Assembly accepts CMAQ pass-through funds for sidewalk snow‑removal tractor amid debate on air‑quality priorities

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly voted 7–2 on July 24 to accept CMAQ pass-through funds and local match to acquire sidewalk snow‑removal equipment intended to clear pedestrian routes more efficiently during winter. The ordinance appropriated $194,648 in federal pass-through grant funds and $39,736 in local match from the general fund balance for purchase of a sidewalk snow‑removal tractor and associated equipment. The administration said the funding comes through FAST Planning and that roughly $19,321 of the local match is eligible for reimbursement by the state as the funds are expended. Why it matters: Supporters said the equipment will be a force multiplier for staff clearing sidewalks and paths, especially for mobility-impaired users and transit access points. Assemblymember Kras described the machine as moving the borough away from manual shoveling to mechanized removal that will improve safety and winter accessibility. Debate: The ordinance drew divided votes. Assemblymember Wilson said she opposed the purchase because the CMAQ program prioritizes PM2.5 emission reductions, and she questioned whether the tractor would deliver significant air-quality benefits. Administration and FAST Planning representatives said the equipment ranked lower than other projects in a multi-year CMAQ call but had been included for funding because it could be delivered faster than larger construction projects; they also said the program’s highest-weighted scoring criterion is direct emissions reduction and that the tractor’s estimated PM2.5 reduction is lower than other funded items. Assembly action and votes: The roll call was 7–2. Assemblymembers Roterman and Wilson voted no; the remaining members voted yes. Procurement and timing: Administration staff said the borough must accept funds before procuring equipment, and the project budget includes a typical contingency. If bids exceed estimates the borough could request additional FAST Planning funds or return to the assembly for more local appropriation. What was not decided: The assembly did not select a specific model or attachments; staff said procurement will follow borough competitive-bid rules once funds are accepted. FAST Planning staff described other CMAQ-funded projects that scored higher and will proceed (roundabouts, school-access plans, compressed natural gas fueling and buses), explaining the tractor was one of several projects selected for funding across years.