Contributed by Mat-Su Mayor Edna DeVries
Recently I was interviewed by a Third grader from one of our local elementary school. As I prepared I realized that many of you may have the same questions.
What does the Mat-Su Mayor do – the Mayor is the chairperson for the borough assembly meetings, has veto power over any assembly action (except for school budget), appoints members of the public to serve on borough boards and commissions, meets with other elected officials (recently meet with US Senator Lisa Murkowski) regarding infrastructure monies coming from the Federal government to assist with such projects as our Port at Port MacKenzie, roads in our borough, and Knik Arm Crossing, and meets with citizens concerning their concerns in their neighborhoods.
I am elected – I was elected on November 2, 2021(but didn’t take office until November 22, 2021), my term is for 3 years, Mayor and assembly can serve for two consecutive terms. I can be removed by dying, resigning or recall by the citizens of the borough. I can come back if removed by being re-elected.
What powers do I have? I sign all official documents, I can veto assembly action and then they have opportunity to override my veto, I chair the assembly meetings, I recommend citizens appointments to borough boards and commission subject to the assembly approval – we have 53 of them ranging from road service areas, to animal control, senior health, borough planning, platting (approval subdivisions), and fire service areas. I meet with other government officials showcasing the boroughs projects and achievements. I speak to groups regarding the great opportunities that we have in the Mat-Su Bogough.
What can I do and can’t do? - I need to be a good model for all citizens, must be honest, ethical, and a good listener. I must obey all borough code, state laws and federal laws. I can veto assembly action. I work with the borough administration for the betterment of all of our citizens.
How long can one person do the job? I don’t think that one person can do the job of mayor. I have lots of people that help me, I have an executive assistant, all borough staff is available to assist me, and I have lots of people in the borough that help me in making good decisions. I appreciate the ideas that the public brings to me to assist in making the Mat-Su Borough a great place to live, work and play.
Why did I want to become Mayor? I really like people and enjoy helping them and lots of times, the government seems to be against their citizens rather than assisting them. I believe that elected officials are servants of the people and that our government is by the people not by elected or appointed people.
Requirements for job – you must a voter and resident of the borough; you must registered to run for the office and then get the most votes at election time, and you must be a resident of the borough for one year immediately prior to the election.
Limitations – no vote on the assembly – not permit to make motions and only vote in case of a tie.
Did I become mayor for my family? No, but my family that resides in the valley will enjoy the benefits of good, honest, trustworthy government.
Did my mom ask me to become mayor? When I was growing up, my parents encouraged me to become whatever I wanted to be – set my sights and goals of things that would take a lot of training, wisdom, and hard work to accomplish. I don’t remember us talking specify about the mayor position but public office yes – many discussions.
Is my family proud of me – I would say ‘yes’ but they also realize that I am human and could easily make mistakes and not everyone will agree with all of my decisions.
If you have further questions, please reach out to me. 907-861-8682
Upcoming agenda items for the Assembly – Tuesday, Feb. 15, an ordinance appointing a Task Force to review and make recommendations to the Assembly regarding road service area services in Big Lake Road Service Area 21 and potentially other areas.