The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly, which has a history of supporting coal developments, has endorsed a proposed mine near Skwentna, reports the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman.
The development in question is a 13,175-acre area the state Department of Natural Resources is considering leasing 18 miles southwest of Skwentna. The department has said it is considering the leases after Alaska Energy Corp., which appears to be owned by CanAm Coal Corp. of Calgary, requested the state make some land there available.
“The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly supports the efforts of AK DNR to lease the site for coal exploration and mining, and supports the efforts to authorize environmentally responsible coal mining that will benefit borough workers, taxpayers and residents,” reads the resolution sponsored by Mayor Larry DeVilbiss, which passed the assembly by a 6-1 vote Jan. 15.
