A brief debate sparked on Monday over Fairbanks City Council committee assignments for 2026.

The city mayor sets the committee assignments each November, designating which ones council members will sit on. The mayor has appointing authority over most, such as the finance committee, the Chena Riverfront Commission, the Fairbanks Diversity Council, and the Explore Fairbanks Board of Directors.

However, the City Council must confirm appointments to the FAST Planning Policy Board and the city’s Permanent Fund Review Board.

Newly elected Mayor Mindy O’Neall made some changes for 2026, including replacing Councilmember Jerry Cleworth on the FAST Planning Policy Board with Councilmember Crystal Tidwell.

The new FAST Planning appointment caused some consternation with a few members, including

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