Spectrum/Sarah Palin
Alaskans deserve an atmosphere of trust in government. But broken promises, averted eyes from ethical lapses, booted-out conscientious state employees, and things like the governor's jet are the much-ballyhooed issues that illustrate the disconnect between established politicians and the rest of us.
|
|
Under way in Juneau are long overdue oil tax revisions. Legislators are analyzing the governor's proposal to amend ELF and are dealing with multinational corporations on tax packages that were put together behind closed doors. We're warned this may be a long, tumultuous battle.
We're told the proposals involve complex new terms, credits, and formulas, and as the former chairman of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, I know these issues can be difficult to keep up with, considering the industry's areas of expertise and public-relations influence.
Industry negotiators are some of the sharpest professionals on earth, with decades of experience dedicated to their company's bottom line. Our negotiators are citizen legislators or political appointees who sometimes are dependent on industry for their next job.
It may look like we're outgunned at the table, but thankfully we can compete because we've got supremely powerful ammunition. It's called the Alaska Constitution, and it provides our strength as we deal with corporations whose ultimate goal is to make themselves maximum profit and leave as little behind.
I respect industry's contributions to our economy as it pumps our oil, gets it to market and makes mind-boggling profit off our resources. I personally appreciate the blue-collar job opportunities industry provides. I am, in fact, married to a Slope worker, so I'm not out to bash industry, nor do I expect officials to use a hammer in negotiations. But I do expect us to stop acting weak and confused and just do the right thing for Alaskans, via our Constitution.
Here's what the Constitution says: Negotiate for the maximum benefit of all Alaskans. Period. That must be the objective. It really is that straightforward.
Officials can make this easier on themselves by committing to not let politics, cronyism or campaign cash get in the way of this objective. I'd remind officials if they find themselves struggling or confused, please simply reflect on the guidance provided by Alaska's founders.
Remember one's oath of office where one is sworn to defend the unequivocal terms mandating development and conservation of natural resources for the maximum benefit of all Alaskans. Not outside interests, but Alaska's interests.
I implore officials to negotiate from our position of strength. As former governor Walter Hickel wrote, “Legislators should simply hold up a copy of Article VIII and say, ‘I swore to uphold this document, I'll keep my promise'.” Legislators need only defend the public's interest and they'll inherently do what's right.
It's amazing to consider the perspective our founding fathers had when crafting the Constitution. An astute Alaskan recently said, “It's almost like they knew to protect something they didn't even know existed yet.” What they knew to protect may not have been fathomed in their wildest dreams whilst writing the document, but I believe their concerns are manifesting today with these negotiations.
Alaskans deserve to be listened to as our resources are on the table. Our message to officials: use restraint, don't rush decisions that have long-lasting impacts. Don't tie oil taxes to a gasline contract that isn't even available for scrutiny.
More specifically to the governor: Trust the public with all the information. Don't let companies hide behind confidentiality, handing them control of our revenue by undefined terms and undeveloped credits. Don't give retroactive credits to stimulate investment decisions made years before, as “retroactive incentive” is an oxymoron. Make financial models public.
Simply, let us trust you to uphold your oath to defend our Constitution.
Former Wasilla Mayor Sarah Palin is a Republican candidate for governor.
Comments
12 comment(s)nexQuimimip wrote on Feb 14, 2009 3:07 PM:
Donna wrote on Feb 6, 2009 7:14 AM:
I would like to contact him if anyone can get him my e-mail address it would be greatly appreciated.
Donna J. Hoover (formerly Donna J. Groleau) "
Halcrow wrote on Nov 8, 2008 2:27 PM:
Alas, even if it should make its way over to corporate Diebold, it'll be dismissed as the irrelevent raving of an unrecognized voter (unrecognized, courtesy of Diebold). Only in America. "
Pantloath wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:39 AM:
Nifoziyf wrote on May 1, 2008 7:36 AM:
About respect Administration of a portal "
Hixintori wrote on Apr 15, 2008 9:04 PM:
meridias capital
G'night "
Alfagreyus wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:43 PM:
Without taking into account the issue of establishing a stone by God, which he won't be able to pick up, how do you think, may be something in this world, what can God never see? "
Jourgenz wrote on Apr 2, 2008 1:24 AM:
I could't post a message... "
chris wrote on Mar 19, 2008 7:56 AM:
Goomy wrote on Jan 19, 2008 2:26 PM:
Thanks google "
Tedeldemijamb wrote on Jan 15, 2008 1:51 AM:
Best jewelry links! "
Nancy France wrote on Dec 14, 2007 11:39 AM: