The Dependence of Alaska’s Unorganized Borough on the State

Abstract

This thesis examines the governance and fiscal challenges of Alaska’s unorganized borough, a region that encompasses vast, sparsely populated territories largely reliant on state-administered services. Established as a catch-all entity for areas unable or unwilling to form organized boroughs, the unorganized borough lacks regional unity, regional governance structures, and a coherent system for resource distribution. This has led to significant fiscal disparities between organized and unorganized regions, as well as inequitable access to services. Drawing on legal precedents, such as Kasayulie v. State of Alaska, and comparative governance models, particularly the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District, this thesis explores the historical context of borough formation and the original intent behind Alaska’s local government framework. It identifies the unorganized borough as a contradiction to the state’s constitutional emphasis on local self-governance, resulting in an unsustainable reliance on state resources and unequal service delivery. Several policy reforms are proposed to address these systemic issues. These include the reorganization of the unorganized borough into smaller, more cohesive regional units, the establishment of borough-tribal compacts to enhance local governance, and the introduction of a statewide property tax to mitigate fiscal disparities. Each recommendation is analyzed in terms of its legal, political, and practical feasibility. The thesis concludes that while the unorganized borough's current structure may have once served Alaska’s needs, it now represents a significant governance and fiscal challenge that requires urgent attention. Legislative action is needed to align the governance of the unorganized borough with the state’s constitutional mandate for regional self-governance. By exploring these potential reforms and drawing on lessons from other regions, this thesis provides a framework for policymakers to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all Alaskans.