The Anchorage Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) Board of Directors supports the April 2023 ballot proposal to expand the existing powers of the Girdwood Valley Service Area the power to provide services in support of policies that promote local housing and economic stability.
One of AEDC’s key priorities in the “Choose Anchorage” action plan is increasing the number of housing units, owner and rental, across the spectrum of affordability and density throughout the Municipality, including Girdwood. We recognize that Girdwood has a need for additional housing stock, especially due to the high level of short-term rentals present in the community. The additional authority granted in this proposition could help the Girdwood Board of Supervisors develop a housing action plan, provide services in support of the plan, and suggest code and policy changes that would promote housing and economic stability in Girdwood, as well as vital economic growth for decades to come.
Per the ballot language and the amended AO 2022-118, this proposition would add to the existing power of the Girdwood Valley Service Area the power to provide services in support of policies that could promote local housing and economic stability without any additional taxes.
The AEDC Board of Directors supports passage of Proposition 7, the proposal for the addition of Local Housing and Economic Stability Power in the Girdwood Valley Service Area on the April 4 Municipal ballot and encourages voters to vote “Yes” on this important proposition.