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 Nathanael Reams 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?

Nathanael Reams — Like I’ve said before, I’m here to learn—and this is one of those areas where I know I’ve got a lot to learn. From what I understand, the planning commission doesn’t directly create childcare programs or housing, but it can help by making sure applications related to those things are reviewed efficiently. That said, we shouldn’t rush one application at the expense of others. Maybe having more people focused on specific types of applications could help move things along faster without compromising fairness. 

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

Nathanael Reams — Absolutely—I’d love to see Haines grow in a way that gives people more chances to work and live here year-round. I personally have to work out of town to support my family in Haines, and I know I’m not the only one. But as a planning commissioner, my personal hopes for more jobs and growth won’t override the need to follow Title 18. My job would be to look at each application objectively and ask: “Does this meet the requirements?” That’s the bottom line.

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?

Nathanael Reams —Honestly, I’m good either way. I really appreciate the small-town feel we have here, but I also want to see more opportunities for folks in the community. So I guess I’m kind of split—I think there’s a balance to be found, but it’s probably not a simple one. Growth can be good if it’s thoughtful and keeps the character of Haines intact.

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?

Nathanael Reams — This is one of those questions that really highlights how much I still have to learn. I’ll be leaning on the community and my fellow commissioners to help me get up to speed. From what I understand, the planning commission is limited by Title 18, and any major changes to zoning would need to go through the assembly. But I do think the commission can help by gathering public input and identifying where Title 18 might not be working well. That way, we can help guide updates that reflect today’s needs and future growth.

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

Nathanael Reams — Man, that’s tough. Assuming it is compliant, I would think you would have to poll public opinion, analyze per capita use to compare it with other similar resources, try to quantify the benefit of the commercial use, and then figure out some means of cost-benefit analysis using the aforementioned information. 

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?

Nathanael Reams — I would start with being sure that I treat others with respect and courtesy, following the procedures that are in place. From there, it’s about encouraging others to do the same, whether that’s through calm reminders or private conversations. We all have a role in keeping things civil, and I’ll do my part to support that.

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

Nathanael Reams — I hope it continues to serve Haines by providing affordable supplies and the logistical support we rely on. It’s a key part of our infrastructure, and I’d like to see it maintained in a way that keeps it useful and accessible for the community.

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

Nathanael Reams — I think it’s great. I love seeing buildings being used to bring people together and support things like access to local foods. I wasn’t on the Planning Commission when it was converted, so I can’t speak to how it lined up with Title 18 at the time. But as a community resource, I think it’s a really cool thing for Mosquito Lake and the surrounding area.