I was glad to learn that two people, Joanie Wagner and Jan Hill, are running for Mayor in the forthcoming election. If applicable experience was not a factor, it might be a difficult choice. But applicable experience is an extremely important factor, especially in these uncertain financial times. For that reason, I strongly support Jan Hill for Mayor.
Jan is a lifetime resident of Haines. She has served on many boards and committees that benefit the people of our community. Along with Vivian Menaker, Jan established the first preschool in Haines. Jan has served as the Mayor of both the third class and present home rule Haines Borough. She is president of the Alaska Conference of Mayors, the president-elect of the Southeast Conference and the first vice president of the Alaska Municipal League. In 2017, both the Alaska Municipal League and the Southeast Conference will have held their annual meetings in Haines as a result of Jan’s efforts.
In 2001, the people of Haines elected to have the new Home Rule Borough be a manager form of government as opposed to a strong Mayor form of government. As a former Mayor, I can say that this significantly limits the ability of the Mayor to get things done efficiently. Jan Hill has done an outstanding job as the Haines Mayor under these constraining conditions. I strongly recommend the voters of the Haines Borough reelect Jan Hill as Mayor.
Mike Case