 Economic Development Priorities ………………………………………………...…… 22 Community Visioning Process…………………………………………………………...…… 23 Goals & Objectives ……………………………………………………………………….…... 25 Goals & Objectives Summary ………………………………………………….……......…… 26 Energy ………………………………………………………………………………..… 28 Communication ………………………………………………………………………… 29 Youth & Education …………………………………………………………………..….30 Health & Wellness …………………………………………………………………...… 32 Transportation ……………………………………………………………………….…. 34 Housing ………………………………………………………………………………… 35 Enforcement & Justice …………………………………………………………………. 36 Economic Development ……………………………………………………………..…. 38 Environmental Health ……………………………………………………………….…. 39 Existing Planning Documents ……………………………………………………………...… 41 Contact Information ………………………………………………………………………..… 42 References …………………………………………………………………………………..…. 43 List of Figures Galena Community Planning Meetings ………………………………………………… 1 Population Based on U.S. 2010 Census ………………………………………………… 5 Activities and educational opportunities for youth in Galena …………………………. 12 Housing Occupancy ……………………………………………………………………. 16 Household Demographics ……………………………………………………………… 17 Income Levels & Labor Statistics ……………………………………………………… 21 Potential Business Opportunities in Galena ……………………….…………………… 22 Appendices Galena 2009 Area Map Sheet 1 Galena 2009 Area Map Sheet 2 Galena 2009 Area Map Sheet 3 Galena 2009 Community Map Sheet 1 Galena 2009 Community Map Sheet 2 Galena 2009 Community Map Sheet 3 Galena 2009 Community Map Sheet 5 iii 1 Executive Summary This plan reflects the changing challenges and opportunities important for future health and sustainability. This document is a culmination of several community wide visioning and planning events that provided an opportunity for Galena community members to share their ideas and input on the goals and priorities that should guide future decisions. The goals highlighted in this document represent a desired state. It provides an outline of future project development. While a Lead Entity may be indicated for some priorities this illustrates a pre-existing connection to that priority and is in no way binding. To achieve the flexibility that funding and staff resources require, goals and strategies are broadly expressed. The content of this plan was compiled with assistance from the Tanana Chiefs Conference Community Planning Program. The community of Galena has a long history of planning and implementation. Some of the most recent community planning efforts 2005 planning efforts completed by the Louden Tribal Council and staff, and the 1998 Comprehensive Community Plan that was completed by the City of Galena. Many of the priorities highlighted in these plans have been accomplished while others have been identified as ongoing priorities. While the strategies identified in this plan indicate agreed upon community priorities, a notable missing element in this document is land use planning. This planning process was initiated by the Louden Tribal Council in cooperation with the City of Galena with strong participation from the City of Galena School District and is not meant to fulfill the legal requirements of a comprehensive community plan required by the State of Alaska of 1st class cities. Although the planning process and community profile information may be adapted to include land use planning elements at a later date, the intent of this planning process was to establish a shared vision among community members in addition to satisfying requirements of funding agencies for documented community priority projects. Galena Community Planning Meetings Date Type of meeting Number of Attendees June 9th, 2011 Preparation Pre-Planning Meeting 5 June 16th, 2011 Galena Community Planning Kick-Off Meeting 22 July 27, 2011 Preparation Pre-Planning Meeting 5 August 4, 2011 Galena Community Planning Meeting 30 October 6, 2011 Galena Action Planning Meeting 10 October 20, 2011 Galena Action Planning Meeting 18 March 22, 2012 City of Galena Adoption of Plan City Council April 19, 2012 Louden Tribal Council Adoption of Plan Louden Tribal Council 2 Community Overview History Koyukon Athabascan Indians, the Louden Tribe historically were nomadic peoples, moving seasonally to follow game and waterfowl migrations. Summer camps were located on the Yukon River where people fished and dried salmon for winter use. Fall was the time when people moved inland to the woods, lakes and ponds for berry-picking, and moose and waterfowl hunting. During the winter and early spring, the Koyukon Athabascans trapped furbearers, like marten, wolf, wolverine and beaver, and the men hunted winter bear. The spring hunt of duck and geese marked the end of winter, and a time when abundant fresh food replaced the dwindling supplies of dry meat, fish and berries. Although Louden Tribe, like the rest of the Alaska Tribes, is now settled in permanent villages and cities, tribal members continue to maintain a semi-subsistence life style, hunting, fishing and trapping seasonally. These ties to the country and respect for the animals that provide sustenance are reflected in Koyukon Athabascan traditions, which were taught through story- telling and by elders. The convergence of Louden Tribal history with western history began in the mid-1800’s. Russian fur-traders established a trading post in Nulato, 45 miles downriver of present-day Galena. To feed the growing European demand for furs, the trading post, like all the others on the Yukon, offered goods like tea, sugar, beads and cloth in exchange for furs brought in by Native trappers. At the turn of the century, the Klondike and Nome gold rushes resulted in a flood of miners, traders and speculators fanning out along the major river systems seeking fame and fortune. In the early 1900’s, the discovery and development of an iron sulfide ore (galena) deposit in the mountains across the Yukon from Galena, contributed to the establishment of the town. This area was already well known and well used by Louden Tribal members as a traditional fish camp called Notaalee Denh 1 by the Koyukon Athabascans. Lured by the lucrative trade and wood cutting jobs resulting from mining, white settlement and the riverboat 1 Literally the place on the river where the water rushes against the bank and is pushed away from it. From Neelghu neets’edeneyh: We Work Together, We Help Each Other, The Story of Louden Tribal Council’s Self- Governance Process 1993-2000, at 8 and 39. 3 traffic, and by the promise of a school, teachers and medical care provided by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, local Koyukon Athabascans began settling at Galena. The English name of the Louden Tribe comes from the eponymous telegraph station that was built by the Army Signal Corps in 1904 at a place called Naaheghedoteel Denh, 14 miles upriver from present day Galena. The first school at Galena was established in 1928-1929. The first school was built from logs in 1930. The BIA operated the school in Galena until 1969 at which point it responsibility of operating the school was transferred to the State of Alaska. In 1973 Galena because an independent school district.2 During World War II, the Galena Air Field was built, as part of the support infrastructure for the Lend-Lease Program. In the 1950’s, during the height of the Cold War, the US Air Force expanded the Galena Air Field into a major base, and the Campion radar site, nine miles east of town, was constructed. The Campion radar site closed in the late 1980’s, and the Galena Air Force Base was placed in warm status in 1993. In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission voted to close the base entirely, with closure completed by October 2008. The location of two military facilities at Galena resulted in economi c development and population growth not found in other rural Interior Alaska villages, and contributed to Galena becoming a regional hub. Because of mining and military activities, Galena has a larger non -Native population than other Interior Alaska Native villages. Consequently, although Native culture remains dominant in the region, modern cultural and recreational activities reflect the mixing of two cultures. Louden tribal members continue to practice and excel in the traditional arts of skin sewing, including fine fur manufactory such as marten and beaver hats, beaded gloves, moccasins and other skin clothing, and in the crafts of snowshoe and dog sled building. Galena also continues to be a central gathering place for Natives and non-Natives alike from up- and down-river villages. In September, it hosts the Yukon Jamboree, a two-day musical event promoting sobriety and healthy living. The community-sponsored festival features Athabascan fiddling and dancing, and attracts musicians from as far away as villages on the Alaska Peninsula. Other events include Spring Carnival, with its snowshoe and dogsled races, summer softball tournaments, and the popular Yukon 800 – a high-speed riverboat race from Fairbanks to Galena and back, which is typically dominated by Native race teams.3 2 (Nollner, 1977) 3 (Tanana Chiefs Conference Planning Program, Loudan Tribal Council, 2006) This section was adapted from the 2006 Draft Louden Community Plan. 4 Location, Geography, & Climate Situated on the north bank of the Yukon River, 270 air miles west of Fairbanks, Galena incorporated as a first-class city in 1973. The town is divided into two distinct sections – Old Town, which is the original townsite, and New Town. Due to its low-lying location on the banks of the Yukon, Old Town is frequently subject to seasonal flooding, especially during spring break up. As a result of a particularly severe flood in 1971, a new community site was developed one and a half miles east of Old Town, at Alexander Lake. Since then, new housing and city infrastructure, such as the city school and health clinic, have been built in New Town, thus the town is significantly expanding eastward along the Campion Road. However, many of Galena’s key components, such as the Post Office, bulk fuel storage, the regional offices of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Archies’, the local eatery and bar, remain in Old Town. Additionally, Old Town is home to many Louden tribal members who are reluctant to, or refuse to, relocate to New Town, despite the ever-present flood threat. Galena serves as a regional hub for approximately ten villages in Interior Alaska. From the mid 1950’s until the early 1990’s, the US Air Force operated two bases there – the Galena Air Field located just outside of Old Town, and the Campion Air Force Base, 14 miles east of Galena. Campion was closed in 1993; the Galena Air Field was placed on warm status until the fall of 2005, when the Base Relocation and Closure (BRAC) Commission voted to close the base entirely.4 The climate is typical for Interior Alaska, with cold, relatively dry winters. Summers are cool, with average daily temperatures in the low to mid 70s Fahrenheit. In the winter, sustained periods of very cold temperatures, on the order of -40o F are common, and extreme temperatures ranging from -64o F to -92o F have been recorded at Galena. Annual precipitation is 12.7 inches with an average of 60 inches of snowfall. Snow usually is on the ground from mid-October through mid-April. The river is ice-free from mid-May through mid-October.5 Land Use The village corporation, Gana’A’Yoo, Limited has a 12(a) land entitlement of 115,200 acres. As dictated by ANCSA 4 (Tanana Chiefs Conference Planning Program, Loudan Tribal Council, 2006) 5 (Alaska Department of Commerce) Photo from the 1971 flooding event by Mike Coulter 5 14(c)(3), approximately 1,376 acres were reconveyed to the city of Galena for community use and expansion. The city received 1,280 acres in the early 1980’s from Gana-A’Yoo Limited. Those lots were sold and now comprise Galena’s “New Town”.6 Old Town & New Town Old Town is located directly along the banks of the Yukon River. Old Town was the original town site in Galena and has several historical buildings. Galena has experienced several significant flooding events in 1925, 1945, 1963, and 1971. In order to reduce the risk of homes and community infrastructure being threatened during spring break-up and flooding events the majority of new construction in Galena has been built in what is called New Town. Population based on U.S. 2010 Census Total Male Female Total 470 241 229 Under 5 years 27 10 17 5 to 9 years 33 21 12 10 to 14 years 48 26 22 15 to 19 years 33 17 16 20 to 24 years 25 14 11 24 to 29 years 27 14 13 30 to 34 years 27 14 13 35 to 39 years 36 15 21 40 to 44 years 35 19 16 45 to 49 years 42 25 17 50 to 54 years 33 16 17 55 to 59 years 34 10 24 60 to 64 years 21 14 7 65 to 69 years 20 12 8 70 to 74 years 15 8 7 75 to 79 years 5 3 2 80 to 84 years 8 2 6 85 years and over 1 1 0 Data retrieved from the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development based on the 2010 US Census. 6 (USKH, Inc. Information Insights, Agnew:: Beck Consulting, LLC, 2007) Photo from the 1971 flooding event by Mike Coulter 6 Governance Law Enforcement & Justice There is a full time Police Chief that is employed the City of Galena who was hired in the summer of 2011 after the position being vacant for roughly one year. There is a volunteer Galena Fire Department. There is also a magistrate employed by the state of Alaska Fourth Judicial District. Some of the barriers to enforcement and justice include a lack of awareness and/or willingness of community to report incidents or things that are out of place. There is growing interest among Louden Tribal members and Galena community members for a more active Tribal Court. Galena hosted the Galena Justice forum June of 2011 where individuals from Galena and surrounding villages received training on tribal courts and circle sentencing. Galena held its first circle sentencing in fall of 2011 which had wide support from the community. City of Galena Galena was incorporated as a 1st class city in 1971. The City of Galena was conveyed 1,280 acres of land in 1980 by the village corporation Gana A’ Yoo which encompasses all of New Town. The City of Galena has plating and zoning authority within city limits. The City of Galena administrative employees include a City Clerk and City Manager. The City of Galena also has contracted positions of Financial Manager, Attorney, and Engineer. Other employees include utility managers and service workers who manage and maintenance city facilities and utilities. There are six city council members and an elected Mayor who can vote in the case of a tie. Elections are held every year the first Tuesday in October, terms are on a rotating schedule. Regular city council meetings are held 2nd Tuesday of every month. The City of Galena imposes a 3% sales tax to support municipal functions. The City of Galena owns and operates all the community utilities including the electric utility, water distribution, sewage collection, and solid waste collection and management. The city also owns and maintains the community hall, Edgar Nollner Health Clinic, utility buildings, and various buildings on base. It partially funds the community Library and the Olympic sized swimming pool. The City of Galena is in a long-term lease agreement with Galena City School District, which utilizes several former USAF buildings for school facilities. Current City Projects & Priorities Current projects that the City is working on include the Louden Loop Water Installation. Once complete the new water lines will provide access to roughly 15 to 20 homes to piped water. The City of Galena is also in the process of automating the Steam plant facility which will reduce the cost of overhead and maintenance. The City of Galena is a main subcontractor for the ongoing US Air Force Base remediation project. 7 Louden Tribal Council The Louden Tribe is a federally recognized tribe with roughly 600 members. Nearly half of Galena’s tribal members live in the City of Galena. Louden Tribal Government is composed of a First Chief, Second Chief and five council members. Council members are elected annually by enrolled Tribal members. It is not required for tribal members to reside in Galena in order to participate in the elections. The Louden Tribal Council has several full time employees including a full time Tribal Administrator, Housing Director, Tribal Workforce Development Specialist, and Administrative Assistant. The Louden Tribe adopted its constitution in 1990. The Louden Tribal Council is responsible for shaping policies and procedures that guide council activities in addition to developing and adopting local tribal ordinances. The Tribal Council is also responsible for hiring the Tribal Administrator, and making decisions on behalf of the Tribe. Unlike smaller villages where city governance is usually a function of Tribal government, the City of Galena operates independently of Louden Tribe. The Tribe has much less direct control over certain community components, such as public safety, land use, and residential and business development, than do Tribal governments in smaller villages. Thus, Louden Tribal Council advocates for its Tribal members’ needs through cooperative agreements with the City government, and through close collaboration on community projects; for example, tribal monies contributed to the construction of the new Galena health clinic completed in 2002. Louden Tribe currently has a limited tribal justice system. It is in the process of expanding the types of cases it hears in addition to developing alternative justice practices for non-Natives as well – particularly for juvenile offenders. Presently, the Louden Tribal Council acts as the Tribal Court, hearing and resolving Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) cases only. To avoid the possibility of bias in administering justice the Louden Tribe is in the process of establishing a Tribal Court separate from the Louden Tribal Council, which will expand jurisdiction to some misdemeanor cases and youth offenders. . 8 Public Facilities & Infrastructure Health Clinic Expansions to the Edgar Nollner Health Clinic (ENHC) were completed in 2003. The health facilities provide mid-level services to Galena residents and surrounding communities such as Ruby, Koyukuk, Nulato, Kaltag, and Huslia. Some of the services available at the Edgar Nollner Health Clinic include: Telemedicine Teleradiology Digital X-Rays and Dark Room Emergency Room Consulting Rooms Ambulance Conference/ Administrative Facilities Nurse Practitioners and Physician's Assistants provide basic healthcare services and preventative medicine, including pregnancy screening, well-baby checks, and community health outreach services. The care provided by the center is enhanced by regularly scheduled itinerant services, such as mammography and vision clinics. The U.S. Public Health Service maintains an office at the ENHC and visits regularly, providing immunizations, TB testing, and consultations. The City of Galena provides ambulance for the community. Community events and resources exist in Galena that promote health and wellness: Events Regular Activities Resources Sobriety events Fiddlers Galena Clinic Fun runs Basketball games Two Churches Yukon Jamboree Swimming pool times School programs Potlaches School ban on sodas TCC programs Spring Carnival Wellness Coalition Ag Fair Community garden Stamp out smoking campaign Good communication exists between court, tribe, OCS, & Edgar Nollner Health Center. After prom party Clinic participation in public events 9 Assisted Living Center The Galena Assisted Living Facility was completed in 2009 and opened May 2011. The facility has a capacity for nine residents. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom and kitchenette. The Assisted Living Center is currently recruiting residents; however qualifications for potential residents include a documented need for healthcare assistance and the ability pay for services. Although there have been many inquiries there are currently no residents living in the center. Eventually programs and services that the Assisted Living Center would like to add include daily meals and a variety of activities that would be available to elders living in the center and elders living elsewhere in Galena. Galena USAF Base Construction of the Galena U.S. Air Force Base began during WWII. An airstrip was completed in the early 1940s that assisted in military air-transport to Russia. With the construction of the USAF Base, the population of Galena swelled from a village of less than 50 people to a boomtown of several hundred. USAF Base realignment began in 1994 when the decision was made to no longer station USAF personnel at the Galena base. At this time, the City of Galena entered into an agreement with the USAF Base that allowed the city to acquire vacant buildings for educational purposes. This provided the opportunity for The Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) to expand their facilities. Between 1994 and 2006, the Galena USAF Base was kept on alert status. In 2006, the USAF began the process of fully closing the base. The only remaining commitments of the USAF include monitoring environmental contamination and completing necessary remediation projects. For further details on the USAF Base closure and reuse plan, refer to the Galena USAF Base Reuse Plan available for viewing on the City of Galena’s website under Community Plans. Galena Assisted Living Center Galena AFB: The Biggest Little Base in the World on the Edge of Nowhere. Photo by Mike Coulter 10 Communication Communication services ranging from in-state telephone, cable TV, to DSL Internet are available through TelAlaska. The Galena school internet provider is GCI. Cell service is available through GCI and AT&T. KIYU Radio Station Galena is home to KIYU radio station, which broadcasts locally and in the surrounding communities of Nulato, Kaltag, Ruby, Huslia, and Koyukuk. KIYU strives to provide information, entertainment, and educational programming that caters to the Western Koyukuk region and youth & adults alike. Although the KIYU radio station primarily focuses on broadcasting for Yukon-Koyukuk villages, the station is also looking to expand South to the Illiamna region and extending as far west as St. Mary’s. KIYU provides a competitively priced package for members, which includes satellite television and high-speed internet. KIYU is a catalyst for the community providing services that extend far beyond the radio station. Examples of their commitment to the community include frequent sponsorships of community events, bringing in maintenance specialists such as electricians and plumbers so KIYU members are able to pay the same amount for services as someone in Fairbanks. KIYU also plays a role in promoting the GILA school throughout the state through marketing and advertising. Community Hall The Galena Community Hall is owned and maintained by the City of Galena. The facility has a large meeting area, snack vending stall, storage room, and restrooms. The current structure was built in 1985. The Community Hall serves as an important gathering place for community events, celebrations, and weekly bingo. 11 Educational Facilities City of Galena School District The City of Galena School District is a single location district that consists of the Sydney Huntington School (SHS) which provides K-8 education. Sydney Huntington School classes 9- 12 are combined with the class offering from the Galena Interior Learning Academy. In addition to SHS and GILA, Galena students and students from surrounding communities have the choice of enrolling in the IDEA home school program. Sidney C. Huntington School The Sidney C. Huntington School (SHS) is operated by the Galena City School District. The Sidney C. Huntington School offers K-8 education for local Galena residents. Grades 9-12 have a unique agreement with the Galena Interior Learning Academy, which provides expanded educational opportunities for Galena high-school students. In May of 2010, 10 out of 10 seniors graduated with their diplomas.7 Enrollment for the 2008- 2009 School year SHS was 110 students. The number of students during the 2009-2010 academic year was 104.8 Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) The Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) is a post secondary vocational boarding school. GILA offers expanded educational opportunities not only for local high school students but students throughout the state. In addition to offering course work in math, sciences, language arts, and social science, GILA offers a full range of vocational courses. Students can choose to take courses in aviation, automotive technology, cosmetology, computer technology, culinary arts, small engine, driver’s education, welding, and woodworking. The courses offered at GILA provide the opportunity for students who may not want to attend college to have tools and skills that will allow them to pursue a variety of careers. A total of 23 students graduated with their diplomas in May 2011.9 7 (Department of Education & Early Development) 8 (Galena City School District, 2011) 9 (Galena City School District, 2011) 12 UAF Interior Aleutians Campus One of the UAF Interior Aleutian Campus student centers is located in Galena. This center provides student support and educational services to students living along the Yukon and Koyukuk River systems. The I-A Campus center serves approximately nine communities, focusing on educational opportunities in construction trades, technology, paraprofessional educational program, tribal management, eco-tourism, rural human services, and Native language instruction.10 Activities and educational opportunities for youth in Galena: Activities Sorts/ Extra- Curricular Community Strengths School District Strengths Agriculture Fair Baseball Games Health clinic is available to teach kids and teens Individualized instruction Jamboree Swimming Lessons Engaged parents and adults Small class size Spring Carnival Open gym nights Interior-Aleutians Campus offering practical training Good teamwork between teachers Bazaar Shop IDEA program 4th of July Celebration Music & Art Programs Vicinity of activities for youth Vocational Ed Potlaches Lots of possible subsistence activities Teachers that are committed to Galena Iditarod Galena Science Camp Vocation Ed 10 (Clendenin, 2011) Galena youth playing basketball 13 Transportation Galena serves as a sub-regional hub for surrounding villages. Daily flights run from Fairbanks through several different air carriers including Warbellow’s Air Venture, Wright Air Service, and Era Aviation. There is a lighted 7,249’ long and 150’ wide paved airstrip and a 2,786’ and 80’ wide gravel airstrip. In addition to air-cargo services several different barge companies navigate the Yukon River and will land at Galena. Equipment and large shipments may be barged to Galena in addition to a range of petroleum products. The Yukon River is also an important transportation corridor between Galena and surrounding villages year round. In the summer , residents travel by boat and in the winter by snow-machine. There are 45 miles of developed roadways in Galena and 276.8 miles of undeveloped or primitive roadways that are used for subsistence and recreational activities. There are no paved roads in the Galena. Roads are all gravel and during the summer dust can be a significant problem. A total of 33 miles of roads are owned and maintained by the City of Galena and Department of Transportation. Other existing roads in Galena are residential roads.11 Ongoing issues with existing transportation routes in Galena include dust, and inadequate drainage that quickly deteriorates road surfaces. Two high transportation priorities include dust abatement and the Campion Road Erosion Protection projects through relocation. The City of Galena administered calcium chloride to the busiest roads in the summer of 2011 which significantly reduced the amount of dust along those roads. Due to the success of this projects many residents are in support of expanding this project to other roads throughout the community. 11 (WHPacific, 2009) Boats on the Yukon River. 14 Long Range Transportation Plan The Louden Tribal Council completed a Long Range Transportation Plan with assistance from WH Pacific in 2009 which includes a detailed route descriptions and transportation priorities with accompanying implementation plans and cost estimates. The top priorities outlined in the 2009 LRTP were: Project 1: Campion Road Realignment Project 2: Local Roads Rehabilitation Project 3: Ball Field Road Drainage Improvements Other transportation priorities noted in the 2009 LRTP included: Dust Control Transportation Planning Ongoing Road Maintenance Property Management Transit Facilities and Services Project Development Procurement Management Contract Management Construction Construction Management Projects and priorities highlighted in the 2009 Long Range Transportation Plan continue to be the high priority projects that were identified during the 2011 planning process which also included: Calcium Chloride on more roads around Galena. Regular maintenance of roads. Erosion Control (Campion Rd). Addressing issues surrounding the high cost of transportation. Campion Road erosion 15 Housing Current Galena Housing Situation A basic evaluation was conducted to asses both the current availability and condition of housing in Galena. Respondents were asked to rank the current availability of housing as either exceeding the demand, meeting the demand, or insufficient. Sixty-nine percent of respondents noted that the current housing supply was insufficient. The second assessment survey ask respondents to rate the condition of available housing in Galena as either good, fair, or poor. Sixty-four percent of respondents noted that the housing conditions were poor. A detailed breakdown of the survey responses can be viewed below. Several common problems persist throughout much of the available housing stock in Galena. These include: homes that are not well insulated and weatherized which increase the already high cost of heating homes, poorly built foundations made worse by permafrost which most of the homes in Galena are built on, mold, limited availability of piped water & sewer. Among the highest concerns with regard to the housing stock in Galena is the limited availability of energy efficient homes. 1. What is the current availability of housing in Galena? 1. Insufficient 11 1.5 (In between 1 & 2) 1 2. Meets the demand. 1 3. Exceeds the demand 3 There were a total of 16 respondents. One vote was 1.5. 2. What is the current condition of available housing in Galena? .5 (Condition below poor) 1 1. Poor 9 2. Fair 4 3. Good There was a total of 14 respondents. 16 3. What is your primary concern with regard to housing in Galena? Energy efficient homes 18 82% Affordable heating 10 45% Affordability 3 14% Homes with good foundations that can withstand the effects of permafrost 6 27% Water & sewer 8 36% *Percentages do not add up to 100. Housing Occupancy Total 264 Occupied housing units 190 Vacant housing units 74 For rent 19 Rented, not occupied 1 For sale only 4 Sold, not occupied 0 For seasonal, recreational, or occasional use 5 All other vacant 45 Vacancy Rate Homeowner vacancy rate (percent) 2.9 Rental vacancy rate (percent) 25.3 Housing Tenure Owner-occupied housing units 135 Renter-occupied housing units 55 Population in owner-occupied housing units 341 Population in renter-occupied housing units 129 Average household size in owner-occupied housing units 2.5 Average household size in renter-occupied housing units 2.4 Data retrieved from the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development based on the 2010 US Census. 17 Household Demographics Total 190 Family households (families) 123 With own children under 18 years 72 Husband-wife family 79 With own children under 18 years 39 Male householder, no wife present 13 With own children under 18 years 8 Female householder, no husband present 31 With own children under 18 years 25 Nonfamily households 67 Householder living alone 55 Male Householder living alone 31 65 years and over 5 Female householder living alone 24 65 years and over 8 Data retrieved from the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development based on the 2010 US Census. Barriers to addressing housing priorities Two primary barriers impede the ability of Galena community members to address the limited availability and quality of housing. These include determining land that could be zoned and developed into a new housing subdivision and barriers associated with the extremely high cost of new housing construction. 18 Public Utilities Electricity & Power The City of Galena is the electric utility operator. Six generators produce electricity in New Town, Old Town, and the USAF Base facilities with two additional generators used as backups. The cost of electricity is 56 cents per kWh. Roughly, 450,000 gallons of diesel are used to power the community of Galena per year. Identifying a solution that address the high cost of energy is high priority for Galena residents. Water & Sewer Two city wells provide water for the piped water system in Galena. Approximately 28 homes connect to the piped water system in addition to the school and health facilities, 110 households use a flush/haul system, and a remaining 22 households use honey buckets. Some homes have individual septic tanks. The city maintains a 200,000 gallon reservoir and leach field, and is constructing an additional 100,000-gallon reservoir in 2012 that will help with fire protection. Refuse collection is provide by the city for households on the flush/haul system. During the summer of 2011 the City of Galena completed a piped water and sewer project that will provide an additional 15 to 20 homes the choice to hook up to the city water and sewer system. Some homes along the new water and sewer corridor were constructed with indoor plumbing, however many were not. Many homes with have to install indoor plumbing in order to hook up to the utility which will prove inhibitive for some. The privately owned washeteria was closed in the fall of 2011 which leaves residents without running reliant of friends and neighbors for showers and laundry. Landfill & Recycling The City of Galena maintains and operates a Class III landfill. Refuse collection is provided throughout Galena with four collection sites. Galena residents pay $20.00 per month for the collection service. The landfill encompasses 65 acres of land that is located on the former Campion AFS Grounds. Water and sewer upgrades 19 The U.S. Air Force Base is responsible for monitoring contaminated sites from the former USAF base. Ongoing remediation work includes the land farming project. Through this project the City of Galena is able to charge rent of a portion of the landfill grounds to the USAF base. Through the land farming process contaminants in the soil degrade and immobilize allowing the dirt to be put back into the landfill. Bulk Fuel Storage Bulk Fuel Storage: Warbelow's Air Service (37,000); Era (30,000); Crowley. (1,297,750); City Power Plant (630,000) tank farm; City Schools (60,500) Joint City-School Storage (1,800,000)12 12 (Alaska Department of Commerce) 20 Economy Galena is a transportation and commercials hub for surrounding villages in the Yukon-Koyukuk sub-region. The economy of Galena relies heavily on federal, state, city, and village government entities. While the government sector constitutes a significant part of the local economy, entrepreneurs and small businesses also create new opportunities for residents. As a regional hub, Galena provides a variety of employment opportunities for residents, but also residents of surrounding villages like Ruby, Nulato, Kaltag, and Koyukuk. Industry & Capital Projects There is no major industry in Galena in natural resource development or production. The economic base of Galena relies heavily on the Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) in particular and the combination of federal, state, city, and village governments. GILA is the largest employer in Galena, but not only that, it attracts students from around the state. Without the continued presence and success of GILA, the economic base in Galena would be significantly impacted. Available Employment Opportunities The City of Galena School District is the largest employer in Galena with over 100 employees while school is in session. Other primary employers include the City of Galena, the Louden Tribal Council, Edgar Nollner Health Clinic, aviation, and federal agencies such as Fish & Wildlife Service, Department of Transportation, and the Bureau of Land Management during summer months. Small businesses and entrepreneurship are important elements of the Galena economic in addition to providing employment opportunities for residents. There are two locally owned stores, several construction businesses and a number of Bed & Breakfasts and visitor accommodations. Seasonal employment in firefighting, commercial fishing, and construction provides work for many residents. 21 Income Levels & Labor Statistics The following Income and Employment data is from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2005-2009 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Employment: Estimate Percent Population 16 years and over 397 In Labor Force 299 75.3% Civilian Labor Force 299 75.3% Employed 92.3% 276 Unemployed 7.7% 23 Military Employment: 0 0.0% Not in Labor Force 98 24.7% Employed Workers: Private Wage & Salary Workers: 100 36.2% Government Workers (City, Borough, State, Federal): 173 62.7% Self-Employed Workers (in own not incorporated business): 3 1.1% Unpaid Family Workers: 0 0.0% Income: Per Capita Income: $26,630 Median Household Income: $59,773 Median Family Income: $62,500 Poverty: Subsistence Levels Like many Alaskan rural communities, subsistence activities are both important to the local culture and as an essential food source. The reliance on subsistence food sources becomes even more important as the cost of living in Galena continues to go up due to the high cost of transportation. All goods and food items are either flown or barged to Galena, which dramatically increases food costs. Fishing, hunting, berry picking, and gardening are all activities that allow many Galena residents to live healthier lives. Persons in Poverty: 68 Percent Below Poverty 14.1% 22 Barriers to Economic Development Some of the most significant barriers to economic development in Galena include the high cost of energy, high cost of transportation, limited availability of land and facilities. The high cost of energy is compounded by the dependence of the city, community infrastructure, and local residents on fossil fuels. The cost of heating and electricity is inhibitive to growth with the financial burden it places on local entities, businesses, and individuals alike. Similarly, the high cost of transportation similarly inhibits growth as it dramatically increases the costs of goods and services in Galena. The limited availability of land also presents a challenge to economic growth. Although land is abundant around Galena, land that is available for development is in short supply. Some of the contributing factors to the limited availability of land for development and expansion include; poor soils and drainage for construction, the high cost of preparing sites for construction including road and utility expansion, limited amount of land that is dedicated to public use and development, and large blocks of land owned by a relatively small number of private and public owners. Potential Business Opportunities in Galena Repair Service Products Boat shop Hardware Store Wood suppliers for fuel Mechanic shop Pizza Tourism Snow Machine repair Restaurant/ Bakery/ Cafe Sawmill Carpenter/ Handyman Taxi Service Native Crafts Construction Company Small Dog food production Daycare Biomass (fuel supply) House Cleaning Laundromat Second-hand store/ Bishops Attic/ E-bay Store Movie nights Economic Development Priorities As noted before the high cost of energy and transportation presents a significant barrier to economic development in Galena. Developing and implementing strategies which address the high costs of energy and transportation are paramount for economic sustai nability of Galena. 23 Community of Galena Visioning Process Four Galena community planning and visioning events were held that resulted in the goals and strategies that are included in this document. These events drew participation from community members and representatives from entities in Galena including the Louden Tribe, City of Galena, School Board, Edgar Nollner Health Clinic, and state agencies that resulted in diverse perspective, ideas, and vision for Galena’s future. Participants at the first two planning events were asked to answer two different questions about Galena; what makes Galena a special place to live, and what do you hope Galena is like in the future. Several themes arose from these two visioning activities. Themes that arose in response to the first question, what makes Galena a special place to live, included: The people, people in Galena are friendly and willing to help each other out. The community’s natural resources The community’s resourcefulness The presence of the Galena Interior Learning Academy is a tremendous asset to the community. The presence of a lot of great support networks. Galena is a great place to raise kids. The availability of work in Galena In response to the questions, what do you hope Galena is like in the future, themes that arose included: A Galena that has addressed its energy needs by integrating sustainable energy solutions such as biomass, A Galena that has employment opportunities for its residents and a future for kids to come back to, A place that has growing opportunities for youth in education and other activities, A viable daycare and Early Headstart Program, Better communication and cooperation between entities in Galena The planning dimension providing a framework for the visioning process included Enforcement & Justice, Community Health & Wellness, Youth & Education, Energy, Transportation, Housing, Economic Development, Environmental Health, and Communication. Community brainstorming sessions were held for each of the planning dimensions, which resulted in a list of priorities for each of the planning dimensions. A survey was distributed at the second visioning Galena Community Planning kickoff meeting. 24 event which asked participants to prioritize the ideas that were generated at the first meeting in the areas of Housing, Transportation, Environmental Health, and Energy. The results from this survey are included in the community profile summary to reflect high priority area in these four categories. Following the visioning sessions were two action planning events where the priorities generated during the visioning sessions were evaluated based on three questions: Are there people who will be able to implement action? Is funding necessary and/or available? Is there currently or in the near future the necessary infrastructure to support project or action? If appropriate, a lead entity or entities were identified for each priority and a timeline was identified. Timeline options were broken into five different categories. Ongoing Short term- 6 months- 2years Mid-term- 2years to 5 years Long term 5 years to 10 years Future- Over 10 years Vision for the future for projects that may not be immediately realistic. During the action planning events participants were asked to identify resources and challenges that would either assist or hinder accomplishing the priority. Additional comments or actions steps were also recorded for some priorities. Included in this document are notes generated by a number of different participants during group work sessions. Comments and actions items included in this document are merely a starting point for further planning in the priority areas identified through the Galena Community Planning process. Priorities identified for each planning dimension under the Goals section of this document are not listed in any particular order. 25 Community Goals and Priorities 26 Goals and Objectives Summary Goal Community Priorities Goal: Energy solutions are identified and implemented that will reduce the high cost of energy. Ensure that entities within Galena establish a coordinated effort to address the high cost of energy. Implement biomass solutions that will assist in addressing the high cost of heating. Reduce energy costs in Galena through encouraging energy conservation and weatherization programs and appropriate alternative energy solutions. Goal: Intentional communication and cooperation exists between entities to work towards shared priorities. Monthly informational community meetings are held that are attended by all entities to update community on projects. Distribution of community newsletter. Goal: Galena is a community that provides excellent education and growing opportunities for youth. Organize work study opportunities for youth that increase exposure to different professions and fields that provide valuable skill building opportunities. Expand the variety of extra-curricular clubs such as Model UN, Geography club, language club, and Art Clubs. Coordination between Galena City School District and Interior- Aleutians campus to provide dual credit class opportunities and more advanced classes. Incorporation of cultural and traditional Native Alaskan skills into extra-curricular youth education. Coordinate efforts between volunteers and Young Life to establish a Teen Recreation center that provides a safe and fun place for youth to go. Establish a viable Head Start Program/ Early Learning Center. Goal: Continue to support community activities that support health and wellness. Incorporate a healthy choice component with standing events such as the Agriculture Fair, Jamboree, Bazaars Continue to offer swimming lessons. Continue efforts that assist people to stop smoking Support efforts which provide the best Elder care possible Construct/ renovate a shower & laundry facility and ensure that it remains open for residents that would not otherwise have access to laundry and shower facilities. Goal: Galena has a well maintained transportation infrastructure. Construct a road that will allow residents to drive to the Galena cemetery. Ensure that there is regular maintenance of roads including ongoing efforts for dust abation. Address erosion concerns of Campion Road with the implementation of a long term sustainable solution. 27 Goal: Adequate, affordable, and energy efficient housing choices are available in Galena. Galena has more energy efficient homes available that will reduce the cost of heating and electricity. Promote the usage of feasible small scale alternative energy solutions in the construction of new homes. Expanding the availability of water and sewer continues to be a priority. Goal: Galena is a safe community with a healthy justice system with participation and cooperation between enforcement and residents. Law enforcement personnel and their families are welcomed into the community. There is greater participation in court hearings, court bail, sentencing, and probation. Establish an active community watch initiative to support curfew and increase community safety, especially during high crime times. Establish a safe house. Invite police chief and magistrate to speak to students on enforcement and justice. Goal: Galena protects its economic base and promotes local small business development. Promote buy locally initiative to support small business growth and cottage industry. Promote the utilization of the Internet Ensure that adequate data has been collected that accurately reflects the financial burden created by the high cost of energy. Ensure that the feasibility of energy reduction strategies have been established. Goal: Improve the environmental health and community appearance in Galena. Improve waste management in Galena. Support efforts that will reduce the amount of waste produced in Galena. Promote a bring-your-own dish (BYOD) policy to gatherings and events to reduce the usage Continue to promote recycling efforts. 28 Energy Goal: Energy solutions are identified and implemented that will reduce the high cost of energy. 1. Ensure that entities within Galena establish a coordinated effort to address the high cost of energy. Who Leads- Community Cooperation; City, Tribe, School, & Gana’A Yoo Timeline: Ongoing Additional steps to complete action: Establish a alternative energy working group that will facilitate an exchange of progress and information. Coordinate efforts in alternative energy project implementation in so much that there is no duplication of efforts. 2. Implement biomass solutions that will assist in addressing the high cost of heating. Who Leads- All entity effort Timeline: short-term Available Resources in achieving action: Gana A’ Yoo, Doyon, BLM. Grant that has been awarded to complete a forest inventory. Will Putman TCC Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Additional steps to complete action: Completing a biomass inventory Identify harvesting locations, ownership, and payment systems Address re-forestation/ replanting procedures to ensure that the local timber resources remains sustainable. Identify examples of biomass projects in Alaska that are comparable to what could be done in Galena. Such as those in Tok, Tanana, and Delta 3. Reduce energy costs in Galena through encouraging energy conservation and weatherization programs and appropriate alternative energy solutions.. Timeline: Midterm Available Resources in achieving action: TCC recently completed energy audits for all school and city buildings. Alaska Energy Authority- Additional steps to complete action: Energy audits Promotion of weatherization and energy efficiency projects. Distribute energy efficiency training material Research and develop viable alternative energy solutions including but not limited to solar and hydro, that will assist in reducing the high cost of energy. 29 Communication Strategies Goal: Intentional communication and cooperation exists between entities to work towards shared priorities. 1. Monthly informational community meetings are held that are attended by all entities to update community on projects. Lead Entity: Community wide effort, objective is a entity wide effort. Timeline: Short-term, ongoing Available resources to complete project: Louden Tribal Council Newsletter City of Galena Newsletter KIYU List-serves I-A Campus, etc School Board Calendar Creating a community Google calendar Potential obstacles or barriers to complete project: There are already a lot of community meetings and it is difficult to recruit participation. Ensuring that there is an established agenda to make meetings worth people’s time. It needs to be a non-exclusive gathering where anyone feels welcome, another name other than the Breakfast Club may be needed. Necessary Tasks & comments: Identifying an appropriate time and meeting place for meetings. The meetings could be hosted by different people or entities every month. There does not have to be food involved, in can just be a “community coffee break”, “brown-bag meeting”, or “Saturday brunch”. 2. Distribution of monthly community newsletter. Who Leads- Louden Tribal Council. Timeline: short-term/ Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Louden Tribal Council is already circulating a monthly community newsletter, but could use more input and content. School District, City, and Clinic may also be able to participate through their newsletters/ email lists. Additional steps to complete action: Information and content needs to be received by Louden by the 15th of every month to be included in the next month’s newsletter. Content needs to be submitted in written form. 30 Youth Education & Activities Goal: Galena is a community that provides excellent education and growing opportunities for youth. 1. Organize work study opportunities for youth that increase exposure to different professions and fields that provide valuable skill building opportunities. Who Leads- Vocation Instructors Timeline: Ongoing (Short-term) Available Resources in achieving action: Aviation, Cosmetology, Health/CNA, courthouse, radio station, Fish & Wildlife service, Auto Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Big talk – Lose motivation/ momentum. Unified goals need to be developed. Additional steps to complete action: Include all ages. Youth Court- involve magistrate 2. Expand the variety of extra-curricular clubs such as Model UN, Geography club, language club, and Art Clubs. Who Leads- Community Volunteers/ Parents/ support from school board Timeline: Midterm 1-5 years Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Lack of funding, no way to pay or reimburse volunteers or instructors. School board needs to see the need/ importance. Difficulty in finding instructors for activities and volunteers for support staff. The sustainability of each activity needs to be determined prior to initiating. 3. Coordination between Galena City School District and Interior-Aleutians campus to provide dual credit class opportunities and more advanced classes. Available Resources in achieving action: Certified Teachers/ Master degree holders Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Paperwork, time, leaders, establishing formalized partnership/ memorandum of understanding between school and UAF. Additional steps to complete action: Needs to be identified as a school board initiative. 4. Incorporation cultural and traditional Native Alaskan skills into extra-curricular youth education. Who Leads- Community initiative, Louden Tribal Council Timeline: Midterm 1-5 years Available Resources in achieving action: Native Alaska Month (November), Elders in the community. Multi-cultural students. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Personnel. Recognizing the importance. Additional steps to complete action: Action step needs to be more clearly defined. 31 5. Coordinate efforts between volunteers and Young Life to establish a Teen Recreation center that provides a safe and fun place for youth to go. Realistic- Yes Who Leads- Young Life Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Teen Center. Any Local organizations Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Red Tape. Construction of new facility and securing adequate funding. Additional steps to complete action: Official support from primary agencies in town. 6. Establish a viable Head Start Program/ Early Learning Center. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: There needs to be a sufficient need in order to acquire the necessary funding. Advertising from program. More parents as teachers and families who want the service provided in the community. Sustainability of program and maintaining appropriate licensing. Additional steps to complete action: Daycare/ Early learning There needs to be enough children under the age of 3 in order to make an early learning center viable. Initiate with baby steps. Begin with the TCC Infant Learning Program 32 Health & Wellness Goal: Continue to support community activities that support health and wellness. 1. Continue to offer swimming lessons. Realistic- Yes Who Leads- Leadership program GCSD Timeline: Available Resources in achieving action: Swimming lesions incorporated into P.E. Leadership-Water Survivor Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Sustainability, cost of maintaining pool (heating, maintenance, etc) Additional steps to complete action: Implement official water aerobics Gaining financial support from all community entities including the Louden Tribal Council Coordinate with Search & Rescue and EMS squad. 2. Support efforts which provide the best Elder care possible. Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Assisted Living Center Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Reliable transportation. Lack of information. Additional steps to complete action: Encourage Elder inclusion by ensuring that they are personally invited to community events and requesting participating in activities such as story-telling. Enhance the quality of life for Elders in Galena by promoting regular activities, outings, and gatherings Continue to ensure that the General Assistance program meets the needs of Elders in program including providing consistent, healthy meals, fuel assistance, and care/chore providers. 3. Incorporate a healthy choice component with standing events such as the Agriculture Fair, Jamboree, Bazaars 4. Construct/ renovate a shower & laundry facility and ensure that it remains open for residents that would not otherwise have access to laundry and shower facilities. Timeline: short-midterm Available Resources in achieving action: There is an existing facility that could be used. 33 Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Cost of operating facility. Additional steps to complete action: 5. Continue efforts that assist people to stop smoking. Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: TCC initiatives 34 Transportation Goal: Galena has a well maintained transportation infrastructure. 1. Construct a road that will allow residents to drive to the Galena cemetery. Who Leads: Louden Tribal Council City of Galena Timeline: Mid/ Long Term 10 years Available resources to complete project: Equipment, gravel, available workforce, Louden Tribe and City of Galena, Department of Transportation Potential obstacles or barriers to complete project: Funding for project, land access and right of ways. 2. Ensure that there is regular maintenance of roads. Lead Entity: City of Galena State of Alaska Timeline: Ongoing Available resources to complete project: Potential obstacles or barriers to complete project: Maintenance can only occur seasonally, freezing and thawing of roads that causes rapid deterioration. Necessary Tasks & special comments: Utilize Calcium Chloride on more transportation routes in Galena to provide dust control. Pros- keeps the dust down in town. Cons- Goes away after awhile, may be slick, and sticks to cars. 3. Address Campion Road erosion concerns with the implementation of a long term sustainable solution. Lead Entity: Department of Transportation Timeline: Short-term 35 Housing Goal: Adequate, affordable, and energy efficient housing choices are available in Galena. 1. Galena has more energy efficient homes available that will reduce the cost of heating and electricity. Who Leads- Louden Tribal Council Housing Program Timeline: Midterm Available Resources in achieving action: IRHA, USDA Housing Grant, Ramps for Elders, the availability of local materials, permits are not prohibitive. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: The cost of freight to get supplies here, difficulty in accessing loans from financial institutions, limited availability of land, housing shortages, many bad foundations of existing homes, season employment. Additional steps to complete action: Promote financing options that will improve access to housing to low-income families and individuals through a rating system. Foundations and insulation of new home construction in Galena through state of federal funding meet minimum qualifications. Promote weatherization programs which will assist in reducing the cost of heating in existing homes. 2. Promote the usage of feasible small scale alternative energy solutions in the construction of new homes. Who Leads- Louden Tribal Council Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Drift wood, pellet stoves, heat recovery H2O heat from existing heat source, solar. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Start up cost, fuel costs, storing solar energy, difficulty in disposing of batteries. 3. Expanding the availability of water and sewer continues to be a priority. Who Leads- City of Galena Timeline: Ongoing/ mid-term Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Availability of funding 36 Enforcement & Justice Goal: Galena is a safe community with a healthy justice system with participation and cooperation between enforcement and residents. 1. Law enforcement personnel and their families are welcomed into the community. Timeline: Short- Midterm Available Resources in achieving action: Welcoming Dinner. Making sure there is recognition of service, not just complaints. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Childcare help is unavailable. There is a need for jail guards. Additional steps to complete action: Make a list of eligible on call guards. Make sure that Law enforcement families are welcome by making sure they are asked if they need help with anything (getting moved, etc). Get a second officer or VPSO. 2. There is greater participation in court hearings, court bail, sentencing, and probation. Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: People’s time, caring, active court system. Community members that are participating now. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Once an individual is incarcerated, contact is very difficult. Can a public defender help? There is a lack of follow-up after sentencing. “Prime for Life” courses can be done only if young people are charged with minors consuming. Additional steps to complete action: Panel of community members able and willing to serve in Circle Sentencing. Support groups for all parties involved. Coordination between Galena Circle and Court and defendants, and family. There needs to be a standard procedures established for following up with incarcerated persons. Ideas- A facilitator who can call TCC to find out how to contact the incarcerated, a list of people/phone numbers that are appropriate to contact. Host another community meeting with the group who did the circle sentencing recently. Establish a circle sentencing procedure with the school to help “minors consuming” individuals. 37 3. Establish an active community watch initiative to support curfew and increase community safety, especially during high crime times. Timeline: Midterm Available Resources in achieving action: To strengthen curfew penalties City needs ordinance. Reminder on wireless about curfew. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Lack of awareness or understanding of existing ordinances. Additional steps to complete action: Create awareness of curfew through posters and radio announcements. Policeman can help. Posters could also be used to let community know what constitutes an emergency in addition to clear steps on how to respond and who to contact. 4. Establish a safe house. Available Resources in achieving action: Louden Tribal has resources to help pay for B&B if necessary or send people to a shelter in town. Additional steps to complete action: Clear information needs to be distributed on who to contact including a phone or cell number. This information could be distributed in the neighborhood watch poster. 5. Invite police chief and magistrate to speak to students on enforcement and justice. Who Leads- Magistrate Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Sunday at 3 PM- Community Time. Teachers need to be aware that they’re available. Additional steps to complete action: Work on putting together a group presentation. 38 Economic Development Goal: Galena protects its economic base and promotes local small business development. 1. Promote buy locally initiative to support small business growth and cottage industry. 2. Promote the utilization of the Internet Timeline: ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Galena City website provides information about local businesses. Ebay.com Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Additional steps to complete action: Greater awareness/ knowledge on Tele-work and whether it could be a viable economic development opportunity for Galena residents. Generate ideas and strategies on how to better promote the rural life. 3. Ensure that adequate data has been collected that accurately reflects the financial burden created by the high cost of energy. Timeline: Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Entities (Louden Tribe/ City) that have been and can document usage and cost. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Identifying lead entity on gather data, incorporating the high cost of heating oil into data collection. Additional steps to complete action: Share ideas that work among community/ other villages (hydro, wood heat, etc.) Support a Rural Communities “summit” that highlights projects that are going on and swap ideas. 4. Ensure that the feasibility of energy reduction strategies have been established. Timeline: Short-term/ ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: HUD, H.I.P., Louden Tribal Council and the Low Income house renovations. State of Alaska energy assistance Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: The availability of funding, awareness or opportunities. Additional steps to complete action: Informational meetings/ public announcements about simple things that can be done to cut consumption and energy costs. 39 Environmental Health Goal: Improve the environmental health and community appearance in Galena. 1. Improve waste management in Galena. Who Leads: City Timeline: Ongoing Additional steps to complete action: Complete landfill improvements and clean up 2. Support efforts that will reduce the amount of waste produced in Galena. Who Leads: City Timeline: Ongoing Additional steps to complete action: Educate community about ways to reduce waste Burn cardboard in an efficient manner Announce on the wireless that the 380 Barrels are full. 3. Promote a bring-your-own dish (BYOD) policy to gatherings and events to reduce the usage of paper and Styrofoam products. Timeline: Short-term Additional steps to complete action: Get the word out before potlucks. Make announcements on the wireless? 4. Continue to promote recycling efforts. Timeline: Short-term Ongoing Available Resources in achieving action: Labeled recycling bins, community interest in recycling programs. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Having a lot of different grant funded programs come and go which contributes to confusion. Having recycled items disposed of at the dump when there are no recycling efforts underway. Additional steps to complete action: Cleary establish what recycling efforts are currently underway. Create and distribute educational materials on what can be recycled and how to recycle properly Established controls for what goes into the center and how items need to be disposed of Ensure that recycling efforts are organized with designated drop off areas Organize volunteers to assist in recycling efforts 40 5. Hazmat Removal. Timeline: Short to Midterm Available Resources in achieving action: Louden Tribe has funds available. Obstacles/barriers to accomplishing action: Better communication is needed between City, Tribe, and Crowley on this issue. 41 Existing Planning Documents Mayo, C., (1993). Galena Community Profile. Fairbanks: Tanana Chiefs Conference. Sprott, J. E. (2000). Neelghu neets'edeneyh We Work Together, We Help Each Other. Anchorage: UAA Environmental and Natural Resource Institute Tanana Chiefs Conference Planning Program. (2006). Draft Louden Tribe Ten-Year Community Plan. USKH, Inc., Information Insights., Agnew::Beck Consulting, LLC. (2007). Galena USAF Base Plan UW Department of Urban Design & Planning, Dames & Moore of Anchorage. (1998). Galena Comprehensive Plan. Retrieved from Community Plans Library: http://www.commerce.alaska.gov/dca/commdb/CF_Results.cfm WHPacific. (2009). Louden Village Council Long Range Transportation Plan. WHPacific. 42 Contact Info City of Galena P.O. Box 149 Galena, AK 99741 Office (907) 656-1301 Fax (907) 656-1266 656-1769 Louden Tribal Council P.O. Box 224 Galena, AK 99741 Office (907) 656-1711 Fax (907) 656-1716 Gana-A’Yoo, Ltd. P.O. Box 38 Galena, AK 99741 Office (907) 656-1606 Fax (907) 656-1609 Galena City School District P.O. Box 299 Galena, AK 99741 Office (907) 656-1204 Fax (907) 656-2238 Galena Health Clinic P.O. Box 77 Galena AK, 99741 Office (907) 656-1366 Fax (907) 656-1525 43 References About the Alaska Court System. (2011, August 9). Retrieved September 8, 2011, from Alaska Court System: http://www.courts.alaska.gov/ctinfo.htm Alaska Department of Commerce. (n.d.). Alaska Community Database Community Information Summaries. Retrieved June 1, 2011, from Division of Community & Regional Affairs: http://www.commerce.state.ak.us/dca/commdb/CIS.cfm Alaska Department of Community and Regional Affairs Land Management & Mapping Program. (2009). Galena Community Maps. Retrieved January 13, 2012. http://www.dced.state.ak.us/dca/profiles/profile- maps.htm City of Galena. (n.d.). Retrieved June 14, 2011, from Galena Alaska: http://www.ci.galena.ak.us/ Clendenin, C. (2011, July 15). Yukon-Koyukuk Center. Retrieved July 26, 2011, from UAF Interior- Aleutians Campus: http://www.uaf.edu/iac/centers/yukon-koyukuk-center/ Department of Education & Early Development. (n.d.). Sidney C. Huntington School. Retrieved July 26, 2011, from Galena City School District: Report Card to the Public: 2010: http://www.galenaalaska.org/Text_Resources/SHSReportCardtoPublic.pdf Department of Labor & Workforce Development, Research & Analysis Section. (2011). 2010 Census Demographics Profile for Galena ANVSA. Juneau: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Galena City School District. (2011). Retrieved July 26, 2011, from Galena City School District: http://www.galenaalaska.org/GCSDHome3.html Nollner, C. E. (1977). History of Galena. (M. Dishnow, Interviewer) Sprott, J. E. (2000). Neelghu neets'edeneyh We Work Together, We Help Each Other. Anchorage: UAA Environmental and Natural Resource Institute. Tanana Chiefs Conference Planning Program, Louden Tribal Council. (2006). Louden Tribe Ten-Year Community Plan Draft. Fairbanks: Tanana Chiefs Conference. USKH, Inc. Information Insights, Agnew:: Beck Consulting, LLC. (2007). Galena USAF Base Reuse Plan. Galena: Galena Economic Development Council. UW Department of Urban Design & Planning, Dames & Moore of Anchorage. (1999). Galena Comprehensive Plan. Galena: City of Galena. WHPacific. (2009). Louden Village Council Long Range Transportation Plan. WHPacific.