Traini vs. Clary Rematch for Midtown Assembly Seat

Political veteran faces aspirant once again

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By Bill McAllister
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Story Created: Mar 11, 2013 at 4:21 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Mar 11, 2013 at 6:18 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - In the municipal election three years ago, Assemblyman Dick Traini narrowly defeated Andy Clary for a Midtown seat.

On April 2, they will have a rematch.

Monday they had head-to-head appearance at a candidate forum sponsored by the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce.

There’s plenty of contrast.

Traini opposes Mayor Sullivan’s proposed change in negotiating parameters for public unions, while Clary said it's needed.

Clary said, "I think most in Anchorage would agree that the contracts from five years ago were generous. And I do see a need to re-balance our level of expenditures and revenues in this town, because that's the only way we're going to be able to move forward and provide for a sustainable, long-term growth here in Anchorage."

Traini countered, "I’ve already talked to people in the law profession that tell me they just can't wait to file the lawsuits that are going to come from this. I don't want you to face these costs because of defective legislation. And I'm there to make sure this thing doesn't happen. Hopefully, I’ll have the votes to do that."

They also differ on a sales tax, which Clary supports even though Anchorage voters repeatedly have rejected it.

"I don't think it's right that a property owner never fully owns his home,” Clary said. “You can have your home paid free and clear from the bank, yet you're continually on the hook every year for that property tax payment. That bothers me."

Traini said it would not be an either-or situation. "We don't have a sales tax here, thank heavens. I’ve seen other states that have tried to get rid of a property tax by creating a sales tax."

Traini touts his 14 years on the assembly, while Clary says he offers a fresh perspective.

Clary works for an information technology firm, has served on a couple of municipal commissions and has close ties to the evangelical Christian community.

For Midtown voters, it's a real choice.

For a full list of candidates in the April 2 municipal election, click here.

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