Gov. Bill Walker today announced the appointment of Fate Putman, a lobbyist who primarily represents the state employees union, to the commission that oversees commercial fishing.
Walker announced the appointment to the Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission in a news release today that focused on Putman’s experience in the commercial fishing experience and public service in local governments, but didn’t include mention his lobbying experience. Putman began lobbying in 2010, according to filings with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, and has represented the Alaska State Employees Association. He doesn’t appear to have any lobbying contracts related to the fishing or outdoor interests.
The Commercial Fishing Entry Commission has made headlines this year because it’s largely become an obsolete and hasn’t limited entry to a fishery since 2004. The position has an entry salary of $8,289 per month, a figure that is set by state law and one that Walker is currently trying to lower to $7,225 per month with House Bill 231. The agency has three commissioner positions and more than a dozen employees.
Putman is set to begin filling in the position on Dec. 1, when commissioner Ben Brown steps down. A third commissioner position is currently unfilled.
Be the first to comment on "Walker appoints Putman to Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission"