Fairbanks Borough Mayor’s Bold Plan: Proposal to Invest an Additional $2 Million in Education

FAIRBANKS, Alaska – The Fairbanks North Star Borough school district is facing a $16 million budget gap. This comes after the district made tough choices, like closing three elementary schools and outsourcing janitorial services. To help, Borough Mayor Grier Hopkins has put forward a plan to allocate $2 million from extra funds to support education.

Hopkins expressed his desire to provide stable funding outside of taxpayer contributions to help the schools meet their needs. If his proposal goes through, it could bring total Borough funding for the school district to $60 million next year.

Additionally, Hopkins suggested setting aside $5 million for the 2026-2027 fiscal year to further assist the schools.

However, some members of the borough finance committee are hesitant. Assembly Member Barbara Haney stated that she cannot commit to the full $60 million at this time due to concerns about depleting the fund’s reserve. She also pointed out other financial challenges, such as the costs associated with demolishing unused buildings and ongoing expenses for previously closed schools like Eielson Jr/Sr High School.

Haney highlighted an immediate concern regarding electricity costs for military-based schools, which are currently at $0.50 per kilowatt-hour.

According to Hopkins, the borough is trying to address the financial responsibilities linked to school closures proactively.