Peter A. Micciche, Republican
State Senate, District O
Why are you running for office?
Considering all of the issues, I know in my heart that our infant state has a bright and exciting future ahead. I'm excited to be an integral part of providing the creative solutions to help get us there. This job is a team sport requiring an unquenchable commitment to the community and an absolute dedication toward a better life for all Alaskans. I am an idealistic, yet pragmatic individual with a proven record of service to the community; the best choice to effectively represent District O.
The biggest problem facing the state of Alaska is
The first priority must be to draw the line between essential and non-essential services, make the tough decisions and reduce the amount we spend in the operating budget. Our spending is exorbitant in relation to any relevant metric. We must also face our higher-than-acceptable demographics associated with suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. A path-forward discussion must begin regarding Alaska's solutions for the likely inevitable Affordable Care Act.
Describe three ways in which the state should try to grow and diversify Alaska's economy
In this wealthy natural resource state, the cost and limited availability of energy is a primary issue limiting the development of businesses and industries, such as timber, responsible mining, fisheries, tourism and manufacturing that would effectively begin the long process of diversifying Alaska's economy in the long run. A state-wide energy plan matching the most effective available source of energy to the needs of all regions remains a significant obstacle in the way of forward progress.
What amount of state spending do you believe is sustainable? If cuts need to be made, where should most of the money come from, the operations budget or the capital budget?
The spending amount is a moving target that will depend upon future levels of sustainable revenue. However, I think like a city manager and fiscally plan around the most conservative assumptions of revenue. In a nutshell, we are severely overspending and the correction will not happen overnight. The 29th Legislature must cut the operating budget significantly and consider years with lean capital budgets dealing with priority projects only until a 15-20% spending paradigm shift is realized.
What additional steps can the state take to promote construction of a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope?
The 28th Legislature worked hard to pass legislation facilitating a successful project. Additional enabling legislation is required in the 29th Legislature. Legislators can also assist by supporting vocational training to ensure that Alaskans fill project positions, encouraging an effective, timely NEPA permitting process and creating a statewide energy plan to identify intrastate anchors through the distribution of much-needed natural gas for Alaskan homes, businesses and industries.
The voters have chosen Senate Bill 21 or the More Alaska Production Act to generate most of the state's tax revenues. How will you determine whether this tax structure is effective? Do you think any changes should be made to the law in the upcoming legislative session?
The globe's most experienced energy economists designed the SB21 system to encourage investment while simultaneously maximizing State revenue. However, such complicated regimes at times require adjustment and correction. If Alaska's production decline is not reduced, credits are incorrect or unintended consequences are identified, the law will be adjusted accordingly. The adjustment/improvement option is certainly more probable through SB21 than the dysfunctional ACES system of the past.
What additional steps can the state take to promote construction of a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope?
Savings are being depleted simply due to a legislative inability to say "no" to non-essential services and projects. Yet, Alaska remains in a financially healthy position in comparison to nearly every other state. However, the buck absolutely must stop with the 29th Legislature. I refuse to discuss taxing options at this point because I believe the legislative will exists to reduce operating/capital spending to the point of sustainability prior to necessity for the "new tax" discussion.
Should the state subsidy program for films and reality television programs continue? Explain.
My staff and I have yet to complete an evaluation of the benefits of the subsidies and I prefer to not give an answer until we understand the overall effect of the programs. My general feeling about tax breaks and/or incentives is that they must demonstrate a clear State benefit and provide a relatively wide area of positive economic effect in order for them to retain my support.
Taxation on oil and gas production in Alaska is ___ (Generally higher than it should be, About right; Generally lower than it should be, other):
Currently about right, however SB21 will require monitoring for effectiveness and potential unintended consequences.
Taxation on other industries in Alaska is ___ (Generally higher than it should be, About right; Generally lower than it should be, other):
About right
Taxation on individual citizens in Alaska is ___ (Generally higher than it should be, About right; Generally lower than it should be, other):
About right
What are your specific plans to address the serious problems of leadership, morale and accountability within the Alaska National Guard?
I will press for a transparent investigation, full civilian prosecution for the perpetrators of sexual assault and leadership that lives and serves as a prime example of respect. No one should live and work under the threat of sexual assault or harassment, and the presence of such deplorable conditions within the ranks of the folks that are willing to sacrifice their lives for our freedom remains unacceptable.
What are Alaska's three biggest education challenges? What is your plan to address each of them?
In the interest of time, please see my education- related submittal to the Great Alaska Schools survey at: http://www.greatalaskaschools.org/uploads/3/8/6/3/38634113/o-micciche.pdf
I received a "Seal of Approval" from the organization for my views on education.
What are your suggestions to increase accountability of public schools?
In the interest of time, please see my education- related submittal to the Great Alaska Schools survey at: http://www.greatalaskaschools.org/uploads/3/8/6/3/38634113/o-micciche.pdf
I received a "Seal of Approval" from the organization for my views on education.
Would you support a constitutional amendment that would allow public funds to be spent on private or religious K-12 education? If such an amendment were to pass, would you then support voucher or some similar grant to parents of state funds that they could spend on private or religious education for their children?
In the interest of time, please see my education- related submittal to the Great Alaska Schools survey at: http://www.greatalaskaschools.org/uploads/3/8/6/3/38634113/o-micciche.pdf
I received a "Seal of Approval" from the organization for my views on education.
What are your plans for improving the quality of education offered through the University of Alaska system?
The University of Alaska is currently a fine system that delivers a quality education in many fields. I am proud of my education and have hired extremely talented professionals trained within the system as well. I appreciate and encourage the growth of distance learning opportunities in a vast state. I continue to encourage administrators to increase degree programs for those that prefer vocational work as the State encourages firms to hire skilled Alaskans for current and future projects.
Do you support or oppose expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act? Explain.
I understand the reluctance to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act and support such reluctance due to the relative probability that working Alaskans will likely one day be stuck with the bill associated with another large entitlement. However, it is likely time to assemble a team to evaluate creative Alaskan solutions to expansion with an objective of determining which would be a wiser choice, private/public solutions or traditional expansion.
Are you confident that the current level of state environmental regulation and oversight of offshore oil and gas drilling and shipping is adequate to prevent a major spill in Alaska? If not, where are we deficient and what will you propose to achieve adequate protection?
I am pro-responsible development, yet unwilling to sacrifice our unique Alaskan quality-of-life. I fight for good jobs and economic opportunities for Alaskans while simultaneously demanding air and water quality, healthy people, fish and critters. I understand oil spill legislation and response capabilities. I find current regulations to be effective, yet challenge agencies to remain vigilant and in a healthy working relationship with producers to ensure a pristine marine environment.
What is your assessment of Alaska's transportation system? What, if anything, would you change?
Legislators, the administration and key stakeholders throughout Alaska should take the time to consider a comprehensive, long-term transportation development plan and the plan should be reevaluated by key stakeholders on a scheduled basis. Maintaining existing and building new roads is a costly, but appropriate role of government. Careful, slow and steady infrastructure growth and access will determine the speed in which our economy can effectively diversify into new future opportunities.
The Legislature has approved the use of state funds for four mega-projects: the Knik Arm Crossing, the Susitna-Watana dam and two gas line projects. Can the state afford all four, or should one or more be dropped? If so, which?
The state simply cannot afford many of the projects currently under consideration for potential development. A process must be put into place during the 29th Legislature that sets a higher bar in the determination of which projects are economically feasible, have a realistic probability of success and are the most beneficial to the most Alaskans. Regional parochialism runs strong in the Alaska Legislature and must be gently redirected in order for the best project choices to rise to the top.
State your position on abortion. When should it be allowed, and when should government pay for it? Do you anticipate pushing any legislation, policies or budget proposals that would change the status quo in Alaska?
My position is clear. I do not believe that abortion should ever be regarded as birth control. I do not believe in aborting an unborn child unless the child was conceived beyond the control of the mother, the life of the Mother is in danger, or a reputable physician finds that the effects of the pregnancy could place the mother in grave danger. All other abortions are elective procedures. I do not support the state providing payment for the cost of elective procedures.
When is it appropriate to appoint a non-Alaskan to a state board or commission?
Alaskans should be the first choice, when possible, to fill professional, board and commission positions. However, there are rare instances when there may not be an Alaskan with the global experience or qualifications necessary to effectively fill such a position. In such rare occasions, the most qualified individual may be the best choice to serve the needs of all Alaskans. It has been relatively common for past administrations to allow the hiring of non-Alaskans for higher positions.
Are you satisfied with the process by which judges are selected and appointed in Alaska? Explain.
I believe in continuous improvement whenever possible and I feel it may be time for a healthy reevaluation of the methods used to select judges in Alaska. Many Alaskans question the process and by bringing a public and transparent evaluation to light, they may find that the system is highly functional as is, or perhaps could employ some minor adjustments to improve the process.
The number of Alaska State Troopers and Village Public Safety Officers is ____ (More than necessary, about right, less than necessary):
Less than necessary
If you answered more or less, what specific steps would you take to achieve the right level?
I appreciate the service of AST and VPSO personnel. However, there are underserved communities in my district, as well as throughout the state. I have had conversations with AST leadership on this subject and the dialogue continues. As a first step, I would consider reshuffling existing positions to better serve a shifting populace then would evaluate additional positions. In certain areas, it may be time to consider law enforcement service areas for a higher level of local, dedicated service.
Bio
Age: 52
Occupation: Alaska Senate / Commercial Fisherman / Oil and Gas Employee / Residential Rental Property / Investor
Current employer: State of Alaska (2012) / ConocoPhillips (1984), Self (1982)
Employment history:
Commercial Fisherman (Own/Skipper operation since 1994)
ConocoPhillips Entry Level Roustabout to Facility Superintendent (since 1984)
Self Employed; Residential Rentals (since 1984)
Various other ventures through the years (restaurant owner/manager, painting contractor, snowplowing)
Previous public offices held:
Soldotna City Council 2007
Mayor, City of Soldotna 2008-2013
Alaska State Senate, District O (Kenai Peninsula) 2012-Current
Previous unsuccessful runs for office: None.
Postsecondary education:
University of Alaska, AA
Alaska Pacific University, BA in Business (Org) Management
Military service: None. Member; Sons of the American Legion.
Spouse's name: Erin
Children: (4, from 19 years to 3 months of age) Madeline, Sophia, Lucia and Stella