The Anchorage Assembly is proposing more transparency of how the Municipality of Anchorage spends public funds.
Under a new proposal, Anchorage would implement an open checkbook law, requiring all spending to be published in a public ledger. The idea was introduced in an ordinance Tuesday night by Anchorage Assembly members Chris Constant and Suzanne LaFrance. It will be up for a vote on Feb. 7.
According to the ordinance, “A fair and open government requires that revenues and expenditures be accounted for and easily accessible to the public at no cost.” Under the proposed law, both financial expenditures and contracts would be available in a searchable, online database.
Open checkbook laws have become increasingly popular around the country, as widespread computer access makes them easier to implement and use. The state passed an open checkbook law in 2022, and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough has had one since 2020.
Assembly leadership introduced this law in response to whistleblowing by former Municipal Manager Amy Demboski. Additionally, the Bronson administration has not responded to records requests in a timely manner. The Bronson administration has refused to address the allegations raised over improper contracting, and refused to release contracts requested by the public and press. The Bronson administration added additional barriers by charging for all requests and requiring payment only by cashiers check or money order.
The law as introduced would require the municipality to have a website up by Jan. 1, 2024.
The Mat-Su Borough launched its open checkbook website less than two months after passing the ordinance. Nate Graham, who worked on the state’s open checkbook law, created a website over a weekend showing it could be done quickly and cheaply.
In addition to increased transparency, online checkbook laws can lead to cost savings by reducing the number of public records requests and highlighting ways to increase efficiencies.
The public can testify on the open checkbook ordinance (AO 2023-13) in person at the regular Assembly meeting on Feb 7, or by sending an email to wwmas@anchorageak.gov. You can also request to give phone testimony or submit written testimony through an online form here.
