The City of Bethel is considering a new tax on soft drinks. On Aug. 25, Bethel City Council member Michelle DeWitt will introduce an ordinance that would charge a one-cent-per-fluid-ounce tax on sugary beverages. That meanst that a can of soda pop would cost 12 cents more than it does now.
DeWitt wants to put that money toward parks, playgrounds, and building more boardwalks. Her ordinance argues that recreational attractions like that would help Bethel organizations hire and retain staff. Without a property tax, DeWitt says, Bethel has a smaller revenue base than similarly-sized Alaskan cities.
Much of the rest of the council meeting will center around the coronavirus pandemic. Council member Haley Hanson wants the city to give Bethel Community Services Foundation another $500,000 for aid to Bethel non-profit organizations. The city has already given BCSF $1 million for that purpose, and another $1 million intended for Bethel businesses.
Council member Mark Springer wants to take a look at re-hiring former council member Leif Albertson, this time as the director of the city’s Emergency Operations Center. At the last meeting, the council voted not to renew Albertson’s $90/hour contract as a public health consultant. City Manager Vincenzo "Vinny" Corazza, who is currently filling the Emergency Operations Director position, submitted his resignation on Aug. 18. There is no action item on the Aug. 25 meeting agenda regarding the soon-to-be open Bethel City Manager position.
Tune in to the Bethel City Council meeting broadcast live on KYUK 90.3 FM starting at 6:30 p.m. We will be broadcasting the Republican National Convention at the same time on our AM station.
