Anchorage Voters to Decide on $155M in Bonds, Education Levy

Ballot measures include funding for schools, roads, parks, and public safety in the upcoming municipal election.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Anchorage voters will consider a series of ballot proposals in the upcoming municipal election, including more than $155 million in bonds and a special one-time education tax levy. The measures cover a range of capital projects for the Anchorage School District, roads and drainage, parks and recreation, police, community facilities, public safety and transit, and fire service. Voters will also decide on a $12 million property tax levy for the school district to address a budget shortfall.

Why it matters

Anchorage relies heavily on property taxes to fund public services and large projects, as the city lacks a local sales tax and has seen reduced financial support from the state. The upcoming ballot measures aim to address infrastructure needs and education funding gaps through bond measures and a special tax levy.

The details

The ballot proposals include $79 million for Anchorage School District capital improvements, $38 million for roads and drainage projects, $6.1 million for parks and recreation, $350,000 for police station upgrades, $7.2 million for community facilities, $8.9 million for public safety and transit, and $2.5 million for fire service. There is also a $12 million one-time property tax levy for the school district to address a $90 million budget deficit. Additionally, voters will consider measures related to Chugach State Park access and a road service area in Bear Valley.

  • Voter registration ends on March 8, 2026.
  • Ballots will be mailed out on March 17, 2026.
  • Ballots must be returned or postmarked by April 7, 2026.

The players

Suzanne LaFrance

The mayor of Anchorage who has called the city's financial situation a looming 'fiscal cliff' for municipal services and revenues.

Anchorage School District

The school district facing a $90 million budget deficit for the upcoming school year, which the proposed $12 million tax levy aims to help address.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Anchorage, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This election will be crucial for Anchorage's infrastructure, education funding, and overall fiscal health, as voters weigh a significant slate of bond measures and a special tax levy to address the city's pressing needs.