Editor’s Note: The Chilkat Valley News called each of the candidates to ask about their AI use in responding to these questions. Two candidates, Kimberly Rosado and Nathanael Reams, disclosed the use of AI in assisting with answering these questions. In Reams’ case, he used it for grammar and proofreading. Rosado used it to proofread and, in some cases, help answer the questions. We edited candidates’ answers to be closer to the 100-word limit we asked them to adhere to. 

A more in-depth profile of Joe Parnell can be found here.

Our next borough election is set to take place on Oct. 7. That means we’re working to get you the information you need to know to cast an informed vote here at the Chilkat Valley News.

We asked Chilkat Valley residents to weigh-in on what they’d like to hear from candidates and dozens weighed in asking nearly 50 questions. 

We pared down the list to 12 and asked candidates to answer them in about 100 words. We’ve edited those that came in significantly longer or contained grammatical errors.

Question 1 (from Carol Tuynman): What role can the planning commission play in providing affordable childcare; affordable housing; and/or workforce development?

Joe Parnell — The planning commission could help create traction for fixing old buildings which would improve the housing supply and create jobs. If an opportunity arose to help with childcare, I’m pretty sure they would lean in, but I just don’t see how it’s part of their authority.

Question 2 (from Fran Tuenge): Do you want Haines to thrive and grow economically? Give an example of what you will promote.

Joe Parnell – Yes, I want Haines to thrive and grow economically. I would promote parks and recreation, creating a fair and level playing field with regards to their decisions and doing due diligence.

Question 3 (from Thom Ely): Our population in the Haines Borough has remained relatively stable over the past 40 years at about 2,500 residents. Do you want our population to grow or stay about the same?

Joe Parnell —I’m not sure what I want has an effect on whether we grow or not but I think growth is natural.

 

Question 4 (from Patty Brown, current planning commission member): The category of General Use in zoning designations is intended to be a transitional label during a period which would lead to more specific zoning applications later. Since the Haines Borough was reclassified as a Home Rule Borough in 2002, more than two decades have passed. As there have been conflicts expressed in the past several years and new residents moving into the area, particularly out the Haines Highway, what ideas do you have for establishing some restrictions and formally declaring allowances that meet today’s needs while allowing for future economic growth?

Joe Parnell — Stay out of people’s way if they want to do something, but have reasonable decisions with regard to the effects of plans on neighbors, and the public, and the public good. I admit that sounds dreamy but isn’t that the planning commission’s job? The best way to have proper restrictions and allowances is for the planning commission to vet the issues in front of them and do their best to properly represent the community.

Question 5: What do you recommend as consideration criteria in deciding whether to increase commercial use of public infrastructure that could displace local users?

Joe Parnell — How much displacement are we talking about? Commercial business has a right to use public infrastructure as far as I know. The criteria would be what the planning commission decides. They would have to consider what is on the the application for a permit. 

Question 6 (from Deborah Gravel): How would you support civility in all and any public meetings, including the school board, planning commission, and borough assembly?

Joe Parnell —I would support civility in meetings by being civil myself. I’m not in control of other people.

Question 7 (from Karen Wallace): What is your vision for the Lutak Dock?

Joe Parnell — My vision for Lutak Dock is something simple that works.

Question 8 (from Kay Clements): What is your position on the Mosquito Lake Community Center?

Joe Parnell — Mosquito Lake Community Center is an outstanding addition to the borough. The people out the road pay property tax and sales tax, why wouldn’t they receive this benefit? It’s getting used and is a part of the fabric that is Haines. We might need it for an unforeseen emergency.