Corruption fallout lingers in Juneau

March 12, 2009

Lawmakers say they now go out of their way to set boundaries when it comes to dealing with outside influences. (Jason Kohler/KTUU-TV)

by Rhonda McBride
Thursday, March 12, 2009

JUNEAU, Alaska -- Lawmakers say they now go out of their way to set boundaries when it comes to dealing with outside influences that can tempt their ethical actions in the Legislature.

For example, at a hearing on Cook Inlet gas development, a company exploring for gas wants help with some of the regulatory hurdles. But legislators are wary.

"It is not our position to influence any type of regulatory agency," Rep. Craig Johnson, R-Anchorage, said.

Gov. Sarah Palin's administration says passage of ethics laws and the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act have helped to change the climate.

"Just that commitment of adhering to our constitution, when it says we develop our resources it will be for the maximum benefit of the people of Alaska," Palin said.

Though many changes have taken place since the corruption scandal broke in 2006, the fallout lingers.

"I mean, it's horrifying that somebody could do this to our great state and institution," Rep. Beth Kerttula, D-Juneau, said. "It's horrifying when you go Outside and have people ask you about it. I mean, it's so shameful."

"I hear comments from time to time," said Sen. Tom Wagoner, R-Kenai. "The thing that really bothers me (is) about how cheaply these people are willing to sell out."

The real question, Wagoner says, is how much money could their corruption have cost the state in oil and gas revenue had they ultimately succeeded.

Another troubling question hangs over the Legislature: What was former Senate President Ben Stevens' role in the bribery?

Stevens was named in a number of the corruption cases but has yet to be indicted.

"I wish that there had been a blue ribbon panel to look at that very thing and make recommendations," Sen. Fred Dyson, R-Eagle River said.

Dyson helped the FBI with its investigation, and he says there were personal costs.

"There were physical threats against me and my family, and that did cause me some consternation," Dyson said.

But Dyson said he would do it all again if given the chance.

"I would. Part of it is my own cowardice. It's easier for me to go ahead and do the right thing than to live with myself if I don't," he said.

"For all of us in the building, it indicates that you have to be vigilant, that you have to be on guard against that kind of influence," Sen. Gene Therriault, R-North Pole, said.

Contact Rhonda McBride at rmcbride@ktuu.com

|

|

|