Mat-Su

Proposed Mat-Su registration waiver for old vehicles on hold

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly has delayed action on a proposal to waive registration fees for owners of older cars, trucks and trailers.

The idea, backed by state Rep. Bill Stoltze, R-Chugiak, and Mat-Su Assembly member Jim Colver, would allow people who own cars, trucks or trailers that are at least 8 years old to pay a $25 fee and register one more time, then not have to pay the $170 that Mat-Su residents pay every other year on aging autos. It would start in January.

The Assembly scheduled a hearing and possible deliberations Tuesday night, but Colver moved discussion of the waiver to Sept. 2 to allow time to make changes to the proposal.

The proposal could come with a hit, according to initial estimates from borough finance officials that it could cost cities, dust-control programs, and local fire- and road-service areas more than $1 million the first year and more than $2 million the next.

Colver, who contends other factors could offset the revenue loss, said he planned to bring forward amendments next week to "remedy the situation" for service areas. Assembly members Steve Colligan and Jim Sykes also said they wanted a briefing on the financial impact of any proposals.

Zaz Hollander

Zaz Hollander is a veteran journalist based in the Mat-Su and is currently an ADN local news editor and reporter. She covers breaking news, the Mat-Su region, aviation and general assignments. Contact her at zhollander@adn.com.

ADVERTISEMENT