North Anchorage Assembly candidate Q&A: Robin Phillips

The Anchorage Daily News asked Anchorage Assembly candidates for District 1, North Anchorage to answer a series of issue questions. Read all of them here.

Robin Phillips | Age: 52 | Occupation: Administrative director | robinphillipsassembly.com

Candidate background:

My name is Robin Phillips. I am a fourth-generation Alaskan from a family whose legacy of political and community service inspires me to serve the residents of this great state. My most important roles are as a daughter, sister, aunt, friend and godmother. During my 26-year-career as an administrative director, I have worked with state and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and private businesses. Of my accomplishments, I am exceptionally proud to be entering into my thirteenth year on the board of the Food Bank of Alaska. For the last 21 years, I have made North Anchorage my home.

Why are you running?

Twenty years ago Anchorage was awarded the title of All American City. This prestigious award is given to cities that centralize civic engagement as a method of resolving local concerns. The Municipality of Anchorage is responsible for the education, transportation and protection of its citizens. I am running to promote the connections between the Assembly, between the business community and between private citizens. By building stronger communication ties and and making city services more accessible we can create an environment that is beneficial for both business and the individual. Taking action on community concerns like homelessness and on big-budget items like the repair of the Port of Alaska will enhance personal and economic security. I am excited about the opportunities and willing to accept the challenges.

What makes you qualified to represent District 1, North Anchorage on the Assembly?

I have the balanced experience of having worked in government, nonprofits, and the private sector. I have held numerous leadership positions, including serving on Anchorage’s Board of Ethics, the Alaska Humanities Forum, and currently on the Food Bank of Alaska Board. As a member of the Russian Jack Community Council, I helped build a playground. During my time with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, my “little” and I often spoke at community events. And I know this district. I lived and went to elementary school in Spenard. I also lived in Government Hill and Russian Jack, and I have worked in Midtown and downtown. In my time with the Food Bank of Alaska, I have served all over North Anchorage. My history of living, working and serving in the district, my commitment to service and my work ethic make me qualified to represent North Anchorage, my home for the last 21 years.

What is the most important problem facing North Anchorage? How would you address it?

The most important problem facing North Anchorage, and all of Anchorage in general, is the economy. Currently we are facing inflation, unwieldy budgets and the fear of more taxes. Those issues, combined with a lack of good communication, rising homelessness and a failing Port of Alaska, results in a seeming dismal future for our city. So how do we address it? Making tough choices and taking action, not more studies, is what I plan to achieve. Stronger communication between departments, residents and officials is one achievable step. Looking for efficiencies and modernization will also help. Addressing the big obstacles such as the Port of Alaska and homelessness directly will show positive leadership for our community. The feeling of security and productiveness lead to a prosperous city and a stable economy.

Name one thing the Anchorage Assembly and/or Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson accomplished in the last year that you support, and why.

I strongly support Mayor Bronson’s fight for state funding for the much-needed Port of Alaska repairs. The Port of Alaska is a pivotal structure not only for Anchorage but for the state as well. The port serves as our supply conduit from the Lower 48 and the world. Our raw materials are shipped out from the port and a vast majority of our everyday needs are accepted through the port. Anything that damages the port or puts it out of commission, even in the short-term, would have devastating effects on Anchorage. So I strongly support his efforts and will work with him to keep Anchorage open for business.

What is your vision for what North Anchorage looks like in 10 years? What specific steps would you take on the Assembly to help achieve that vision?

Within the next 10 years, I would like to see Anchorage become an All American City again. We need to regain our title as the first best stop to reach Alaska’s playground. To achieve Anchorage’s greatness, we have to make tough changes to improve the economy, clean up the streets, provide stable transportation for businesses and individuals and be more efficient with open lines of communications. As a leader with a vision of prosperity, I am ready to take on the challenges that affect homelessness and public safety. I will advocate for a stable infrastructure focusing on the Port of Alaska and other supply chain corridors. I am willing to work with all parties to look for efficiencies in government and modernization where we can. I will foster the open lines of communications so misunderstandings are minimal and the residents of Anchorage feel their voice matters.