The City Council of Utqiagvik serves as the legislative body responsible for governing the city, overseeing the enactment of local policies, and ensuring the welfare of its constituents. This council is composed of elected officials, each representing distinct seats within the council and serving specific term lengths.
Current Council Composition
The present composition of the Utqiagvik City Council, as of the latest electoral cycle, is as follows:
| Official Name | Position | Term Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Asisaun Toovak | Mayor | October 2022 – October 2025 |
| Justina Wilhelm | Seat A | October 2022 – October 2025 |
| Kristin Gutierrez-Edwards | Seat B | October 2022 – October 2025 |
| Kuutuuq Olemaun | Seat C | October 2021 – October 2024 |
| Martina Hopson | Seat D | October 2021 – October 2024 |
| Heather Hopson | Seat E | October 2023 – October 2026 |
| Sarah Tua’i | Seat F | October 2023 – October 2026 |
This table offers a detailed account of each council member’s term, ensuring transparency and accessibility of information to the public.
Council Meeting Schedule
The Utqiagvik City Council convenes for regular meetings once a month, specifically on the fourth Thursday at 7:00 PM. These sessions are held at the City Chamber, providing a platform for discussion on city governance, policy-making, and other significant issues affecting the community.
Historical Composition of the City Council
Reflecting on the council’s composition during a previous electoral cycle, we observe the following lineup, serving from 2013 to 2016:
| Official Name | Position | Term Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Harcharek | Mayor | October 2013 – October 2016 |
| Frederick Brower | Seat A | October 2013 – October 2016 |
| Fannie Suvlu | Seat B | October 2013 – October 2016 |
| Rebecca Brower | Seat C | October 2013 – October 2015 |
| Vincent Paul Negeak “PAMIUQ” | Seat D | October 2013 – October 2015 |
| Bernadette Fisher | Seat E | N/A |
| [Vacant] | Seat F | N/A |
Conclusion
The City Council of Utqiagvik plays a pivotal role in the administration and governance of the city, with elected officials dedicated to serving the community’s best interests. Through regular meetings and a transparent display of council composition, the City Council ensures that the voices of Utqiagvik’s residents are heard and their concerns addressed. The commitment of each council member to their term and the scheduled council meetings underscore the council’s dedication to effective city governance and community welfare.