geographical constraints.The stakes are particularly high as the community’s economic future hinges on providing reliable, affordable power to both residents and industrial operations in one of North America’s most isolated municipalities. COMMUNITY SERVICES AND SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE Unalaska maintains an exceptionally robust social safety net for a community its size, with municipal funding directly supporting essential services that would typically fall to private providers in other municipalities. This approach acknowledges the unique challenges of isolated island living. “We’ve funded these groups significantly. Last year we gave our clinic $1.1 million out of the general fund, and another eight or nine nonprofits received another $1.5 million,” says Homka.“That’s over $2.5 million last year from our general fund to support nonprofit organizations.You’re not going to find that anywhere else.” The city’s Parks, Culture and Recreation department serves as the community’s social hub, providing services that extend far beyond typical municipal recreation programs. With limited private sector entertainment and fitness options, the department fills critical gaps in community life. 87 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05 UNALASKA, AK
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