Murray
The way I look at it, again as someone who makes their living off of oil, is that if your community does not want what our industry brings to town, then so be it. That is fantastic!
I on the other hand would, and do, use my vote to encourage responsible, safe, development of this resource, and welcome the good paying jobs, and all that brings to my state.
My lifestyle is based on oil. My boat, and almost all the other large recreational boats in our harbors were bought with money that in some way, shape, or form, came from oil.
I love the fact that our local oil companies hire every graduate from our local trade tech colleges, and pay those kids, after a training period of course, upwards of $130K per year plus benefits. That's lifestyle money Murray. That's what the youth of our state have to look forward to, if they work hard, and study hard, and do a good job.
Nope, I'm glad for oil, and all it brings to Alaska!
In this day and age where college graduates elsewhere are underemployed, and living with their parents, I like that Alaska is different. You show me a "average" kid, not the college bound type, and I'll show you a kid who can work hard at something like a welder, or pipe fitter, or equipment operator, and make over a hundred grand a year at his trade. I'll show you a kid that can buy a nice house, and a nice car, and yes, even a decent boat if he wants. I'll show you a kid with something to look forward to.
You see Murray, oilfields require work. Real work. Every craft. Every trade, every profession. I love it, and support it.
I also fully support your communities right to determine its own destiny, and all that comes with it as well.