OPINION: Costello is a proven advocate for public safety

Alaskans place our trust in police and firefighters to protect our families, and that trust is well-founded. But there’s another side to public safety that doesn’t get as much attention: the work done by our elected officials to ensure that those professionals have the resources and support they need to do their jobs effectively. Mia Costello, a candidate for State House District 15, has been an advocate for public safety throughout her career. Her record speaks for itself.

First, let’s address the recent attacks on Costello’s work. The suggestion that she worked against the interests of Alaska’s public safety servants couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, the record shows that Mia Costello has always been a strong supporter of public safety in Alaska. She was the leader, both vocally and legislatively, in repealing Senate Bill 91, the disastrous catch-and-release bill that spilled criminals out into Alaska beginning in 2016. We all remember the widespread crime wave that followed the passage of the bill. Alaskans felt this crime wave acutely, with many of us experiencing personal harm and loss at unprecedented levels. Mia Costello stood up to doubters who said we were stuck with it. She worked tirelessly for victims of crime, ultimately prevailing when House Bill 49 was passed, undoing the most egregious provisions of the earlier bill.

Building on her commitment to public safety, Mia consistently works to advance legislation that strengthens the capabilities of all our first responders. Her voting record and the policies she has championed show a clear commitment to ensuring that Alaska’s public safety professionals — whether firefighters, police officers, or emergency medical responders — are equipped to handle the challenges they face daily. Mia has always understood that supporting public safety goes beyond rhetoric. It requires thoughtful, balanced policymaking that takes into account pay scales that truly attract and retain good talent, while also creating long-term fiscal stability for our state.

Mia Costello has worked with members of both parties, showing a willingness to collaborate in the best interest of Alaskans. Her leadership on public safety issues is particularly evident in her efforts to maintain strong pay packages and retirement security for public safety workers while ensuring fiscal responsibility for Alaska’s taxpayers. The reality is that Mia Costello understands the complexities of legislation related to public safety compensation and retirement options. She knows that interests must be balanced against the fiscal health of our state. She recognizes that retirement plans, including defined benefits pensions, can be structured in many different ways and that a proper balance is the key. Her approach has always been one of thoughtful leadership — focusing on solutions that provide real benefits while ensuring Alaska’s long-term financial stability.

We need strong, principled leaders who support safe communities. That’s Mia Costello, and that’s why she deserves your vote for State House District 15.

Kim Wilcox is a 29-year resident of Alaska State House District 15.

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