PALMER, Alaska (AP) — The state is seeking out a new owner for the only federally approved slaughterhouse in southeast Alaska, as funding for the facility could run out this year due to legislative budget cuts.
The Alaska Public Radio Network reports (https://bit.ly/27cr9lR ) the state's Board of Agriculture and Conservation has issued a request for proposals to lease and operate the state-funded Mt. McKinley Meat and Sausage Plant in Palmer, with an option to purchase it.
Livestock producers rely on the plant, because it's the only place in the area where they can sell meat commercially.
Alaska Department of Natural Resources spokeswoman Elizabeth Bluemink says there's about $2 million in this year's budget for the plant.
She says a one-time increment funding is being considered so it can operate while lease negotiations take place.
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Information from: KSKA-FM, https://alaskapublic.org/
