Sponsors: Colver and Kvalheim
Adopted: 03/02/04
Motion to Reconsider Failed: 03/02/04
 
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA BOROUGH
RESOLUTION SERIAL NO. 04-036
 
A RESOLUTION OF THE MATANUSKA-SUSITNA BOROUGH ASSEMBLY MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE CONCERNING REFORM OF SHALLOW GAS LEASING FOR COAL BED METHANE.
 
WHEREAS, various bills have been introduced in the Alaska Legislature addressing shallow gas issues in the state of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the state of AlaskaÕs shallow gas leasing program does not require a ÒBest Interest Finding,Ó which is required before competitive oil and gas leases are offered; and
WHEREAS, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly supports reform of the way in which state-owned subsurface estates are leased for shallow gas coal bed methane exploration and production; and
WHEREAS, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough supports public involvement, adequate notice, and incorporation of public comments into a decision whether to offer leases and identifying the location of areas for leasing for shallow gas.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly supports the reform of the leasing process for shallow gas and supports legislation which:
¥ requires a competitive lease process for shallow gas;
¥ requires a ÒBest Interest FindingÓ prior to offering leases;
¥ provides for adequately published public notice and notification to individual property owners within proposed lease areas and hold public hearings;
¥ provides for public hearings; and
¥ incorporates public comments received and local government concerns before offering any leases for shallow gas.
ADOPTED by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly this 2 day of March, 2004.
 

 
__________________________________
TIMOTHY L. ANDERSON, Borough Mayor
 
ATTEST:
 
____________________________________
SANDRA A. DILLON, CMC, Borough Clerk
 
(SEAL)
 
PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: Bush, Allen, Colberg, Kvalheim, Simpson, Colver, and Vehrs