Scott Crass was elected Borough Assembly presiding officer and performs his duties in a professional manner. He supported one of the lowest mill rates while maintaining essential services. Crass understands that we don’t improve the borough by making endless cuts. He supports investments in parks and recreation, education, the arts, tourism and economic development. Crass believes that good government means planning for tomorrow while being responsible with taxpayer money today.
The approach Crass takes is influenced by his scientific work at the Alaska Volcano Observatory. He listens first, studies the facts, and works with people, even those he disagrees with. He said “the best solutions rarely come from ideology alone. They come from collaboration, careful analysis, and a willingness to look for new perspectives on old problems.”
Crass looks forward to continuing the work of building a stronger, more prosperous Fairbanks for everyone. Crass is the kind of leader we need to continue serving in the assembly.
Alexis Howell earned her bachelor’s in political science with a pre-law concentration, and military science and environmental studies minors from California Polytechnic State University. She also commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Reserve as a military intelligence officer.
She earned a master’s degree in public administration and a Juris Doctor from the University of Washington. Howell served as an active-duty judge advocate and attorney before the Army moved her to Fort Wainwright in 2019. She left active duty in 2023 as a captain.
Howell owns a law practice. She focuses on family, criminal and employment law. She is clear that high-quality education improves student outcomes, reduces inequality and enhances economic growth. Howell wants to support local businesses including energy infrastructure.
She’s the proud animal mom of a German shepherd, a cat, a Russian tortoise, a California king snake, five conures and one mini macaw. When she’s not working, you can find Howell foraging for mushrooms and berries, knitting up a storm, or hitting up a local farmer’s market. Now how often do you get to vote for a candidate that is this interesting?
Nick LaJiness rounds out the assembly candidates. He wants to keep people from leaving Alaska by investing in workforce development and creating stronger pathways into local careers.
LaJiness wants to continue his approach of building partnerships between government entities, private businesses and nonprofits. He believes in listening to residents and focusing on local solutions.
LaJiness is an animal welfare advocate. He said, “a compassionate community protects vulnerable animals, supports responsible ownership, and makes sure the rules we have are taken seriously.” As someone who loves animals, however was also bitten by an unleashed dog, I appreciate his attitude.
LaJiness sums up his approach to governing as “listen, show up, ask practical questions, and work toward solutions that make sense for the Fairbanks North Star Borough.”
Tom Allen is running for Fairbanks City Council. He is concerned about people sleeping on benches and under bridges downtown. People who are “unhoused” loitering in public spaces, particularly around Golden Heart Plaza, constitutes a serious challenge. Some of these folks generate safety concerns for residents and visitors. People sleeping in unprotected environments, subject to the cold and other weather challenges is unsafe.
Allen wants to first find warm shelter for these folks this winter and then figure out what their specific needs are. He is aware that this will be a challenge, however it is time to work on this community need.
Borough voters have the opportunity to return Bobby Burgess to the school board. As board president, he received some opposition to the vote to close Pearl Creek School. That was a tough but necessary decision based on the information at the time. Fairbanks-born-and-raised, Burgess comes from a family of educators. He earned advanced degrees in science from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. That academic training and his work with the Department of Environmental Conservation help Burgess to make objective, evidence-based decisions. Burgess is exactly what the school board needs.
Sean Holland is a UAF graduate, and a dad with kids in our public schools. He spent his career in education, focusing on how to use technology in the classroom thoughtfully and backed by research.
Holland believes every child deserves a strong school and a fair shot, no matter their neighborhood or circumstances. He will bring to the school board experience, an open mind, and a steady focus on what works for our students and teachers.
Tim Doran is a critical member of the board and needs to continue his work.
Andy Keller lives in Fairbanks.