HR highlights potential pay issues for new county position above existing salaries.

Director Charles Collins told the Finance Subcommittee that Alaska's workers' compensation funding (WSCA) is shrinking as premiums fall, forcing staff vacancies, halted IT upgrades and a closed Fairbanks office; he said past cost savings have lowered employer costs but left the fund unable to cover expenditures without management changes.

After a closed-session performance review, the Southeastern Public Service Authority board approved raising Executive Director Dennis Bagley’s base salary to $212,000, a $10,000 bonus and an increase in the car allowance from $7,000 to $9,000, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

A Senate bill that prevents utilities from shutting off service for a limited period following specified formal PSC investigations passed after heated debate. Supporters said it shields struggling customers; opponents said the delay could increase costs borne by other ratepayers.