City and Borough of Juneau Leadership Reflect on 2026 Municipal Election Results
Each fall, Juneau voters weigh in on issues impacting their community and choose leaders to represent the community during the municipal election process. The newly certified results of the 2026 Regular Municipal Election provide direction to city leadership as they move forward with operational planning and budgeting for the year ahead.
“This year’s election highlighted the community’s strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility, efficient city operations and the importance of supporting community recreation facilities,” shares Juneau Mayor Beth Weldon. “As we head into the next budget cycle, we are committed to operating lean while making sure our essential services remain strong.”
On the ballot, voters affirmed the renewal of the existing 3% sales tax for five additional years (Proposition A) and approved the creation of a 1% seasonal sales tax intended to support recreation (Proposition C). A proposition to return the property tax rate to 12 mills, up from the current rate cap of 9 mills (Proposition B), did not pass.
The first collection date for the seasonal tax (Proposition C) will be April 1, 2027.
“The approval of Proposition C clearly demonstrates that recreation remains a priority for Juneau,” says Mayor Weldon. “This new and dedicated revenue source will support recreation programs, facilities, and improvements that promote community well‑being and quality of life, which is aligned with the intent of the citizen initiative that brought the seasonal sales tax to voters.”
The city continues to collect critical data to better understand the fiscal impacts of record inflation, the cost of flood and hazard mitigation, the newly approved 1% sales tax, and the first full year of the 2025 sales tax exemptions and other tax code changes designed to recoup foregone revenue. City leadership similarly continues to emphasize the ongoing importance of lean operations and a conservative approach to budgeting.
“While the fiscal year 2027 budget included over $11 million in budget reductions, a funding gap remained. The Assembly opted to draw on budget reserves to preserve existing service levels and give more time to get a full financial picture,” explains Juneau City Manager, Katie Koester. “The 1% seasonal sales tax brings in new revenue that will help bridge that gap. However, we must continue to prioritize operational efficiency and fiscal discipline.”
The Assembly will discuss budgeting priorities and set assembly goals for the coming year at the annual Assembly Retreat, to be held on Saturday, November 21.
Mayor Weldon and City Manager Koester express their sincere appreciation to outgoing Assembly members Christine Woll and Alicia Hughes-Skandijs for their years of service and contributions to Juneau both in and outside of Assembly Chambers.
“From floods to budget crises to a global pandemic, Christine and Alicia served Juneau residents with commitment, professionalism, thoughtfulness and resilience during some of our community’s biggest challenges,” Mayor Weldon shared. “Christine is an expert on process. Her work as Finance Chair to revamp our budgeting review process greatly improved efficiency and clarity. I always say Alicia was the heart of the assembly, keeping our minds to the needs of underrepresented and disadvantaged populations in our community.”
“It was an honor to work alongside them, and I look forward to serving with our incoming Assembly members, Joyce Niven and Mila Cosgrove, as they assume their roles and help guide city policy and priorities in the years ahead,” Mayor Weldon continued.
The City and Borough of Juneau would also like to acknowledge the professionalism and dedication of the election workers who ensure a smooth and secure voting experience for Juneau, as well as the residents who cast their ballots and participated in shaping Juneau’s future.
For media inquiries, contact the City and Borough of Juneau’s Communications & Engagement division at [email protected].