On Sept. 4, 1986, Alaska’s budget problems may be at its end — but not really. Gold was discovered near Haines by a group of state and federal geologists who had originally intended to conduct a geological study for the Juneau Mining District by the state Department of Natural Resources and the federal Bureau of Mines. The area, which was near a state park, will probably not be up for grabs. Although the discovery is of major scientific importance, it will not be creating another Alaskan gold rush.
Meanwhile, Alaskan conservatives haven’t found their golden treasure yet. The GOP, unhappy with both the Democratic and their own nominee for the gubernatorial election, were looking for a new candidate that they could use for a write-in campaign. Despite the search, Alaskans have yet to find an alternative for their Republican nominee.
In Juneau’s political world, the former City and Borough of Juneau Planning Commissioner was to be investigated for violating municipal conflict of interest laws. The former commissioner had filed to run for CBJ the week before.
“This Day in Juneau History” is compiled by Empire freelancer Tasha Elizarde, who sums up the day’s events — 30 years ago — by perusing Empire archives.
