{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"First Things First","title":"Ballot Measures & Juneau Affordability (Vote by Oct 7)","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2013,"description":"First Things First executive director Don Habeger, board member Denny DeWitt, and longtime resident Tom Williams to unpack CBJ’s three ballot measures through the lens of affordability. They back Prop 1 (cap the operating mill rate at 9; voter-approved bond debt still allowed) and Prop 2 (extend the current senior exemption on food and non-commercial utilities to everyone), arguing both modestly restrain government while helping families. They urge a no on Prop 3, the seasonal sales-tax plan (7.5% Apr–Sep, 3% Oct–Mar) that replaces the 5% year-round tax and ends recurring voter reauthorization; the panel says it would raise peak-season costs for residents, small businesses, fishermen, and tourists—and even complicate life for legislators—while removing voter oversight. Beyond the ballot, they criticize city spending priorities (Burns Building purchase/condo fees; Telephone Hill without a clear end plan) and call for promoting private development (e.g., Huna Totem downtown, West Douglas) and living within means. They close with voting logistics: ballots must be received by Tuesday, Oct 7, 8 p.m. (or postmarked by that date if mailed) and share how to get involved with First Things First. ","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/4ld5G4dSz-6qSAtGQu-7UO5h9yELm-kQC_Wcf0HY614/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9hM2Zh/YmEzMzhkM2IxMDhj/ZjE0ZmY0ZmM2MjY5/YTk1NS5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}