On today’s episode of the Kenai Conversation, we’re joined by the central Kenai Peninsula’s Alaska State Legislative delegation – Reps. Bill Elam and Justin Ruffridge, and Sen. Jesse Bjorkman.

The Kenai Peninsula Borough wants to limit how much property assessments increase each year in response to recent, significant year-over-year surges.

The borough assembly seeks to smooth property tax hikes, teacher and principal turnover is on the rise, and the state launches a telehealth service for Alaskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Kenai City Council members last Wednesday agreed to spend $200,000 on access to Wildwood Drive’s underlying right-of-way from the Kenai Native Association. The move comes after years of disagreements over who should be responsible for upkeep.

The district attributes the anticipated shortfall to a decrease in state and local funding next year caused in part by a forecast net drop in student enrollment and a rise in the taxable value of borough property.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski expresses concerns about a report the U.S. military launched a second strike on survivors on a suspected drug boat. Plus, the latest installment from Alaska Public Media's "Alaska Survival Kit" focuses on combatting seasonal depression.

Kenai's efforts to improve Wildwood Drive take a step forward. A new state report looks at Alaska's employment seasonality. Plus, surveyors study bald eagles in the Chilkat Valley.

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District maps out a plan for considering school closures. Plus, Alaska's literacy legacy is highlighted in a new PBS program.

School board members generally supported the plan, but said they want more information about each scenario before signing off.

Rep. Justin Ruffridge is named House Minority whip. A new state report shows Alaska's infant mortality rate is going up. Plus, ConocoPhillips workers on the North Slope consider unionizing.