Anchorage Assembly Tackles Homelessness Crisis

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Homelessness took center stage at the Anchorage Assembly meeting on Tuesday, featuring a series of resolutions and ordinances aimed at addressing the issue.

Among the key discussions was an appropriation of over $2.4 million in state funds to MASH Property Management LLC. These funds are set to establish 100 non-congregate shelter beds at the Alex Hotel and Suites. Assembly Chair Chris Constant emphasized, “We need as many shelter opportunities and ultimately housing opportunities as we can generate in order to stem the flow of people from housing into the streets of Anchorage.” Despite facing opposition, the appropriation passed.

During the meeting, assembly members introduced an ordinance aimed at criminalizing “prohibited camping” on public property, building on the Supreme Court ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson. Co-sponsor Assembly Member Keith McCormick described the state of homelessness in Anchorage as akin to “abandonment,” urging the need for meaningful action.

Assembly Member George Martinez responded to the impact of homelessness, asserting that “Anchorage residents… are now bearing the fiscal… costs of an escalating crisis that stems from statewide system failure.” He motioned to postpone a related resolution until July, highlighting the state’s failed response to mental health issues contributing to homelessness.

This meeting forms part of a broader strategy led by Anchorage to combat homelessness, coinciding with plans to abate a homeless camp at Davis Park. Additional agenda items included a proposal to repeal the law requiring bars to card all patrons and establish free transit rides for those under 18.